Why Housing Development Matters: Supply, Stability & the Future of Lawrence

Guest: Steve Kelly Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) Housing isn’t just a real estate issue—it’s an economic issue, a workforce issue, and a community issue. In this episode, Steve Kelly joins Lexie and Patrick to break down why housing development plays such a critical role in the long-term success of Lawrence—and what happens when supply can’t keep up with demand. We cover: 🏡 Why housing is foundational to a strong local economy 📉 What today’s inventory shortage means for residents and employers 🏗️ Where zoning, land use, and permitting create friction 👷 How labor shortages are impacting construction timelines and costs 📊 How limited supply affects renters, buyers, and businesses alike 🌆 Why growth shifts to surrounding communities when supply is constrained 💡 Practical solutions to increase housing while preserving community character Plus, we tackle big-picture misconceptions in our Fact or Fiction segment—like whether more housing lowers values, whether zoning affects affordability, and whether stopping growth actually solves housing challenges. If you’ve ever wondered why housing conversations feel so complex—this episode connects the dots. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno 🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 🛡️ Episode Sponsor: The Sparke Agency, Farm Bureau Financial Services Helping you protect what matters most. 👉 www.sparkeagency.com 👏 Special shoutout to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for keeping everything organized behind the scenes!