Frequently Asked Questions

What’s new for 2026?

We listened to your feedback and made several improvements to this year’s Best in Building Awards program.

The Best in Building Awards Committee carefully reviewed the awards lineup with the goal of creating a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.

The biggest change is the consolidation of most Marketing Awards into a single category open to all member types. This creates a simpler, more focused submission process while encouraging greater competition.

We also added Best Kitchen Design and Best Primary Bath Design to the Associate Awards, giving Associate members dedicated opportunities for recognition that align with those available in the Builder and Remodeler categories.

I’m not sure what type of member I am. How can I find out?

If you’re unsure whether you’re a Builder, Remodeler, or Associate member, we’ve created a quick member directory that allows you to search for your company and identify your membership classification.

View the Member Directory

My written submission is ready, but I’m still waiting for professional photos. Can I submit now and upload the photos later?

No. Entries must be complete before they can be officially submitted.

You can save your work at any time and return later to finish your submission, including uploading photos, before finalizing your entry.

Can I submit entries in multiple categories?

Absolutely! As long as your membership type is eligible for a category, you’re welcome to submit as many entries as you’d like.

Refer to the 2026 Submission Categories Planning Guide for a chart showing which member types are eligible for each award category.

Can I submit the same project in more than one category?

Yes. Many projects naturally qualify for multiple awards.

If your project meets the eligibility requirements for more than one category, we encourage you to submit it wherever appropriate. Be sure each submission is tailored to the specific award category and highlights the aspects of the project most relevant to that award.

How do I determine which price category my project falls into?

Price categories are based on the total completed value of the project, not just the portion your company provided.

For example, if you supplied $10,000 worth of tile for a bathroom renovation, you’ll need to calculate the total value of the completed bathroom, including labor, fixtures, cabinetry, plumbing, electrical work, finishes, and other components, to determine the appropriate price category.

I worked on a project that another member is submitting. How can I make sure my company receives recognition?

Communication is key.

Before the submission period begins, we encourage you to reach out to the builders, remodelers, and trade partners you’ve worked with throughout the year to determine whether they’ll be submitting the project.

If they are, ask them to include your company’s contribution in the Awards Night section of the submission so your participation can be recognized during the event.

How can I maximize a project’s opportunities for recognition?

Many successful submissions are collaborative.

If multiple CRBRA members contributed to a project, consider coordinating your submissions so different aspects of the project are entered into the categories that best highlight each company’s work.

Example: A remodeled primary bathroom featuring custom tile and a hand-painted mural could generate multiple entries:

  • Best Bath Remodel — Remodeler
  • Best Application of Solid Surface Material — Associate
  • Best Decorative Element — Associate
  • Best Primary Bath Design — Builder, Remodeler, or Associate

Working together allows more companies to receive recognition while showcasing the full scope of the project.

Why do some companies seem to win so many awards?

Successful companies often make the Best in Building Awards part of their overall marketing strategy.

Rather than submitting only one or two projects, they identify every eligible opportunity and submit entries across multiple categories.

This year, we’ve simplified the Marketing Awards to encourage broader participation, but a thoughtful submission strategy can significantly increase your chances of being recognized.

Who judges the awards?

The Best in Building Awards are judged by independent industry professionals from outside our market.

Judges are members of the National Association of Home Builders who have experience evaluating projects and are selected through professional relationships within the federation. Because they have no connection to the local market, they can evaluate entries objectively and fairly.

What role does the Best in Building Awards Committee play?

The Committee oversees the structure and administration of the program.

Committee members:

  • Review and update award categories
  • Establish timelines and deadlines
  • Secure sponsorships
  • Promote participation among CRBRA members
  • Help plan Awards Night

Committee members do not review submissions, serve as judges, or participate in selecting award winners. In fact, they generally do not know which companies have submitted entries.

What projects are eligible for the 2026 Best in Building Awards?

Projects must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the official Rules and Eligibility information, including the applicable project completion dates and any category-specific requirements.

Review the Rules and Eligibility Information

I don’t see a category that fits my business. How can I participate?

We’re always looking for ways to improve the Best in Building Awards. If you have an idea for a future award category, we’d love to hear it.

You can also participate by becoming a Best in Building Awards sponsor. Sponsorship is a great way to increase your company’s visibility while supporting one of CRBRA’s premier member programs.

View Sponsorship Opportunities

What can I expect at Awards Night?

Awards Night returns to Franklin Plaza in Troy on Thursday, November 12.

Based on member feedback, we’re focused on delivering a polished, engaging program that celebrates our industry’s outstanding work while keeping the evening moving at a comfortable pace. Expect an enjoyable night of networking, recognition, and celebration with fellow CRBRA members.

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