Trade-offs

The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview In this Election Day special, Rob and Greg step outside their usual real estate coverage to talk about the midterms and what they mean for housing. Greg voted; Rob didn't, and won't. They debate whether any election outcome can fix housing affordability, how to frame the trade-offs of adding supply, and whether AI changes the equation entirely. They also preview their trip to NAR NXT in New Orleans. Key Takeaways Both expect Democrats to take the House and Senate, with Texas, South Carolina, and Michigan as races to watch. Rob argues no matter who you vote for, you get John McCain. Greg says housing policy is mostly local, so federal races change little. Rob argues the midterm housing agenda (NAR, Inman coverage, "Let America Build") is tinkering on the edges. Democratic housing proposals center on low-income housing credits and Section 8 vouchers. California's ADU rules are one example of deregulation from the left. Greg's pitch to NIMBY neighbors: more housing means your kids can live next to you. Rob counters that adding real supply means existing home values drop, and no candidate campaigns on that. Rob says affordability requires a 50% price drop, doubled real incomes, or sub-2% rates. Greg argues it can be a combination of smaller moves rather than one big fix. Greg suggests AI-driven abundance could make today's affordability formulas obsolete. Rob says housing predates industry and will always have an economy around it. Both agree "a rising tide lifts all boats" has broken down, and housing shows it most clearly. Charles Murray's "super zips" illustrate how rich and poor no longer share towns or schools. Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website Greg's Website Watch us on YouTube Our Sponsors: Cotality Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios