REM Episode 4 (10/20/2025) WE Talk Revitalizing Housing in Portland: US Senate’s ROAD Act, and KMUZ’s Call to Action
Listen Monday at 9:00 on KMUZ or PRX
The housing crisis is on everyone’s mind — from rising costs in Oregon to national shortages and record foreclosures. This week on Real Estate Matters, we connect the dots between Washington, D.C. policy and Portland’s local housing challenges, while reminding listeners why KMUZ’s Fall Pledge Drive is more important than ever.
Senate Passes the Renewing the American Dream to Housing Act
In a 77–20 bipartisan vote, the U.S. Senate passed the Renewing the American Dream to Housing Act (ROAD Act) as part of the must-pass NDAA (NCSHA). The bill represents the most sweeping federal housing reform in more than a decade, with provisions designed to:
Boost housing supply by reforming zoning and cutting red tape.
Expand mortgage access, especially small-dollar loans for first-time buyers.
Advance appraisal reform, reducing bias and ensuring fair valuations.
Streamline federal housing programs, aligning HUD, USDA, and VA for greater efficiency.
Policy experts from the Bipartisan Policy Center, National Housing Conference, and National Association of Realtors have praised the bill, urging lawmakers to protect its provisions as it heads to conference.
Portland’s Housing Lens: Revitalize Portland
While the Senate bill charts a national path, Portland’s needs remain unique. That’s where Revitalize Portland comes in. Their Economy & Housing vision highlights the importance of affordable housing, streamlined permitting, and reduced tax burdens to bring middle-income families back into reach of homeownership (Revitalize Portland: Economy & Housing).
In their blog post “Revitalize Portland: Together, We Build the Future”, they call for coalition-building and revitalization strategies that combine public policy, private investment, and community involvement. This perspective reminds us that housing reform isn’t just about legislation — it’s about livability and local solutions.
Foreclosures Up 17%: Market Stress Grows
Nationally, foreclosure filings climbed 17% in Q3 2025 compared to the same period last year, with more than 100,000 properties impacted (National Mortgage News). The surge reflects growing financial strain on households, even as policymakers push for structural reforms.
For Oregon families, this trend underscores the urgency: without local and national action, more people could lose their homes.
Why Community Radio Matters: KMUZ’s Fall Pledge Drive
Real Estate Matters exists because KMUZ provides a platform for independent voices. From in-depth housing coverage to shows like Force of Fury and Savage Circuitry, KMUZ represents the diversity and vitality of Oregon’s Mid-Valley.
But community radio can’t survive without community support. That’s why KMUZ is in the middle of its Fall Pledge Drive. Your donations directly keep programming alive, strengthen local journalism, and ensure that conversations about housing, revitalization, and community remain accessible to everyone.
➡️ Donate now at donorbox.org/general-kmuz-donations
➡️ Learn more at KMUZ.org
Final Word
The ROAD Act marks a turning point in federal housing policy, Revitalize Portland provides a grounded local vision, and foreclosure data warns us of the risks ahead. Together, they paint a picture of why local media like KMUZ is essential — to connect the big picture with the neighborhood view.
Support KMUZ, support community voices, and keep the conversation alive.