April News and Highlights

The Home Builders Association of West Virginia (HBAWV) proudly held its Spring Board of Directors meeting at Cedar Lakes, bringing together dedicated leaders from across the state to collaborate on the future of our association. During the meeting, the Board continued working to strengthen HBAWV through proactive advocacy, strategic planning, and the development of meaningful events that provide valuable networking opportunities for our members statewide. These gatherings allow members from different regions to connect, share ideas, and grow together as an industry. If you are interested in becoming more involved or serving as a board member, we encourage you to reach out. For those looking to reconnect and get engaged again, please contact Jamie Burch at (304)342-5176 or email info@hbawv.org.

Join us for an engaging Murder Mystery Dinner at Stonewall Resort on July 17, 2026, benefiting our WV Build Pac and supporting the future of our industry. Enjoy an evening of networking, entertainment, and collaboration while helping strengthen advocacy efforts for home builders across West Virginia.

Northern Panhandle Home Builders Association

Builder Spotlight

Carl Bittner is the owner of Carmel Construction LLC, a trusted name in residential and commercial construction, proudly serving the tri-state region of West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. With 11 years in business and a strong foundation built from years of hands-on carpentry experience, Carl has developed a reputation for quality craftsmanship, reliability, and professionalism.

Carmel Construction LLC specializes in new home construction, home additions, custom kitchens and baths, commercial construction, and property maintenance. Carl’s diverse background in the field has allowed him to successfully manage projects of all sizes while maintaining a strong focus on detail and client satisfaction.

Carl’s journey into business ownership began after spending several years working as a carpenter for other companies. During that time, he gained extensive hands-on experience and developed a deep understanding of both the technical and management aspects of construction. Recognizing opportunities to elevate the level of service and craftsmanship, Carl made the decision to branch out on his own. His goal was to build a company that reflects his personal standards, commitment to quality, and dedication to building strong client relationships.

When asked what advice he would give to someone starting out in the industry, Carl keeps it simple and straightforward:

“Be honest, be accountable, and offer a fair price—you will always stay busy.”

Carl joined the Home Builders Association to stay connected and continue growing within the ever-evolving building industry. One of the most valuable aspects of membership has been the opportunity to network with fellow professionals, exchange knowledge, and stay informed on both local and national industry trends.

He also values access to events such as the International Builders’ Show, which provide exposure to new products, innovative techniques, and emerging trends. These experiences allow Carl to continuously bring fresh ideas and best practices back to his work.

As a member of the Northern Panhandle West Virginia Home Builders Association, Carl has experienced significant benefits for both himself and his business. The association has provided opportunities to build meaningful relationships with industry peers, leading to valuable collaborations and a stronger sense of community within the trade.

Additional advantages include access to rebate and incentive programs, helping to reduce costs and improve project efficiency—allowing Carl to remain competitive while maintaining the high standards his clients expect.

Beyond business, Carl appreciates the opportunity to participate in fundraising and community initiatives through the association. Giving back to the communities he serves is an important part of his mission, reinforcing the connection between his work and the people it impacts.

Best of West Virginia Awards

This year brings exciting updates, including a brand-new platform designed to enhance the submission experience, expanded sponsorship opportunities for greater visibility, and—for the first time—open submissions to non-HBAWV members. With these new enhancements, the program will highlight more outstanding projects and professionals from across the state. We encourage all entrants to attend the convention, where all winners are announced October 22-24, 2026, at Chief Logan State Park located in Logan, WV. Stay tuned and get your entries ready—this is one you won’t want to miss!.

North Central WV Home Builder Assosciation BUILDER SPOTLIGHT

Randy Shaffer is the owner of Impressive Homes LLC, a Morgantown-based custom home building company serving southwestern Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Northern West Virginia. With a career spanning more than four decades, Randy has established a reputation for quality craftsmanship, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence in the home building industry.

After graduating from Penn State University in 1984, Randy began his career working with two large-volume home builders, where he gained valuable experience in residential construction and project management. In 1997, he founded Impressive Homes LLC, bringing his vision of personalized, high-quality home building to life. Since then, the company has completed more than 150 custom homes across the region.

While Randy has extensive experience building homes of varying sizes and price ranges, the past 15 years of his career have been focused on the construction of multi-million-dollar luxury residences. His work is defined by attention to detail, superior materials, and a hands-on approach that ensures each project meets the highest standards. 

Randy is deeply committed to exceptional customer service, maintaining a proactive and communicative process from concept to completion. His guiding principle is simple yet powerful: to build every home to the same standard he would expect for his own.

A dedicated industry professional, Randy has been an active member of local home builder associations for over 40 years. He values the continuing education, collaboration, and networking opportunities these organizations provide, recognizing them as essential to maintaining high-quality work and staying connected with trusted contractors, tradesmen, and suppliers.

Mid Ohio Valley

Home Builder Association

ASSOCIATE MEMBER SPOTLIGHT



Established: December 1919 (Over 100 Years in Business)

Williamstown Bank is a trusted community bank offering a full range of financial services, including personal and business lending, deposit accounts, and cash management solutions. The bank prides itself on relationship-driven banking—working closely with individuals, small businesses, and developers to deliver tailored financial solutions.

With a strong focus on personalized service, Williamstown Bank remains committed to supporting the growth and success of the communities it serves.

Service Area

Williamstown Bank currently operates four convenient branch locations:

• Williamstown
• 7th Street
• Lubeck
• South Parkersburg

Our Story

Founded over a century ago, Williamstown Bank was built on the principle of providing reliable, community-focused banking services. That mission continues today through a commitment to supporting local individuals, families, and businesses while giving back to the community.

Advice for Those Starting Out

“Build relationships first. Whether you’re in banking or any other industry, trust and consistency will take you further than any quick win. Stay patient, stay engaged in your community, and always follow through.”

Involvement with the Home Builders Association

Williamstown Bank joined the Home Builders Association to strengthen connections within the local community and better support the professionals who drive regional growth. Their involvement allows them to serve as a financial partner in both residential and commercial development.

What attracted them most is the strong sense of collaboration within the association—bringing together professionals who are equally committed to improving and growing the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Working with HBA Members

Yes—Williamstown Bank actively works with local builders, contractors, and related businesses by providing:

• Financing solutions
• Cash management services
• Ongoing financial support

They look forward to continuing and expanding partnerships with fellow HBA members.

Benefits of HBA Membership

Membership in the Home Builders Association of the Mid-Ohio Valley has allowed Williamstown Bank to:

• Build stronger connections within the construction and development industry
• Stay informed on market trends
• Better understand customer needs
• Gain valuable networking opportunities

This involvement has helped position the bank as a trusted financial partner within the community.

Please reach out for more information on this HBA program and discount.

If you currently have one of the following for your insurance, you already have Encova and need to make sure your agent is aware that you are a member of HBAWV, and check whether you qualify for the discount.

1. Allegheny Point
2. Brick Street
3. NorthStone
4. PinnaclePoint
5. SummitPoint

As we move forward together this season, we’re reminded of the strength and resilience that define our membership. Each project you take on, each client you serve, and each challenge you overcome plays a role in building not just homes—but stronger communities across West Virginia. Your dedication, craftsmanship, and commitment to excellence continue to set the standard for our industry. Stay proud of the work you do, support one another, and remember that through every season, we are stronger together



“Excellence is built one project, one detail, and one day at a time.” — Pat Riley