Podcast: A Renewed Momentum on Housing Legislation
On the latest episode of Housing Developments, NAHB CEO Jerry Howard and Chief Lobbyist Jim Tobin discuss the steps that can be taken by the Biden administration to promote the mission of residential construction, now that the entire cabinet is officially confirmed.
During the podcast, the co-hosts discuss Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown’s new, housing-focused direction for the committee, and the opportunities Commerce Sec. Gina Raimondo and Housing and Urban Development Sec. Marcia Fudge can take to ensure housing remains a driving force of the national economy.
Plus, hear about NAHB’s efforts to launch the COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Week in Construction, taking place the week of April 19. Visit nahb.org for more information and to take part in this important push for vaccinations in the home building industry.
Latest from NAHBNow
Codes and Standards | Housing Affordability
Apr 25, 2024
New Nationwide Codes Mandate a Major Blow to Housing AffordabilityNAHB Chairman Carl Harris today issued a statement after the Biden administration announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will insure mortgages for new homes only if they are built to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
Material Costs | Housing Affordability
Apr 25, 2024
U.S. Tile Makers Seek Duties Up to 800% on Indian Ceramic Tile ImportsA group of U.S. tile manufacturers have filed anti-dumping and countervailing duty petitions with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) seeking duties up to more than 800% on imports of ceramic tile from India.
Safety
Apr 25, 2024
Protect Jobsite Workers by Focusing on Fall PreventionOSHA’s annual National Safety Stand-Down to prevent falls in construction begins Monday, May 6. Use valuable resources from OSHA and NAHB to educate workers on fall risks and help avoid preventable injuries.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Apr 25, 2024
U.S. Economic Growth Slows in First QuarterCompared to the fourth quarter of 2023, the U.S. economy grew at a noticeably slower pace in the first quarter of 2024 due to an increase in the trade deficit and weaker inventory investment. But it was still on solid ground supported by consumers, the government, and the housing industry.
Economics
Apr 25, 2024
Housing Share of GDP Surpasses 16% for First Time Since 2022Housing’s share of the economy rose to 16.1% in the first quarter of 2024. The share remained below 16% for all of 2023 at 15.9% in each of the four quarters. This increase to above 16% marks the first-time housing’s share of GDP is above 16% since 2022.
Economics
Apr 24, 2024
All-Cash Sales Dropped to Lowest in 3 YearsNAHB analysis of the most recent Quarterly Sales by Price and Financing report reveals that the share of new home sales backed by VA loans climbed substantially in the first quarter of 2024, while all-cash sales share fell by nearly 30%. However, the median purchase price of homes bought with cash continued to increase in the first quarter of 2024.
Economics
Apr 23, 2024
Despite Higher Mortgage Rates, New Home Sales Post Solid Gain in MarchDespite higher interest rates last month, new home sales rose in March due to limited inventory of existing homes. However, the pace of new home sales will be under pressure in April as mortgage rates moved above 7% this month, which is expected to moderate sales and increase the use of builder sales incentives this Spring.