The Home Builder - February 2026
No. 2
VOLUME LXXIII
February 2026
Final Deadline to enter 2026 McSAM Awards is February 9 The Dallas Builders Association has issued its official call for entries for the an - nual McSAM Awards, which recognize ex- cellence in residential sales and marketing. The prestigious McSAM Awards honor builders, remodelers, developers and associ- ates who have demonstrated creativity, innova- tion and achievement in residential marketing through work completed in the previous year. The 2026 McSAM Awards will be held on Saturday, April 11, at the historic Statler Hotel in Dallas. Final entry materials and pay- ment must be submitted by February 9 through the online portal at McSAMAwards.com. This year’s awards program features an expanded lineup of categories, including two Peo - ple’s Choice Awards for Community of the Year and Builder of the Year. The McSAM Awards also continue to incorporate several categories that were previously part of the former ARC Awards program. Custom builder categories include Best Interior Design; Best Kitchen; Best Architectural Design in Modern, Traditional and Transitional styles; and Custom Builder of the Year. Four re - modeling categories are also included: Best Ad- dition; Best Kitchen Remodel; Best Bathroom Remodel; and Best Whole House Remodel. Additional award categories recognize excellence in Professional Achievement; Market - ing, Advertising, Signage and Online; Interior Merchandising; Design; and honors for Home, Builder, Developer and Community of the Year. Entries are judged by experienced industry professionals, and categories may be adjusted or combined at the discretion of the McSAM Committee to ensure a com- petitive and meaningful awards program. A variety of partnership opportunities are available, offering valuable exposure before and during the awards celebration. Opportunities range from $1,000 to $12,000. For more informa - tion, contact Jasmine Streete at 214-615-5012. For complete details, category descriptions and submis- sion requirements, visit McSAMAwards.com .
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Join the Texas Asso- ciation of Builders, along with Welcoming Sponsor, StrucSure Home War- ranty, for the Lone Star Mardi Gras Mixer Texas Reception during NAHB’s International Builders’ Show (IBS)! Tuesday, February 17, from 5–6:30 p.m. (EST) in the Florida Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. Come reconnect with old friends, make new ones and celebrate everything that makes Texas home- building the best in the nation. Register
Don’t miss your chance to shine! Entry Deadline - February 9, 2026 mcsamawards.com
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THE HOME BUILDER
February 2026
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The HomeFront Government Affairs News and Info
David Lehde Director of Government Affairs
Making Sure Home Building is Not Left Out in the Cold
Primary Election season is upon us. 2026 includes races for U.S. Senator and Governor, the Texas State Senate and House of Representatives, and key County seats. Across the state, more than 20 State House seats were va- cated and will have an open race. The State Senate will see 5 open seats. That, in addition to incumbents up for re-election in both chambers, as well as state- wide and county races, will make for a remarkably busy primary. Several of the heated races will be in the Dallas BA service area. This, along with newly drawn U.S. Congressional Districts, will have a shock effect on municipal races that will come later in the year. For the State and County races, as well as the Congres- sional ballot, March 3 will be Primary Election Day for both parties. Early voting begins on February 17. Any runoffs would occur on May 26. All culminating to a heated General Election Day on November 3. Members should keep an eye out for updates from TAB and Dallas BA. The Dallas BA submitted comments on the proposed WO- TUS Definition. The U.S. En- vironmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently opened public comments on its updated defini - tion of the “Waters of the United States.” The Dallas BA, in Janu- ary, joined other federation mem- bers and associations in offering comments on the proposed rule.
and water resources.
With the enactment of the Clean Water Act in 1972, build- ers and developers have gone through costly measures to deter- mine whether their projects might impact a water body or tributary that could be a “water of the United States.” The definition of WOTUS has a significant impact on both housing affordability and availability. This challenge has become even more difficult with some states operating under the 2023 rule, while 29 states remain under a pre-2015 definition. WOTUS determinations can influence mitigation for some grading and construction activi- ties, as well as affect whether a project may even proceed under a CWA nationwide permit, versus a more time-consuming and ex- pensive individual permit process. In public comments, Dallas BA voiced appreciation that the proposed rule update brings needed clarity regarding jurisdic- tion on permanent, standing, or continuously flowing bodies of water, while also removing con- fusing elements of past WOTUS definitions regarding isolated water features. Dallas BA also supported NAHB’s recommenda- tions for additional clarifications regarding adjacent wetlands and determination for what constitutes a wet season. The proposed rule definition aligns with the Supreme Court’s holdings in two benchmark cases and also respects the authority of states to manage their own land
code changes, favorable local tax structure, more efficient permitting processes and protection from harmful ordinances and regula- tions. HOMEPAC of Greater Dallas, the non-partisan political action committee, is an essential part of the advocacy program. It provides another opportunity for Asso- ciation members to participate in their industry’s advocacy efforts. For more information, visit https://dallasbuilders.org/ homepac/ or contact the Asso- ciation’s Director of Government Affairs.
The right of stakeholders to offer public comments is an im - portant step in the process that eventually yields the final rule. The next meeting of the Dallas BA Government Rela- tions Committee (GRC) will be Wednesday, February 11, at 9 a.m. Dallas BA GRC meetings are hosted at the Dallas BA offices. GRC meetings are open to all Dallas BA members. Members interested in participating should contact the Director of Govern- ment Affairs, David.Lehde@Dal - lasBuilders.com. HOMEPAC of Greater Dallas has announced that registration is open for the current cycle. A core mission of the Dallas Builders Association is advocacy. Suc- cesses have included needed
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THE HOME BUILDER
February 2025
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THE HOME BUILDER February 2025 Celebrating 42 Years of Service: Honoring Barcie Vilches After more than four decades Page Four
and regional divisions, and those divisions were becoming more and more important to our overall success. There quickly became a need to link new challenges, agen- das and accomplishments of these divisions to what was then called the Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas.” Carter credited Barcie’s back- ground in journalism and photog- raphy as a critical factor in that success. “Barcie’s expertise became an important link in making it all work,” he said. “She was instrumental in helping to build a process that has successfully lasted and has allowed us to become what we know today as the Dallas Builders Association. Thank you, Barcie. You have inspired others to be- come role models and touched many lives along the way. You have been an inspiration to us all. It is an honor to call you my friend.” As Barcie begins her well- earned retirement, the Dallas Builders Association extends its deepest gratitude for her extraor-
Former Executive Officer Bob Morris highlighted the breadth of Barcie’s contributions and her role in the Association’s long-term success. “Barcie Vilches has been a key player within the Dallas Builders Association for over four decades,” Morris said. “Her contributions through six different Executive Directors have played a significant role in the Association’s success.” During her career, Barcie worked under several Association names, including the Home and Apartment Builders of Metropolitan Dallas, the Home Builders Associa- tion of Greater Dallas and today’s Dallas Builders Association. Morris noted that she was instrumental in crafting and clearly communicat- ing the Association’s identity and message to the many audiences connected to the organization. “Barcie never sought the spot- light,” Morris said. “She was always happy to do the work of making sure the Association’s message was presented in a clear and understandable way, and she pre- ferred to do it quietly.” Her efforts in publishing The Home Builder magazine and man- aging numerous communication initiatives resulted in the Asso- ciation being honored with multiple NAHB Executive Officers Council Association Excellence Awards. She also embraced evolving tech- nology, mastering electronic media tools to ensure members remained informed and connected. Morris recalled his arrival at the Association in 1994, when Barcie had already spent nearly a dozen years on staff. He quickly learned that her reputation ex- tended beyond the Dallas region. Shortly after his arrival, NAHB Communications Director Betty Cristy requested a dinner meeting specifically to meet Barcie and acknowledge her work, underscor- ing the national respect she had earned. Past Dallas Builders Associa- tion President Jerry Carter shared a personal reflection on Barcie’s impact during a period of significant growth for the Association. “Barcie became a part of our Association many years ago as it was rapidly growing,” Carter said. “During that time, Dallas builders saw the need to expand the local
of dedicated service, the Dallas Builders Association bids a fond farewell to Barcie Vilches, whose 42-year career has left a lasting mark on the Association and the homebuilding community she faith- fully served. Barcie joined the Dallas Build- ers Association at a time when both the industry and the organiza- tion looked very different. Through decades of growth and change she became a steady and trusted pres- ence. Her institutional knowledge, professionalism and attention to detail helped shape the Association into what it is today. Barcie was often the person colleagues turned to for answers, guidance or reassurance that things would be done correctly. Her behind-the-scenes contributions ensured continuity and stability, even during times of transition. “Barcie represents the very best of what this Association stands for,” said current Executive Officer Gena Godinez. “Her dedication, institutional knowledge and quiet leadership created a foundation that continues to support our members and our mission every day. We are incredibly grateful for her service and proud of the legacy she leaves behind.” Former Dallas Builders As- sociation Executive Officer, Phil Crone, had the privilege of working alongside Barcie for more than 17 of her 42 years. He also empha- sized Barcie’s importance to the organization and the consistency she brought across decades of leadership and change. He stated, “Barcie poured her heart and soul into the organization, serving in nearly every staff role at one point or another.” Phil ended by saying, “She had a rare gift for elevating those around her, that the Associa- tions voice, reputation, and culture bear her imprint and that anyone who worked with her knows that the organiztion is stronger because of her legacy.
dinary service and lasting legacy. Her impact will continue to be felt for years to come, and she will always remain an important part of the Dallas BA family.
THE HOME BUILDER February 2026 Upcoming Classes Presented by PROJECT MANAGEMENT
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practical tools and strategies for scheduling, managing trade con- tractors, and successfully com - pleting projects. REGISTER BUILD A BETTER HOUSE SERIES: The Building Envelope: Avoid- ing Leaks and Moisture Damage March 3; 10 AM - 1 PM Discover how the Building Enve- lope works as your home’s first line of defense. This class breaks
down walls, windows, doors, and roofing systems, explains Weather-Resistive Barriers and flashing best practices, and clari - fies the difference between leaks and moisture damage. Learn how to identify problems early and apply proven methods to protect structures from costly water and moisture issues. REGISTER MANAGE A BETTER BUSI-
March 4; 10 AM - 1 PM This class provides an overview of business ownership, highlight - ing why people start businesses, the rewards and challenges involved, and the essential skills needed for success. Participants learn the importance of balancing key business functions—Sales, Administration, and Produc - tion—while developing clear purpose, strong systems, ef - fective teams, and continuous improvement through the Six P’s of Success. REGISTER
NAHB Certificate Course February 12; 9 AM - 4 PM
This course helps home building professionals strengthen project management skills to deliver projects on time, on budget, and with satisfied customers. Partici - pants learn the project manager’s role across all phases—pre- construction, construction, and post-construction—along with
NESS SERIES: Business Basics
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THE HOME BUILDER Page Six Evolve Technologies hosts January After Hours February 2026
Lakeesha Scott of GPR Management won a custom Evolve Technologies in- flatable, pictured with host Kristy Mor - gan of Evolve Technologies, Member- ship Chair Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation.
Charlie James of Crossland Con- struction Company won an Apple TV, pictured with host Kristy Morgan of Evolve Technologies, Member- ship Chair Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation and Dallas BA EO Gena Godinez.
Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation won a Google Nest Ther- mostat, pictured with host Kristy Mor- gan of Evolve Technologies and Dal- las BA EO Gena Godinez.
Yehuda Izmagristo of AY Development won a Sonos speaker, pictured with host Kristy Morgan of Evolve Technol- ogies, Membership Chair Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation and Dallas BA EO Gena Godinez.LLC.
Yearlong Membership Partner:
Katie Counce of Fidelity National Title won a Roku Ultra, pictured with host Kristy Morgan of Evolve Technologies, Membership Chair Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation and Dallas BA EO Gena Godinez.
William Riseman of Riseman Develop- ment Company won $25 from the cash door prize drawing, pictured with host Kristy Morgan of Evolve Technologies, Membership Chair Pat Nagler of Edge Home Finance Corporation and Dallas BA EO Gena Godinez.
THE HOME BUILDER
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February 2026 Professional Women in Building Council Learned the Art of Designing Her Vision at January Luncheon
Panelists-Erica McLain, McLain by Design Interiors, PWB Board Member, Kaylee Black, Wall Snobs, Michele Traylor, The Sher- win Williams Company, Jennifer Wilson, MSI Surfaces, Angie Seekamp, St. Hyacinth Custom Drapery
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February 2026
THE HOME BUILDER
Page Eight Momentum Builds for the Greater Denton County Builders Division
The Greater Denton County Builders Division gathered on Decem- ber 17 for their quarterly luncheon at their new location, the Denton County Administrative Courthouse. The program featured an Eco- nomic Housing FAIRcast with Britt Fair (center) of Benchmark Mort- gage. Also pictured are board members L to R: Cody Lewis, RayLee Edgington, Justin Waggoner, Chris Clay, Adam Lingenfelter, Jean- ice Wheelock, and Donny Mack.
The Greater Denton County Builders Division gathered on Janu- ary 22 for the first quarterly luncheon of 2026 at their new location, the Denton County Administrative Courthouse. The program fea- tured How ChatGPT and Other AI Tools Can Drive Business Effi - ciency with Danny Braught (center) of LMH Agency. Also pictured are board members from L to R: Justin Waggoner, Donny Mack, Jeanice Wheelock, RayLee Edgington, and Chris Clay.
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THE HOME BUILDER
February 2026
Page Nine
Metro East Division Hosts Mayors Panel The bi-monthly Metro East Division Luncheon brought together local leaders for a timely discussion on regional priorities and growth. A big thanks to area mayors Jeff Winget of Rowlett Ja - son Roberson of Forney and Jerry Ransom of Greenville. The discussion was Moderated by David Lehde, Dallas BA Director of Government Affairs.
THE HOME BUILDER
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February 2026
NEW MEMBERS RCG Group Darrell Pace 817-808-7911 BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Sonoma Ridge Homes Huntington Bank Kelly Malatesta 281-794-2377 FINANCIAL SERVICES
William Ryan Homes Brenda Neagle 214-924-0511 BUILDERS AFFILIATE - RESIDENTIAL WAYLIGHT INC. Troy Miller 972-322-4505 WINDOWS - AFFILIATE Spike: Robert Cresswell, Cress- well Builders
BUILDERS
20th & V, LLC Gianna Martinez 214-455-7130 BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Spike: Chris Hartley, K. Hovnanian Homes AGC Inc. Siva Palchuru 972-849-9964 BUILDERS - MULTIFAMILY Bravos Builders BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Buffalo Ridge Construction GRP Dave McIlrath 951-491-9675 BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Davis Walker Construction Jeremy Walker 719-358-3153 BUILDERS - REMODELER Spike: Steve Gillis, Gillis Custom homes Element House Inc. BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Spike: Chris Clay, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Elemental Custom Homes Colin Flynn 214-681-0275 Phillip Koenig 945-400-9775 Sai Addagada 214-214-6500 BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Manda Developers & Build- ers LLC. Rahul Manda 972-375-4989 BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL MG Contracting LLC Mike Griffith 281-221-6776 BUILDERS - REMODELER Spike:Jim Joyce, Jim Joyce
Spike: Casey Miller, Partners in Building Paladin Sustainable Building Products ENERGY EFFICIENCY Spike: Kendra Barnes, RE- HAU Construction, LLC WAYLIGHT INC. Lulu Yang 214-440-2290 WINDOWS Spike: Robert Cresswell, Cresswell Builders Your Home Free Michael Hasty 214-507-7681 AFFILIATES/ ADDITIONALS Buffalo Ridge Construction GRP Casey Brown 972-207-8703 BUILDERS AFFILIATE - RESIDENTIAL Davis Walker Construction Steven Davis 806-441-1878 BUILDERS AFFILIATE - REMODELER Spike: Steve Gillis, Gillis Custom homes Andra Neson 972-317-5900 REAL ESTATE Olio Builders Luke Walters 317-225-9447 BUILDERS AFFILIATE - REMODELER Rate Felicia Holman 801-597-4343 FINANCIAL SERVICES - AFFILIATE Tonti Properties Eileen Heulitt 501-258-9601 BUILDER MULTIFAMILY
Chris Flournoy 610-390-1658
BUILDERS - RESIDENTIAL Spike: Ed Harrison, Harrison Homes SUSTAINING ASSOCIATES Convertly Sales Solutions Ingrid Ricks 972-750-4946 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Spike: Sean Ricks, Tri Pointe Homes Home Plans LLC. William Hogsett 833-412-5487 DESIGN/ARCHITECTUR- AL SERVICES ASSOCIATES All About Concrete Paul Glover 346-336-1130 CONCRETE ALLIANCE Credit Union FINANCIAL SERVICES ALLIANCE Credit Union David Vaughn 806-535-3546 FINANCIAL SERVICES -AF- FILIATE Builders Flooring Supply Jaclyn Niehaus 214-263-2555 FLOORING Cassity Jones, Inc. Roger Payne 903-759-0736 LUMBER/FRAMING/CAR- PENTRY GMR Electrical JoBeth Vance 806-790-8993
Wortham Bros, Inc. Jonathan Haigwood 972-658-5819 ROOFING - AFFILIATE
Milestone Anniversaries Congratulations to these companies being recognized for continuous membership in the Dallas BA.
JLD CUSTOM HOMES - 20 Years JEFF DWORKIN
5 Years Alltex General Contracting
25 Years HomeTeam Pest Defense 15 Years Fireside Hearth & Home 10 Years Ripple D + B Co Floor and Decor D & D Elevators, Inc. Truist Bank Tri Pointe Homes
Progressive Foam Technologies, Inc. M.L. Johnson & Associates Inc.
Homes, LLC Olio Builders
Presented by Owner Managed Homes The Shaddock Companies - Peter Shaddock Jr .
Jules Thetford 972-772-1244 ELECTRICAL
Caleb Hancock 317-498-4790 BUILDERS - REMODELER
Spike: Brian Webster, Boz- zuto Construction Comp.
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