Richard Lawson

Richard Lawson

Journalist/writer/storyteller

Richard Lawson is an award-winning journalist on housing and adaptive reuse.

Big Apple Politicians Clash Over Ballot 'Middle' Housing Reform

Policy

Big Apple Politicians Clash Over Ballot 'Middle' Housing Reform

A mayoral commission-backed high-stakes ballot proposal could reshape zoning and speed affordable housing approvals. Critics argue it benefits luxury developers. TBD's Richard Lawson reports.

North Carolina Bill Flip-Turns Into Statewide Housing Reform

Policy

North Carolina Bill Flip-Turns Into Statewide Housing Reform

A swimming pool bill became a sweeping housing reform, under state government authority. The “Save the American Dream Act” shifts zoning authority away from localities that seek Home Rule.

Rural Housing Dreams Dim Under OBBB Reality Check

Policy

Rural Housing Dreams Dim Under OBBB Reality Check

The One Big Beautiful Bill promises rural investment but may not deliver. Opportunity zones alone can’t overcome deep structural challenges.

Ending Parking Mandates To Bend Development's Cost Curve

Policy

Ending Parking Mandates To Bend Development's Cost Curve

Parking minimums inflate housing prices by tens of thousands per unit. Chicago’s new ordinance, which eliminates parking minimums near public transit, aims to cut costs and boost affordability.

Apartment Demand Mojo Intact As New Construction Slows

Marketing & Sales

Apartment Demand Mojo Intact As New Construction Slows

Leasing activity surges as new construction slows, signaling a reset in apartment markets. Rent growth flattens, but occupancy climbs as affordability barriers to homeownership stall would-be buyers.

Big Apple Politicians Clash Over Ballot 'Middle' Housing Reform

Policy

Big Apple Politicians Clash Over Ballot 'Middle' Housing Reform

A mayoral commission-backed high-stakes ballot proposal could reshape zoning and speed affordable housing approvals. Critics argue it benefits luxury developers. TBD's Richard Lawson reports.

North Carolina Bill Flip-Turns Into Statewide Housing Reform

Policy

North Carolina Bill Flip-Turns Into Statewide Housing Reform

A swimming pool bill became a sweeping housing reform, under state government authority. The “Save the American Dream Act” shifts zoning authority away from localities that seek Home Rule.

Rural Housing Dreams Dim Under OBBB Reality Check

Policy

Rural Housing Dreams Dim Under OBBB Reality Check

The One Big Beautiful Bill promises rural investment but may not deliver. Opportunity zones alone can’t overcome deep structural challenges.

Ending Parking Mandates To Bend Development's Cost Curve

Policy

Ending Parking Mandates To Bend Development's Cost Curve

Parking minimums inflate housing prices by tens of thousands per unit. Chicago’s new ordinance, which eliminates parking minimums near public transit, aims to cut costs and boost affordability.

Apartment Demand Mojo Intact As New Construction Slows

Marketing & Sales

Apartment Demand Mojo Intact As New Construction Slows

Leasing activity surges as new construction slows, signaling a reset in apartment markets. Rent growth flattens, but occupancy climbs as affordability barriers to homeownership stall would-be buyers.