The International Builders’ Show returns to Orlando from February 17 to 19, 2026, bringing hundreds of education sessions led by industry experts, innovators and top builders. With topics spanning AI, buyer psychology, design, customer experience and operational efficiency, IBS 2026 offers insights for every corner of the homebuilding industry.
To help you plan your schedule, here are the standout sessions in chronological order, including Digs-led programming and other high-value sessions you will not want to miss.
Building for Today’s Buyer: Data, Trends and Strategies for Attainable, Livable Homes
Tuesday, February 17 | 8:15 to 9:15 AM
OCCC | West 240C
Expo + Education Pass required
This data-rich session decodes the shifting psychology and preferences of today’s homebuyers. Explore the rising demand for attainable housing, Missing Middle options and design solutions that balance livability with profitability. Examples include flexible small-lot floor plans, optimized indoor and outdoor spaces and community designs that close the attainability gap.
What You Will Learn
- How buyer demographics are changing
- What density means for livability and profitability
- Flexible floor plan ideas for small lots and compact homes
- How site planning can make attainable housing desirable
Speakers
Jerry Hoffman, Hoffman Strategy Group
Chris Moore, DTJ DESIGN
Meredith Oliver, Meredith Communications
AI, Demystified: Field-Tested Tools to Streamline Builds, Protect Margins and Reduce Headaches
Tuesday, February 17 | 12:30 to 1:30 PM
OCCC | West 307B
Expo + Education Pass required
AI is already transforming permitting, communication, training and project management. This session pairs expert insights with builder case studies to show how AI tools are reducing errors, accelerating timelines and supporting stretched teams.
What You Will Learn
- How AI shortens build timelines and project handoffs
- Practical applications across marketing, permitting and construction
- Ways AI reduces mistakes and protects margins
- Why AI adoption is simpler than many assume
Speakers
Paul Cardis, On3, Inc.
Brent Clayton, 2033 Higher Education Development Foundation
Ryan Fink, Digs
Francis Thumpasery, PermitFlow
Al Trellis, Home Builders Network
Beyond the Punch List: Smarter Aftercare to Protect Margins and Build Loyalty
Wednesday, February 18 | 11:00 to 11:30 AM
OCCC | West 303A, Custom Building Central
Open to all IBS registrants
This focused session reimagines warranty and aftercare as a strategic advantage rather than a cost center. Discover how digital handoffs, AI-supported homeowner communication and streamlined workflows can reduce rework, improve satisfaction and build long-term loyalty.
Speakers
Ty Frackiewicz, Digs
Matt Green, Front Light Building Co
Nathan Walters, MassaRossa Luxury Homes
.jpg)
Elevating Customer Touchpoints Through Unreasonable Hospitality
Wednesday, February 18 | 4:15 to 4:45 PM
OCCC | West 312A, Sales Central
Open to all IBS registrants
Great experiences drive referrals, loyalty and brand differentiation. This interactive session explores how builders can elevate everyday customer touchpoints by applying the principles of Unreasonable Hospitality. Participants will identify high-impact moments in the buyer journey and brainstorm memorable ways to transform them into meaningful experiences.
Speaker
Kristin Meyer, Southern Crafted Shutters
The New Rules of Floor Plan Design: What Today’s Buyers Really Want
Thursday, February 19 | 12:00 to 12:30 PM
OCCC | West 311A, Design Central
Open to all IBS registrants
Buyers consistently share similar frustrations with floor plan layouts. This advanced design session uses real plan examples and detailed annotations to explain how circulation, proportion, sequencing and storage decisions shape how a home feels and functions. Learn the must-have layout elements that today’s buyers expect in competitive markets.
Speaker
Rafaella Ledo-Massey, Rafi Inez
Plan Your IBS 2026 Schedule
IBS 2026 is packed with high-value education that can help builders navigate today’s challenges and prepare for the future. From design and buyer psychology to AI, aftercare and customer experience, these sessions offer actionable insights you can bring straight back to your team.
While you are in Orlando, be sure to visit Digs Booth S4064 to see the latest advancements in digital handoffs, warranty management and homeowner communication.
