Author

Leah Draffen

Author’s articles

6 Trends for the 2026 Kitchen

Leah Draffen October 1, 2025

Despite homes trending smaller, the kitchen is getting bigger in new homes, with functional spaces, timeless style, and natural hues.
How do streets in new communities get their names?

Leah Draffen October 13, 2023

From inspiration to research, developers and planning experts share the details on what it takes to name a new street.
Low sentiment continues as consumers are frustrated by lack of affordability

Leah Draffen September 7, 2023

he Fannie Mae Home Purchase Sentiment Index remained effectively unchanged in August, with 82% still saying it’s a bad time to buy.
Can workplace flexibility relieve housing affordability concerns?

Leah Draffen August 30, 2023

A greater share of remote and hybrid workers reports a willingness to live farther from the workplace, and, for potential homeowners, greater workplace flexibility increases odds of finding a home within budget.
Boomers shift to Vegas and Tampa, Millennials flock to Austin

Leah Draffen June 6, 2023

Domestic migration continues to follow pandemic trends, according to Bank of America Institute’s new analysis.
New Home Co. expands Pacific Northwest footprint into Washington

Leah Draffen May 18, 2023

The opening of its Washington division is part of the home builder’s strategic growth plan for building attainable homes near strong employment centers.
Majority of Gen-Z adults consider pet-friendly features essential in homes

Leah Draffen April 11, 2023

New Zillow survey finds a majority of Gen Z pet owners say it’s more important to have a pet-friendly home than a kid-friendly home.
9 of the 10 top markets to watch are in the Sun Belt

Leah Draffen October 28, 2022

“As we enter 2023, the pandemic-driven factors that upended the global economy for more than two years are starting to fade.”
Let’s talk about housing affordability in Phoenix

Leah Draffen August 30, 2022

The receding housing market is affecting all cities throughout the nation. However, Builder Online writes that cities such as Phoenix have felt its effect sooner. According…