Research Roundup September 2026

In the September 2026 Research Roundup, George Ratiu examines a shifting economic and housing landscape as inflation, higher borrowing costs and softer consumer spending continue to pressure household budgets and real estate activity. George highlights the latest GDP, price growth, retail sales, household debt and employment trends, while also looking at how elevated mortgage rates are affecting home sales, construction spending and housing starts. Despite broader market headwinds, multifamily permits offer a bright spot, underscoring the continued demand for rental housing in strong job markets. The episode also points to new NAA research on AI in rental housing operations, risk management, staffing, cash flow and building performance standards.