Merchants and consumers hope to score deal at home show

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR -- Shoppers hope to find a bargain at the Greater Little Rock Home Builders Association Show. More than 200 vendors covered the floor at Verizon Arena Saturday, displaying the latest and greatest home products.

"We're looking for a front door and possibly some stuff for the back yard," said shopper A.J. Janssen.

Friday, the Commerce Department reported strong sales at the end of last year. But numbers did drop in January. Planners say they hope construction projects will regain momentum as the year progresses.

"In our current economic climate, there are a lot of people that want to improve their existing homes. Now with interest rates low, there are a lot of people out looking for new homes as well," said Brandon Tedder, president of GLRHA.

When it comes to the details, there a lot of eco-friendly options for shoppers to choose from as they build or renovate.

"The last two or three years, we have seen an upswing in the shutters, vinyl shutters to be exact. They are energy efficient. They are a good product and green certified," said Christy Latta of American Blinds and Shutters in Conway.

The show ends Sunday. Doors open at 10 a.m. and the event ends at 4 p.m.