10 things to do while at the building conference
Builders headed to the Central Florida area for the Southeast Building Conference Aug. 1-4 know there isa lot to see and do near the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. I mean it’s Disney, right?
But yes, you’re making this trip for another reason, aren’t you? You read the news. You know all about the rising interest rates and the slowing housing demand. Attendees to the conference, like you, are keeping the long-term view. The future of affordable housing depends on builders staying positive and making smart decisions today.
That’s why you are making the trip—to ready your business for what’s to come. Here are some tips to get the most out of the Florida Home Builders Association’s SEBC 2022.
1. Discuss the future of skilled trades
Be sure not to miss the Wednesday, Aug. 3 session at 8 a.m. on skilled trades. Here, you will find out how your business will navigate the ongoing labor shortages that are expected to last for years to come. This informative session is hosted by Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist for Angi Inc. Remember, if you are attending classes during the show to earn accreditation, you need to checkthe show web site for more information about correctly following course tracks.
2. Visit Buildxact at Booth #1331 and take a shot at winning a PlayStation
Look for the orange flag at Buildxact Booth #1331 on your way to the food court. You’ll experience what Forbes calls the best construction estimating software. With Buildxact, you have a single digital platform for material takeoffs, estimates and customer quotes. Quote faster, and with dealer online integration, have the latest material prices no matter the time of day. If you sign up for an online demo, you’ll have a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card. Those attending a one-to-one demo enter a raffle fora PlayStation video game console. The show floor is open Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Learn how collaboration keys successful builds
Attend the learning session 9 a.m. Wednesday to learn how planning and collaboration is critical to delivering a project on-time and on budget. The session will cover the importance of client communication throughout the design and build process.
4. Network at the Good Government Lunch
The 43rd Aurora Awards will be held Thursday, Aug. 4 beginning with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m. This is the first time the award show will be held since 2019 and celebrates the best in building from the Southeastern U.S., Texas and the Eastern Caribbean. If you don’t already have tickets and can’t make the show, not to worry. There’s plenty to do nearby.
5. Attend the SEBC Wednesday Night Bash
This annual networking event is not to be missed. Enjoy live music from John Stone Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. in the Emerald Bay Plaza. If you decide to take a break from the convention, head over to Paddlefish, an affordable, highly ranked restaurant with views of nearby Lake Buena Vista. Paddlefish is about a 10–minute drive north on Interstate 4.
6. Navigate material shortages and rising prices
Take this vital course Thursday at 10:10 a.m. to learn how price increases and shortages affect the entire building industry. Understand how to better negotiate with your dealer. After the session, head out to the show floor to speak with a Buildxact representative at booth #1331 to find out how collaborating with dealers can help you manage material shortages.
7. Learn how to put your business in the limelight
By attending the 8 a.m. course on Thursday, you’ll have a better understanding how to market your company. You’ll hear about the basics of branding, direct mail, social media and more. As the market grows more competitive, you’ll want to arm yourself with tips that you can put to use right away.
8. Attend the Aurora Awards
The 43rd Aurora Awards will be held Thursday, Aug. 4 beginning with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m. This is the first time the award show will be held since 2019 and celebrates the best in building from the Southeastern U.S., Texas and the Eastern Caribbean. If you don’t already have tickets and can’t make the show, not to worry. There’s plenty to do nearby.
9. See Disney Springs!
OK, who goes to Central Florida and doesn’t do something Disney! Disney Springs offers entertainment, dining and shopping just a short 10-minute drive from the Gaylord Palms Resort.
10. Cap off the week in Florida with a guided Kayak Tour
A 30-minute drive north is Winter Park, Florida, which offers charming shops and crystal-clear lakes. You can book a morning kayak tour that starts at 10:30 a.m. Kayaks travel Venetian-style canals that offer up-close views of Florida’s natural flora and fauna. Check the Winter Park website for more information.
