Author: Grace Greene
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Federal government withdraws energy code rule
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have rolled back a Biden-era rule that would have required new homes backed by Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and USDA loans to meet the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The change removes stricter federal energy-efficiency standards tied to… Read More
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A framework for improved model building codes
Housing Affordability Institute released a new report examining the model building code development process. The report, Writing Better Building Codes: Means and Need for Heightened Scrutiny at All Levels, was written by the Institute’s executive director, Nick Erickson. In the report, Erickson provides a framework for model code publishers and state legislatures based on years… Read More
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Less efficient, older homes make up greatest share of housing stock as energy codes focus on new home construction
A new report from Housing Affordability Institute, Chasing Perfection: Energy Performance in the Nation’s Aging vs. New Housing Stock, compares model homes built today with those built 30 years ago across five climate zones. The report examines housing efficiency trends against current policy approaches that focus on increasing efficiency requirements for new homes. The study… Read More
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Edina tree ordinance replaced, lawsuit withdrawn
Housing First Minnesota has withdrawn its lawsuit against the City of Edina following the repeal of the city’s vegetation ordinance and replacement of its tree ordinance. The new tree ordinance will apply to subdivisions in a more limited way. “By these actions, the City of Edina effectively acknowledged that the previous programs were likely to… Read More
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New energy code will have 270-day implementation period for builders
A group seven of homebuilders associations across Minnesota sent a letter to Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach regarding the implementation of the forthcoming residential energy code update. The letter asked that the commissioner utilize the full 270-day implementation period provided in Minnesota statute to ensure comprehensive statewide training before enforcement of… Read More
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Minnesota homebuilders honored with 2026 spring awards
The homebuilding industry celebrated standout achievements from the 2026 Spring Parade of Homes, recognizing the best in design, innovation, craftsmanship, and collaboration through Housing First Minnesota’s annual spring awards program. Winners were selected by a panel of industry experts during the Spring Parade of Homes, a statewide event that draws thousands of visitors each year… Read More
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Spring home tour draws strong attendance
The Spring Parade of Homes wrapped in April after five busy weekends of home touring across the Twin Cities metro and Rochester area. The event ran from March 13 through April 12, featuring 302 new homes and 34 remodels in the Twin Cities, along with 25 new homes and two remodels in Rochester. Thousands of… Read More
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Celebrating women in construction
Women from every corner of the housing industry came together in March to celebrate Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day at Tour & Toast, hosted by Parade of Homes at a Hanson Builders residence featured on the spring tour. The event celebrated the impact and accomplishments of women throughout the industry. Attendees enjoyed… Read More
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Housing supply solutions left on the table
The 2026 legislative session wrapped with housing affordability and supply once again dominating conversations at the Capitol, but many of the state’s biggest housing proposals ultimately stalled before reaching the finish line. Throughout session, lawmakers grappled with budget pressures, political divisions, and competing priorities, while Minnesota’s growing housing shortage continued drawing attention from policymakers, industry… Read More
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The paint colors driving design trends in 2026
When it comes to boosting a home’s appeal, owners often think about kitchen remodels, new flooring, or landscape upgrades. But according to new research from Zillow, one of the most impactful changes may be far simpler—and far less expensive. Zillow’s 2026 Paint Color Analysis found that certain paint colors can influence how much buyers are… Read More
TOP STORIES
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Housing supply solutions left on the table
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Exclusive: Minnesota single stair review shows taller buildings possible with code changes
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Federal government withdraws energy code rule
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A framework for improved model building codes
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Less efficient, older homes make up greatest share of housing stock as energy codes focus on new home construction