#United States #Austin #Realtor.com #Housing Crisis #SXSW 2025

Realtor.com® Engages in Housing Crisis Discussions at SXSW 2025

The housing shortage in the United States has escalated into a noteworthy crisis affecting millions. Realtor.com® estimates that the nation is currently short by approximately 4 million homes, a gap that has led to fierce competition among home buyers and skyrocketing prices. To address these pressing issues, Realtor.com® is set to host three significant panels at the renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas, providing a platform for enlightening discussions and innovative solutions that may reshape the landscape of housing in America.

Addressing the Crisis

Set against the backdrop of SXSW, an event known for its vibrant convergence of creativity and thought leadership, Realtor.com® aims to bring together leading figures in the real estate arena. Among those participating in this pivotal dialogue are:

• - Kirk Watson, Mayor of Austin
• - Graeme Waitzkin, COO of ICON
• - John Ho, CEO of Landsea Homes
• - Sara Bronin, Founder and CEO of the National Zoning Atlas
• - Felicity Maxwell, Board Member at Aura and Planning Commissioner of Austin
• - Natasha Harper-Madison, Chair of Housing and Planning Committee, Austin
• - Mary K. Cunningham, Senior Vice President of Research and Programs at The Urban Institute
• - Kendall Bonner, VP of Industry Relations and Strategic Partnerships at eXp Realty
• - Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com®
• - Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com®.

These experts will engage in discussions that not only highlight the depth of the housing crisis but also explore viable solutions contributing to a sustainable housing future.

Panel Highlights

March 8, 2025 – Realtor.com® Headquarters

• - 9:15 AM: Pre-panel Media Meet & Greet
• - 10:00 AM: "Future-Proof Housing for the Next Generation"

Features Graeme Waitzkin, John Ho, and Danielle Hale discussing innovative housing solutions designed for future generations.

• - 11:30 AM: "What Texas Can Teach Us About Solving America’s Housing Crisis"

Panelists include Sara Bronin, Felicity Maxwell, and Natasha Harper-Madison who will focus on local strategies that can address broader national issues.

• - 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM: Networking Hour with complimentary beverages and opportunities for collaboration.

March 10, 2025 – Thompson Hotel

• - 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM: "Unlocking Supply: Addressing the Missing ~4 Million Homes in America"

Kirk Watson and Mary K. Cunningham will explore actionable strategies to mitigate this alarming housing shortage.

• - 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM: Reception following the panel, accessible with SXSW badges, to foster further discussions.

Engaging the Community

By bringing together diverse voices from the real estate sector, Realtor.com® aims to foster bold ideas and impactful dialogues. The event not only serves as a showcase of expertise but also as an invitation for the larger community to engage in the critical conversation around housing. Those interested in attending or engaging with the discussions are encouraged to RSVP through the provided channels.

As the urgency around the housing crisis intensifies, platforms like Realtor.com® are poised to make a substantial impact. Their commitment to facilitating these crucial discussions at SXSW emphasizes the need for collective action in addressing one of America's most significant challenges today.

Livestream and Access: For those who cannot attend in person, the panels will be livestreamed on YouTube on both days, allowing wider access to the conversations that will shape the future of housing.

In conclusion, Realtor.com® stands at the forefront of this vital issue, empowering consumers and industry professionals alike with the insights needed to navigate the current residential real estate landscape. As we look forward to SXSW 2025, the expectation is set for innovation and actionable solutions to be discussed, paving the way for a brighter housing future.