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Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)

In a three-day course (two days for those who already possess an industry certification with a business component) CAPS teaches the strategies and techniques for marketing, designing and building aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments. If you know what universal design is you know some of the technical ideas that CAPS addresses. CAPS adds value to that knowledge by providing insights into the characteristics of the aging-in-place market, and how to market to and work with this demographic group.

Curriculum- 3 Required Classes

Marketing and Communications Strategies for Aging and Accessibility

• Background on the older adult population; communication techniques; common remodeling expenditures and projects
• Marketing to Older Adults: accessing the aging-in-place remodeling market

Design/Build Solutions for Aging and Accessibility

• Codes and standards, common barriers and solutions, product ideas and resources

Business Management for Building Professionals

• Strategies and techniques for building a competitive, sustainable remodeling business; case studies and interactive exercises. Upon completion of CAPS coursework, participants receive graduation materials, a comprehensive listing of product, information and marketing resources included in the Remodelors Council's database of CAPS-certified professionals nationwide.

*Holders of the following designations are exempt from the Business Management for Building Professionals requirement: GMB, CGR, CGB, CGA, CR, CKD, CBD, ASID, AIA, and GRI. Other exemptions are determined on a case by case basis.

CAPS Fees

• Classes at HBA:
• $195 RC/SMC Members
• $245 HBA Members
• $350 non-members
• Graduation Fees:
• $145.00 members
• $245.00 non-members
• Annual Renewal Fees:
• $50.00 members
• $75.00 non-members

Continuing Education Requirements

Designation holders are required to earn a total of twelve hours of continuing education every three years. Recertification candidates are required to earn six hours through academic coursework and an additional six hours through industry education and activities, for a total of twelve hours. A total of six hours is required to be earned by completing a NAHB University of Housing course that is at least six hours in length. Recertification candidates are required to earn the remaining six hours from the options outlined below. Candidates may earn their hours in any combination within the maximum hour limits for each section.

A maximum of six hours can be earned through attending or presenting educational programs at national meetings or regional trade shows. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Local HBA educational programs
• NAHB International Builders’ Show
• Other national industry conventions

Community Service

A maximum of two hours can be earned by participating in community service projects. Community service projects can include any work done for the public good without compensation. These hours may also be applied to Section 2 depending upon the activity.