An area builder of modular homes and commercial buildings has seen a 50 percent increase in production since March, according to the Martinsville Bulletin.

Nationwide Custom Homes has recalled workers that were laid off in 2008 to help meet the increased demands. Nationwide attributes the increased production to the homebuyer tax-credit program and to their continued commitment to customer service.

This is great news for area homeowners because as the housing market continues to rebound, Nationwide will be able to hire back more employees. Also, this is a great sign for the housing market.

"Nationwide Custom Homes’ production is up 50 percent since March, company officials said.

If that trend continues, the company’s goal is to recall workers and/or fill about 75 positions next year at the company’s Martinsville division, according to Nationwide President Andy Miller and Vice President-Operations Tommy Rakes.

The company already has recalled more than 20 of the 100 workers who were laid off in 2008 and filled six positions since June of this year, Rakes said. The Martinsville division has 206 employees, he added.

Miller said a bill that extends and expands a homebuyer tax credit program would help the housing industry. President Barack Obama signed the bill Friday. According to The Associated Press, the tax credits center on extending the popular $8,000 maximum credit for first-time homebuyers that was included in the stimulus package.

The credit, which was to expire at the end of this month, will be available through next June as long as the buyer signs a binding contract by the end of April.

The program is being expanded to include a $6,500 maximum credit for homeowners who buy a new home after living in their current residence for at least five years, The Associated Press reported.

Rakes said he attributes Nationwide’s 50 percent increase in production since March to factors including the company’s Mainstreet product line, which was introduced in 2008.

Also, he cited the company’s expansion of distribution channels by signing on 32 new builders since March; its efficiency gains; hard work of employees; and emphasis on customer satisfaction."

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