Inside Wisconsin: Economist: Mix of factors drive ‘attainable’ housing crunch

MADISON, Wis. — Providing more “affordable housing” is a popular campaign slogan these days in Wisconsin and across America, but it’s not as simple as proclaiming the goal and wishing it into reality. A mix of factors make it harder for people to find the shelter they want or need — but untangling those economic knots can make housing more “attainable.”

That was a core message Wednesday to the annual Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon, where the chief economist for the National Association of Home Builders laid out an array of issues that are tugging in opposite directions on the “supply and demand” curve for housing of all types.

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Leo's notes: At a recent housing-focused event in Madison, economist Robert Dietz of the National Association of Home Builders outlined the complex forces driving housing affordability challenges—ranging from regulatory costs (now nearing 25% of a home’s price) and tariffs on materials to elevated interest rates, labor shortages, and demographic pressures. To me, the takeaway is clear: there is no single lever to fix affordability. Progress will depend on coordinated action across regulation, workforce development, financing, and production—because in today’s environment, housing costs are not driven by one issue, but by the cumulative weight of many.

Ken Notes: This is a must read, if a paywall prevents this open a private or incognito window and try again. remember to support you local media outlets.