In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick brings you the latest industry news for the week ending May 2nd, 2025. He starts by discussing the impact of recent tariffs on construction materials like lumber, steel, and aluminum, which have raised the cost of building a new home by approximately $10,900. This increase is putting pressure on both builders and homebuyers, especially in areas that rely heavily on imported materials.
Next, Ryan dives into Washington State’s newly passed rent control law, which has made it the third state in the U.S. to implement statewide rent restrictions. The new law, set to take effect in July 2025, limits annual rent increases to 7%, with some exceptions. While advocates see it as a solution to housing insecurity, critics warn it may reduce investment in rental properties. Ryan discusses the potential long-term effects of this legislation on the rental market.
In a tech-forward move, Starbucks has introduced the first-ever 3D printed store in Seattle, marking a significant step in sustainable construction. Ryan explores how this new technology could shape the future of small footprint commercial developments, with plans for more stores in urban markets. This pilot program could change how businesses think about building and sustainability.
Finally, Ryan talks about the current housing market in Texas, particularly in San Antonio, where homebuyers are benefiting from price reductions and a rise in active listings. However, this increase in inventory is paired with a surge in demand for smaller homes, leading to higher price per square foot. Ryan also touches on the growing self-storage development trend and Amazon’s latest land acquisition in Enfield, Connecticut, where they plan to build a large distribution warehouse. This move is expected to bring economic growth and job opportunities to the region.
We did not have a guest for this episode
Ryan sits down with Peter Murphy Lewis to talk about how storytelling can help developers and builders attract better talent and build stronger teams. They break down simple, practical ways to use video and real stories to stand out in today’s labor market.
Keith Miller joins the show to talk about his focus on building attainably priced homes at scale in Montana, why he’s using factory-built housing, and what it really takes to bring new supply to fast-growing markets.
Ryan and Charles break down falling homebuyer demand, a heated TikTok debate on millennial housing choices, a proposed property tax hike in New York City, and what a shrinking U.S. population could mean for developers.