Zillow’s updated forecast, Buffett bets on builders, and a fresh housing starts report paint an optimistic picture for the second half of 2025. Meanwhile, a compelling AP article highlights how moves affect children, offering a valuable resource for professionals and families alike. In this roundup, mortgage and real estate pros will find timely insights and actionable angles that both inform and inspire.
Zillow Nudges Forecast into Positive Territory
Read the Full Story → Fast Company
Zillow has adjusted its U.S. home price forecast upward, now projecting a 0.4% gain through July 2026. This marks a notable shift from its previous expectation of a 1.7% decline issued just a few months earlier.
The revision comes as affordability improves modestly and buyer activity shows signs of stabilization. Stronger local price trends in markets with greater housing supply also influenced the new forecast.
While the change is modest, it reflects a broader trend of cautious optimism as the market adjusts to persistent economic pressures and inventory dynamics.
Buffett Bets on Builders with $1 Billion Investment
Read the Full Story → Realtor.com
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has made a bold move, investing over $1 billion in three of the nation’s largest homebuilders: D.R. Horton, Lennar, and NVR. The investments signal confidence in the long-term strength of the U.S. housing market.
Despite ongoing affordability challenges and cautious consumer sentiment, Buffett’s team is betting on the continued demand for housing and the ability of these companies to profit through new supply.
This high-profile move is already generating buzz and could boost sentiment among developers, investors, and housing professionals alike.
Housing Starts Up in July, Showing Builder Resilience
Read the Full Story → Realtor.com
New residential construction is showing signs of strength. U.S. single-family housing starts increased by 2.8% in July, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 939,000 units.
This marks a positive continuation of gradual growth in the construction sector, despite higher interest rates and tighter lending conditions. Builders are responding to demand and preparing for future buyer activity.
Regionally, the South led the way, while other areas showed more modest gains. The data suggests that homebuilders remain cautiously optimistic heading into fall.
Moving with Kids: Understanding the Emotional Impact
Read the Full Story → AP News
Moving is consistently ranked as one of life’s most stressful events, and for children, the emotional impact can be even greater. Changes in environment, routine, and school can trigger anxiety and behavioral shifts.
The article highlights advice from child development experts on how to help kids cope. Key strategies include open communication, maintaining routines, and giving children a sense of control in the process.
A recommended children’s book, Freeda the Frog Is on the Move, provides an approachable way for families to ease the transition. It’s a thoughtful tool for agents and loan officers to share with relocating clients.
Loan Officer Perspective
- Regarding the Zillow story, “eh, so what…”—yet knowing even a slight tilt upward helps keep us well‑rounded and informed as professionals in the market.
- Buffett investing in homebuilders? That’s a clear signal we all understand—if the Oracle of Omaha is betting big, there’s confidence in future housing strength.
- Housing starts rising is always comforting news—it means supply is responding, which steady minds appreciate.
- And the AP story? Absolutely great to have handy. It’s useful for realtors and loan officers to share with clients, and for parents going through a move—it shows you care about more than the deal.
Real Estate Agent Perspective
Zillow’s soft bump in pricing supports stable listing strategies. Buffett’s billion-dollar move reinforces confidence in the industry—use it as proof of market strength in client conversations. Housing starts on the rise means more inventory soon, and the AP story is a powerful piece to provide added emotional value to families with children considering a move.
Home Buyer & Seller Perspective
The market is showing signs of stability, and even industry giants like Warren Buffett are betting on housing. Builders are picking up activity, which may bring more options for buyers.
If you’re planning a move with kids, take a moment to read the AP article—then connect with the loan officer or agent who shared this post to talk through your next steps.
Frank’s Thoughts
Zillow’s forecast shift? Nothing groundbreaking, but it’s the kind of industry tidbit that helps us stay sharp and informed. It’s not the headline of the year, but good background knowledge for everyday conversations.
Buffett’s move into homebuilders? That’s the real headliner here. You don’t drop a billion dollars into housing unless you’re confident about where it’s going. For all of us on the front lines, it’s a major vote of confidence.
Housing starts are always worth tracking—supply is key to everything we do. And that AP story? Love it. It’s something we can genuinely share with clients to help their families—not just their finances.
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