"What's new?" Is the question I heard most attendees asking exhibitors at the 2015 National Association of Home Builders, International Home Show in Las Vegas. People (me included) are always looking for the newest and most interesting products to introduce to our clients and open up the world to a whole other realm of possible. I heard a statistic a couple years back, that every year there are 100 new products introduced into the home building/remodeling industry. This number didn't shock me. What shocked me this year is that it didn't seem like they've introduced new products but instead focused on perfecting existing products.

Instead of making a new Nest Thermostat manufacturers are looking at ways that they can enhance it to work together with your washer and dryer to save you money and conserve energy. Cloud based computer systems that would integrate with completely different software to allow for a more seamless workflow. Instead of having a space for the shower and a place for the tub, companies are looking at how to incorporate them both into one comfortable and usable space. There were terrific collaborations that really appeared to be creating the "Smart Home"

Besides walking the show floor for three days, I also finished my NAHB Green Building Certification. Beginning spring 2015, I will be an NAHB Certified Green Builder and can offer that certification service to clients. What was great about the class was the recognition that we already use most of the practices of the NGBS (National Green Building Standard) level in our homes and remodel projects.

Please visit our Facebook page, where I will be posting pictures of new and updated products that caught my eye at the show.