WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 17, 2025) – The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) applauds the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Interior (DOI) for establishing a Joint Task Force on Federal Land for Housing which will identify underutilized federal lands suitable for residential development.

The following is a statement from Shannon McGahn, NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer:

“Lack of inventory remains one of the biggest barriers to affordability, driving up home prices and putting the dream of homeownership out of reach for too many Americans.

HUD and DOI’s formation of this task force recognizes that housing is a foundational part of economic stability, and smart policy solutions such as streamlining regulatory and permitting processes can help alleviate the supply crisis. In pursuing this initiative, we appreciate the care taken to prioritize housing development in those areas where it is most viable, with an eye toward environmental stewardship.

The National Association of REALTORS® has long advocated for reducing regulatory barriers that slow down development and add costs to new homes. The task force is a great step forward in unlocking more opportunities for first-time buyers, workforce housing, and underserved communities. We look forward to working with policymakers to ensure that expanding housing inventory remains a national priority.”

About the National Association of REALTORS®

As America's largest trade association, the National Association of REALTORS® is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes – from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation – visit facts.realtor.

# # #