NEWS & BLOG

Breaking news and resources from across the industry.

MBAKS Blogs:
Homeowners
  • August Builders Bulletin

    by User Not Found | Sep 03, 2024
    Contact: data@mbaks.com

    In July 2024, Washington’s unemployment rate stood at 4.9%, with the Seattle/Bellevue/Everett area slightly lower at 4.4%. The construction sector faced a significant downturn, losing 14,100 jobs over the past year, bringing total statewide construction employment to 227,400. This decline highlights ongoing challenges in the industry despite overall employment stability.

    Read the full August Builders Bulletin:

  • Case Study: Derby Apartments

    by User Not Found | Sep 03, 2024

    Vital Stats

    Section

    Points

    Location: Seattle
    Star Level: Built Green 4-Star
    Checklist: 2021 Multi-Family Residential New Construction 

    Verifier: BEE Engineers

    Site and Water128
    Energy Efficiency95
    Health and Indoor Air Quality122
    Material Efficiency
    74
    Equity and Social Justice57
     Total Score484

    Written by: Cybil Tribie

    Project Overview 

    Nestled near the heart of Capitol Hill is one of the first certified 2021 Built Green Multifamily Checklist projects constructed under the WSEC 2018 commercial energy code. This new 167-unit building is more than just an apartment, it’s a sanctuary positioned near the excitement of Olive Way and Broadway with all the benefits that a transit-oriented development provides.

    The Derby Apartments’ dedication to building green surpassed the thresholds required for 4-Star due to their effortless design, consideration of equity and social justice credits, and commitment to energy efficiency, indoor air-quality, and material selection. 

    Some of the Built Green credits that aided them in achieving their high score were the use of low-toxic, low-VOC products paired with the energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) that provide filtered clean air into units. With the avoidance of carpet within the units and the use of products that have little to no off gassing, there should be nothing to trap allergens within the tenants’ private spaces. With the assistance of a building envelope consultant, the general contractors took great care in their moisture management from the foundation through the roof to ensure the building will remain dry and mold free for years to come.

    To complement their indoor air-quality efforts, the ERVs also provided them with a benefit in the energy section. However, it’s the use of their centralized heat pump water heaters that provided the remainder of the points to obtain the requirement minimum. But going above the minimum, the project also installed Energy Star ceiling fans to provide some cooling and high efficacy lighting to reduce energy consumption. 

    Other than the building’s interior green features mentioned above, the Derby included landscaping beyond the code required to ensure that (when fully grown) the project will also feel like an oasis amidst the surrounding buildings with little landscaping.


    Below is a list of some of the additional credits they were able to claim within the checklist: 

    Site and Water

    • Exceeding City of Seattle landscaping requirements with no grass utilized
    • Onsite stormwater management
    • Heat island effect minimized using light-colored pavements and roof material
    • Low-flow plumbing including faucets, showerheads, and toilets utilized throughout

    Energy Efficiency

    • Energy Star ceiling fans and energy recovery ventilators (ERV) installed in every unit
    • High efficacy lighting with motion sensors dimmers in common spaces
    • Energy Star appliances installed throughout the building
    • All electric building utilizing centralized heat pump water heaters

    Health and Indoor Air Quality

    • ERVs installed in all units to provide filtered ventilation
    • Building designated as non-smoking
    • Low-VOC, low-toxic products utilized in building
    • Heavy emphasis placed moisture management throughout construction

    Equity and Social Justice

    • Universal design to ensure building accessibility to all occupants emphasized
    • Transit-oriented development with an abundance of long-term bike parking provided
    • Rooftop community space accessible to all tenants
    • Subcontracted with Built Green members, WMBE, and MBE companies

    Photo credit: Benjamin Benschneider photography

  • MBAKS Seeks Nominations for Hall of Fame and Exceptional Service Awards

    by Katie Bauer | Aug 12, 2024

    Association Seeking Nominations for MBAKS Hall of Fame

    Do you know someone who has made a significant contribution to the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties? The MBAKS Hall of Fame Award honors those who have made significant and lasting contributions to the association.

    We are asking members to nominate someone deserving of this award and submit it to Kelsey Burdulis kburdulis@mbaks.com by Friday, September 6, 2024. Download the nomination form.

    Nomination Period Open for Exceptional Service Award

    Do you know an association member or staff member who has performed distinguished service to MBAKS on a sustained basis for at least 10 years? Now is the time to consider nominating them for an Exceptional Service Award. The award represents the highest recognition for members and staff for their professional leadership and exemplary service to the association.

    If you would like to recommend someone for this award, please submit your nomination to

    Kelsey Burdulis- kburdulis@mbaks.com by Friday, September 6, 2024. Download the nomination form.

  • General Election: Congratulations to MBAKS' Newly-Elected 2025 Board Members

    by Katie Bauer | Aug 12, 2024

    Following a vote of our members of record, MBAKS is pleased to announce the following elected positions on the MBA 2025 Board of Directors:

    • First Vice President, Vitaliy Gutsalo of Greencity Development, LLC
    • Second Vice President, Tod Sakai, Sockeye Homes
    • Secretary, Brenda Nunes of KW Nunes Group
    • Associate at Large, Jordan Thayer, Morgan Stanley
    • Builder at Large, John Mirante, D.R. Horton by Pacific Ridge Series
    • Builder at Large, Mark Chriest, MainVue Homes 
  • July Builders Bulletin: Housing Inventory Continues to Grow

    by User Not Found | Jul 19, 2024
    Contact: data@mbaks.com

    While our local inventory is rising, we are still the lowest in Washington State, with the state average at 2.17. Months of inventory in June 2024 were Snohomish (1.37), King (1.94), and Pierce (2.00). As the inventory grows, it is evident that mortgage rates are a large player in affordability regarding housing market worries.

    Read the full July Builders Bulletin:

    BuildersBulletin_July2024
  • Primary Election is August 6, Make Sure to Vote!

    by User Not Found | Jul 18, 2024

    Primary ballots are being mailed out this week so please look for them in your mailbox and make sure to vote! Tuesday, August 6 is the last day to return your ballot either by mail or at a drop box. The election is crucial for housing policy as it will determine which candidates advance to the General Election, potentially shifting the balance of power and philosophical approach to housing initiatives. This election serves as a barometer for public sentiment on key issues and sets the stage for future legislative actions. Counties will certify the Primary Election on August 20 and the General Election is Tuesday, November 5.
     
    You can find drop box locations, ballot questions, candidate statements, and more information related to the election at King County Elections or Snohomish County Elections.  

    You can review candidate endorsements by the Affordable Housing Council (AHC) below and see the full AHC list HERE.

    MBAKS Primary Election Endorsements
  • June Builders Bulletin: Month's Supply of Housing Inventory Rises

    by User Not Found | Jun 24, 2024
    Contact: data@mbaks.com

    The housing market in Washington experienced growth, with 24 out of 26 counties reporting a year-over-year increase in available homes. Overall, active property listings in Washington counties covered by NWMLS rose by 41%. The month's supply of housing inventory as of May 2024 is at 1.5 in King County and 1.2 in Snohomish county.

    Read the full June Builders Bulletin:


    2024-6 Builder Bulletin
  • Press Release: MBAKS Wins Two NHAB Awards of Excellence

    by Katie Bauer | Jun 12, 2024

    Contact:
    Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
    p 425.457.7067
    pr@mbaks.com

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties Wins Awards for Best Service to Members and Best Community Service Project Conducted

    BELLEVUE, Wash., June 12, 2024—MBAKS has been recognized for its outstanding Community Stewardship and GRIP programs with two Awards of Excellence from the Executive Officers Council (EOC) of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

    “What an honor it is to have our team recognized for all the work they do to make home happen,” said Jerry Hall, Executive Director. “I’m so proud of the ways in which we’ve been able to give back, through a number of community stewardship projects as well as through the benefits our members receive from the GRIP program."

    MBAKS offers member companies an opportunity to gain reimbursements for cultivating safe working environments through GRIP. Over the years, the program has constantly evolved to provide the highest level of service for the lowest cost while prioritizing the safety of member participants.

    Since its inception, MBAKS’ Community Stewardship has given back to local communities through volunteer based projects as well as financial contributions. Through two flagship projects, Rampathon and Painting A Better Tomorrow, staff and member volunteers have improved homes and community spaces across the region, including constructing over 600 ramps for individuals and families with mobility issues and refreshing the interiors of more than 20 local nonprofit organizations.

    The Association Excellence Awards is an annual program designed to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of state and local home builders’ associations and executive officers in the field of association management. EOC membership is comprised of the staff executives who direct more than 590 NAHB-affiliated state and local home builders’ associations representing more than 130,000 home builders in communities across the United States.

    “I am inspired by the outstanding achievements of our local associations that won AEA honors this year. Their dedication to excellence, innovation, and community impact sets a high standard for all of us,” said Natalie Fryer, EOC President and Executive Officer of the HBA of Fayetteville. “These associations are shining examples of what can be accomplished with vision, hard work, and a commitment to quality. Congratulations to all the award-winning associations for their well-deserved recognition. Your accomplishments not only benefit your members but also enhance the entire Federation.”

    The winning entries will be added to the NAHB website, so that other executives and associations across the country can access and learn from them in order to provide better service to their own members and community.

    For more information on the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties go to mbaks.com or contact pr@mbaks.com. Learn more about the Association Excellence Awards


    About MBAKS

    The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) is the nation’s oldest and largest local homebuilders association, helping to make home happen since 1909. 

    ###

  • Case Study: Leota Commons

    by User Not Found | May 31, 2024

    Vital Stats

    Section

    Points

    Location: Seattle
    Star Level: Built Green 4-Star
    Checklist: 2018 New Construction Single Family

    Verifier: Balderston Associates

    Site and Water 146
    Energy Efficiency 81
    Health and Indoor Air Quality 78
    Material Efficiency

    61
    Equity and Social Justice 31
      Total Score 461

    leota exterior

    Written by: Tom Balderston and Kate Romero

    Project Overview:
    Leota Development completed a new 3 Unit project in a walkable neighborhood next to Woodland Park Zoo in late 2023. The project replaced a single-family home with a detached home in front and two large townhomes on the improved alley. The project was designed by Akasha Architecture and built by Paul Williams. The 4-Star project includes the latest all-electric design and plenty of Built Green features.

    The energy model for this project earned an ERI score of 54, which qualified this project for the performance pathway option on the Built Green checklist. The performance pathway allows more credit for items such as orientation and windows, the best-in-class heat pump electric clothes dryer, and the induction range; enabling the home to qualify.

    Leota kitchen

    Energy Use: The project is Built Green 4 star with 2 additional energy credits compared to the 2018 WA Energy Code minimums. It features advanced R-42 foam/FG Batt ceiling insulation, a high-efficiency Mitsubishi Ductless Heat Pump system, 100% LED lighting, efficient Heat Recovery Ventilation, and ENERGY STAR appliances.

    Low Impact Development and Rainwater Catchment: The project features 100% pervious paving on parking and walks for stormwater infiltration, roof drains to biofilter planters, EPA Water Sense toilets, water-efficient fixtures and shower heads, and drought-tolerant and native landscaping with no lawns. The project has easy access to shops and transit, with a “Walkscore” of 80, and the front entry and shared parking encourage community.

    leota living_balcony

    Indoor Air Quality and Moisture Protection: The project features no carpets, Kraus "Natural Home" Engineered Oak Flooring that is EO certified for air quality, framing lumber moisture tested before drywall cover, low VOC interior paints, caulks, adhesives, and sealants, and cabinets and MDF trim that are CARB 2 certified for low added formaldehyde. The project also features a Wrap Shield high-performance exterior weather barrier with under-windowsill flashings, a drainage plane, and all bath and kitchen fans were tested for proper flow.

    Materials with Reduced Environmental Impact: The project features cabinets, trim, tile backer, doors, and railings with recycled material content. Additionally, it has Kraus "Natural Home" flooring that is FSC certified, long-life Hardie Panel fiber cement exterior siding, a heat-welded TPO roof membrane, plastic decking with 55% recycled content, and exercised efficient framing practices with pre-cut studs and roof trusses. The project underwent 3rd Party Built Green Verification at the foundation, framing, and final stages.

    Built Green highlights:

    Site and Water:

    • Urban, Transit-oriented infill
    • Seattle Green Factor Score of 0.61
    • 82% of stormwater from site managed on-site
    • No turf grass in final landscaping along with drought-tolerant plant selection

    Energy Efficiency: 

    • Ductless mini splits throughout the units
    • Centralized hybrid heat pump domestic hot water heater
    • 100% electric units
    • Energy Star appliances

    Health and Indoor Air Quality:

    • Anti-idling and healthy jobsite practices implemented
    • Low VOC products used throughout
    • GreenGuard Gold Certified flooring
    • Rainscreen installed under siding

    Materials Efficiency:

    • Used locally and regionally manufactured materials
    • Engineered lumber used for floor system
    • Used recycled-content roofing materials

    Equity & Social Justice:

    • Designed to promote pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods
    • Built within walking distance of transit, schools, shopping and parks
     

    Photo credit: NWMLS

  • 2024 AHC Endorsements

    by User Not Found | May 29, 2024

    Each election cycle, our Affordable Housing Council (AHC) interviews candidates at the city, county, and state levels to determine their degree of support for housing.

    The following candidates have received the AHC endorsement for the 2024 General Election.

    Your vote in support of AHC-endorsed candidates will go a long way toward affecting the outcome of these critical races.

    2024 Affordable Housing Council Endorsements
    JurisdictionPositionCandidate
    Legislative District 1
    State Rep.
    Position 1
    Davina Duerr (D)
    Legislative District 5
    State Rep.
    Position 2
    Lisa Callan (D)
    Legislative District 10
    State Senator
    Ron Muzzall (R)
    Legislative District 12
    State Senator
    Keith Goehner (R)
    Legislative District 12State Rep.
    Position 2
    Mike Steele (R)
    Legislative District 21
    State Rep.
    Position 1
    Strom Peterson (D)
    Legislative District 30
    State Rep.
    Position 2
    Kristine Reeves (D)
    Legislative District 31
    State Rep.
    Position 1
    Drew Stokesbary (R)
    Legislative District 33State Rep.
    Position 2
    Mia Su-Ling   Gregerson (D)
    Legislative District 34State Rep.
    Position 1
    Emily Alvarado (D)
    Legislative District 34State Rep.
    Position 2
    Joe Fitzgibbon (D)
    Legislative District 36State Rep.
    Position 1
    Julia G. Reed (D)
    Legislative District 39State Rep.
    Position 1
    Sam Low (R)
    Legislative District 39State Rep.
    Position 2
    Carolyn Eslick (R)
    Legislative District 44
    State Rep.
    Position 2
    April Berg (D)
    Legislative District 45
    State Rep.
    Position 2
    Larry Springer (D)
    Legislative District 47State Rep.
    Position 1
    Debra Jean
    Entenman (D)
    Legislative District 47State Rep.
    Position 2
    Chris Stearns (D)
    Legislative District 48
    State Rep.
    Position 2
    Amy Walen (D)
    Seattle City Council
    At Large
    Tanya Woo
    Snohomish County PUD
    Position 2Julieta Altamarino Crosby
    Everett Initiative24-03Vote No

    For dropbox locations, ballot questions, and more, visit King County Elections or Snohomish County Elections.

    Endorsements as of May 30, 2024.

     

    Paid for by the Affordable Housing Council of the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties, 335 116th Avenue SE, Bellevue, WA 98004. Top Five Contributors: Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties; Shelter Holdings LLC; Blackwood Builders Group LLC; Schneider Family Homes; Martin Robinett



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