Energy, Optimism, and Innovation at NAHB International Builders’ Show

I was fortunate enough to attend the annual NAHB International Builders’ Show last week on behalf of Eastwood Homes.  What an exhilarating experience!  This was not my first trip to the three-day expo and training event, the main entrance sign was made of 2x4s, but it was my first high-energy, motivating, feel-good experience.  I attended two years ago when the event was held in Orlando, Florida.  Although the expo that year was certainly a success by all accounts, this year just felt different for so many reasons.  The air was charged with energy and optimism.  The attendees were excited, the training classes were jam-packed, and the events were sold out.  The expo floor was filled with shiny new products, innovative designs, and the latest creative ideas for the homebuilding industry.  It was thrilling to be surrounded by successful industry professionals from all over the world!  I was inspired by the level of experience, industry knowledge, and creativity that was conveyed throughout the event.

IBS display I chose to attend all of the fun marketing classes and visit the booths that I found to be interesting with regard to my role in the company.  It comes as no surprise, but 2014 is all about mobile devices, digital marketing, and social media.  We are all devoted to our digital devices, and the training classes provided suggestions for effectively embracing new technology.  We even saw a few presenters wearing the new Google Glass.  Although it will certainly be a while before our Sales Agents are seen sporting these digital specs, it was great to see the new technology first-hand.

There were some truly amazing displays at the expo as well.  Celebrities made guest appearances, including Norm Abram from This Old House, Mike Holmes from Holmes on Homes, and Ty Pennington, a celebrity home remodeler, just to name a few.  The Kohler display wowed every single guest, with extravagant functioning showers, spa jets, bathtubs, fancy faucets, and high-energy presentations.  The latest and greatest GREEN building products were unveiled for all to see and covet.  The expo provided a snapshot of new technology that is being used to build more innovative and energy-efficient homes.

It is a tremendous time to be a part of the homebuilding industry.  It’s also an exciting time to be buying or building a new home.  With all this innovation and energy, the future of new homes looks bright!