Here is today’s question: By the time Congress passes a housing rescue bill (and overcomes the promised presidential veto), how much of a housing market will be left to save?
While we all wait for the answer to that question, this week’s news roundup gives you the inside scoop on the controversy that pushed former HUD Secretary Alphonso Jackson, new sales strategies for moving new homes, updates on flood rules, and, of course, the weekly “Have You Heard?” story. This week’s picks: the New York Times discovers that difficult homeowners’ demands drive remodelers to a therapist’s couch and CNN.com argues for “The New Real Estate Boom. Really.”
Looking for more top housing headlines during the week? Visit the Buildr Tumblr for national, regional, and local stories hand-picked from Web sites across the country.
(Please note: Some sites, such as the New York Times, do require registration to view articles.)
Top Headlines
Housing Starts Jump 8.2 Percent
The Fallout: Inside the Controversy That Ousted Jackson
Lawmakers Fault Bush Team on Housing Bill
Senate Short of Agreement on Housing Rescue
Blogs
Boyce on Building: End in Sight?
Housing Crisis
Huge Turnkey Contractor Restructured by Parent Company
Fannie Poised to Scrap Policy Over Down Payments
Freddie Mac Dramatically Shrinks Losses
FBI: Mortgage Fraud Escalating Problem
Secretary Paulson Remarks on Credit Markets and Housing
Public Builders
StanPac Seeks Waiver Extension, Reduces JV Debt
Orleans Closes Quarter with $55.7 Million Loss
Green Building
Green Building Techniques Featured in New Orleans Post-Katrina Homes Tour
Designer of Green Communities Has Big Growth Plans
State, National Organizations Help Guide Green Construction
Going Green: Habitat Houses to Feature Sustainable Design
Sales Strategies
Furniture and Promotion Boosts Sales for New Jersey Builder
Builders Expand Their Marketing With On-Demand Videos
Building Codes
California to Homeowners: You Must Help Prevent Wildfires
Have You Heard?
The New Real Estate Boom. Really.
Got a “talker” of a story for “Have You Heard?” Contact Alison Rice.
Got Feedback?
Please e-mail any comments, questions, suggestions, and news tips to Denise Dersin, Builder’s Editor in Chief: ddersin@hanleywood.com.
