Podcast: Member Activation on Important Building Code Legislation
In the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and SVP Paul Lopez discuss an important bipartisan bill up for a vote in Congress that would give home builders and local governments flexibility in rebuilding after natural disasters. NAHB is encouraging members to contact their representatives and urge them to vote for the bill.
Jim and Paul also discuss the broader economy and the increasing likelihood of the Federal Reserve getting its “soft landing.” And on the heels of the winter Board of Directors meeting, the two talk about some recent changes at NAHB under a new strategic plan and organizational restructuring.
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Latest from NAHBNow
Building material costs increased by 6.7% over the past 12 months, according to results from the survey for the July 2026 NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI).
Shirley McVay Wiseman, 1989 NAHB president, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 23. A pioneer in the home building industry, Wiseman was the first woman elected president of NAHB.
Latest Economic News
The latest report shows the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge remains sticky in July, complicating the Fed’s path to its long-term 2% target. Meanwhile, consumer spending remains resilient but is showing signs of slowing, with real consumer spending unchanged in July. Households are pulling back on spending amid persistent inflation.
Multifamily missing middle construction declined during the second quarter of 2026.
Elevated borrowing costs, rising inflation and broad economic uncertainty continue to curb buyer demand and hold back new home sales.