In a move signaling deeper collaboration and expanded regional impact, Housing First Minnesota (HFM) and the Rochester Area Builders (RAB) finalized a partnership in late 2025 designed to strengthen advocacy efforts, elevate home tour programming, and deliver greater value to builders, remodelers, and other industry professionals in southeast Minnesota.
“This is an exciting time for Housing First and RAB,” said James Vagle, CEO of Housing First Minnesota. “Together, we’re building a clearer path to homeownership and a stronger future for Minnesota’s housing industry.”
The agreement—months in the making—brings together two influential builder organizations at a time when the state continues to face housing shortages, affordability pressures, and shifting market dynamics. By strategically combining RAB’s strong local presence with HFM’s statewide platforms and the Parade of Homes brand, the partnership will not only unify messaging but also broaden the reach of homebuilding advocacy across the state.
A cornerstone of the partnership is its alignment around Minnesota’s longstanding home tour ecosystem—anchored by the Parade of Homes, a program with more than 75 years of consumer trust. Beginning with the Spring 2026 season, the agreement introduces adjacent home tours in both the Twin Cities and Rochester areas.
“By aligning with the Parade of Homes, one of the best-known and -respected brands in Minnesota, RAB, our members, and the entire community will benefit,” said Patrick Sexton, executive director of Rochester Area Builders. “We are so excited for the increased attention home building and home remodeling will have throughout southeast Minnesota.”
Leaders from both organizations emphasize the structure is intentionally built to be durable, innovative, and adaptive.
HFM and RAB describe the partnership as a natural extension of their shared mission: advancing homeownership, supporting Minnesota’s builders and remodelers, and strengthening communities statewide. With enhanced tour programming on the horizon and a unified advocacy approach, both organizations say the collaboration will create new opportunities for their members and for the homebuyers they serve.