As proud members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), our participation in the Builder 20 group has been a valuable experience for both Adam and me. (Adam is the chairperson of our group.) We benefit from sharing knowledge, experience, and camaraderie with fellow builders and remodelers from non-competing markets.
We recently returned from our latest Builder 20 trip, which took us to Waco, Texas, home of Magnolia, the iconic brand created by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Long story short, we’re full of inspiration, excitement, and renewed energy for our craft.
Exploring Magnolia Market
One of the standout moments of our trip was the tour of Magnolia’s headquarters. Our hosts, Steve and Becky Sorrells of Sorrells & Company, arranged this exclusive tour. Typically closed to the public, we got to step into the creative world of Chip and Joanna Gaines.
It was fun to be immersed in Jo’s world. From soothing colors to lush greenery, we were able to see firsthand the thoughtful design that permeates every corner of their space.
The iconic silos, which host various events and gatherings, were a highlight. We learned about the recent Silo-bration, a festival celebrating the restoration of the silos, and we were amazed by how Magnolia has transformed downtown Waco into a bustling destination for home and lifestyle enthusiasts.
We stayed at the luxurious Hotel 1928, a source of design inspiration all its own. Bold colors and thoughtful branding brought a welcome change of pace.
Learning from industry leaders
The opportunity to tour homes under construction was another highlight of our Builder 20 trip. We visited several impressive projects, including commercial and multi-use properties, which provided a fresh perspective on design and functionality. These tours sparked ideas for how we can enhance our own projects at John Merrill Homes.
We also visited completed inventory homes and lofts showcasing innovative design solutions and effective use of space. For instance, the Green Door Lofts, with their trendy location and unique design, illustrated how thoughtful planning can create vibrant communities.
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Awareness of the AI advantage
One particularly enlightening session was a presentation by Michael Bergin, founder of HighArc. He shared how AI can revolutionize the home-building industry. With his background as an architect and programmer, Michael provided an overview of current AI software that can enhance productivity for builders.
It was eye-opening to learn about various applications, from video and website creation to tools that streamline project management. The insights we gained from this session are invaluable as we look to integrate more technology and automation into our operations without losing our creative, custom aesthetic.
Valuable insights from our peers
The Builder 20 group is unique in that it allows builders like us to meet twice a year in a confidential setting. We sign non-disclosure agreements that create a safe space for open discussions about our businesses. This environment is akin to having a personal board of directors. We delve into the specifics of what is working in our respective markets and share insights about the challenges we face.
During this trip, we engaged in thoughtful discussions about current market trends. While there is a sense of caution among consumers, particularly regarding rising interest rates, many of us are still experiencing steady demand, especially in the higher-end market segments. We collectively agreed that despite some slowdown in activity, our businesses remain resilient, and we are all navigating similar challenges.
The importance of Builder 20 membership
Membership in the Builder 20 group has proven to be a significant asset for our business. The relationships we build and the knowledge we share are crucial for our growth and success. The access to performance data allows us to benchmark our practices against those of other builders across the nation, enabling us to make informed decisions that align with industry standards.
Business aside, we thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie among our group. We spent time together in the evenings, sharing meals and discussing our experiences. This bond of friendship goes beyond business; we genuinely support one another as we navigate the ups and downs of the industry.
Join our group!
Thanks to the NAHB and the Builder 20 Group, we’ve gained confidence in our business setup and strategies. From advocacy and education to networking and support, these memberships have provided us with the tools, resources, and connections needed to thrive in the competitive home-building industry.
We still have a couple of spots open in our Builder 20 group. If you’re a builder or remodeler seeking a supportive community to help grow your business, we invite you to reach out. Your success is our success!
