Homebuilders

Confidence among US homebuilders unexpectedly fell in January, as costly sales incentives outweighed a recent boost from lower mortgage rates and the president's housing proposals.

NAHB's remodeling index finished at its highest mark in a year, with the current industry outlook standing in stark contrast to homebuilder sentiment.

Mortgage applications for new-home purchases decreased 15.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis in December, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Sales of new homes in the US were little changed in October near the strongest pace since 2023 as builders lured anxious customers with price cuts and incentives.

Housing starts in the US fell in October to the lowest level since the onset of the pandemic as data delayed by last fall's government shutdown showed builders continued to cut back amid still-high prices and mortgage rates.

The number of remodeling establishments hit at a record high earlier this decade and now accounts for over 60% of home construction-related businesses.

New-home purchase activity rose 3.1% year over year, but dropped 7% from October, the Mortgage Bankers Association said.

Confidence among US homebuilders edged up in December as builders continued to deploy sales incentives to motivate buyers.

The class action suit doubles down on accusations that the homebuilder and its lending arm are deceiving borrowers about their monthly mortgage payments.

Manufactured housing could see eased lending rules if the defense bill removes the "permanent chassis" requirement, expanding FHA mortgage eligibility.

Gallego introduced legislation to amend the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program in order to funnel more money into the construction and rehabilitation of homes. 

Even to the detriment of greater profits, the sector is offering ultra-low terms via temporary buydowns combined with larger forward commitments.

In November, 41% of builders reported cutting prices, a record in the post-Covid period, according to Tuesday's report. More broadly, 65% reported using sales incentives, unchanged from the prior two months.

New-home mortgage applications dropped, but the annual sales pace was the strongest in over a year, the Mortgage Bankers Association said.

In markets across the US, homebuilders sitting on unsold inventory are subsidizing mortgage rates so heavily they sometimes match the record lows last seen during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Companies reported positive numbers but see challenges in a sluggish housing environment, as federal pressure ramps up to address affordability.

While borrowing activity increased from a year ago, seasonal patterns and economic concerns suggest near-term slowing, the Mortgage Bankers Association said.

The import taxes — initially set at 25% for cabinets, vanities and upholstered wooden furniture — officially took effect on Tuesday at 12:01 a.m. New York time.

President Trump said big homebuilders are sitting on a record 2 million empty lots, and asked Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to help restore the American Dream.

A group of homeowners filed a class action lawsuit against the largest homebuilding company in the United States, seeking all money lost.