NAHB, Administration in Sync on Housing Legislation Need

With NAHB working tirelessly for the past several weeks to urge Washington policymakers to take aggressive action to stabilize financial markets, jump-start the housing sector and get the economy moving, significant developments occurred on Jan. 22 when the Federal Reserve Board moved decisively by cutting interest rates by 75 basis points.

“This action sends a strong signal to the world financial markets that the Fed is prepared to inject liquidity into the credit markets and do its part to help the U.S. economy avoid a recession,” said NAHB President Brian Catalde. “Further rate cuts may still be needed and we urge Fed policymakers to monitor the situation closely with this possibility in mind when they meet at the end of the month.” ...

Builders: Today’s Rate Cut Is Tomorrow’s Sale

Home builders have an exceptional sales opportunity following the Jan. 22 three-quarters of a percentage point interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Mortgage rates are already near historic lows, and the largest rate cut since October 1984 makes buying a new home a not-to-be-missed decision for consumers right now.

Home builders should use the cut to send a critical message to potential buyers: Those who commit to a new home today will get extraordinary value for their dollar.

Whether they choose to add more features or upgrades, or help their budget with lower monthly payments, the power is in their hands to purchase a home that meets their needs. ...

Avoid the Lines, Register Online for IBS by Friday, Jan. 25

Online registration and the discounted “regular” registration fees for the 2008 International Builders’ Show in Orlando have been extended until Friday, Jan. 25.

The show will run from Feb. 13-16, with pre-show education beginning Saturday, Feb. 9.

Register online and when you arrive at the Orange County Convention Center, simply bring a picture ID to any Advanced Registration Counter and pick up your badge.

Click here to register today.

NAHB Branding Online Survey Coming Soon

NAHB members are encouraged to fill out an online Web-based survey on NAHB branding that will be sent via e-mail and arriving in members’ inboxes soon. Member feedback is crucial to the NAHB branding effort now underway.

The survey should take 10 minutes or less to complete. All answers are confidential.