Builders deal with economy and environmental concerns

MATAMORAS — The 18th Annual Pike County Builders Home Show was held this past weekend at the Hunt’s Landing Best Western Hotel. There were more than 60 vendors from new home construction companies to remodelers. On display were high tech efficient heating systems that run on corn and other alternative fuels, hot tubs, gutters that keep leaves out, energy efficient window installers, kitchen cabinet and counter manufacturers and companies that turn a damp basement with water problems into dry useable space. “The economy is a bit tougher this year and home sales are down but I expect it change in the next year. Interest rates are coming down and that should help boost sales,” said Randy Martin of Randall Homes. Several home builders have begun building green homes which are constructed which are energy efficient, water and resource conservation sensitive, use of recycled products, and designed to protect the indoor air quality. Green homes get rated by green certified verifiers and are rated bronze, silver or gold. “We are building our first green home in Birchwood Lakes in Delaware Township and the foundation is already in. It will be an Energy Star Certified Home. Any homes we build will be rated no less than bronze.” said Ed Nikles Jr. of Ed Nikles Custom Builders. He went on to say, “Although green homes will be more costly to build they will prove to be an economically sound investment for the homeowner. The homes are so tight we have to install exhaust fans just to get the inside air out” “New home buyers are not as plentiful as they used to be but I am confident the market will improve. The biggest problem now is banks are holding onto their money especially for homes over $417,000. Appraisers are figuring tight but things will turn around,” said Ben Hogan of Hogan Homes.