BY ADELE CASANOVA

Spring is finally here! What better way to celebrate than to experience the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem’s (HBAWS) Spring Parade of Homes. This tour of beautifully decorated, new and remodeled homes will be inspiring and educational. Whether you are planning a remodel or are in the market for a new home, take advantage of this opportunity to tour the work of local builders and decorators to see the latest trends first-hand. As always, this fun, family-friendly event is free.

Co-sponsors of this year’s Spring Parade of Homes are Smith Phillips Building Supply and Allegacy Federal Credit Union. They look forward to introducing the work of local building and remodeling professionals to the community. Parade dates are April 27th and 28th, and May 4th and 5th. Hours are 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., both Saturday and Sunday each weekend.

Rob Powell, Vice President of Sales at Smith Phillips Building Supply, comments on the homes in the Parade this year, “This year’s Spring Parade of Homes is following on the heels of a surging year in home sales. These houses are appointed with the very latest and most popular features. Some of the must-see features are on the outside of the homes. Outdoor living, decks, patios, screen porches, and outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity.”

Vicky Slate, Mortgage Sales Manager at Allegacy Federal Credit Union, advises prospective buyers seeking a mortgage, “We understand how daunting it can be to start the home buying or building process. Our Allegacy team is committed to educating potential buyers before they begin. The critical first step is to get credit approval before starting the home buying or building process. Many buyers may even have their loans pre-approved.”

Of course, everyone is interested in checking out the latest trends in decorating, and designer Leigh Ann Raines, President of Chic by Design, suggests decorating tips to watch for. “This year we’re seeing more eclectic spaces that play with different design styles and eras.  Clients are mixing modern pieces with vintage, or modern design choices layered with Hollywood regency influences. Gray is still a relevant neutral, and a great backdrop for almost any color.  Many clients are incorporating rich, bold jewel tones, including on walls and trim.”

This year’s Spring Parade of Homes is especially exciting as the HBAWS celebrates its 60th anniversary. Started in 1959, and governed by an elected board of governors, it represents builder members in Forsyth and Stokes counties involved in residential/commercial building and remodeling. By effectively representing and serving its members, the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem strives to meet the community’s need for quality, affordable construction, and renovation of housing and commercial space.

HBAWS Executive Vice President, Darlene Saunders, comments, “This year marks the 60th Anniversary of the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem. Celebrating 60 years is a major milestone for any organization.  On a historical note, we must give credit to the pioneers who had a vision to create an association that would form a cohesive bond among the building community in the Winston-Salem area to promote professionalism and higher ethical standards. It is an honor and a privilege to serve our great association and to continue the tradition of professionalism in the building industry.”

Current President of HBAWS, C. Aubrey Stimpson, adds, “My Grandfather, Conrad Stimpson Jr., was a charter member of the HBA Winston-Salem in 1959, he also served as President in 1973 and 1974.  My Father, Karl Stimpson, built the HBA building around 1980 where we currently reside on Charlois Blvd.  I am humbled and honored to even be asked to serve as President, and especially on this 60th Anniversary.”  Please visit the HBAWS website to view a gallery of past presidents at HBAWS.net.

Remembering that “Home is where the heart is,” you can learn new exciting ways to put your heart into your home by attending this Spring Parade of Homes, while helping to celebrate the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem’s 60 years of excellence in serving the community.

To plan your tour, please visit springparadeofhomesws.com. to view the list of properties, links to the builders’ web sites and interactive/printable maps. Consider installing the new Spring Parade App on your phone. Found on Apple iTunes store, this app includes listing information, builder profiles, and driving directions. Great info at your fingertips while touring! Thanks to Houck Residential Designers for sponsoring this informative app!

Or, for more information, contact Beverly Hayes, Director of Communications and Member Services for the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem, at 336-768-5942, or visit hbaws.net.  HBAWS is located at 220 Charlois Blvd. in Winston-Salem.