Podcast: Chief Economist Explains Fed Interest Rate Approach and Impact
In the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and SVP Paul Lopez are joined by Chief Economist Dr. Robert Dietz to discuss the Federal Reserve’s decision this week to leave interest rates unchanged.
Dietz explains how three potential rate decreases in 2024 could impact the home building and real estate markets next year and into 2025, and what further actions the Fed could take to help the industry.
Also, hear about some great recent wins by the NAHB Advocacy team in the last podcast episode of 2023.
Subscribe to Housing Developments through your favorite podcast provider, or watch the episode below or on YouTube.
Latest from NAHBNow
Economics
Jun 04, 2026
U.S. House Price Appreciation Slows from Rapid Pandemic-era PaceHigher mortgage rates, persistent affordability challenges and softer demand weighed on price growth nationally. Local market conditions varied, with some states and metro areas seeing solid gains while others saw declining or flattening house prices.
Labor | Workforce Development
Jun 04, 2026
Highest Paid Occupations in Construction in 2025The median wage of payroll workers in construction was $61,370 in 2025, with the top 25% earning at least $83,480. In comparison, the U.S. median annual wage was $50,980, while the highest paid 25% earned at least $80,520.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Jun 05, 2026
U.S. Labor Market Remains Resilient in MayDespite rising inflation and ongoing economic uncertainty, the U.S. labor market remained resilient in May. Nonfarm payrolls increased for the third consecutive month, and the unemployment rate held steady at 4.3%.
Economics
Jun 04, 2026
Mortgage Rates Increase Further as Inflation Remains ElevatedMortgage rates continued to increase in May as inflation accelerated. According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.41% in May, up 7 basis points (bps) over April.
Economics
Jun 04, 2026
Highest Paid Occupations in Construction in 2025The median wage of payroll workers in construction was $61,370 in 2025, with the top 25% earning at least $83,480. In comparison, the U.S. median annual wage was $50,980, while workers in the top quartile (the highest paid 25%) earned at least $80,520.