The missing piece of America’s new housing strategy

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a significant step towards addressing America's housing needs, but it's clear that the conversation doesn't stop there. By expanding supply and financing, the Act aims to make homeownership more accessible, but the pressing issue of long-term affordability remains. As the construction industry continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it's becoming increasingly evident that resilience is a crucial piece of the puzzle.

Rising insurance costs and disaster losses are already being felt across the country, making it clear that stronger construction, retrofits, and verified standards are essential for ensuring that new and existing homes can withstand the impacts of severe weather events. The FORTIFIED standard, which provides a framework for building and verifying resilient homes, is likely to become an increasingly important consideration for builders, policymakers, and homeowners alike. As the industry continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see a greater emphasis on resilience and sustainability in construction practices.

So what's next to watch? As the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act moves forward, construction industry stakeholders should keep a close eye on how resilience and affordability intersect. Will policymakers prioritize incentives for builders to adopt resilient construction practices, or will market forces drive the shift towards more sustainable and resilient homes? As the conversation around America's housing strategy continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the intersection of affordability, resilience, and sustainability will be a critical area of focus for the construction industry in the years to come.

Originally reported by housingwire.com. ConstructionNews adds analysis for real estate & property readers.