With over 750 booths and 350 exhibitors, the Metropolitan Builders Association’s 15th Annual Home Builders Expo is a sell out for the first time ever. The annual home show will be held at the Midwest Airlines Center on January 8th – 11th.

“We are really excited about this year’s show, ” said Association Executive Director Matt Moroney. “In addition to appearances by Steve Watson of Monster House and Jai Rodriguez and Kyan Douglas of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, this is the first time that we have sold out the show floor. I believe that is a testament to how strong the housing industry is.”

The 2004 Home Builders Expo will be the Association’s largest show featuring over 350 different exhibitors ranging from appliances to windows. With over 25,000 people expected to attend, the Home Builders Expo has become the largest, most comprehensive building trade show in Wisconsin.

“Meeting Your Home Building Needs from A-Z: Appliances to Zone Heating” is this year’s theme and we believe it describes this year’s show perfectly,” continued Moroney. “Many people think that the Home Builders Expo is just for people looking for a builder or remodelor. What they don’t realize is that the show also features all of the products and services you will need for new construction, remodeling or home improvement.”

In addition to the large variety of products and services available, the 2004 Home Builders Expo will feature:

• Appearances on Saturday, January 10th by Steve Watson, the host of Discovery Channel’s Monster House. Watson will host a question and answer session at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. with autograph sessions slated for Noon and 4 p.m.
• Kyan Douglas and Jai Rodriguez of Bravo’s Queer Eye for the Straight Guy will host the “Build a New You” Contest on Sunday, January 11th. Douglas and Rodriguez will unveil the winning contestants make-over and host a question and answer session at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Autograph sessions are slated for Noon and 4 p.m.
• “Consumer’s Guide to Home Maintenance”. This comprehensive pamphlet will cover information on how to maintain everything from appliances to ventilation equipment. This complimentary publication is available only through the Metropolitan Builders Association and will be available to all Home Builders Expo attendees.
• 2004 Lot Locator Map. A comprehensive resource that identifies developments with lots for sale as well as contact and amenities information. Also included is a list of model homes that are available for viewing.
• A full slate of educational classes that cover everything from landscaping to decorating your new home. Presented by industry experts and celebrity presenters, the classes are the first of a series to be offered all year long. Additional classes will be held at the MBA Headquarters (N16 W23321 Stone Ridge Drive, Waukesha). See the full Expo seminar schedule

“The Home Builders Expo serves as a great starting point for anyone who is looking to build, remodel or improve their home,” said Moroney. “After attending the Expo, consumers need to continue to turn to the MBA and its resources.”

Tickets for the Expo are $8 at the door or $7 with the donation of two non-perishable food items. Discount tickets are available for $7 at participating financial institutions and retail outlets. See the list of discount ticket locations. Admission for children 12 and under is free. Expo hours are:

• Thursday, January 8: 4 – 8 p.m.
  
• Friday, January 9: 12 – 9 p.m.
  
• Saturday, January 10: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  
• Sunday, January 11: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.