The National Association of Home Builders survey revealed that recent tariffs are expected to raise the average cost of a home by approximately $9,200, highlighting potential hazards for the housing market amidst a broader trade war. This data provides transparency that can fuel public debate on the economic impact of authoritarian tariff policies.

During a House Small Business Committee hearing on April 1, 2025, NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes testified in favor of a 10‐point housing plan aimed at eliminating excessive building regulations. He argued that reducing regulatory burdens would lower construction costs and help alleviate the nation's housing affordability crisis, a stance that raises concerns about prioritizing corporate profit over public safety and environmental protection.

NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes testified before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, highlighting five key supply-side headwinds affecting housing affordability and urging Congress to implement policies to address these issues.

The NAHB is urging Congress to reform federal environmental regulations, arguing that onerous permitting processes and regulatory ambiguities—particularly stemming from the Clean Water Act and other federal mandates—drive up housing costs and delay construction. In testimony to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, NAHB Chairman Carl Harris criticized agencies like the EPA and Army Corps for overreaching their authority, calling for expedited permit reviews and clearer guidelines to support builders.

The OpenSecrets profile on NAHB reveals that the organization spent over $3 million in campaign contributions and lobbying in the recent election cycle. The profile also highlights a significant revolving door trend, with several NAHB lobbyists having previously held government positions, raising concerns about regulatory capture and undue industry influence over public policy.

An opinion article from Raleigh News & Observer details how a home builders association linked to the national trade group, through intense lobbying and nearly $700,000 in contributions over two election cycles, played a key role in securing legislative victories that resulted in deregulation, including the rollback of environmental protections and building code enhancements in North Carolina.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) was highlighted as one of the top donors to candidates associated with extremist, anti-democratic positions during the 2022 election cycle, with its Build Political Action Committee contributing $663,500. The article argues that such donations help bolster political figures who undermined democratic norms following the January 6 insurrection.