HUD Seeks Comments on Critical Survey of Nation’s Housing Stock

Do you have thoughts on how housing data is collected? If so, HUD wants to hear from you.

Sponsored by HUD and conducted by the Census Bureau, the American Housing Survey is the largest, most comprehensive housing survey in the country. It focuses specifically on individual housing units over long periods of time, gathering information on occupancy, vacancy, costs, and conditions on the same units every two years. The American Housing Survey is comprised of both a National survey, which is conducted every other odd-numbered year, and a Metropolitan survey, which is conducted in selected areas on a rotating basis. The data collected sheds light on the supply and demand in the housing marketplace and the condition of the nation’s housing stock. It also helps HUD develop policies and design programs for different types of needs, such as the elderly and first-time homebuyers.

HUD is seeking comments on the necessity of the survey and the accuracy of its data, along with suggestions on quality improvements and ways to make the process more efficient. and Comments are due on October 19. More information is available here http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-08-20/pdf/2012-20420.pdf.