With Rate Cuts Ahead, Buffett-Backed Builders Look Like a Buy

Group 1: Housing Market Overview - The U.S. housing market is currently facing challenges due to elevated interest rates and historically high home prices, with many buyers hesitant to take on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages above 6% [1][2] - A significant housing shortage exists, with a record deficit of 4.7 million homes reported by Zillow in July [1] - The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates, with nearly 90% odds for a cut in September, but fixed rates above 6% are not anticipated before early 2026 [2] Group 2: Impact on Homebuilders - Homebuilders are likely to benefit from potential interest rate cuts, which would lower borrowing costs for new construction and allow refinancing of existing debt [7][9] - Lower mortgage rates in early 2026 could incentivize buyers, accelerating sales and improving cash flow for homebuilders [7][8] - Carrying costs have negatively impacted homebuilder stocks, but faster sales could enhance profitability and capital reinvestment opportunities [8] Group 3: Company-Specific Insights - Lennar has seen a 29.56% increase since its year-to-date low in April, although it remains down 25.26% from its all-time high in September 2024 [12] - Lennar's net income decreased by 11.21% from $4.430 billion in 2021 to $3.933 billion in 2024, but it maintains consistent dividend payments of $130–$160 million quarterly [13] - D.R. Horton has increased net income from $4.176 billion in 2022 to $4.756 billion in 2024, reflecting a 13.88% increase, despite a recent revenue decline [16]