Approximately 7,595 guests took advantage of the opportunity to meet with MBA members and gather information for their home improvement, building, or remodeling needs at the 19th Annual Home Builders Expo, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. With over 750 booths representing a myriad of construction related services, the Expo offered something for everyone.

The Saturday playoff game was in direction competition with the Home Builders Expo, but exhibitors were extremely happy with the strength of the leads they gathered during the game and throughout the show. “Our members are very enthusiastic about 2008.” said Matt Moroney, Executive Director of the MBA. “Many members actually reported record years last year – despite the highly publicized housing downturn. The leads gathered at this year’s show indicate that there is still strong consumer interest in not only building, but also remodeling and home improvement. People understand that their home is still a safe place to invest their money.”

Consumers and exhibitors alike enjoyed Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club’s Bernie Brewer™ and the Famous Racing Sausages™, who made an appearance on Saturday; and fans were lined up before the show started for National League Rookie of the Year, Ryan Braun, who welcomed Brewer Fans at a photo and autograph session on Sunday.

Enhancing this year’s show was the professionalism offered by different member participants. Companies who participate in the Expo automatically compete against one another in the best booth contest. Outside judges determine the winners of the Best Builder and Associate Booths in specific size categories.

"Our members go to great lengths to determine the needs of their customers and it shows in the presentation and effort seen in their booths," said Moroney. "Exhibitors are putting more emphasis on using their booth design to draw consumers in.” Since the show's beginning, the MBA has made it a priority to judge the participating booths to recognize members for their efforts in ensuring the highest quality Home Builders Expo possible.

At the 2001 Expo, the MBA also launched a landscaping competition. Now in its eighth year, the contest has showcased the talent of numerous area landscaper members over the years and has generated excitement among consumers looking for the latest trends in landscaping. According to Moroney, “The rapid growth of spending on residential landscaping in recent years has made landscape designers important players in the home building industry. Consumers love to see the new trends at the Expo.” This year’s winner in the landscape design contest was Aquatica, LLC.

Home Builders Expo continues to be Wisconsin’s largest home show. “Interest in the 2008 Home Builders Expo was very strong,” said Moroney. “The enthusiasm from members and consumers alike speaks to the strength of the housing industry and the high quality of our show.”