August 5, 2025
Making Homeownership Possible through Creative Financing and Local Collaboration
Published by the Shawnee Homebuilders Association
In today’s housing market, buying a home can feel like an uphill climb. High interest rates, rising construction costs, and limited housing inventory have made it more difficult than ever for many families to achieve the dream of homeownership. But here in Shawnee, our local homebuilders and lending partners are working together to turn those challenges into opportunities.
One great example of this is the partnership between Little Homes, an SHBA member, and local lending partners who have stepped up to offer creative financing solutions tailored to today’s buyer. By buying down interest rates and offering flexible loan terms, they’re helping make monthly mortgage payments more affordable for first-time buyers and working families alike.
Cardinal Point, a new addition by Little Homes offers thoughtful incentives and a truly personalized approach to homeownership. Their homes are designed for everyone from first-time buyers to those looking to downsize or shorten their commute, thanks to a prime location with easy access to I-40, shopping, restaurants, parks, golf, and medical facilities—all without the noise of heavy traffic.
Cardinal Point offers builder incentives that can be used for closing costs, rate buy-downs, or move-in perks that make transitioning into a new home easier and more affordable. These incentives vary depending on the floor plan, which is always unique—no two homes in the neighborhood share the same layout.
Beyond financing help, Cardinal Point homes boast an impressive array of features, including:
- Open floor plans with tall ceilings and large picture windows
- Modern wood and painted cabinets, 8' doors, and built-ins
- Covered patios, window treatments, and alarm systems
- High impact shingles and exterior wall spray foam insulation
- Energy-efficient furnaces, gas stoves, built-in microwaves
- Epoxy garage floors, full house guttering, and sodded yards
These thoughtful touches reflect the builder’s commitment to both form and function, offering comfort, beauty, and energy savings all in one package.
This kind of collaboration shows the true power of local partnerships. When SHBA members put their heads together, the results are innovative, community-driven, and people-focused. It’s not just about selling homes—it’s about making the dream of homeownership achievable and sustainable.
Our members understand that every buyer’s situation is different. That’s why SHBA builders often work closely with financial institutions to build in cost-saving incentives that reduce up-front costs or stabilize long-term payments. These efforts are especially important in a market where many buyers feel priced out or uncertain about future affordability.
What we’re seeing today is a shift toward solutions. Shawnee Builders aren’t just waiting for the market to change, they’re taking action. Whether that means working with lenders to create tailored loan packages, offering design options that reduce build costs, or supporting buyers through education and transparency, the goal is the same: to keep homeownership within reach for more Shawnee residents.
At SHBA, we are proud to support and celebrate these partnerships. They are a testament to our members' deep commitment not only to the housing industry, but to the people and families who call Shawnee home.
Thinking about buying a home? Talk to one of our member builders or lenders to learn what options may be available to you. Because when we work together, we build more than houses—we build possibilities.
Visit ShawneeForward.com/SHBAto learn more.
June 27.2025
Grills, Conversations, and Community: Highlights from the 2025 SHBA Steak Fry
Published by the Shawnee Homebuilders Association
There’s something about a perfectly grilled steak that brings people together—and on June 27th, the Shawnee Homebuilders Association proved just that with another successful edition of its annual Steak Fry.
Despite a rainy evening, the turnout was strong and the conversations were even stronger. Laughs were exchanged and the rain did nothing to dampen the energy or the sense of connection that filled the space.
Strengthening Our Local Ties
The SHBA Steak Fry is more than a social event—it’s a platform for building real relationships. This year’s gathering brought together builders, city officials, utility providers, lenders, suppliers, and other community stakeholders who play critical roles in shaping Shawnee’s growth.
As steaks sizzled by the lake, conversations flowed about housing trends, infrastructure needs, workforce pipelines, and shared community goals. These moments are where collaboration begins and trust is built.
A Unified Mission
One of the most meaningful parts of the evening was the clear sense that everyone there is working toward the same outcome—a strong, vibrant, and growing Shawnee. From casual chats with city leadership to brainstorming with local tradespeople, the event reflected the best of what happens when local professionals come together without an agenda—just a shared love for the community they serve.
Even with raindrops falling, the mood was anything but damp. The night was full of positive energy, meaningful conversations, and a renewed sense of momentum for the work ahead.
Special Thanks
We would like to give special thanks to Jeremy Kinnamon of One Sixty Processing for the outstanding steaks he provided for our dinner. Huge thanks to Daniel Tyler and Steve Webb for braving the rain and grilling for the group.
We’re also incredibly grateful to Greta Madson for hosting us in her beautiful building on the lake and providing all the delicious sides that made the meal complete.
A big shout out to the local bankers and lenders who donated fantastic prizes:
- Vision Bank
- Stride Mortgage
- Sovereign Bank
And thank you to Higginbotham Brothers, Lowe's, and all the local builders who contributed to the always-popular "Cadillac Stag". Funds raised from this fun tradition will support future scholarships for individuals building skills in the construction industry.
Thank You to Our Members and Partners
We’re grateful to all the SHBA members, community leaders, and partners who joined us—and stuck it out through the weather. Your commitment to showing up, listening, and contributing to a better Shawnee is exactly what makes our association strong.
As always, SHBA remains committed to not just building homes, but building lasting partnerships that make our city better for everyone.
Interested in becoming a member or learning more about what we do?
Visit ShawneeForward.com/SHBA to get involved and stay connected.
April 29, 2025
Embracing Earthy Tones: 2025’s Exterior Paint Trends in Pottawatomie County
Published by the Shawnee Homebuilders Association
As 2025 unfolds, homeowners across Pottawatomie County are embracing a shift toward warm, earthy exterior tones—a trend that's gaining momentum as more people seek to create inviting, nature-inspired spaces that feel timeless and personal.
Gone are the days of cool grays and stark whites dominating the neighborhood. This year’s popular palettes include rich browns, weathered greens, soft terra cottas, and warm beiges—shades that not only enhance curb appeal but also blend beautifully with Oklahoma’s natural surroundings. Whether paired with brick, wood, stucco, or stone, these tones help exteriors feel grounded, authentic, and connected to the land.
This movement reflects a broader design shift toward biophilic design, where nature is seamlessly woven into our living spaces to promote calm, harmony, and well-being. But it’s also about personalization—homeowners are moving away from cookie-cutter color schemes and leaning into styles that reflect their unique vision and lifestyle.
Whether you’re refreshing a front door, accenting shutters, or repainting your entire home, earth-toned colors offer a flexible and classic update. Local experts, including the team at Ace Hardware, offer guidance and tools to help you select the right paint for your project—and ensure your color choices look great for years to come.
And for those who want to stay ahead of the curve in home trends, materials, and colors, our Shawnee Homebuilders Association (SHBA) is a fantastic resource. With decades of experience and a deep connection to our community, SHBA members are not only building homes—they're shaping the look, feel, and future of Shawnee living. From exterior trends to full home design insights, they can help homeowners and builders alike make decisions that are both on-trend and timeless.
Looking for inspiration or advice? Reach out to SHBA or stop by Higginbotham Brothers, your local Ace Hardware, Spectrum Paint, or Lowe’s in Shawnee to explore the latest in paint and design trends tailored to our area.
April 17, 2025
Building More Than Houses: Why Homebuilding Matters in Shawnee
Published by the Shawnee Homebuilders Association
When you drive through Shawnee, you're not just seeing homes go up—you're seeing community in the making. Each foundation poured and each wall raised represents more than construction. It represents local families, deep roots, and a strong commitment to keeping Shawnee thriving.
The members of the Shawnee Homebuilders Association (SHBA) aren’t outsiders chasing the next big job in the next big city. They’re homegrown. Many are continuing businesses their parents or grandparents started, proudly carrying on a tradition of craftsmanship and care. This isn’t just where they work—it’s where they live, raise their families, and build their futures.
When you hire a local builder, you’re doing more than investing in a home. You’re supporting local jobs and keeping dollars in our community. Builders buy their materials locally, partner with Shawnee-based electricians, plumbers, and landscapers, and hire from a workforce that was born and raised here. It’s a ripple effect that strengthens our local economy.
And these builders don’t disappear after the job is done. They’re still here, long after the last nail is driven, ready to stand behind their work and support the community. Whether it’s sponsoring a local sports team, volunteering with a nonprofit, or serving on a civic board, SHBA members are actively engaged in making Shawnee a better place.
That’s the real power of local homebuilding. It’s not just about quality construction—it’s about building a community that lasts.
So the next time you see a new home going up in Shawnee, know this: it’s not just a structure. It’s a symbol of local pride, resilience, and a future built right here, by people who call Shawnee home.