Industry News: Privatization of Fannie and Freddie, California Wildfires Update, and Trump Tariffs Impact on Lumber
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Episode Overview
In this industry news-focused episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick is joined by co-host Charles Covey to break down some of the biggest headlines affecting the land development world. They start by discussing the appointment of Scott Turner as the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and what his plans for GSE privatization and potential departmental changes could mean for the industry.
The conversation then shifts to the ongoing challenges with California wildfires and the debate over whether federal aid should come with conditions. Ryan and Charles discuss the constitutional implications, the role of state versus federal government, and practical solutions for better wildfire management in the future.
Finally, they dive into the potential impact of new tariffs on Canadian lumber, which could significantly raise costs for homebuilders and developers. Charles shares insights on the domestic lumber supply, strategies for mitigating risks through futures contracts, and what these changes might mean for housing affordability in the near future.