The HVS provides quarterly estimates of national, regional, and state vacancy rates by various characteristics and ownership rates. These data give researchers the ability to guage the housing inventory over time. Information is collected from homeowners, Realtors, and other knowledgeable persons.
The burden hours have been reduced due to the smaller sample size based on the change in the number of qualifying vacant households and hence fewer interviews. The burden hours estimated in 2014 was 4,318 and the burden hours estimate in 2017 is 4200.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.