Last month’s issue focused on solutions from experts all over the country. This month, take heed of that information. It’s not a question of if this industry will bounce back but when.

If you want to be there at the finish line, make necessary adjustments. John Gumas, a veteran of the advertising and marketing industry, suggests on page 30 that by revving up your website you can see an increase in sales; why not give it a try? Following suggestions like his and those of our other columnists can only help.

Niche markets may be another avenue to consider. Floating communities like Columbia Ridge Marina offer a new take on what housing can look like. This is a perfect example of how, by thinking outside of the box, one developer was able to succeed. Canvas L.A. caters to the art crowd with dancers in the window of its retail space attracting attention to the property.

Whatever it takes, know that in this industry you are surrounded by friends. People band together to get through the tough times, not shut each other out. Builder and Developer is celebrating our 200th issue this month and we couldn’t have done it without all of you!

Best,

Jenn Sherman
Editor
jsherman@penpubinc.com

of lumber, and three bathroom sinks, to name a few of the many components that go into a house. Not only does a home produce factory jobs to make those components, and jobs to produce the raw materials that go into the products, it creates service jobs to specify and deliver the goods.

The job and tax revenue really start to add up when you look at the impact of 1,000 homes. At that level of single-family home building, the NAHB estimates that roughly 2,448 jobs are created in construction and related industries. That generates nearly $80 million in wages and more than $42 million in taxes and fees.

Housing keeps producing jobs and revenue even after people move in. Buyers spend more money to improve their home. They buy a new mattress, curtains, and furniture. Retail businesses crop up to serve them, generating more jobs and tax revenue. And on and on it goes.

In an industry that can be so powerful and has shown to successfully resuscitate itself after times of crisis such as the one we are in now, it’s important to focus on how we as a community of builders, developers and others who make and provide housing, will pull through this.