HUD announces the release of its latest analysis of the housing market, based on performance numbers of housingproduction, sales, affordability, and multi-family housing unit production.
The report finds that thehousing sector of the U.S. economy remained strong duringthe first quarter of 2005. Compared to the first quarterof 2004, permits for new homes were up 5.3 percent;construction starts were up 7.3 percent; new housingcompletions were up 6.0 percent; and shipments of newmanufactured homes were up 9.0 percent. Sales of existinghomes and new single-family units were also up, despitethe continuing rise in their median prices. Americanfamilies grew their income enough to offset higherinterest rates and the increases in home prices. Permitsfor new multi-family units were up 17.8 percent. Thesedata, and more, are reported for national and regionallevels and can be compared to historical trends.
[Editor's note: The link below is to a PDF document.]
Thanks to HUD User News
FULL STORY: U.S. Housing Market Conditions 1st Quarter 2005

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

Study: Large SUVs Double Risk of Death for Children Under 10
New research from the United Kingdom reveals the higher risk of larger vehicles for pedestrians and cyclists.

Texas Bills Aim to Tackle Housing Affordability
One proposed bill would raise the threshold for neighbor opposition to new development.

New York State Budget Includes $68B MTA Capital Plan, Boosts Transit Security
The state’s FY26 budget includes increased investment in transit security, mental health services, and fare evasion enforcement.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
New York City School Construction Authority
Village of Glen Ellyn
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions