Professional home builder organizations consist of a group of passionate individuals who want to share their industry experience and knowledge. These organizations offer support, networking opportunities and smart solutions for the construction industry. Through forums, conferences and workshops, you share professional advice and make informed decisions about relevant business building services.

Home builders associations help you to identify emerging trends and challenges within the industry. In addition, you have access to apprenticeship and management education, legal resources, business development, safety programs and products and legal representation. Consider:

1. Using professional home builder organizations to network and develop your home building skills.

2. Choosing from different levels of memberships offered by an American home builders association.

3. Making the most of educational opportunities and industry tools.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Join builders organizations to meet and network with peers

Home builders associations vary in size from large, international groups to smaller local association. No matter the size, they have one thing in common: they are made up of like-minded people who want to advance the construction industry.

I recommend: Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national home builders association. Members include subcontractors, contractors, material suppliers and related firms. ABC's membership comes from all specialties within the U.S. construction industry. Use the chapter locator to join events and networking opportunities in your area. Look into Federation of Master Builders (BRIX), a building trade membership association located in the UK. It provides a builder's resource and information exchange (BRIX). Sign up for national conferences, regional events and a road show online.

Expect to pay dues annually when you join home builder organizations

Builders organizations' dues vary, depending on the membership level you choose. Some groups have affiliate, associate, professional and contract memberships.

I recommend: International Code Council (ICC) is an association of home builders dedicated to preserving the safety, welfare and public health in the building environment. Members include engineers, builders, architects, contractors, manufacturers and government officials. California Building Industry Association (CBIA) is a state wide trade association with more than 6,700 member companies. Join CBIA by clicking on the map.

Reap the benefits of professional builder organizations

When you join home builder organizations, you have access to many career development tools including magazines, business reports, certification programs, courses and seminars. These tools help you to stay current on developing technologies and code changes and boosts your knowledge, skill and know-how in the industry.

I recommend: National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is a national home builders association that promotes the policies that make housing a national priority. As a member, you have access to expert advisors, educational opportunities, publications and advocacy. Sign up for seminars and webcasts online. Home Builders Association of Alabama (HBAA) has more than 12,000 members. HBAA serves as an advocate for Alabama’s housing industry and links home builders to educational initiatives and community service projects. Register online for upcoming events.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider a company membership to a national association of home builders rather than an individual one. This way several employees can benefit.