For decades, the conversation around housing affordability has focused on interest rates, construction costs and supply shortages. In his new book, Zoned Out: How Cities and Counties Make Homes Unaffordable, veteran land developer Jay Knight argues the real problem begins much earlier.

Zoned Out examines how restrictive zoning, outdated land-use regulations and lengthy local approval processes increase the cost of housing long before construction begins. Drawing on nearly 50 years in residential real estate and homebuilding, Knight offers an inside look at the local government decisions that influence whether homes can be built and, ultimately, whether families can afford to buy them.

"Housing affordability doesn't start with a builder pouring a foundation," said Knight. "It starts with the policies that determine what can be built, where it can be built and how long it takes to get there. Every unnecessary delay, every subjective requirement and every outdated regulation adds cost that eventually lands on the homebuyer."

Rather than simply identifying the challenges, Zoned Out presents practical solutions for policymakers, developers, builders and community leaders. Knight explains how objective standards, predictable permitting processes and thoughtful land-use reform can expand housing opportunities while preserving strong communities. The book concludes with a real-world example of legislative reform, demonstrating how industry leaders and elected officials can work together to improve housing affordability.

Knight's perspective is grounded in firsthand experience. Since beginning his career on a framing crew in 1978, he has worked as a REALTOR®, broker, sales manager and land acquisition and development manager, giving him a comprehensive understanding of every stage of the residential development process. Today, he serves as managing member of Templar Development and chairman and co-founder of the Georgia Residential Land Development Council (GRLDC), where he advocates for policies that make attainable homeownership possible for future generations. Early endorsements from industry leaders underscore the book's relevance.

"Jay Knight delivers a clear, practical and authoritative look at the housing affordability crisis," said Eric Masaschi, East Region President of Forestar Group, Inc. "In Zoned Out, he explains why homeownership is slipping out of reach, and he offers thoughtful, real-world insights into what can be done to address one of today's most pressing challenges."

Rick Porter, director of the Master of Real Estate Development program at Georgia Tech, called the book an important contribution to the conversation around land-use reform, noting that Knight is helping keep the American dream of homeownership alive through practical policy discussions.

Zoned Out: How Cities and Counties Make Homes Unaffordable is available now in paperback and Kindle editions through Amazon. The book has already earned Amazon's "#1 Best Seller" designation in Land Use Law.

Published by Weaving Influence Press, the book is part of the publisher's marketing-first hybrid publishing program for nonfiction authors. Copies of Zoned Out: How Cities and Counties Make Homes Unaffordable can be purchased on Amazon.