Business View Magazine March 2023

69 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 3 As we climb out from underneath the pandemic, supply chain shortages have impacted, however the construction trades and the cost of products has increased. US states have had to contend with these economic pandemic spin- offs and the state of Connecticut has been no exception. Central Connecticut encompasses Hartford, New Britain, Middletown, and Meriden. As a diverse and vibrant area, it combines urban and suburban landscapes, including historic landmarks like the Mark Twain House and the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford. The home building and remodeling industry in Central Connecticut plays a pivotal role in the local economy as the demand for new homes and home renovations steadily increases in the wake of the COVID pandemic. To help address industry needs, The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut (HBRA of Central Connecticut) is at the forefront of this industry, providing essential resources and support to local builders, contractors, and remodelers. With a focus on professional development, industry advocacy, and community outreach, the association plays a critical role in promoting the growth and success of the home building and remodeling industry in Central Connecticut. The HBRA of Central Connecticut, with a rich history dating back to the 1940s, has significantly evolved over the years, as Eric Person, Chief Executive Officer of the association, explains. “The association covers four central counties in Connecticut - Hartford, Tolland, New Haven, and Middlesex Counties,” he says. “We have about 400 members in the residential construction space, including home residential, single-family, and multi-family home builders. We also have remodelers, associated suppliers, and trades like lighting design centers, pool installers, landscapers, and roofing siding.” Person admits that before joining the HBRA of Central Connecticut, he wasn’t aware it existed, insisting now that it is one of the best-kept secrets for homeowners and individuals in the trades in the area. “As a homeowner, our members are the professionals HOME BUI LDERS AND REMODELERS ASSOCIAT ION OF CENTRAL CONNECT ICUT