Industry Snapshot: The Recession Versus Housing Recovery Question
August 29, 2019
Industry Snapshot is our monthly round-up of top news stories related to the residential home building industry.
In August, industry players examined the hype behind whether we’re headed for a recovery or a recession, while MasterBrand’s Omega Cabinetry released additional cabinet styles and one Idaho home builder decided to make it easier for prospective buyers to view their model homes without an agent.
Is it a recession or continued recovery? Builder explores the hype behind whether we’re set to experience a recession or if homebuilding is on the path to recovery. Issues to consider? Low interest rates and a growing economy, among other positives, are combating supply and labor constraints. [Builder]
The nation’s most competitive housing markets. The “Amazon effect” is fueling intense competition in Arlington and Alexandria, both in Virginia. The two markets are closest to Crystal City, the site of Amazon’s upcoming second headquarters. [Redfin]
New cabinet choices available for 2019. Omega Cabinetry, a MasterBrand company, unveiled their latest cabinet styles, which include three new door styles, two solid-color finishes and four wood-grain textured laminate finishes. The laminate finishes are designed to register with users as authentic wood grain. [Builder]
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These cities get more expensive by the day. The top 10 major U.S. cities that keep getting more expensive to live in include Miami, St. Louis, Denver, Boston and Washington D.C. Miami saw a 8.2 percent increase in the cost of housing, while New York rounded out the list with a 3.5 percent increase. [Housing Wire]
CBH Homes introduces self-guided model tours. The Idaho builder is making it easier to tour model homes by allowing prospective buyers to access the homes through their smart phones by using Tour Now. The application lets users have instant access without an agent. [Builder]
The rise of round. The round aesthetic, captured by cute, soft lines and squat proportions, is gaining popularity. Proponents say it’s a response to the square, boxy, hard-edged style — and the anxiety associated with it — that’s become known as contemporary furniture. [Curbed]
