NAHB Launches Podcast Hosted by CEO Jerry Howard and Chief Lobbyist Jim Tobin
This post has been updated.
NAHB today launched Housing Developments, a new podcast co-hosted by CEO Jerry Howard and Chief Lobbyist Jim Tobin, who will provide expert analysis on the latest news in the housing industry and inside NAHB. The show will also feature special guests who will share inside knowledge and unique perspectives on key issues impacting the industry.
In the the first episode, Howard and Tobin recap the International Builders' Show – including speeches given by HUD Secretary Dr. Ben Carson and congressional leaders – and discuss the state of Washington politics leading up to the 2020 election. Listen to the podcast here or at nahb.org/podcast.
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According to the latest NAHB/Well Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) survey results, interior finishes (drywall, interior doors, painting, cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, flooring, etc.) take an average of 6.4 weeks to complete, longer than any other major stage of single-family construction.
Nicolas “Nick” P. Retsinas, a leader in local and national housing policy and advocacy, passed away last week at the age of 79.
Latest Economic News
Consumer credit growth accelerated in the third quarter of 2026, with both revolving and nonrevolving credit increasing at their fastest quarterly rates since 2022. Total outstanding consumer credit reached $5.22 trillion, continuing an upward trend that has strengthened over the past year.
Inflation remained elevated in October even as energy prices eased, raising expectations of another Fed rate hike. Shelter returned as the largest driver of headline inflation, accounting for over 30% of the monthly increase. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy components, rose by 0.3% for the third consecutive month, suggesting broad-based price pressures across the economy.
Wage growth for residential building workers showed signs of a modest rebound in September 2026 following a sharp slowdown earlier in the year. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nominal wage growth picked up from its June pace, although it remained relatively modest.