(1)  the regulatory body writing the Dodd-Frank rules need to hurry & complete their task.  The uncertainty creates lenders to be risk averse, especially toward mortgage borrowers.  (2)  Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac need to make home loans to buyers with less available cash & not require 20% down.  (3)  the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency can relax its tough guidelines that discourage banks from making loans for new subdivision developments.  In some markets lack of building lots is acute.  (4)  There is a serious labor shortage in many parts of the home construction industry.  The guest worker program must be enhanced to provide much-needed craftsmen, such as carpenters.  All this according to Dr. Mark Dotzour, chief economist for the Real Estate Center Texas A&M University.