Mark Ivey, a longtime Augusta-area builder and co-owner in Ivey Homes, was installed Thursday as the new president of the Home Builders Association of Georgia (HBAG) during the annual Fall Meeting at the Reynolds Ritz Carlton. Ivey will lead the statewide organization with a focus on housing affordability, strengthening local home builders associations and expanding advocacy efforts on behalf of Georgia's residential construction industry.

He succeeds Gabe Chatham, from the Greater Atlanta HBA, who served as HBAG president during the past year.

A second-generation builder with decades of experience in engineering, land development and residential construction, Ivey brings extensive industry knowledge and a longstanding commitment to association leadership to his new role.

During his inaugural address, Ivey emphasized the importance of keeping homeownership within reach for Georgia families, noting that rising construction costs, interest rates and regulatory requirements continue to challenge the industry's ability to deliver affordable housing.

Ivey outlined four key priorities for his presidency: growing membership, strengthening advocacy at the local level, improving communications and providing greater support to local association executive officers.

Building on initiatives launched under Chatham's leadership, Ivey said he wants to identify opportunities to help local associations grow and ensure they have the resources needed to address challenges in their communities.

The Fall Meeting featured the installation of HBAG’s 2026 officers, recognition of outstanding members and industry leaders, and updates on legislative priorities impacting Georgia’s housing industry. Mike Lee of Tributary Homes in West Georgia, was inducted as 1st Vice President, Devell Frady of Devell Frady Homes in Ellijay was inducted as Vice President: Secretary/Treasurer, and Tiffany Heitzman, Executive Officer of the HBA of Greater Aiken-Augusta Region, was sworn in as President of the Executive Officers Council.