Natalie Kulasekere's questions to Hovnanian Enterprises Inc (HOV) leadership • Q2 2025
Question
Natalie Kulasekere of Wedbush Securities inquired about recent land acquisitions, asking if lower land prices were being seen despite commentary on stickiness, which markets offered easier terms, and the drivers behind the Q3 gross margin guidance.
Answer
Ara Hovnanian, Chairman, President and CEO, explained that while land sellers are slow to adjust, the company is finding enough opportunities to meet its return hurdles, particularly in markets like Delaware, Virginia, and New Jersey. He noted that Q3 margin confidence comes from community-by-community analysis and cost reduction efforts. CFO Brad O'Connor added that the Q3 margin guidance of 17-18% is very close to the 17.3% just reported, suggesting stability rather than a significant increase.