Georgia’s housing market is at a crossroads, with affordability and local regulations shaping new construction across the state. Gabe Chatham, president of the Home Builders Association of Georgia (HBAG) and vice president of Chathambilt Homes, joins Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to share how builders are navigating these challenges and what it means for first-time homebuyers.

One of the most tangible barriers to affordable housing in Georgia is the permitting process. Chatham explains that land disturbance permits, necessary even on properties already zoned for development, can be delayed for months or even years.

“If we can cut down that time, that obviously saves some costs on things like engineering holding costs, and hopefully, we’ll see the savings passed on to the end user,” Chatham said.

When permits and approvals are delayed, the effects extend beyond builders. The supply of homes for first-time buyers shrinks, prices rise and families are often forced to rent longer or relocate farther from work, adding financial and personal strain.

Georgia’s Home Rule Act further complicates the process. The law gives cities and counties broad control over zoning and design standards, but that autonomy can make it difficult to predict how and when housing will be approved. In 2025, state lawmakers introduced House Bill 812, which would require approval from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for certain local code amendments. The proposed legislation aims to streamline permitting, particularly for land disturbance permits, though its effectiveness will depend on its implementation at the state and local levels.

Beyond logistics, these regulatory decisions carry long-term consequences for families and communities. With the average age of first-time homebuyers in Georgia now 40, delays and restrictions directly affect generational wealth and family stability, limiting younger adults’ ability to establish roots in their communities.

Chatham emphasizes the importance of innovative housing solutions, including missing middle housing and build-to-rent projects, to meet the needs of a diverse workforce. Housing policy is not simply about development timelines. It is about ensuring that essential workers and young families can participate in the communities they serve.

“We think about our teachers, our firefighters, our police officers… they can’t live close by,” Chatham said. “Finding a way to help those people stay invested in the community is going to be healthy for the community long term.”

Workforce development is also critical to addressing Georgia’s housing challenges. HBAG supports high school programs that teach trade skills, helping address labor shortages in construction while providing students with viable career paths that do not require college debt.

Smaller and mid-sized builders often face resource constraints when navigating zoning changes, permitting requirements and evolving legislation. HBAG also provides funding, advocacy and strategic guidance to help these builders remain competitive and keep projects moving forward, ultimately benefiting homebuyers.

Chatham said, “By partnering together, we can strategize and utilize the resources we have.”

Tune in to the full episode for insight into the policies and solutions shaping the state’s housing future. Learn more about the Home Builders Association of Georgia at https://www.HBAG.org/. For more information about Chathambilt Homes, visit https://ChathamLegacy.com/.

Chathambilt Homes is celebrating 78 years in business and continues to expand its footprint across North Atlanta, including Milton, Alpharetta and East Cherokee County, as well as exploring new opportunities in Adairsville and beyond. The Georgia-based home builder is known for crafting thoughtfully designed communities that balance modern living with enduring Southern character. Chathambilt Homes prioritizes quality construction, intentional design and neighborhood-driven experiences across its residential portfolio. With a focus on long-term value, Chathambilt Homes delivers homes that are both functional and rooted in a strong sense of place.

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