Felicia Oliver, Senior Editor

The Nationals Sales & Marketing Award gold winners were on top of their game – despite the condition of the market

What custom builders should do to attract the 55-plus homebuyer.

Laing Luxury Homes' Icon at Playa Vista received a gold award at the 2008 National Sales and Marketing Awards.

Laing Luxury Homes' Seacrest in Newport Coast, Calif. received a gold award at the 2008 National Sales and Marketing Awards.

Wine Country Residence in Paso Robles, Calif. received a gold award at the 2008 National Sales and Marketing Awards.

John Laing Homes' Tradewinds at Southshore in Aurora, Colo. received a gold award at the 2008 National Sales and Marketing Awards.

Cindy McPherson of Landmark 24 Realty won the Sales Manager of the Year award at the 2008 National Sales and Marketing awards.

Because of small volume and fewer repeat purchases, it seems custom builders are at a huge disadvantage when it comes to getting a good price on building materials. But it can...