Housing Is Strong, but Faces a Labor Shortage, NAHB CEO Says

The video discusses recent trends in the housing market, highlighting regional differences and the impact of tax law changes. It explores the role of private equity in real estate and the challenges posed by regulations and climate change. The video also addresses labor market issues, including the shortage of skilled workers and the impact of immigration policies.

What has been a significant factor in keeping home builders optimistic recently?

• High lumber prices

• Tax reform impacts

• Increased regulations

• Decreased demand for housing

How have changes in tax laws affected small home builders?

• They have increased the cost of building materials.

• They have put small builders on a competitive balance with larger builders.

• They have made it harder to compete with larger builders.

• They have reduced the demand for new homes.

What is a major challenge for home builders in acquiring development capital?

• High interest rates

• Deregulation of banks

• Private equity funds

• Onerous burdens from Dodd-Frank

What is the role of home builders in developing building codes?

• They create codes independently of local governments.

• They have no role in the process.

• They actively participate in the development of codes.

• They only follow federal guidelines.

What has been proven about houses built with more recent codes?

• They require more maintenance.

• They are less marketable.

• They withstand storms better.

• They are more expensive to build.

What is one strategy home builders are using to address the labor shortage?

• Outsourcing labor to other countries

• Increasing wages significantly

• Training people coming out of the military

• Hiring only experienced workers

How have immigration laws impacted the home building industry?

• They have contributed to a labor shortage.

• They have had no impact on the industry.

• They have increased the number of available workers.

• They have made it easier to hire foreign workers.