Podcast: A Tale of Two (Very Hot) Cities
In the latest episode of NAHB’s Housing Developments podcast, co-hosts CEO Jim Tobin and SVP Paul Lopez discuss several topics that are divided into the best of times and the worst of times: the economy, Job Corps funding and regulations. Tune in to hear about how new home sales are up in the face of historically-high Fed rates, Congress’ division over appropriations and NAHB’s stance on the Biden administration’s “junk fees” characterization in home building.
The co-hosts also provide information on resources for keeping crews safe while on the job site during this heat wave.
Listen to Housing Developments through your favorite podcast app or watch this episode below.
Latest from NAHBNow
Confidence in the market for new multifamily housing weakened year-over-year in the second quarter, according to the Multifamily Market Survey (MMS) released today by NAHB. The MMS produces two separate indices. The Multifamily Production Index (MPI) had a reading of 43, down three points year-over-year, while the Multifamily Occupancy Index (MOI) had a reading of 74, down eight points year-over-year.
A series of fast-moving wildfires recently broke out in and around Spokane, Wash., causing widespread destruction. In response, the Spokane Home Builders Association is accepting donations to the Spokane Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund to provide support to the communities hit hardest by the wildfires.
Latest Economic News
Confidence in the market for new multifamily housing weakened year-over-year in the second quarter, according to the Multifamily Market Survey (MMS) by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The MMS produces two separate indices.
Re-escalation of the conflict in Iran pushed mortgage rates higher in July. According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.54% in July, up 5 basis points (bps) over June. Since the conflict in the Middle East began, the 30-year mortgage rate has climbed by almost 50 bps.
Real GDP growth slowed in the second quarter of 2026, as a pullback in government spending and slower growth in investment and exports, more than offset stronger consumer spending.