Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Harley from Banner Homes to discuss the exciting Headwaters development project — a large-scale subdivision that stands out because it's being built by a local developer using all local contractors. We dig into what that means for Salem's economy and community, the challenges facing the housing market today, and why keeping investment local matters.

In this episode, we discuss:

1. The Headwaters project and what makes it unique as a locally-driven development
2. Why Salem is an underrated hub and what's drawing developers here
3. The state of the home building industry and the camaraderie (and competition) among local builders
4. The growing challenges of developing new subdivisions and the permitting process
5. Affordable housing options and how new inventory creates opportunity for everyone
6. The importance of building community — in neighborhoods and in business

Timestamps:

1. 00:00 - Welcome & introductions at Metronome Studio
2. 01:40 - Salem as a growing hub for new businesses
3. 04:27 - Introducing the Headwaters project and Steve's background
4. 14:00 - What makes a local developer different from national builders
5. 22:00 - Newport date night & finding Salem's hidden gems
6. 28:47 - Building community through business and the whiskey club model
7. 33:36 - Shoutout to the Home Builders Association and city collaboration
8. 34:47 - Camaraderie vs. competition among Salem's builders
9. 36:58 - The housing shortage, affordability, and the path forward
10. 38:11 - Headwaters' potential for more affordable options