Housing Market Update and Economic News: September 19, 2025

Housing Trends

Builder Outlook Holds Steady
Builder confidence stayed unchanged in September, even as expectations for future sales have inched higher.

Single-Family Starts Retreat
New single-family construction tumbled in August, reaching its lowest point in nearly two and a half years. Building permits also slipped 2.2%, pointing to slower activity ahead.

Applications Respond to Rate Drop
As mortgage rates eased prior to the Fed’s meeting, purchase loan applications increased 3% for the week. Refinance activity saw a sharp surge, jumping 58%.

Economic Update

Fed Delivers a Quarter-Point Cut
The Federal Reserve reduced its benchmark rate by 0.25% this week to bolster a slowing labor market while continuing efforts to manage inflation.

Powell Highlights the Balancing Act
Fed Chair Jerome Powell noted that the central bank faces a tougher road ahead, weighing higher inflation against weakening job numbers.

Jobless Claims Recede
After spiking the prior week, new unemployment claims dropped by 33,000—the largest weekly decline in nearly four years.

Quote of the Week

In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.
— Albert Einstein

Whether you’re buying, building, or advising, staying informed is key to making confident decisions. At Thompson Kane, we’re here to help you navigate today’s changing housing and economic landscape with insight and care tailored to your goals.