Washington Update

FEMA Looks Beyond 100-Year Floodplain

Proposed rule would require FEMA-funded construction to be two to three feet higher but leaves flood insurance policies alone.

Energy Bill Heads to Finish Line

Contact your federal lawmakers and urge them to keep the House language on energy codes in the final bill.

Clinton Releases Small Business Assistance Plan

NAHB continues to work with both candidates to keep housing, small business at the forefront of the campaign.

Industry Insight

New Home Sales Climb to Highest Level Since October 2007

Positive data is consistent with builders' reports that market conditions are improving.

Supporting a Brand Through Social Media

Case study highlights the need to maintain a robust online presence.

Confidence in Apartment and Condo Market Dips in 2nd Quarter

Despite modest decline, developers are still reporting steady demand.

Legal

NAHB Leaders Discuss Arbitration Issues with CFPB Director

Builders seek clarity, submit comments on proposed agency rule.

Suit Seeks Protection for 417 Additional Species

Expedited Endangered Species Act listings could usurp private property rights.
 

Economics

Dog Days Don't Deter Builders

New construction and sales are on the rise in most areas of the country

New household formations are upping the demand for rental housing.

Continued Growth for Housing Through 2017

Economists see construction sector moving forward.

Industry Insight

FHFA Ups Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac Multifamily Lending Caps 

Limit increases to $36.5 billion.

Presidential Campaigns

Trump Vows to Cut Burdensome Regulations 

GOP candidate talks housing in address to NAHB Board of Directors. 

Housing Creates Jobs, Says Top Clinton Economic Advisor

Gene Sperling lays out Hillary Clinton's housing agenda to association leaders. 

Charlie Cook Predicts a Tight Race

Political pundit believes a strong GOP voter turnout will be the difference maker.  

Industry Insight

The Key to Cost-Effective Building Codes

NAHB Chairman Ed Brady shows members how they can help reduce excessive regulations.  

New American Remodeled Home Focuses on Efficiency 

Renovated showhome will consume less than half the energy of the original.  

News Plug Helps Make Sales, Recruit Members

Media outreach to HBAs results in positive outcomes for builders. 

Economics

Rising Prices Affect Housing Affordability in 2nd Quarter

Housing Opportunity Index remains fairly high. 

Slab Foundations, Two-Story Homes Still Dominate

NAHB sheds more light on the details of today's new homes. 

Industry Insight

Streamlined Clean Water Permit Acts in Jeopardy

U.S. Army Corps proposes to reissue and modify existing nationwide permits. 

Housing Markets Continue Gradual Climb Back to Normal

Nearly half of metros are fully recovered, many of which have exceeded their pre-recession strength. 

Student Program Scraps the Boring, Starts Inspiring

Eastern Iowa partnership helps open more career opportunities for students.  

Economics

2nd Quarter Results Show 55+ Market Remains Solid 

Builders report steady demand, yet labor and lot shortages linger for many. 

Lots in 2015 Smallest on Record

Size varies substantially by region.