Trump Orders Emergency Measures to Lower Housing Costs on First Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order on his first day in office Monday, directing federal agencies to implement emergency measures aimed at lowering housing costs and addressing inflation. The order, released shortly after his inauguration, calls for immediate action to reduce regulatory burdens and expand housing supply.

“All agencies will take emergency measures to reduce the cost of living,” the White House document stated. The order specifically targets housing affordability, citing regulatory requirements that account for 25% of new home construction costs. Trump’s administration estimates that regulatory costs under the previous administration added nearly $50,000 to the average household’s expenses.

In his inaugural address, Trump emphasized a focus on American workers and families. “From this moment on, it’s going to be America First. Every decision on trade, on taxes, on immigration, on foreign affairs, will be made to benefit American workers and American families,” he said.

The executive order also established the Department on Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, to streamline federal operations. The department replaces the United States Digital Service, created during the Obama administration. Trump’s administration aims to cut inefficiencies across federal agencies, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which faces significant budget reductions.

Trump’s nominee for HUD Secretary, former Texas state representative and White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council executive director, has pledged to eliminate inefficiencies within the department. Meanwhile, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) will be led by William Pulte, a homebuilding industry figure, signaling a focus on housing finance reform.

The order also includes a “regulatory freeze” to prevent new federal regulations and directs agencies to study potential tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico. Housing industry experts warn that tariffs, particularly on Canadian softwood lumber, could increase construction costs, as seen during Trump’s first term.

Trump’s housing policies aim to address affordability challenges, with a focus on reducing regulatory barriers and expanding supply. However, the long-term impact of these measures remains uncertain as the administration begins its second term.