New single-family homes sold nearly 20% more in 2020 than in 2019, likely due to the shortage of existing homes on the market. According to Zillow, last year was the best year for new-home sales since 2006, thanks to low mortgage rates, low inventory, and the pandemic. A new-home’s attractiveness may have grown due to Americans’ increased awareness on health and wellness. About 811,000 new-homes sold last year–an 18.8% increase compared to 2019. But the thirst for new-homes is predicted to continue through 2021.
The supply of new homes for sale has been picking up lately, but remains low compared to historic norms — which is likely to incentivize builders to increase their activity, particularly when demand for housing remains solid. Expect the future permit and starts pipeline to be quite full this year. With a banner year in the books, today’s new home sales report set the stage for a solid start to 2021.
Advertisement
Related Stories
New-Home Sales
Mortgage Rates Are Up but New-Home Sales Still Solid in March
Lack of existing home inventory drove a rise in new-home sales, despite higher interest rates in March
Labor + Trade Relations
Who's Earning What in Construction
Workers in construction management roles may earn a higher median wage, but on average, lower-paid occupations have experienced somewhat faster wage growth
Build to Rent
Build-to-Rent Is Booming, Particularly in These Metros
A recent report finds that the Phoenix metro leads with more than 4,000 build-to-rent units completed in 2023, and Texas is the leading state for build-to-rent development
