The PRO’s have arrived
It’s official, the Home Builder’s Association’s Remodelers Council (RC) is changing its name to PRO – Professional Remodelers Organization. The name isn’t the only thing that is changing, though. The roll-out of the name, unanimously approved by the HBA Board of Directors and announced to coincide with May’s designation as National Remodeling Month, also includes a new website, member services, public outreach and education opportunities.
In addition, a new logo was unveiled along with the name change, better integrating the Home Builder’s Association logo and the iconic home silhouette. This reflection is important because of the strength and brand recognition associated with the HBA logo as well as the fact that the Professional Remodelers Organization is an integral part of a large organization serving the needs of the entire residential construction industry. “Remodeling and new construction are both key components of the home building industry. The RC name change is consistent with the strong support provided within our organization and also gives testament to the experience and professionalism of the remodelers organization within our larger association. HBA PRO is the professional home for remodeling contractors, sub-contractors, support professionals, vendors and suppliers in the greater Portland region,” stated Dave Nielson, HBA’s Executive Officer.
HBA’s Remodelers Council was already the leading trade association for remodeling firms in the Portland Metro area. However, many inside and outside the area were confused as to what a Remodelers Council was and what primary function it served. The new name (PRO) eliminates this confusion and accurately reflects both the strength and professionalism the industry and consumers can expect from this organization. “A lot of hard work and research went into determining how we could best promote HBA’s strong remodeling focus and membership” stated Mitch Stanley, Stanley Home Renovation and Design, Inc and 2009 PRO Chairman. “We’ve had the full support of HBA’s staff and leadership throughout the process and are very excited at what the future holds for our Professional Remodelers Organization.”
Long-time RC members are already familiar with the public outreach and marketing, advocacy efforts, scholarship programs, educational opportunities, business benefits, networking opportunities and community fundraising that have been key values provided to those involved in the remodeling industry. PRO will continue this tradition, while raising the bar by including more education, increased marketing opportunities through the region’s two biggest home shows, more courses for the public such as the highly successful Remodeling 101, and continued growth of the Tour of Remodeled Homes – the #1 remodeling tour in the Northwest.
“This is an exciting time for our industry,” notes Steve Klingerman, T.H.E. Remodel Group and Chair of HBA PRO marketing committee. “The renewal of our organization is in keeping with what we do daily – remodel. In this case, we are remodeling ourselves with a new name, look, a new website and advanced education opportunities for our members and the public at large.” Klingerman also points out that PRO will continue to support non-profit community based organizations such as the Cordero House, continue to lobby for increased professionalism within the industry, and will lead the way in sustainable and responsible practices within the green movement.
Over the next few months, PRO will be launching a comprehensive web site – at www.HBAPRO.org, which will focus on two main areas: information and education for the public and a resource for members. The timing couldn’t be better, as the National Association of Home Builders predicts that the remodeling industry will grow 33% in the next ten years. “We will be the web site where consumers can do their due diligence in finding the right remodeler for the job,” commented Steve Heiteen, Portland Remodel and past RC Chair. “Remodeling consumers need the best resources available in finding and researching a remodeling contractor, vendor and supplier. We will be that clearing house of information.” Additionally, PRO will expand their educational opportunities for future members. “We want to be an organization of attraction – where new remodelers and long-time remodelers have a place to expand their knowledge, learn of new trends, become aware of legislative changes before they happen, and be on the forefront of the industry,” said Heiteen.
Angela Todd Designs is an active member of PRO. This message was re-posted courtesy of the Professional Remodelers Organization of Portland. To learn more visit the PRO blog.
Angela Todd
Owner & Principal Designer
Angela is the principal designer at her boutique interior design firm in Portland, Oregon. She is known for creating memorable backdrops that tell the story of fascinating and intricate lives.
