Main interview
“ Housing is the most regulated industry there is . We have to deal with not just federal mandates , but local and state ones too . Houses that are built today are very energy efficient : those built in the late 90s , not so much . One solution would be to propose some sort of tax incentive to encourage homeowners to make alterations that facilitate greater energy efficiency . There are probably numerous changes I could make in my own home , for example , but it would be good for people to get help from an affordability perspective . Such a measure would go a long way to reducing energy consumption ,” Alicia suggests .
Professional partnerships
Looking to the future , Alicia believes that the homebuilding sector will continue to rise to the challenges it faces , as it has in the past . “ I do think ,” she continues ,
“ that the remodelling sector , as is its tendency during times of inflation , will do particularly well in the coming years .
“ If I was to give advice to another homebuilder just starting out , I would say find subcontractors that you trust and can work with . I have got into the groove of using the same team of people that I have used for a number of years . This facilitates strong relationships and mutual partnerships . As a member of the NAHB , I would suggest doing business with other members . Your local and state associations provide a great resource for finding likeminded professionals with which to partner .
“ I am very passionate about homebuilding , and about the industry and our association , as a whole ,” she concludes . “ I am very fortunate and honored to serve as Chairman this year , and very much look forward to the year ahead .” ■
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