Podcast: NAHB Puts a Spotlight on Housing in the Media and on the Hill
On the latest episode of the NAHB podcast, Housing Developments, hosts CEO Jim Tobin and COO Paul Lopez are on the road as they discuss housing and economics with key press outlets in New York City. Media are eager to hear what NAHB members are seeing in the housing market. Topics of note include the latest release of the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), as well as the challenges in the housing market, such as high mortgage rates, housing affordability and shortage of skilled workers.
NAHB is getting the message out to legislators as well, as first Vice Chairman Carl Harris and Second Vice Chair Buddy Hughes headed to Capitol Hill this week to urge congressional leaders to address the challenges facing home builders.
NAHB continues to gear up for the International Builders’ Show, taking place Feb. 27-29 in Las Vegas — less than two weeks away.
Listen to the latest episode below and subscribe to Housing Developments through your favorite podcast provider.
Latest from NAHBNow
The monthly update provides talking points to help members stay informed with clear and consistent messages on issues affecting the residential construction industry.
NAHB leadership will gather Oct. 6-8 for the 2026 Fall Leadership Meeting in Detroit. Members and HBA staff not in attendance can view livestreams of the key meetings.
Latest Economic News
The U.S. labor market cooled in September, with nonfarm payroll employment increasing by just 29,000 as downward revisions erased most of August’s previously reported strength. The unemployment rate edged up to 4.2%, as both employment and the labor force continued to grow.
Private residential construction spending rose in August 2026 following a series of declines during the second quarter of the year. According to the latest construction spending data from the U.S. Census Bureau, private residential construction spending came in at a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of $882.3 billion in August, up 1.1% from July but down 4.8% from a year ago.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how work gets done, but its impact varies considerably across occupations. For most construction occupations, near-term exposure to AI remains relatively low.