Housing Proposals from the State of the Union

Big Proposals from the Biden Administration!

The State of the Union is always an important speech to pay attention to as it communicates to the general public what the current administration will be prioritizing and working towards in the coming year, and this year was no different. With the focus that recent administrations at the local, state, and national level have put on the issue of housing availability and affordability, it is no surprise that a handful of housing proposals were announced during this year's State of the Union.


Last week during the State of the Union, President Biden unveiled a handful of new housing proposals. In these proposals he made four major points:


  • An annual tax credit of up to $400 a month for two years to assist homeowners with mortgage payments when purchasing their first home or trade up for more space.
  • Eliminating the requirement for title insurance on federally-backed mortgages only for refinances. While this is limited to refinances, it could save homeowners up to $1,000!
  • Biden and his administration have cut red tape for builders looking for federal financing which has helped contribute to the building of 1.7 million new housing units.
  • Renewed efforts to preserve and build 2 million affordable homes and bringing rents down.


Additionally, Biden unveiled his $7.3 trillion budget for the 2025 FY. Although this budget is never approved "as is," it does serve to indicate what the administrations priorities are and what they would like to see in the budget that is passed. This budget provides more specifics on what the Biden administration is looking to accomplish. With a total of $258 billion devoted to housing, the Biden budget would:


  • Expand the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.
  • Provide a new tax credit for first-time home buyers of up to $10,000 over two years.
  • Provide $7.5 billion in mandatory funding for new Project-based Rental Assistance contracts to incentivize the development of new climate-resilient affordable housing.
  • Reduce down payments for first-time and first-generation home buyers.
    Provide a one-year tax credit of up to $10,000 to middle-class families who sell their starter home.
  • Provide $20 billion in mandatory funding for a new innovation fund for housing expansion.
  • Invest $1.3 billion in the HOME Investment Partnerships Program


If you are curious about the exact language used during the speech, the relevant portion regarding housing is included below:


"I know the cost of housing is so important to you. If inflation keeps coming down mortgage rates will come down as well. But I’m not waiting. 


I want to provide an annual tax credit that will give Americans $400 a month for the next two years as mortgage rates come down to put toward their mortgage when they buy a first home or trade up for a little more space. My Administration is also eliminating title insurance fees for federally backed mortgages. When you refinance your home this can save you $1,000 or more. 


For millions of renters, we’re cracking down on big landlords who break antitrust laws by price-fixing and driving up rents.


I’ve cut red tape so more builders can get federal financing, which is already helping build a record 1.7 million housing units nationwide. 


Now pass my plan to build and renovate 2 million affordable homes and bring those rents down!"

The Power of Gratitude: Why Thank You Cards and Calling Loved Ones Matter

February 19, 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget the simple things that make life meaningful. One of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, ways to enrich our lives is by expressing gratitude. Whether it's sending a handwritten thank you card, picking up the phone to call a loved one, or simply acknowledging someone's kindness, these small acts have big benefits for both the giver and the receiver! 1. Improves Mental Health Expressing gratitude can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Studies show that taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate what others do for you can lower stress and improve your overall mood. When you send a thank you note or call someone to express your appreciation, you foster positive emotions that help shift your mindset toward optimism. 2. Strengthens Relationships A heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in maintaining and deepening your relationships. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, showing gratitude makes the recipient feel valued and recognized. A quick phone call or a note saying "I appreciate you" can create a stronger bond and encourage more positive interactions in the future. 3. Cultivates a Culture of Kindness  By expressing gratitude, you're setting an example for those around you. It’s contagious! When you take the time to appreciate others, you're encouraging a culture of kindness and appreciation in your community. Small gestures like sending thank you cards can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity. In Conclusion Expressing gratitude doesn’t require grand gestures. A thank you card, a quick call, or a heartfelt message can transform your relationships and improve your own well-being. The power of gratitude is undeniable—small acts of appreciation can have a lasting impact, creating a more positive and connected world for everyone. So, go ahead—reach out, say thank you, and feel the benefits in return.

The Emergence of Mojave Max

February 12, 2025
We’re sure you’ve heard about Punxsutawney Phil of Pennsylvania, but did you know Nevada has its own unique way of signaling the arrival of spring in the desert? His name is Mojave Max! Mojave Max, a tortoise residing at the Springs Preserve in Las Vegas, acts as a local mascot for the desert tortoise conservation program. Katrina Smith, the Senior Zoologist at the preserve, explains that Mojave Max's emergence is rooted in biology rather than folklore. Unlike a rodent seeing its shadow, which holds no real significance, the emergence of a desert tortoise is a biological event. For Max, the temperature inside his burrow must reach a certain threshold before he becomes active. This signals the warming weather, the blooming of flowers, and the increase in wildlife activity. When he emerges, it marks the official arrival of spring! Over the past two years, Max has emerged in late March, and his return has become a highly anticipated event. For over 25 years, local elementary students have been participating in the Mojave Max Emergence Contest, guessing the date of his big appearance.  Mojave Max's emergence serves as a reminder that spring in the desert is not just a season, but a living, breathing change in the environment that calls for our attention and care!

The Benefits of having Renter’s Insurance: What you need to know

February 7, 2025
Essential Information for Protecting Your Belongings
More Posts
Share by: