Building permits in Washtenaw County are mandatory if you have intentions of making home improvements. Michigan, as well as Washtenaw County, insists that building permits be obtained prior to construction to ensure compliance and regulate safety among workers. The total numbers of building permits rose in Washtenaw County from 930 in 2014  to 995 in 2015. Consumers cannot help but ask, why have the numbers been increasing at such a slow rate?  The Toth Team asked the question to Bob Filka, CEO – Home Builders Association of Michigan, and here is what Bob had to tell us,

“Our workforce shortage is the result of a perfect storm that included:

An estimated 60,000 people leaving the Michigan construction industry during the downturn.  These people found other careers, left the state, retired, etc.;

1. During this same downturn, schools eliminated many career tech (i.e., construction) hands-on training programs;
2. School curriculum requirements moved toward college prep requirements that further eroded the number of kids going into career tech programs;
3. Cultural shifts and attitudes suggesting that every kid needs to go to college further undermined construction career paths

As a result of the above, we have a much smaller universe of workers.  This problem has constrained production.  It will (and has begun to) impact renovation and repair sectors too.  It is a major problem coming at us and while some believe the sector will simply need to raise wages to attract talent, the problem isn’t that simple.  Wages have been rising, yet the State of Michigan estimates that there are some 5,000 job openings across the state in construction right now.”

The Toth Team always remains positive – We predict that with this winters warmer weather and the interest rates staying low that building permits in Washtenaw County will increase with consumer confidence once again in 2016. Many large builders are scouting for large parcels to develop. If you know anyone who is thinking of selling land, contact us.

 

The above table displays an increase of 18.6% in Single Family permits in 2015 over 2014.  If you are considering making improvements to your existing home get your building contractor on board now and place your orders right away so as to be assured you get the job done on time.

Home buyers love to see custom designs and/or original floor plans when purchasing their dream home. These innovative features add personal creativity and make your home stand out more than others! We hope that this year brings growth among our creative society and people start to follow their construction dreams!

Have you ever thought about how much value adding another bedroom or bathroom to your home may increase your personal comfort and your homes potential property valuation? Click here for a property valuation from Kathy Toth and Team! 

Our region has recovered tremendously from our economic downfall in 2005 and The Toth Team is positive and hoping to see these numbers increasing!

Toth Team, Worldwide Network