Dulles Home Show

by Joel Barkman, NVBIA Fauquier County Chapter President

In a down economy many builders are looking for ways to bolster their businesses. With over 20 years of professional service to this community I have learned a thing or two. Instead of trying to get back to the way things were before the downturn we should strive to move forward.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is looking ahead to the 2010 International Builders' Show (IBS), the largest annual light construction tradeshow in the world. Scheduled for Jan. 19-22 in Las Vegas, the Show will attract tens of thousands of building industry professionals from around the globe.

"The International Builders' Show is considered the premiere event of our industry," said NAHB Chairman Joe Robson. "With its combination of education offerings, product showcase and professional networking opportunities, IBS provides attendees with the knowledge, tools and insights they need to not only weather the current economic downturn, but to position themselves for success as the industry recovers."

Success in the industry - and value within the community. With more than 175 education seminars to choose from, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about a range of subjects, including affordable housing strategies, best practices in universal design (aging-in-place), environmental conservation, and of course the latest green building and remodeling techniques.

The Exhibit Hall offers builders valuable 'face time' with the manufacturers and suppliers of the latest and most in-demand home construction products. The show floor will feature the industry's most important suppliers displaying the latest and greatest building products and services across more than 250 product categories.

But you don't have to travel to Las Vegas to get your hands on the industry's latest products - or to benefit from some expert advice. Visit the annual Capital Home Show at the Dulles Expo Center this weekend to meet the professional s in your area.

Whether your style is contemporary or traditional, this Show offers an abundance of design inspiration, remodeling tips and new ideas. Speak with over 500 experts and shop, compare and save on all of your home improvement projects.

For more information about the Capital Home Show, visit www.capitalhomeshow.com and as always e-mail your questions and comments to joel@goldenrulebuilders.com or write to "Ask a Builder" at P.O. box 294, Catlett, VA 20119 - or "Ask a Builder" in person at the Dulles Expo Center, booth# 722 next to the "Green Zone".

For another great opportunity to meet your neighbors and to show your support, join me at the Annual Benefit Auction this Friday pm at Dayspring Mennonite Church.

Barkman is president of the Fauquier Chapter of The Northern Virginia Building Industry Association.

Read Joel's column weekly in the