Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Home Building Association of Greater Portland
Established in 1941, the Home Building Association of Greater Portland (HBA) has consistently represented the residential building and remodeling industries in the Portland metropolitan area. Our organization unites builders, developers, remodelers, subcontractors, suppliers, and industry professionals to shape an environment where members can efficiently meet community housing needs. With over 1,400 members across six counties, we provide advocacy, education, and business development opportunities to support industry professionals. Our government relations team actively engages with local governments and special interest groups to influence land use, building regulations, and development policies. We host 50-100 annual educational programs and events, including major conferences like the Annual Housing Forecast and BuildRight Conference.Our three consumer shows attract 75,000-100,000 attendees annually, showcasing the latest trends in residential construction. Through our Home Building Foundation, we contribute to transitional housing projects and workforce development initiatives. Our staff of 11 operates from a 22,000 sq.ft. owned facility in Lake Oswego, which includes event spaces and meeting rooms. We maintain affiliations with the Oregon Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. Our $5 million annual budget supports member services including health insurance discounts, fuel savings programs, and rebate initiatives that often cover membership costs.
Services
Member Benefits Programs
Government Advocacy
Educational Workshops
Consumer Shows
Event Space Rental
Details
- Year established: 1941
Highlights and features
- Access to exclusive member benefits saving thousands annually
- Strong advocacy presence in local government decision-making
- Comprehensive educational programs for industry professionals
- Three major consumer shows attracting 75,000-100,000 attendees annually
- Proven track record of industry leadership since 1941
What people say
Money-saving benefits
Strong advocacy efforts
Quality educational programs
Excellent networking events
Valuable industry representation
Services
Member Benefits Programs
Our members access exclusive discounts and rebates through partnerships with providers of health insurance, workers' compensation, fuel services, and business solutions. These benefits often cover membership costs through annual savings. Our programs include manufacturer rebates averaging over $1,500 annually and 7% discounts on SAIF premiums.
Government Advocacy
We actively engage with local governments and regulatory bodies to shape housing policy and development regulations. Our advocacy efforts include system development charge monitoring, permit fee negotiations, and supporting business-friendly candidates through coordinated PAC initiatives. This representation helps members navigate regulatory challenges.
Educational Programs
We offer 50-100 annual educational events covering construction techniques, regulatory compliance, and business management. Programs include CCB continuing education, lead-based paint certification, and specialized training through Home Builders University. These programs help members maintain licensing requirements and industry expertise.
Consumer Shows
Our three annual consumer shows connect members with potential customers through exhibitions of the latest building products and design trends. Events include the Portland Spring Home & Garden Show and NW Natural Street of Dreams, attracting 75,000-100,000 attendees annually to showcase innovative residential construction solutions.
Event Space Rental
Our Lake Oswego facility offers 22,000 sq.ft. of event space including a 300-person conference center, classrooms, and meeting rooms. Members receive 10% rental discounts for business events, with exclusive catering services available through Vibrant Table. The space supports both industry and consumer-focused gatherings.
People
Dave Nielsen
Chief Executive Officer
Leading HBA since 2012, Dave brings extensive industry experience and has overseen significant advocacy successes including workforce development initiatives and regional government affairs efforts that earned national recognition.
Rachel Trice
Chief Membership & Marketing Officer
Managing membership growth and marketing strategy, Rachel has expanded member benefits programs and strengthened industry partnerships to enhance value for HBA's 1,400+ members across six counties.
Ben Hemson
Director of Policy & Government Affairs
Ben leads legislative advocacy efforts, maintaining relationships with local governments and influencing housing policy through strategic engagement with Portland's Metro Regional Government and city councils.
Regan Schutz
Executive Director, Home Building Foundation
Overseeing our 501(c)3 foundation, Regan coordinates community impact projects including transitional housing construction and workforce development programs that support industry careers.
Sarah Halstead
Director of Events
Sarah manages HBA's event portfolio including three major consumer shows and 50+ annual educational programs, ensuring high-quality experiences that drive industry networking and business development.
Questions
What are the benefits of HBA membership?
Members receive discounts on insurance, fuel, and business services, plus advocacy support, educational programs, and networking opportunities.
How does HBA support the local community?
Through our Home Building Foundation, we build transitional housing and provide industry scholarships to support workforce development.
What events does HBA organize?
We host three major consumer shows annually and over 50 educational programs including the BuildRight Conference and Housing Forecast.
How can I join HBA?
Visit our website to complete the online application and start accessing member benefits immediately.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We represent members across six counties in the Portland metropolitan area including Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas.
