Beyond the Leads: Ways to Use Permit Reports

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Texas Top Home Builders – August 2025

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As reported in last week’s Texas Residential Construction Report – August 2025, there were more than 5,750 new residential construction permits with a total value in excess of $1.96 billion added to the HBW database for Texas. This volume underscores the sustained strength of the state’s housing market, with steady demand fueling activity across all four major metro regions.

This week, we take a closer look at the leading home builders driving that momentum. Rankings are based on the total number of new residential construction permits pulled during August 2025 in the four metro areas of Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.

Houston

In Houston, nearly 295 home builders were active in August. The top five by total permits reflect a mix of national giants and strong regional players:

  1. Lennar Homes – 445 permits | $103.6M total value | Avg. value: $232.8k
  2. D.R. Horton – 227 permits | $49.4M total value | Avg. value: $217.5k
  3. David Weekley Homes – 132 permits | $42.8M total value | Avg. value: $323.9k
  4. Perry Homes – 114 permits | $43.4M total value | Avg. value: $380.9k
  5. Taylor Morrison Homes – 84 permits | $21.1M total value | Avg. value: $251.5k

Houston continues to be dominated by high-volume production builders, with Lennar maintaining a significant lead in total permits. Perry Homes and David Weekley stand out for their higher average construction values, signaling a concentration in the mid-to-upper market segment.

Dallas

In Dallas, more than 230 builders were active. The top five reveal a competitive field where Lennar and D.R. Horton continue their leadership positions:

  1. Lennar Homes – 226 permits | $69.8M total value | Avg. value: $308.9k
  2. D.R. Horton – 203 permits | $60.6M total value | Avg. value: $298.8k
  3. Permit Office Withheld – 117 permits | $29.9M total value | Avg. value: $255.7k
  4. Texas Homes – 82 permits | $40.4M total value | Avg. value: $492.6k
  5. David Weekley Homes – 66 permits | $30.6M total value | Avg. value: $464.2k

Compared to Houston, Dallas builders reported higher average values, with Texas Homes and David Weekley pushing above $450k per start. The market here shows a blend of entry-level and move-up construction, balancing volume with higher-end developments.

Austin

Austin’s market activity involved nearly 110 builders, with the top five closely aligned in terms of total permit volume:

  1. Lennar Homes – 61 permits | $12.3M total value | Avg. value: $202.2k
  2. Taylor Morrison Homes – 56 permits | $41.2M total value | Avg. value: $735.7k
  3. KB Homes – 56 permits | $15.3M total value | Avg. value: $273.0k
  4. Starlight Homes Texas – 46 permits | $16.9M total value | Avg. value: $367.0k
  5. LCB Construction – 45 permits | $10.6M total value | Avg. value: $235.7k

Taylor Morrison’s average value of $735k clearly separates it from the field last month, reflecting luxury and high-end residential projects. Meanwhile, Lennar maintains the top spot in permit volume, reinforcing its statewide dominance.

San Antonio

In San Antonio, more than 70 builders were active, with KB Homes leading the region:

  1. KB Homes – 75 permits | $12.5M total value | Avg. value: $166.6k
  2. D.R. Horton – 69 permits | $15.3M total value | Avg. value: $222.4k
  3. Lennar Homes – 60 permits | $9.6M total value | Avg. value: $160.8k
  4. Chesmar Homes – 32 permits | $7.0M total value | Avg. value: $219.6k
  5. Perry Homes – 20 permits | $6.5M total value | Avg. value: $324.4k

The San Antonio market continues to skew toward entry-level and first-time homebuyer product, with average values well below those seen in Austin and Dallas. Perry Homes, however, reflects potentially a niche presence at higher price points.

In the monthly overview, it is evident that several national brands continue to dominate across all four major metro areas, with Lennar Homes standing out as the undisputed leader by ranking in the top three in every market and securing the highest permit volume statewide. D.R. Horton remains a close competitor, consistently placing within the top two in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, while KB Homes made a strong showing by leading the San Antonio market and earning a spot among Austin’s top five builders. Taylor Morrison also distinguished itself, with notable strength in both Houston and Austin. Meanwhile, David Weekley Homes continued to hold a solid mid-market position, securing rankings in Houston and Dallas and reinforcing its role as a consistent regional contender.

With more than 5,750 new residential permits and nearly $2 billion in value last month, Texas continues to be a national leader in new home construction. The performance of top builders across multiple markets not only highlights the strength of national firms like Lennar and D.R. Horton but also showcases the diversity of regional demand—from entry-level housing in San Antonio to some luxury developments in Austin.

For industry professionals, monitoring leading builders and their crossover activity provides valuable insight into both competitive dynamics and consumer demand shaping the Texas housing market.

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.

Texas Swimming Pool Construction Review – August 2025

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According to the latest HBW construction data reports, Texas recorded steady swimming pool construction activity in August across its four largest metro areas: Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. With thousands of active contractors statewide, the reports reflect notable differences in permit volumes, total construction value, and average value per project depending on region and builder.

Statewide Overview

In August, new swimming pool construction across Texas generated 553 permits with a total construction value exceeding $41.2 million; this reflects a 15 percent month-over-month increase in new permits. Average value per project varied widely by region, highlighting distinct market dynamics between high-volume and high-value areas.

Regional Highlights

Houston

The Houston area posted 182 new swimming pool permits with a total value of $14.8 million, resulting in an average value of $81,379 per project. Activity was concentrated in Harris County, which accounted for 122 permits and more than $9.9 million in total value.

Top builders in Houston included:

  • Avree Pools – 9 permits, $937,000 total value, $104,111 average value
  • Cypress Custom Pools – 9 permits, $865,800 total value, $96,200 average value
  • Anthony & Sylvan Pools – 9 permits, $483,200 total value, $53,689 average value
  • Platinum Pools – 5 permits, $861,000 total value, $172,200 average value
  • Backyard Oasis – 5 permits, $318,600 total value, $63,720 average value

The data reflects a strong mid-to-high value segment in Houston, with Platinum Pools leading in average value and Avree Pools posting the highest overall total.

Dallas

Dallas led the state for August activity with 239 new permits and a combined construction value of nearly $19.2 million. The average pool value was $80,157, closely mirroring Houston’s figures. Dallas County registered 64 permits valued at $4.6 million, while Collin County added 53 permits totaling $4.4 million.

Top builders in Dallas included:

  • Riverbend Pools – 16 permits, $1,025,200 total value, $64,075 average value
  • Gold Medal Pools – 10 permits, $875,000 total value, $87,500 average value
  • Claffey Pools – 9 permits, $630,000 total value, $70,000 average value
  • Inground Pools of Paradise – 7 permits, $255,000 total value, $36,429 average value
  • Pinnacle Pools – 6 permits, $514,513 total value, $85,752 average value

The Dallas market showed strong competition among top firms, with Riverbend Pools leading in total volume while Pinnacle Pools and Gold Medal Pools appear to have captured higher-value projects.

Austin

Austin reported 94 new permits with a total construction value in excess of $5.5 million. The market reflected a lower average project value at $58,802, driven largely by a high share of moderate-cost builds. Travis County accounted for the majority of activity with 74 permits totaling more than $4.2 million.

Top builders in Austin included:

  • Cody Pools – 11 permits, $595,000 total value, $54,091 average value
  • Denali Pools – 6 permits, $345,000 total value, $57,500 average value
  • Aquamarine Pools of Texas – 4 permits, $204,940 total value, $51,235 average value
  • Golden Hour Pools – 4 permits, $140,000 total value, $35,000 average value
  • Premier Pools & Spas of Austin – 3 permits, $172,167 total value, $57,389 average value

Cody Pools continues have a large part in the Austin market, both in total volume and geographic presence, reflecting its established brand in Central Texas.

San Antonio

San Antonio’s pool construction market recorded 38 permits in August, with a total construction value of $1.75 million and an average project value of $46,095. Activity was highly concentrated in Bexar County, which accounted for the bulk of construction (29 permits).

Top builders in San Antonio included:

  • Gary Pools SA – 3 permits
  • Keith Zars Pools – 3 permits
  • Pools 123 – 3 permits
  • Texas Pools & Patios – 3 permits
  • Cody Pools – 2 permits

While overall volume in San Antonio was smaller than other metros, the market remains competitive with several contractors holding equal shares of monthly activity.

The August 2025 figures confirm that Texas remains a leading market for residential swimming pool construction, with Dallas and Houston continuing to drive statewide volume and construction value. Builders in these metros are capturing both scale and higher-value projects, while Austin and San Antonio reflect more modest average project values.

As economic conditions and consumer demand evolve, industry professionals can expect continued competition among top regional builders, with established companies like Cody Pools, Riverbend Pools, and Platinum Pools maintaining strong market positions.

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.

Texas Residential Construction Report – August 2025

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According to the latest HBW construction data reports, residential construction activity across Texas’ four major metro areas—Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio—remained strong during the month of August 2025. While each market demonstrated unique trends in both permitting activity and construction values, together the regions accounted for more than 5,750 new residential construction permits added to the HBW database last month, reflecting steady demand and continued market momentum across the state.

Houston

Houston led all Texas metros in August with 2,533 housing starts, representing a total construction value of approximately $759 million. The average value of new construction was $299,635, placing Houston in line with broader regional affordability trends.

  • Harris County held the highest volume of activity with 1,180 permits totaling $358.1 million in new construction value.
  • Montgomery County followed with 823 permits valued at $217.2 million.

Houston’s balance between high-volume permitting and mid-range average construction values continues to make it one of the most dynamic housing markets in Texas.

Dallas

The Dallas metro area issued 1,938 residential construction permits in August, generating a total construction value of nearly $795 million. The region reported the highest average construction value statewide at $410,025, reflecting both strong demand and higher-cost new home builds in key suburban markets.

  • Tarrant County contributed 582 permits valued at approximately $218.5 million.
  • Collin County surpassed Tarrant in value, with 646 permits totaling $275.4 million.

The Dallas market continues to demonstrate a strong pull toward higher-value construction, indicative of ongoing migration, premium development, and consumer appetite for larger and/or more amenitized homes.

Austin

The Austin metro issued 822 new residential construction permits in August, amounting to $301.5 million in construction value. The average construction value of $366,771 placed Austin near the top of Texas metros in terms of per-unit valuation.

  • Travis County represented the majority of activity, with 486 permits valued at $184.4 million.

Austin’s steady levels of new construction align with its reputation as one of the state’s higher-cost housing markets.

San Antonio

San Antonio recorded 460 new residential permits in August, with a total construction value of $109.9 million and an average value of $238,848, the lowest among the four metro areas reviewed.

  • Bexar County accounted for the majority of activity, with 260 permits totaling more than $54.8 million.

While smaller in scale compared to Houston and Dallas, San Antonio’s construction market remains steady, providing a more accessible entry point for both builders and buyers relative to the state’s higher-cost markets.

Statewide Takeaways

  • Volume Leader: Houston continues to dominate statewide permitting activity, accounting for 44% of all new permits in Texas’ four major metros last month.
  • Value Leader: Dallas led in total construction value ($794.6M) and highest average value ($410K), underscoring its position as Texas’ most value-dense new housing market.
  • Affordability Spectrum: San Antonio remains the most cost-accessible market for new home construction, while Austin and Dallas reflect premium valuations.
  • Market Dynamics: Strong permitting activity in suburban counties like Montgomery, Collin, and Tarrant highlights the ongoing trend of residential growth beyond urban cores.

With over $1.96 billion in new residential construction value reported across Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio in August 2025, Texas remains one of the most active homebuilding markets in the country. Looking ahead, construction professionals may anticipate continued demand fueled by population growth, in-migration, and steady housing demand across all four 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 New Swimming Pool Construction Report – July 2025

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According to the latest construction data compiled by HBW, Florida experienced a measurable slowdown in new swimming pool construction during the month of July 2025. Across the five major regions tracked—Southwest, Southeast, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville—a combined total of 2,087 new swimming pool permits were added to the books. This figure reflects a 15% month-over-month decline from the nearly 2,450 permits filed in June.

Despite the dip, new swimming pool construction continues to represent a strong segment of residential development in Florida, with total construction values surpassing $183 million for the month. Below is a closer look at permitting activity by region, along with the leading builders driving this sector:

Southwest Florida

  • Total Permits: 675
  • Total Value: $60.7M
  • Average Value: $89,958
  • Top Counties: Sarasota (148 permits), Lee (251 permits), Collier (109 permits)

The Southwest region led the state in pool construction activity, capturing nearly one-third of all new permits for July. While the average value per project was just under $90,000, the region’s sheer volume kept total value at the top statewide.

Leading builders (based on total permits) included:

  • Pinnacle USA – 62 permits, $4.83M total value
  • Aragon Pools & Spas – 47 permits
  • Coast to Coast Pools – 36 permits
  • Miromar Pools – 32 permits
  • Holiday Pools of West Florida – 23 permits

Southeast Florida

  • Total Permits: 431
  • Total Value: $33.8M
  • Average Value: $78,315
  • Top Counties: Palm Beach (143 permits), Miami-Dade (106 permits)

In Southeast Florida, there were more than 430 permits filed for the month of July. While the average value was lower than other regions reviewed, several high-profile builders set the pace:

  • Van Kirk Construction – 16 permits, $1.36M total value
  • A&G Concrete Pools – 13 permits
  • RHR Pools – 12 permits
  • Crystal Pools – 11 permits
  • Pools by Greg – 11 permits

Tampa

  • Total Permits: 401
  • Total Value: $40.8M
  • Average Value: $101,645
  • Top Counties: Hillsborough (128 permits), Pasco (86 permits)

Tampa reported more than 400 new pool permits, with an average value topping $100K, the highest average value compared to other Florida regions reviewed. Over 150 pool builders were active, though a handful stood out as market leaders:

  • Tampa Bay Pools on the Gulf – 18 permits, $1.70M total value
  • Cody Pools – 12 permits, $1.31M total value
  • Gulfstream Pools & Spas – 12 permits
  • Roden Pool Contracting – 11 permits
  • Patio Pools – 10 permits

Orlando

  • Total Permits: 373
  • Total Value: $29.0M
  • Average Value: $77,815
  • Top Counties: Orange (105 permits), Lake (76 permits)

Orlando’s pool market remained consistent, with nearly 140 builders contributing to the month’s activity. The market here showed one of the more modest average values statewide, though several top contractors continued to dominate permitting:

  • Dreamscapes Pools & Spas – 21 permits
  • All Seasons – 20 permits
  • Cody Pools – 14 permits, $2.04M total value (highest average value of the top five contractors at $146K)
  • Kura Design Pools – 12 permits
  • Grunit Pool Contractors – 10 permits

Jacksonville

  • Total Permits: 207
  • Total Value: $19.0M
  • Average Value: $91,787
  • Top Counties: Duval (41 permits), St. Johns (90 permits)

Although Jacksonville recorded the lowest overall volume among the five regions, its average value remained strong at just under $92,000. Out of 80 contractors with new construction on record for the month, the following emerged as the top five:

  • Agua Pools & Spas – 13 permits
  • Blue Haven Pools – 12 permits
  • Anthony & Sylvan Pools – 10 permits
  • Pools & Spas of Central Florida – 8 permits
  • Old Town Custom Pools – 7 permits

Statewide Trends

  • Total Permits: 2,087 (↓15% from June)
  • Total Value: $183.3M+
  • Average Value Statewide: Approximately $88K

While July reflected a noticeable month-over-month slowdown, the market is still performing at historically strong levels. Seasonal factors, including summer demand cycles and material/labor availability, likely contributed to the dip.

The data also highlights a continued concentration of activity in Southwest Florida, which accounted for nearly one-third of all permits issued. Meanwhile, Tampa’s high average value suggests a focus on larger-scale, higher-end projects compared to other regions.

With Florida’s ongoing population growth, strong housing market, and year-round outdoor lifestyle, demand for new swimming pools remains resilient. Contractors and suppliers should keep an eye out for shifts in average value per project as consumer preferences continue to trend toward luxury outdoor living spaces with integrated design features.

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.

Upcoming Industry Trade Shows & Conventions

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Trade shows aren’t just “nice to have” line items; they are accelerators for pipeline, partnerships, and product intelligence. When planned properly, a single week on the floor can compress six months of BD into a few high-value meetings, sharpen your spec and procurement strategy, and surface new tech you didn’t know you needed.

For this reason, we have put together a list of events for the remainder of 2025 through March 2026, plus practical tips for planning.

Why do trade shows and expos matter for business development?

  • Dense decision-maker density: Owners, GCs, specialty subs, architects/engineers, and manufacturer reps are in one place; this set up can be ideal for account-based outreach, channel development, and partner enablement.
  • Faster technical due diligence: There is nothing like hands-on product demos to test out new products, and they certainly beat datasheets. You can compare systems (concrete, envelope, MEP, safety, project controls) side-by-side and talk to engineers on the spot.
  • Market intelligence: Keynotes and education tracks highlight code changes, decarbonization requirements, labor trends, and emerging delivery models.
  • Recruiting & brand: Career fairs, student programs, and competitions can help you fill roles and position your firm as a destination employer.

Planning Tips for Contractors

  1. Set clear project goals. Decide what you need most out of the show—whether that’s finding new suppliers, evaluating four estimating or scheduling platforms, or meeting 10 potential GCs or developers with upcoming work.
  2. Schedule meetings before you arrive. Use the exhibitor list and event portal to lock in 15-minute sit-downs with key vendors, technology providers, or project partners. Go in with a clear pain point or upcoming project need they can help solve.
  3. Plan your walk of the floor. If you have attended an expo, then you already know that the expo halls are massive. Highlight the booths most relevant to your trade (equipment, materials, tech, or safety) and group them by category so you can move efficiently. Remember to leave room for education sessions and networking events.
  4. Bring proof from the field. Instead of only handing out business cards, have other materials ready to share including real project photos, cost comparisons, safety metrics, or short video clips of your crews in action. It makes your work tangible and memorable.
  5. Capture and tag every lead. For each conversation, jot down who they are (GC, supplier, owner), what type of projects they work on, and how soon they’re buying or bidding. This makes follow-up far more effective.
  6. Act fast when you return to the office. Within a week, review leads, add them into your pipeline, and share new product or process ideas with your operations team. Decide what to stop, continue, or start doing based on what you learned at the show.

Now that you have an outline for planning ahead, here are a few events worth considering in the coming months:

September 2025

  • NECA 2025 Convention & Trade Show (Electrical Contractors)
    Dates/Location: Sept 12–15, 2025 — Chicago, IL
    Description: Stated as the “#1 Event for Power, Light, and Communication Technology”, it serves as the flagship for electrical construction—tools, prefabrication, BIM/VDC, safety, estimating, and service-contracting. The event includes education and a large expo floor.
    Official site: https://www.necaconvention.org/

October 2025

  • Procore Groundbreak (Construction Technology & Operations)
    Dates/Location: Oct 14–16, 2025 — Houston, TX
    Description: As described on the website, “Groundbreak brings together global leaders and industry experts who are setting a new standard for construction… connecting the innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries driving our industry forward with cutting-edge solutions and breakthrough technologies.”
    Official site: https://www.procore.com/groundbreak

November 2025

  • Greenbuild International Conference + Expo
    Dates/Location: Nov 4–7, 2025 — Los Angeles, CA
    Description: The world’s largest annual event for green building professionals – Codes and standards updates, embodied carbon, electrification, healthy materials, and ESG—plus a broad product expo.
    Official site: https://informaconnect.com/greenbuild/

January 2026

  • World of Concrete
    Dates/Location: Exhibits: Jan 20–22, 2026; Education: Jan 19–22, 2026 — Las Vegas Convention Center, NV
    Description: WOC is the industry’s only annual international tradeshow dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries and is the largest concrete/masonry event in North America.
    Official site: https://www.worldofconcrete.com/en/home.html

February 2026

  • AHR Expo
    Dates/Location: Feb 2–4, 2026 — Las Vegas Convention Center, NV
    Description: The AHR Expo brings the entire HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) industry together to showcase cutting-edge products and technologies, gain insights from industry leaders, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and drive business and career growth.
    Official site: https://www.ahrexpo.com/

  • NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) + KBIS
    Dates/Location: Feb 17–19, 2026 — Orlando, FL
    Description: NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) and the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS) are co-locating during Design & Construction Week (DCW) at the Orange County Convention Center.
    Official site: https://www.buildersshow.com/design-and-construction-week

March 2026

  • CONEXPO-CON/AGG
    Dates/Location: Mar 3–7, 2026 — Las Vegas Convention Center, NV
    Description: With 2,000 exhibitors and 150 education sessions, this event is considered to be North America’s largest construction show.
    Official site: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/

  • New York Build
    Dates/Location: Mar 18-19, 2026 — New York, NY
    Description: With more than 40k attendees and 500+ exhibitors, this event is New York’s largest construction and design show.
    Official site: https://www.newyorkbuildexpo.com/

For more information on construction industry updates and business 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.

Notes on links & planning

All event names above are linked to their official websites after each listing so you can confirm details, register, and book housing directly. Dates and locations are current as of August 28, 2025; organizers occasionally adjust schedules, so check the event sites when finalizing travel.

Using Building Permit Data to Boost Content Marketing

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We all know the saying: content is king. In fact, according to the Content Marketing Institute, 87% of B2B marketers reported that content marketing helped them create brand awareness in the last year. It drives SEO, builds trust, boosts engagement, and positions your business as the authority your customers turn to for reliable insights. But here’s the question: how do you keep your content not just consistent, but also relevant, timely, and uniquely valuable?

For construction professionals, the answer might be right in front of us—building permit data.

Why Content Marketing Matters in Construction

Content marketing in the construction industry isn’t just about promoting your services. It’s about providing thought leadership, educating your audience, and positioning your business at the forefront of industry knowledge. Whether you’re a builder, supplier, subcontractor, or service provider, content is your way to showcase your expertise while building trust.

Think of it like pouring the foundation for a building—without a strong base, nothing else holds. Content marketing serves as that base, creating the visibility and authority that keep your business competitive in a crowded marketplace.

The Untapped Value of Building Permit Data

As construction professionals, we already use permit data to evaluate market activity, track competitors, and identify new opportunities. But the value of this data extends far beyond internal strategy—it can become one of the most powerful tools in your content marketing arsenal.

Here’s how:

1. Spotting Market Trends

Building permit data reflects the pulse of construction activity in your area. Are more single-family homes being permitted this quarter compared to last? Is commercial construction slowing while pool construction is surging? These insights can fuel articles, blog posts, and even social media updates that position your company as the go-to resource for understanding local market dynamics.

Example: “Residential permits in [Your Region] are up 12% this quarter—here’s what it means for homebuyers and subcontractors.”

2. Creating Hyper-Local Content

One of the strongest SEO strategies is to produce content that speaks directly to your local market. Building permit data provides the raw material. If your region is seeing a boom in new residential communities, you can write about neighborhood development, infrastructure growth, or what this means for suppliers and contractors in that region.

This type of content is not only relevant but highly searchable, making it a powerful driver of organic traffic.

3. Educating Your Audience

Most homeowners, investors, and even small business owners don’t have access to or knowledge of how to interpret building permit reports. By breaking this information down into digestible, engaging content, you provide real value—whether you are explaining permitting trends, offering insight into construction cycles, or forecasting where demand is headed.

In other words, you become the translator between raw industry data and practical insights.

4. Demonstrating Authority and Expertise

Sharing data-driven insights shows that your business isn’t just following the market—you’re analyzing it. By weaving building permit statistics into your newsletters, blogs, or LinkedIn updates, you are essentially elevating your voice as a thought leader. And in a B2B environment, that kind of authority builds trust—and ultimately, business.

5. Supporting Visual Content

Data is perfect for infographics, charts, and quick-hit visuals that perform exceptionally well on social media. A graph showing year-over-year permit growth or a heat map of active regions can generate more engagement than a text-only post. Construction professionals (and most of us) are visual thinkers—so why not let the data tell a story?

Turning Data into Marketing Gold

The key is not to just present numbers, but to contextualize them. Numbers on their own are raw materials—much like concrete or steel. Content marketing is the design-build process that shapes those raw materials into a finished product your audience finds useful and compelling.

  • Blog Articles: “Top 5 Residential Growth Hotspots Based on New Permit Activity.”
  • Social Media Posts: “Did you know? Commercial permits in [City] grew by 20% last month.”
  • Newsletters: Market trend summaries with clear takeaways for clients or partners.
  • Whitepapers/Reports: Long-form content that establishes your brand as an industry authority.

While content marketing drives engagement, SEO, and business growth, building permit data is the key to providing unique insights that make your content stand out in a sea of generic marketing. By pairing marketing strategy with the deep market knowledge, you can create content that not only informs—but also inspires action.

In short, if content is king, then building permit data is the crown jewel you didn’t know you had right at your fingertips.

For more information on construction business 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.