In 2004, a group of independent home builders in Northern Virginia came together with a shared vision: to gain the respect – and the buying power – of large-scale, national contractors. These builders weren’t looking to give up their independence. They wanted to amplify it.
As a united force, they discovered a simple truth: individual strength becomes far more powerful when it’s connected to a larger community.
That spirit of collaboration laid the foundation for what would become CBUSA, now the largest and most trusted group purchasing organization in residential construction. Today, we proudly celebrate over 20 years of empowering builders, strengthening businesses and shaping the future of home building – together.
Why we exist: The CBUSA mission
At its core, CBUSA is about empowering builders with the resources and partnerships needed to control costs, grow their business and stay competitive in an increasingly complex industry. Our mission has always been clear:
“We exist to turn individual strength into collective power. This organization was built by builders, for builders – and everything we do stems from that original vision.” – Brian Pavlick, President of CBUSA
Today, with nearly 1,000 members strong, CBUSA connects top-performing home builders with trusted local suppliers and leading national brands. The result is a community where everyone wins – builders gain an edge, suppliers gain reliable volume and brand partners gain strategic access to a high-quality network.
Staying true to our values
Over the past two decades, we’ve grown in size and reach, but our values remain constant:
- Empowerment: We give builders the tools and partnerships to grow.
- Community: We foster meaningful connections between builders and suppliers.
- Integrity: We operate with honesty, transparency and trust.
“We knew from the beginning that this couldn’t just be about savings – it had to be about connection,” said Bill Smithers, founder of CBUSA. “You can get discounts anywhere. But building a network that’s rooted in shared trust and long-term relationships? That’s what truly sets CBUSA apart.”
A look back – and forward
The early years weren’t without challenges. In 2006, two years after founding CBUSA, Bill brought on Brian to help manage regional markets and strengthen operations. That leadership proved pivotal during the 2008 housing downturn, as CBUSA navigated tough economic headwinds with its builders.
Over time, Brian’s role expanded to chief operating officer, where he helped guide CBUSA through continued national expansion. In 2022, after nearly two decades of leadership, Bill passed the torch – naming Brian president and ushering in the next era of growth.
“I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come – from a small group of builders in Virginia to a national force in residential construction. Brian’s leadership ensures the next 20 years will be even better than the first.” – Bill Smithers, Founder of CBUSA
Looking ahead: Building what’s next
“Our future is rooted in the same principles that got us here,” Brian said. “Support independent builders. Strengthen local relationships. And continue to grow the smartest, most connected builder network in the country.”
CBUSA is not just about buying power – it’s about building power.
We bring together the key players in residential construction: independent home builders, local vendors and national brands. As we celebrate more than 20 years in business, we’re more committed than ever to our vision of becoming the world’s largest consumer of residential construction products and services – and doing it the right way: through community, empowerment and integrity.
From construction to connections, CBUSA is a network built to last – and built to grow.
Here’s to the next 20 years.
Ready to join the largest group purchasing network in residential construction?
If you’re an independent home builder looking to take control of your costs, strengthen your supplier relationships and join a trusted network of high-performing peers, CBUSA is built for you. With new markets opening across the country, you have the opportunity to gain access to exclusive pricing, valuable rebates and a community that’s always in your corner.
Join CBUSA today – and start building with the power of the network behind you.