• The Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase first proofs out today! Deadline has past, but you can still enter on our website. ($250 late fee)
   
• The deadline is approaching for BATC Foundation scholarship applications due January 16! Applications may be found online.
   
• Code Effective date confirmed by DLI. See below.
   
• Earn your CE credits! Register now for BATC-U courses. See below.
   
• Entries are being accepted for 2015 Artisan Home Tour. Contact Kori (651)697-7591.

Confused about when the code actually takes effect? You're not alone. BATC has fielded numerous calls from members and local governments wondering if it's the date of permit application or permit approval. BATC has spoken with DLI representatives who provided the following guidance on the effective date of the new code:

MN Rules Chapter 1300.0130 (7) states: “the code in effect at the time of application shall be applicable.”

It’s key that application be accepted by the LGU as complete, but the interpretation by DLI is that the code at the time of completed application is the applicable code for the project (not at approval by the city). Written guidance on this matter is expected from DLI shortly.

Due to popular demand! One more New Building and Energy Code Course has been added on Friday, January 9, 2015.

Here are the Final scheduled classes:
-Tuesday, January 6 – 8 am-Noon @ BATC – Almost full!
-Friday, January 9 – 8 am-Noon @ BATC – Final class!

Register now and be ready for the new code changes in 2015!

What went right? What went wrong? And everything in between! Watch BATC's favorite economist, Elliot Eisenburg wrap up 2014 in less than 5 minutes >>

Want to hear even more? Come to our January 8th The Eisenberg Report and dinner meeting! Register here >>

Buyers seem to be back in the drivers seat. A cool November for home sales brought the housing market in the Twin Cities one step closer to a buyer’s market. Read more >>

Homeowners upset over storm water ponds and the necessary upkeep.

"That’s what you get when there are waterways. Ten years after the construction, we don’t have any responsibility for that, nor does the builder.”-Tom Ryan, Mayor of Blaine

Read more >> 

People are being hired, lending conditions are easing, and construction spending is up! While those are the bright spots for housing this month, there's one rain cloud. Read more >>

Blame it on the wages! Stagnant wages may be to blame for the slow economy, especially when it comes to home buying and building. If you compare annual average pay from 2004 and 2013, one-third of all U.S. counties have seen their pay decline.

The Wall Street Journal created a map to illustrate how each county matches up >>

Earn your required Minnesota contractor and Minnesota real estate credits at BATC University! Look for our 2015 course book in the mail or Check out our digital 2015 course booklet >>

NEW for 2015: Many courses now offer Wisconsin contractor credits too! BATC University courses provide you with outstanding information from the area's most highly regarded instructors. You’ll not only gain your required credits, you’ll gain knowledge that will enhance your business operations and enable you to provide the best product to your customers. More than 40 courses are being offered from January-March 2015. Register here >>

Plans are underway! The BATC Foundation is helping to add a bedroom and family room to Homeward Bounds’ group home, Blue Bird House. The Maple Grove rambler is home to four young men who are challenged by profound disabilities. Read more >>

The BATC Foundation is still accepting scholarship applications for the 2015-16 academic year. 

High School Seniors may apply online here.  Current college level students or adults beginning a college level program may apply online here.  Paper forms are available by request.

Now accepting applications! Think you've got what it takes to join the Remodeler Big50? Here's your chance to strut your stuff—The application period for the 2015 Big50 is now officially open.

The Big50 is a remodeling business excellence award for best practices. Every May, REMODELING inducts 50 new companies that have set the standard for professionalism and integrity. 

Learn more >>

The Star Tribune believes that many millennials are weary or wary of corporate America. They state that a significant number of people under age 35 are rejecting the perceived stability of an office job for something more flexible. Read more >>

January 6
Code Class [Register]
January 7
Lead Refresher Course [Register]
January 8
Industry Forecast and Dinner Meeting [Register]
January 9
Code Class [Register]
January 21
IBS Hospitality Suite in Las Vegas
January 27
BATC University Starts [Register]
February 18
Builder Day at the Capitol
February 19
Job and Career Fair at Mall of America [Get a Booth]
February 24
Foundation Annual Recognition Lunch with Belinda Jensen

For a complete list of events, visit our website at WWW.BATC.ORG.