National Movement Gains Momentum to Boost Housing Supply and Affordability

Bipartisan Support from Mayors Across the United States

In a critical move to tackle the ongoing housing crisis in America, the U.S. Conference of Mayors has recently endorsed the Realtor® Let America Build campaign. This bipartisan policy statement underscores the pressing need for both local and national efforts to address the severe shortage of affordable housing across the nation.

Mayors Unite for Housing Solutions

The urgency of the housing supply crisis was highlighted by Damian Eales, CEO of Realtor®, who stated, "Mayors are on the frontlines of the housing crisis, and we applaud the U.S. Conference of Mayors for joining the call to Let America Build." This campaign aims to collaborate with local leaders, builders, and industry partners to create actionable solutions. The focus is on navigating the bureaucratic hurdles and restrictive zoning laws that hinder the construction of new homes, thereby making it possible for more Americans to find suitable housing.

Key Advocacy Points

• Support for Local Initiatives: The statement encourages modernizing housing policies to reduce obstacles and streamline zoning and permitting processes.
• Emphasis on Homeownership: "Homeownership was the American dream, but it’s become an impossible dream for too many people…," said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, who introduced the statement. He expressed that the mayoral alliance is committed to advancing pro-housing policies.

Addressing the Housing Shortage

According to a 2025 analysis by Realtor®, the United States faces a shortfall of nearly 4 million homes. While some regions are actively addressing this issue, others lag behind.

Collaborative Efforts Needed

Kevin Sears, President of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), emphasized the necessity of working together across government levels and sectors. "It will take collaboration across all levels of government," he stated, highlighting the importance of alliances to tackle the housing supply and affordability crisis.

Implementation of Pro-Housing Policies

The Let America Build initiative promotes several strategies to enhance access to housing, including:

• Eliminating Restrictive Zoning: Reducing regulations that impede new housing projects.
• Utilizing Federal Land: Advocating for the development of underutilized federal properties for residential purposes.
• Streamlining Permits: Simplifying processes to expedite home construction.

“Bold, local action is required,” remarked Jim Tobin, President and CEO of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), praising mayors for prioritizing housing supply and affordability. He reaffirmed the organization’s readiness to partner with local leaders to tackle these challenges.

The Growing Movement

The Let America Build campaign was launched earlier this year at SXSW in Austin, Texas, and has steadily gained traction among real estate professionals and housing advocates. The gathering support from mayors across the country reflects a broader commitment to finding lasting solutions for the housing affordability crisis.

Conclusion

As the nation grapples with a significant housing shortage, the Let America Build campaign represents a vital step forward. The commitment from mayors and stakeholders nationwide underscores the urgency to implement effective housing policies. By fostering partnerships and advocating for essential reforms, this movement seeks to restore hope to many Americans yearning for homeownership.

For more information on housing solutions and the Let America Build campaign, visit the official Realtor® site.

This article aims to keep readers informed about the ongoing efforts to combat the housing crisis in the U.S., offering insights into the collaborative initiatives spearheaded by mayors and the real estate community.