Episode 89 brings together builder Graeme Huguet of My House Design/Build Team, and Bryan and Sarah Baeumler of HGTV/Stack TV fame for a deep dive into how design, energy performance, and wellness shape modern homes. The group covers building envelopes, healthy materials, circadian-supportive lighting, air quality, mechanical systems, and how to align design aspirations with real-life living patterns.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Graeme, Bryan and Sarah, go to https://havan.ca/episode-89-home-performance-design/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

BC Housing’s Dr. Esther De Vos and Chris Hill join Mike and Jennifer-Lee to explain DASH: Digitally Accelerated Standardized Housing. They walk through how DASH links digital tools, standardized designs, and off-site manufacturing to streamline approvals, reduce delays, and help produce multi-unit homes faster across BC. The episode highlights the program’s recent release, its early demo projects, and what it means for builders, nonprofits, municipalities, and anyone trying to deliver housing across BC.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Master Residential Builder Chris Hill and Dr. Esther de Vos, Executive Director of Research, BC Housing, go to https://havan.ca/episode-88-BCHousing-DASH/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

Builder Todd Best (Best Builders) and energy advisor Barb Silverthorne (Capture Energy) join hosts Mike and Jennifer-Lee to unpack the full transformation of a 1908 Mount Pleasant home headed for CHBA Net Zero and Built Green Net Zero Energy+. They explain embodied carbon, low-carbon materials, circularity, and why early integrated design creates fewer compromises and a better result.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Todd Best and Barb Silverthorn, go to https://havan.ca/episode-87-1908-to-net-zero-retrofit/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

Builder Todd Best (Best Builders) and deconstruction specialist Eric Serpas Ventura (Vema Deconstruction) join hosts Mike Freeman and Jennifer-Lee Gunson to explain how deconstruction works, how it differs from demolition, and why reclaimed materials matter for cost, carbon, and character. Using the 1908 heritage-to-net-zero project as a case study, they walk through material inventories, tax credits, reclaimed old-growth lumber, and how planning early turns ‘demo’ into an opportunity instead of waste.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-86-1908-to-net-zero-deconstruction/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

Alisa Aragon-Lloyd (CEO, Bridgestone Financing Pros | HAVAN's Immediate Past Chair of the Board) joins Mike Freeman and Jennifer-Lee Gunson to demystify construction mortgages—how they work, when funds are released, and why working with a qualified builder makes financing smoother. From permits and draws to contingency funds and lender expectations, Alisa explains how to plan ahead, stay cash-flow-ready, and finish strong.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-85-construction-financing/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

Builder Chad La Pointe (Nikari Homes) joins Mike Freeman and Jennifer-Lee Gunson to unpack how strong systems create successful builds. From early builder involvement and transparent budgeting to clear communication and reliable trade networks, Chad explains how process—not chance—drives great results. Featuring The Cat’s Meow, an award-nominated renovation designed around both people and pets, the episode highlights how structure behind the scenes builds trust, quality, and lasting relationships.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-84-the-business-behind-the-builder/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

According to Bobby Purba of BDC Homes, who has built many multi-plex and multi-generational homes, talking about generational wealth and real estate can be tough, but says these conversations need to S.U.C.K. Sharing insight on the new multiplex legislation, listen in as Bobby offers tips and recommends the professionals to consult before you start unlockinh your home equity.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-63-unlocking-home-equity/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

To mark HAVAN’s 50th Anniversary, CEO Wendy McNeil hosts a special conversation with Mark Rosen (Building Knowledge Canada) and Alfred Jury (Euroline Windows) exploring how far we’ve come in building science. They discuss the evolution of window and mechanical technologies, the importance of integrated design, and practical tips for homeowners and builders to right-size their systems for comfort, efficiency, and value.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-82-rightsizing-for-your-home-mechanical-windows/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

(00:00:00) Ep 81: Bringing New Housing to Market

(00:00:46) How housing has changed in 50 years

(00:02:28) Layers of regulation & red tape

(00:04:09) Government fees and taxes on new homes

(00:07:28) The cost of affordability: who really pays?

(00:10:15) Comparing Canada & U.S. housing systems

(00:12:20) The rise of fees: 1,943% increase since 2015

(00:15:57) Why the private sector builds 95% of homes

(00:20:02) CMHC programs keeping construction alive

(00:23:58) Mass timber: made-in-BC potential

(00:28:27) Policy overload: 123 active consultations

(00:31:00) The Missing Middle Initiative data insights

(00:35:00) DCC timing reform: real affordability impact

(00:40:01) Transparency in housing costs

(00:45:02) Foreign buyers & financing realities

(00:48:30) The GST/HST rebate gap

(00:50:58) Collaboration over blame

(00:54:58) Westgroup’s transparency & advocacy work

(00:57:59) Final thoughts & call for alignment

(00:59:27) Sponsor credits & outro

Wesgroup’s Brad Jones joins HAVAN CEO Wendy McNeil to discuss what it really takes to bring new housing to market. From overlapping regulations and skyrocketing fees to the role of CMHC’s loan programs and transparent data from the Missing Middle Initiative, this episode cuts through the noise to explore how collaboration and policy alignment can rebuild affordability across BC.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-81-bringing-new-housing-to-market/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.

Save More Plumbing & Lighting’s Nishin Handa joins Mike & Jennifer-Lee to unpack the plumbing trends shaping modern homes. From water-saving toilets and faucets to instant hot water taps, workstation sinks, antimicrobial surfaces, and bidets, Nishin explains how smart choices improve comfort, efficiency, and health. We also explore composting toilets, net-zero plumbing solutions, and how to avoid “Pinterest problems” when choosing fixtures.

You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-80-plumbing-trends/

Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod productions, and AI Technology & Design. It takes a team to build a home, as it does to build a podcast.

HAVAN – the Homebuilders Association Vancouver rRepresents over 1,100 members. We’ve been a trusted voice in the homebuilding industry since 1974. Our members include builders, developers, renovators, designers, suppliers, trades, and professionals — the people who build over 65% of Metro Vancouver’s homes. As a not-for-profit association, we bring people together — connecting industry and consumers through education, resources, and shared opportunities. We work closely with government to promote smart policy, with a focus on housing solutions that meet the region’s growing needs and are proudly  affiliated with CHBA BC and CHBA National.