FX.co ★ US Homebuilder Sentiment Weakens in January

The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index decreased to 37.0 in January 2026, down from 39.0 in December, and fell short of the market forecast of 40.0. This represents the lowest level in three months, indicating ongoing difficulties in the US housing sector. Builder confidence declined in all aspects of the index. The assessment of current sales conditions dipped by one point to 41, while expectations for sales over the next six months fell by three points to 49. Additionally, the interest from potential buyers decreased, dropping three points to 23. The survey also revealed that 40% of builders reduced their prices in January, consistent with December and marking the third consecutive month this percentage remained at or above 40%, the highest since May 2020. The average price cut increased to 6%, compared to 5% in December. Furthermore, the application of sales incentives rose to 65%, continuing a 10-month trend above the 60% mark.