HBW Report: Texas Swimming Pool Construction Up 18% Month-Over-Month

Posted on by

According to the latest construction data reports from HBW, new swimming pool construction in Texas saw a notable increase in September 2025. With 653 new permits on record statewide, activity rose by approximately 18 percent compared to August, when 553 new pool construction permits were added to the books. The combined construction value for the month of September was approximately $50.4 million, reflecting steady consumer demand and a strong finish to the summer building season.

Dallas Leads in Total Permits and Construction Value

The Dallas area once again topped the charts for new swimming pool construction when looking at volume. Out of nearly 300 permits recorded across the region, the combined construction value reached more than $22.6 million, with an average value of approximately $76,655 per pool.

Within the metro area, Dallas and Tarrant counties carried the highest concentration of activity:

  • Dallas County: 88 permits totaling $6.9 million
  • Tarrant County: 65 permits totaling $5.86 million

The data suggests that homeowners across North Texas continue to invest in outdoor living spaces, a trend that has held strong over the past several years.

Houston Follows with Strong Momentum

In Houston, new pool construction also remained solid, accounting for just over 210 new permits with a total construction value of $19.1 million and an average value of $90,599 per project—the highest average among the four major metro areas.

Harris County represented the bulk of the activity, with 138 new permits and a total construction value of $13.4 million. This sustained demand in the Houston market reflects both population growth and homeowners’ continued investment in residential amenities amid Texas’s long warm-weather season.

Austin and San Antonio Reflect Steady Regional Activity

In Austin, there were 91 new pool permits in September, with a total value of $5.8 million and an average construction value of $63,739. The majority of the month’s permits originated from Travis County, which accounted for 75 permits totaling $3.9 million in construction value.

Meanwhile, San Antonio reported 56 new pool permits with a combined value of $2.82 million and an average construction value of $50,445. Nearly all of this activity was concentrated in Bexar County, which accounted for 48 permits and nearly $2.5 million in total value.

Across all four major metro areas—Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio—swimming pool construction continues to reflect steady residential investment across Texas’s fastest-growing communities. The rise in September permit volume suggests that homeowner confidence and demand for outdoor leisure amenities remain strong heading into the fall.

While monthly trends can fluctuate based on seasonality, weather, and economic conditions, year-over-year and quarterly data provide a deeper view of long-term market movement and regional opportunities. HBW’s comprehensive construction reports are designed to give builders, contractors, and industry professionals access to the detailed insights needed to track market performance, identify new leads, and plan ahead with confidence.

The information referenced in this report is based on construction permit data collected and verified by HBW, a leading source for building activity reports across the southern United States. Detailed historical, quarterly, and annual reports are available to subscribers and are regularly featured in the HBW blog.

Metro Atlanta Swimming Pool Construction Trends Through Q3-2025

Posted on by

According to the latest HBW Swimming Pool Construction Activity Trend Report for the Metro Atlanta area, a total of 1,995 new swimming pool construction permits have been added to the HBW database through the third quarter of 2025. This figure represents a -2% year-over-year decrease in new pool construction activity across the region.

While the downward trend in permit totals continues, the rate of decline appears to be stabilizing compared to previous years. In 2022, swimming pool construction fell by 8% year-over-year, followed by a more substantial 26% decrease in 2023, and a 13% decrease in 2024. The current -2% dip suggests that market conditions may be leveling out, with signs of balance returning to residential pool construction activity in the metro area.

Quarterly Activity Overview

So far this year, activity has remained fairly steady quarter to quarter:

  • Q1 2025: 588 new swimming pool permits
  • Q2 2025: 759 new swimming pool permits
  • Q3 2025: 648 new swimming pool permits

While second-quarter activity remains the strongest, the third quarter maintained solid volume, signaling continued homeowner investment in outdoor living and residential improvements despite broader market fluctuations.

Top Counties for Swimming Pool Construction

Among the 24 counties included in the Metro Atlanta region, several continue to dominate in total permit volume through the third quarter of 2025:

  • Fulton County: 387 permits
  • Cobb County: 205 permits
  • Cherokee County: 195 permits
  • Forsyth County: 165 permits
  • Gwinnett County: 145 permits
  • Coweta County: 141 permits

The above listed counties account for a significant portion of the region’s overall pool construction activity, reflecting sustained demand in high-growth suburban markets.

Counties with Growth in 2025

Although overall regional activity is slightly down, several counties have posted year-to-date gains compared to 2024:

  • Cherokee County: Up 13% year-over-year with 195 new permits
  • Forsyth County: Up 9% year-over-year with 165 new permits
  • Walton County: Up 5% year-over-year with 96 new permits

Such localized increases suggest that while the broader market may be leveling out, certain suburban areas continue to experience healthy residential expansion and outdoor living investment.

At this stage of the year, reviewing third-quarter figures offers valuable insight into market trajectory heading into Q4 and early 2026. While total activity remains slightly lower than in 2024, the smaller margin of decline indicates a potential shift toward stabilization after several years of significant slowdown.

Information utilized for the above listed figures for Metro Atlanta swimming pool construction was directly derived from HBW construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Source: HBW Database – Metro Atlanta Swimming Pool Construction Activity Trend Report (Q3-2025)

Tracking Florida’s Residential Construction Activity: September 2025

Posted on by

According to the latest HBW construction data reports, Florida’s residential construction market held strong in September 2025, with builders filing approximately 6,670 new residential construction permits across five major regions — Southwest, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Southeast Florida; this reflects approximately a 15 percent month-over-month increase in new residential construction activity. The total construction value for the month exceeded $2.3 billion, underscoring continued strength in homebuilding activity across the state despite broader market adjustments.

With over two thousand permits separating the most and least active regions, Florida’s housing construction remains heavily regionalized — shaped by local demand, population migration, and development capacity. Southwest Florida once again led the state for total permits, while Southeast Florida, though smaller in volume, recorded the highest average value per project, reflecting the region’s concentration of luxury and high-end construction.

The regional breakdown is as follows:

Southwest Florida: Leading the State in Volume

  • Total Permits: 2,288
  • Total Value: $763.8 million
  • Average Value per Permit: $333,825

Southwest Florida continues to dominate the state’s residential construction activity. The region accounted for more than one-third of all new permits statewide. Manatee County was among the top-performing areas with 584 permits valued at approximately $168.5 million, while Lee County was top-ranked with 878 permits totaling $256.5 million.

Tampa Region

  • Total Permits: 1,785
  • Total Value: $637.1 million
  • Average Value per Permit: $356,902

The Tampa area held its position as one of Florida’s most active construction markets. Polk County led the region with 544 permits valued at $186.4 million, followed by Pasco County with 471 permits totaling $204.7 million.

Orlando Region: High Value and Steady Output

  • Total Permits: 1,079
  • Total Value: $397.1 million
  • Average Value per Permit: $368,029

The Orlando area remained a steady performer in September, with permit totals proving to be somewhat consistent with recent months. Lake County issued 312 permits with a total value of approximately $74.2 million, while Brevard County reported 284 permits totaling $116.4 million. The region’s steady growth continues to be driven by suburban expansion, infrastructure improvements, and ongoing development in outlying counties surrounding the metro core.

Jacksonville Region:

  • Total Permits: 953
  • Total Value: $254.2 million
  • Average Value per Permit: $266,708

Northeast Florida remained active, with construction spread across established and emerging communities. Duval County led with 308 permits valued at $54.9 million, while St. Johns County followed with 292 permits and a total value of $80.3 million. Although average project values continue to remain lowest compared to other regions reviewed, Jacksonville’s affordability continues to attract steady residential development and sustained population growth.

Southeast Florida: High-End Market Influence

  • Total Permits: 563
  • Total Value: $268.5 million
  • Average Value per Permit: $476,867

While Southeast Florida recorded the lowest number of new permits for the month, it stood out for its high average value per project—nearly half a million dollars per new home. St. Lucie County led with 178 permits valued at $57.7 million, followed by Miami-Dade County with 133 permits totaling $53.1 million. The region’s numbers reflect its focus on luxury residential projects, high land costs, and the limited availability of new development parcels compared to inland and northern markets.

Key Takeaways

Florida’s new residential construction market continues to exhibit strong fundamentals — high permit activity, consistent construction values, and clear regional distinctions that offer insight into where growth opportunities remain strongest.

  • Southwest Florida remains a volume leader, which could be ideal for builders focused on scale and subdivision development.
  • Southeast Florida’s high-value projects signal ongoing demand for luxury and coastal construction.
  • Tampa and Orlando reflect some balance, combining high activity with solid value performance.
  • Jacksonville continues to expand as an affordable alternative for both buyers and builders seeking sustainable growth markets.

As the state closes out the third quarter of 2025, Florida’s residential construction data suggests continued confidence among builders and developers, as well as opportunities for sales and marketing teams to target markets where both permit volume and construction investment remain strong.

To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Source: HBW Construction Data Reports – Florida Residential Construction, September 2025

Metro Atlanta New Residential Construction Update: Q3 2025

Posted on by

As we look back on the first three quarters of 2025, metro Atlanta’s new residential permitting landscape offers both cautionary signals and bright spots. Based on the latest HBW Building Activity Trend Report, total permit counts in the 24-county metro region through Q3 stand at 15,518 new residential permits, reflecting a –10 % year-to-date decline compared to the same period in 2024.

The –10 % YTD slip in permits underscores a moderation in builder activity, perhaps tied to macro-headwinds such as elevated financing costs, material inflation, labor constraints, and cautious buyer demand. As permit issuance is frequently viewed as a leading indicator of groundbreakings and starts, this slide may reflect a dampened pipeline for late-2025 and early 2026.

It is useful to view 2025 in the context of recent years:

  • 2022: –18 % year-over-year decline
  • 2023: –7 % year-over-year decline
  • 2024: +6 % year-over-year rebound

The modest rebound in 2024 suggested stabilization after the sharper drop in 2022. However, the current downtrend in 2025 indicates that momentum remains fragile, and that builder sentiment is again under pressure.

Leading Counties

Despite the overall decline, certain counties continue to dominate in volume:

CountyPermits (YTD Q3 2025)Notes / Rank
Gwinnett2,376Top volumetric contributor
Cherokee1,235Among top three
Fulton1,200Strong urban core share
Hall1,117Among leading counties
Forsyth1,038Solid performance on par with metro YTD change

The above listed counties account for a large share of overall metro permit activity. Their sustained volume underscores the ongoing importance of the suburban growth corridor around I-85, I-75, and the exurban fringes.

Areas of Relative Growth

Even against a backdrop of decline, some counties display positive momentum—potentially redrawing attention from builders seeking more favorable markets.

  • Hall County: 1,117 permits through Q3, up +9 % over the same period last year.
  • Barrow County: 806 permits, demonstrating a +27 % year-over-year increase.
  • Carroll County: 430 permits, up +15 % versus Q3 2024 (notably, last year Carroll had exhibited a +23 % gain).

The counties listed above may merit closer tracking as possible growth pockets, especially if builders are shifting capacity outward.

The –10% year-to-date drop through Q3 suggests that builders are showing some restraint, likely in response to tighter margins, higher interest rates, and more cautious absorption forecasts. One way to look at it is that 2025 may simply be a “rebalancing” year following last year’s rebound—a period where activity cools slightly rather than contracts sharply, as builders and buyers alike adjust to ongoing cost pressures. Another possible narrative is that we’re seeing a quiet shift in strategy, with builders redirecting focus from saturated or high-cost core counties toward more affordable and less regulated exurban areas such as Barrow, Carroll, and Hall.

For construction industry professionals, the current permitting trends point to the importance of staying flexible and forward-thinking. Firms should remain agile in reallocating crews, materials, and bidding resources, especially as certain counties deviate positively from metro-wide norms and present fresh opportunities for targeted prospecting. Rather than concentrating exclusively on high-volume markets such as Gwinnett, Fulton, and Cherokee, it may be worthwhile to explore rising counties like Hall, Barrow, and Carroll, where growth pockets seem to be emerging. Due to the fact that permitting activity typically lags behind actual construction starts by several months, builders would be wise to stress-test their 2026 forecasts to prepare for potential delays or shifts in workload. Additionally, maintaining close communication with local planning and permitting departments can be advantageous, as some counties may respond to slower permitting activity by offering new incentives or streamlining approval processes.

Overall, metro Atlanta’s new residential permit activity has cooled (thru Q3 2025), relative to 2024 levels. Yet the picture is not uniformly negative: pockets of growth in Hall, Barrow, and Carroll Counties suggest selective opportunities. As permit issuance is an early barometer of forthcoming construction starts, contractors, developers, and suppliers should calibrate their strategies carefully and maintain flexibility across markets and project types.

Information utilized for the above listed figures for Metro Atlanta residential construction was directly derived from HBW construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Permit Data 101: How to Read, Understand, and Use It

Posted on by

In the world of construction, data is more than just numbers—it’s insight, opportunity, and competitive advantage. One of the most valuable resources available to builders, remodelers, and contractors is building permit data. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a refresher or someone just starting to explore how permit data can fuel business development, understanding the fundamentals is essential. This starter guide is designed to get back to the basics, serving as both an introduction and a lasting reference you can return to when needed.

What Is Building Permit Data?

At its core, building permit data is the information recorded when a property owner or contractor applies for a permit to begin construction, renovation, or repair work. Local municipalities issue permits to ensure that projects meet safety codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. Every time a permit is pulled, a public record is created, and that record often includes key details such as:

  • Permit number and date issued
  • Project type (new construction, remodeling, roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, pool installation, etc.)
  • Property location (address, jurisdiction, county, or region)
  • Contractor information (builder, subcontractor, or applicant name)
  • Estimated construction value
  • Project scope (square footage, number of units, or type of work to be performed)

For construction professionals, information of this nature is invaluable. It not only shows where projects are happening, but also who is working on them and what type of demand exists in the market.

Types of Building Permits

Not all permits are created equal, and understanding the different types can help you make the most of the data. Some of the most common categories include:

  • New Residential Construction Permits – This covers the building of new homes, subdivisions, or multi-family units.
  • Remodeling and Renovation Permits – Issued for interior or exterior upgrades, additions, or home improvements.
  • Commercial Construction Permits – For office buildings, retail spaces, industrial facilities, and other non-residential structures.
  • Specialty Permits – Covering specific trades such as roofing, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.
  • Swimming Pool Permits – Often tracked separately because of their significance in certain regions.

Each type of permit reveals different market signals. For example, an increase in new residential permits may suggest growing demand for subcontractors, while a surge in renovation permits may indicate an opportunity for remodelers and suppliers.

Building permit data is a forward-looking indicator of construction activity. Unlike completed project reports, permits are filed before the work even begins. This makes them a unique tool for predicting upcoming demand, identifying active contractors, and uncovering opportunities before the competition. Builders are able to spot where new subdivisions are breaking ground, remodelers can see which neighborhoods are investing in upgrades, and subcontractors can connect with general contractors before projects commence.

How to Use Building Permit Data

On the HBW blog, we have explored various ways that building permit data can be used to improve marketing, increase sales and development, and more. For many professionals, the challenge is in understanding how to apply the data strategically. Here are just a few practical ways it can be used:

  • Market Research: Identify regions with strong growth trends by analyzing the volume and value of permits issued.
  • Sales Prospecting: Use contractor and property owner information to build targeted prospect lists.
  • Competitive Analysis: See which contractors are winning jobs and track shifts in market share.
  • Business Planning: Align staffing, materials, and marketing investments with areas of high construction activity.

When used consistently, permit data provides a clear, real-time view of the construction landscape, helping businesses move from reactive to proactive decision-making.

While municipalities publish permits, the raw data can be difficult to interpret without the right tools; that’s where providers of permit data and construction reports play an important role. By compiling, cleaning, and analyzing permit records across regions, a data provider like HBW can deliver insights that are accurate, timely, and actionable. This allows builders, remodelers, and contractors to focus on what they do best—winning jobs and completing projects—without spending valuable time sorting through scattered public records.

Whether you are new to HBW or have been a subscriber for years, understanding the basics ensures that you are maximizing the value of your resources. By mastering the fundamentals, you position your business to identify trends more clearly, target prospects more effectively, and ultimately, create lasting opportunities.

For more information on construction business development and marketing tips, stay connected with the HBW Blog.  To get ahead of construction activity and gain access to the latest permitting data in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma, contact HBW for more information on construction data reports and industry leads.

How Building Permit Data Can Improve Social Media Marketing

Posted on by

Social media has become one of the most powerful tools for construction professionals to connect with potential clients, demonstrate expertise, and establish a strong brand presence. Yet, many contractors and industry professionals fall into the same cycle—posting photos of completed projects, sharing day-to-day activity, and occasionally commenting on general trends. While this approach may keep your accounts active, it doesn’t necessarily generate leads or position your company as an industry leader.

That’s where building permit data comes in. By integrating real-time and historical construction activity into your social media marketing strategy, you can move beyond surface-level posting and build a targeted, data-driven campaign that resonates with the right audience at the right time.

Why Building Permit Data Matters in Social Media Marketing

As most construction professionals are aware, the industry is cyclical and highly regional, with building activity fluctuating based on season, market demand, and local growth patterns. Permits are the earliest signal of that activity. Whether it’s a residential remodel, new commercial project, or a major pool installation, permits identify who is building, when, where, and what type of project is taking place.

For social media marketers in construction, this information is gold. Instead of making assumptions about trends, you can speak directly to the real needs of homeowners, developers, and businesses currently engaged in projects.

Ways to Use Permit Data to Improve Social Media Campaigns

1. Target Ads to the Right Audience

Rather than casting a wide net, permit data allows you to zero in on property owners and builders who are actively engaged in projects. With this insight, you can create custom audiences for paid social ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, ensuring that your messaging reaches people who are most likely to need your services—whether roofing, HVAC, flooring, remodeling, or specialty contracting.

2. Align Content with Regional and Seasonal Trends

Permit reports show spikes in activity during certain times of year or within specific regions. For example, pool permits may surge in the spring, while roofing permits often rise after storm season. By scheduling your posts around these cycles, you can publish timely content that speaks directly to what customers are already thinking about. This enables your business to be proactive rather than reactive in your marketing.

3. Educate Through the Project Lifecycle

Construction doesn’t end with a single permit. Projects evolve through stages—from site prep and foundation work to finishes and inspections. By using historical and ongoing permit data, you can build educational content calendars that highlight when specific services are most relevant. For example:

  • A remodel contractor can post content about design planning at the permit approval stage.
  • A pool service company can time messages about ongoing maintenance six months after new pool construction permits peak.

By providing key information related to the project lifecycle, you demonstrate foresight and expertise while positioning your company as a long-term partner in the customer’s building journey.

4. Highlight Market Authority with Data-Driven Insights

Sharing permit trends and insights directly on your social channels establishes your credibility as an industry thought leader, and while you may not be interested in leading a seminar any time soon, showcasing your knowledge within the industry can significantly strengthen your reputation. Instead of simply promoting your services, consider posting a graph that highlights the top counties for residential construction growth, or sharing year-over-year trends in remodel permits and explaining what those numbers mean for homeowners. You can also demonstrate how your business aligns with local growth by pointing to the top permit types in your area and connecting them back to the services you provide. Content of this nature not only markets your company but also builds trust, proving that you have both the knowledge and the insight to guide customers through complex decisions.

5. Differentiate Your Brand

Many construction professionals are often sharing project photos or general information messages. By weaving permit data into storytelling, you can establish that your company has access to industry intel that may not be available to everyone. As a result, you will elevate your reputation, making you a go-to resource not just for services, but for market intelligence.

So, where do you begin? Here are a few actionable steps that you can take now:

  1. Identify Key Permit Trends – Review your permit data to find top project types, seasonal spikes, and regional hotspots.
  2. Build a Content Calendar Around Data – Schedule posts and ads to match when demand for specific services is highest.
  3. Use Data to Segment Audiences – Create tailored ad campaigns that speak directly to homeowners, builders, or commercial developers.
  4. Share Insights Publicly – Post snapshots of permit activity to showcase your expertise and build brand authority.
  5. Track Engagement and Adjust – Use platform analytics to refine what messages resonate best with your target audience.

Social media trends change often (and quickly), but building permit data gives you a consistent advantage. Instead of relying on guesswork or repeating the same types of content, you can leverage real construction activity to guide your strategy, target the right audience, and elevate your reputation as a trusted expert. For construction professionals, this means more than just better social media—it means smarter business growth.

For more information on construction business development and marketing tips, stay connected with the HBW Blog.  To get ahead of construction activity and gain access to the latest permitting data in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma, contact HBW for more information on construction data reports and industry leads.

Beyond the Leads: Ways to Use Permit Reports

Posted on by

On the HBW blog, we often discuss the value of construction permit data. By now, most professionals in the industry understand why it matters: fresh leads, market insights, and competitive awareness. But the real question is: how do you actually put permit data to work for your business?

Building permit reports can feel overwhelming at first glance. They are dense with figures, addresses, project types, valuations, and timelines. But if you know how to break them down, the reports become more than a list of projects—they become a roadmap for business development, strategic planning, and customer engagement.

For this reason, we will walk through how to best use HBW’s construction data reports, step by step.

1. Start with the Market View: Where’s the Activity?

You may take your first step by identifying the big picture. Whether you are launching a new product line, testing a service, or considering expansion, ask:

  • Which regions have the highest concentration of new construction?
  • Where are related renovations and remodels most common?
  • Are there certain permit types—pools, additions, roofing, solar—that are trending upward?

By scanning regional breakdowns, you will be able to see where demand is strongest. For example:

  • If kitchen remodels are spiking in one county, contractors can prioritize promoting cabinetry or countertop services there.
  • If new single-family home construction is booming in a suburban market, suppliers may expand distribution networks to meet that demand.

By taking a big-picture step, you can avoid wasting efforts in saturated or stagnant areas.

2. Drill Down into Project Types

Once you know where the action is, now it is time to ask what kind of work is being done. Permit data gives you line-item detail: additions, pool installations, roofing, luxury custom homes, etc. Here’s how to use it:

  • Product development – If you are considering adding outdoor living services, analyze permit data for pool and patio construction to see if the market is strong enough to support it.
  • Specialization opportunities – If you see high demand for large-scale additions, that can be a great opening to position your firm as the “go-to” for whole-home renovations.
  • Competitive edge – By watching which permit categories grow quarter over quarter, you can stay one step ahead of the curve.

3. Compare Trends Over Time

HBW provides monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, as well as historical data stretching back years. Here’s how to make sense of it:

  • Monthly reports: Great for spotting immediate, short-term opportunities and seasonal shifts. (For instance, an uptick in roofing permits after a storm season.)
  • Quarterly reports: Show sustainable trends and are ideal for planning marketing campaigns and resource allocation.
  • Annual reports: Best for strategic planning and investment decisions, such as expanding into a new market or hiring new crews.
  • Year-over-year comparisons: These reveal whether a trend is a true growth pattern or just a temporary spike.

As for historical data, looking back five or ten years can help you separate a “blip” from a long-term opportunity.

4. Use Permit Contacts as a Lead Pipeline

Of course, permits include something every contractor needs: contacts. Homeowners, property owners, and project owners are listed, and that is where direct business development begins. But the key is not just “cold calling.” Instead, aim to build a living database:

  • Import contacts into your CRM system.
  • Tag them by project type and location.
  • Track outreach, responses, and follow-ups.

This ensures you have a fresh and qualified pipeline of leads and that your outreach is targeted and informed. Rather than generic sales pitches, you will be able to approach prospects with relevant solutions that are specific to their project needs.

5. Identify Competitive Positioning

Permit reports also reveal who is doing the work, showing which contractors are pulling the most permits in your market and which companies dominate specific services. By studying the competition through permit data, you can benchmark your own performance, identify underserved niches that competitors aren’t addressing, and observe how other businesses shift their focus over time. Monitoring your competition is not about mimicking their efforts—it is about differentiating your services in a crowded marketplace.

6. Integrate Findings into Business Operations

Permit data should not sit in a folder on your desk or desktop. To maximize impact, share the findings with your sales team so they can target prospects more effectively, bring market trend data into strategic planning meetings, and refresh your marketing campaigns on a quarterly basis with the latest insights. You can also cross-reference permit contacts with your existing customer list to uncover repeat business or upsell opportunities. Creating this habit will ensure that permit reports become a living tool, not a static document.

7. Keep the Goal in Mind: Solving Problems for Clients

Ultimately, the purpose of using permit data is not just about growing numbers on your lead sheet; rather, it is about better serving your clients. When you understand their property, their project type, and what is happening in their neighborhood, you can provide timely, relevant, and valuable solutions.

That’s how you transform data into stronger customer relationships, repeat business, and long-term growth.

HBW permit reports are far more than a contacts list; they provide a comprehensive view of the construction landscape, equipping contractors with tools to identify opportunities, evaluate markets, track the competition, and build informed, targeted pipelines. When you receive your reports, be sure to put them to work for you; resist simply glancing at the numbers—dig deeper. Compare results across different timeframes, load the contacts into your systems, and, most importantly, integrate the insights into your daily operations. That is how you will take construction permit data from raw information to real-world results.

For more information on construction business development and marketing tips, stay connected with the HBW Blog.  To get ahead of construction activity and gain access to the latest permitting data in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma, contact HBW for more information on construction data reports and industry leads.

Florida New Residential Construction Report – August 2025

Posted on by

Last week, we explored and highlighted some of the top home builders in Florida for August 2025. This week, we are taking a closer look at HBW’s construction data reports to better understand where residential construction is most concentrated, where higher-value projects are emerging, and which counties are leading growth within each region.

In August, there were 5,774 new residential construction permits on record with HBW across five major regions of Florida (Southwest, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Southeast). While activity remains strong, this figure represents an approximate 8% month-over-month decline compared to July, indicating a modest pullback in housing starts as we move through the second half of the year.

Here’s an overview and regional breakdown of new home construction in Florida during the month of August 2025:

Southwest

  • Total Permits: 1,464
  • Total Construction Value: $455.1M
  • Average Value per Permit: $310,870

Southwest Florida continues to be a key driver of new home construction. Manatee County issued 365 permits totaling $88.7M, while Lee County recorded 619 permits valued at nearly $187M. Both counties accounted for more than two-thirds of the region’s new housing activity in August, reflecting continued growth along the Gulf Coast.

Tampa

  • Total Permits: 1,723
  • Total Construction Value: $580.3M
  • Average Value per Permit: $336,808

The Tampa market led the state in terms of total permits pulled during August. Hillsborough County issued 411 permits valued at $156.1M, while Polk County carried 462 permits totaling $159.7M. The balance between volume and value in both counties underscores Tampa’s position as one of Florida’s most active and diversified residential construction markets.

Orlando

  • Total Permits: 1,302
  • Total Construction Value: $472.3M
  • Average Value per Permit: $362,773

Central Florida exhibited strong permitting activity in August, with higher-than-average home values compared to most other regions reviewed. Lake County reported 407 permits valued at $107.1M, while Brevard County added 334 permits with a total value of $126.6M. The region’s higher average value per permit reflects demand for mid- to upper-tier residential development in and around Orlando.

Southeast

  • Total Permits: 589
  • Total Construction Value: $266.7M
  • Average Value per Permit: $452,801

While Southeast Florida produced the fewest permits, it had the highest average value per project, topping $450K. St. Lucie County contributed 171 permits valued at $74.1M, while Palm Beach County generated 140 permits totaling $87.4M. The latest figures highlight the luxury-driven nature of the housing market in this region, where fewer but higher-value projects dominate the landscape.

Jacksonville

  • Total Permits: 696
  • Total Construction Value: $194.0M
  • Average Value per Permit: $278,736

In Northeast Florida, the Jacksonville market recorded just under 700 permits. Duval County issued 285 permits valued at $56M, and St. Johns County contributed 190 permits with a total value of $50.6M. Although Jacksonville trailed other regions in terms of average construction value, it remains a steady market with a consistent flow of new housing permits.

Statewide Takeaways

  • Tampa leads in volume with more than 1,700 permits, while Southeast Florida leads in value, averaging $452K per project.
  • Southwest Florida remains highly active, with Manatee and Lee counties representing strong Gulf Coast growth.
  • Orlando’s higher average values suggest interest and demand for larger or more upscale residential projects.
  • Despite the month-over-month slowdown, Florida’s housing market remains strong, with nearly 5,800 new residential construction permits pulled statewide in August.

As we head into the final quarter of the year, tracking regional shifts in both permit volume and construction value will be key in anticipating where builders and developers are concentrating their efforts. Florida continues to present a dynamic mix of high-volume suburban growth and high-value luxury development, making it one of the most closely watched housing markets in the country.

To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Florida New Swimming Pool Construction Report – August 2025

Posted on by

According to the latest HBW construction data reports, Florida had a total of 1,935 new swimming pool construction permits across five major regions (Southwest, Tampa, Orlando, Southeast, and Jacksonville) during the month of August 2025. This figure reflects a slight month-over-month decrease when compared to the 2,087 permits recorded in July. From a market perspective, activity remains steady, demonstrating continued demand for new pool construction statewide as builders move through the late summer season. Permit data for each region is as follows:

Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida led the state in new swimming pool construction during August, with 617 total permits and a combined construction value of $53.6 million. The region also posted one of the higher average values statewide at $86,881 per project.

  • Manatee County accounted for 126 permits with a value of $10.6 million.
  • Lee County was the top contributor with 197 permits totaling $16.6 million.
  • Collier County followed closely with 129 permits valued at nearly $12 million.

This concentration of activity underscores the region’s position as a consistent driver of luxury pool installations in Florida.

Tampa Area

The Tampa region reported 372 new permits with a total construction value of $31.3 million, translating to an average value of $84,205 per project.

  • Hillsborough County led the metro with 121 permits totaling $13 million.
  • Sumter County also contributed significantly, adding 94 permits and more than $4.2 million in value.

The data reflects strong mid-range pool construction activity, with elevated volume in communities within Hillsborough and Sumter.

Orlando Area

In Orlando and surrounding counties, there were 315 new pool permits during August, representing a total value of $23.9 million. The average pool value in the region landed at $75,995 per project, slightly below the statewide average.

  • Orange County led with 98 permits totaling close to $9.4 million.
  • Lake County added 64 permits with a value of just over $3 million.

While not the highest in overall volume, Orlando continues to see steady demand tied to expanding residential development across Central Florida.

Southeast Florida

The Southeast region recorded 451 permits for a total value of $36.5 million, yielding an average construction value of $80,923 per project.

  • Palm Beach County was a leading county with 122 permits totaling $11 million.
  • Miami-Dade County also posted strong figures with 146 permits valued at more than $8 million.

This steady pace in Southeast Florida continues to reflect the area’s high demand for residential pools, particularly in luxury and coastal communities.

Jacksonville Area

Although Jacksonville reported the lowest overall volume, with 180 permits, the region ranked highest in average value statewide at $98,124 per project. Total construction value for the area reached nearly $17.7 million.

  • Duval County issued 47 permits totaling more than $4.4 million.
  • St. Johns County was the leading county in the area, with 72 permits valued at $8.3 million.

The consistently higher project values in Jacksonville highlight the trend toward premium pool installations in Northeast Florida’s growing suburban markets.

While August’s statewide total of 1,935 new swimming pool permits reflects a modest dip from July’s 2,087, the market remains relatively stable. Regional performance varies, with Southwest Florida continuing to lead in volume and Jacksonville commanding the highest average value.

For industry professionals, HBW’s construction data provides a reliable monthly snapshot of permit activity, enabling builders, suppliers, and investors to track trends, identify opportunities, and benchmark performance across Florida’s most active regions.

To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Florida’s Top Home Builders – August 2025

Posted on by

Florida’s residential construction market remained dynamic in August 2025, with thousands of new permits filed across the state’s five largest regions. Based on HBW’s construction data reports, today we will be putting the spotlight on the home builders leading in total new residential construction permits. The rankings below highlight the top five builders in each market, offering insight into both volume and construction value as measured by reported permits.

Southwest Florida

In the southwestern region, a total of 1,464 new residential construction permits were added in August, spread across approximately 310 active builders. The market was led by Lennar Homes, which posted 222 permits valued at more than $48.5 million, averaging $218,700 per home.

Other builders rounding out the top five list included:

  • Pulte Homes with 123 permits and $19.5 million in total value.
  • D.R. Horton with 108 permits valued at $20.7 million.
  • Neal Communities of Southwest Florida, a regional leader, with 106 permits totaling $26.1 million—an impressive average value of nearly $246k per home, the highest in the top five.
  • Taylor Morrison with 59 permits and $14.3 million in total value.

This region continues to show a competitive mix of national brands and strong regional players.

Tampa

The Tampa market recorded 1,723 new residential construction permits across nearly 240 builders, making it one of the most active regions statewide.

Lennar Homes dominated with 406 permits—more than four times its nearest competitor—with a construction value exceeding $141 million and an average of $349k per home.

Key leading competitors included:

  • D.R. Horton with 89 permits and $26.3 million in value.
  • The Villages of Lake Sumter, known for its large-scale community development, with 85 permits.
  • Homes by West Bay, posted 70 permits and an average construction value exceeding $549k per home—the highest in the region.
  • KB Homes with 58 permits totaling $15.9 million.

The mix of national production builders and lifestyle-focused developers underscores Tampa’s broad demand profile.

Orlando

Orlando saw more than 1,300 new permits filed in August, with roughly 160 builders active in the region.

Pulte Homes led the market with 259 permits totaling more than $91.9 million, at an average of $354k per home. Lennar Homes followed with 159 permits valued at $50.5 million.

Other top performers included:

  • D.R. Horton with 118 permits.
  • KB Homes close behind at 117 permits.
  • Hanover Family Builders, a regional standout, with 49 permits averaging $265k per home.

The Orlando market shows balanced competition among national builders, with both volume and mid-to-high value projects in play.

Southeast Florida

The southeastern region recorded approximately 590 new permits in August, with about 140 active builders.

Lennar Homes topped the list with 87 permits valued at $16.9 million, averaging just under $194k per home. However, GL Building Corporation stood out with 75 permits but an exceptionally high average construction value of $700k per home, making it a leader in luxury development.

Other leaders included:

  • Pulte Homes with 45 permits averaging $420k each.
  • D.R. Horton with 44 permits.
  • Mattamy Homes, another regional contender, with 27 permits averaging $501k per home.

The Southeast region continues to demonstrate strong demand for higher-value, luxury construction compared to other markets.

Jacksonville

In Jacksonville, there were nearly 700 new permits filed in August across more than 130 active builders.

Lennar Homes once again led with 54 permits valued at $14.6 million. Meritage Homes followed with 43 permits at a more modest average value of $183k per home.

Close competitors included:

  • Dream Finders Construction and Mattamy Homes, each with 39 permits.
  • Dream Finders Homes with 38 permits averaging $190k.

Jacksonville’s market is defined by a mix of national builders and strong local firms competing at similar volumes.

Across all five regions, Lennar Homes continued to dominate, consistently ranking first or second in every major market and leading in total statewide permits. Pulte Homes and D.R. Horton also remained strong competitors, holding multiple top-five positions.

The August 2025 data illustrates both the concentration of activity among a few dominant national builders and the influence of regional developers—particularly in markets such as the Southeast and Southwest where higher-value homes and local brands remain highly competitive.

This month’s report highlights the builders that have shaped Florida’s residential construction landscape in August. In next week’s post, we will move beyond the builder rankings to analyze broader market trends, including regional permit activity, average construction values, and leading regions across Florida’s housing markets.

To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.