Welcome to the APB Digest! This week, discover the Marketing Blueprint for Builders, find out why chasing more leads might be masking a deeper issue, catch the latest industry trends shaping the months ahead, and more.
Marketing Blueprint For Builders
Marketing doesn’t need to feel random, overwhelming, or expensive. When you follow a proven system designed specifically for builders, you can take control of your pipeline and your profitability. That’s why we created a coaching program for members of the Association of Professional Builders, covering the proven formula for creating a brand that attracts qualified leads.
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New Podcast Episodes
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The Power Of Proof
Russ Stephens, Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, explains why “proof” beats claims and how builders can use evidence to earn trust and win more contracts in an AI-noisy world.
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Why Systems Beat Superstars
Daniel Morton, founder of JACK App, shares his journey from starting out as a plumber to scaling a residential building company, turning over more than $70 million a year, all while launching a software platform designed specifically for builders.
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One Month Left To Submit Your Photos
There is just over a month left to submit your best builds to be considered for the 2026 SORCI Report. Complete the 2025 SORCI survey before November 10, and you’ll have the chance to submit three photos of your best completed project.
First place lands the front cover of the 2026 SORCI Annual Report, plus five runners-up will be featured inside the report, viewed by thousands of top builders, partners, and industry leaders.
Start The Survey
Why More Leads Won’t Fix Your Real Problem
You're swamped - juggling quotes, client calls, and team issues. From the outside, things seem smooth, but inside, it's a constant struggle. Your first thought: "We need more work." But more leads won't solve the real issue. They highlight underlying problems and add more weight without a solid foundation. Discover why growth isn't just about volume in this latest article.
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Industry Trends
Australia
- Sales are beginning to lock in across some regions.
- Other areas still struggle with lead quality.
Takeaway: Pockets of positivity are emerging, but consistent lead flow remains the hurdle.
New Zealand
- Construction cost inflation remains elevated, though slower than the COVID-era peaks.
- Labour shortages continue, with weak migration driving wage costs higher.
- The government’s earlier move to allow foreign-certified building products is still supporting supply, but no new tax or regulation shifts this month.
- No fresh data on permits or builder confidence was released in September.
- No significant insolvency, strike, or supply chain shocks reported.
Takeaway: Costs and labour remain the squeeze points, while regulation and insolvency risks are quiet, for now.
United States
- Builder confidence steady but historically low (HMI at 32).
- 39% of builders cut prices in September, the highest since the pandemic.
- Average reduction: 5%, with 65% offering incentives.
- Sales expectations hit a six-month high, yet affordability remains the drag.
Takeaway: Competition is fierce, incentives are at record levels, but optimism for Q4 is creeping in - discipline will be key.
Canada
- Fall rush underway as lower BoC rates bring buyers back.
- Affordable markets like Calgary are booming; pricier regions remain sluggish.
- Pivot toward multi-unit rentals, backed by government financing and demand.
- Launch of “Build Canada Homes” agency met with scepticism.
- Calgary and Edmonton recording near-record housing starts.
- Material relief in wood products, but steel and mechanical costs remain high
Takeaway: Momentum is strong in affordable markets; builders must adapt to shifting demand and cost structures.
"It should be mandatory for all builders to join APB..."
"By doing this, it will educate building companies about what it takes to run a successful building company and lift the entire industry as a whole. It will also improve the client's journey. I wish I had discovered the APB much earlier in my building career."