Two bullish homebuying reports, especially for Texans

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First-time homebuyer budgets (how much they're willing to spend) are up 24% vs. 2014, according to Bank of Montreal's (U.S.) homebuying report, and the expected down payment slips to 13% from 16% a year ago. 77% of those surveyed have made "lifestyle cutbacks" to save for a home vs. 72% in 2014.Turning to

Texas and the effect of the energy crash, Susquehanna checks show the spring selling season is shaping up to be stronger than last year. The team visited entry-level offerings from D.R. Horton, Pulte Group, Lennar, and Beazer, and found things "surprisingly strong.

"The news supports management views of higher sales and margins, says Susquehanna, and many builders indicate price hikes of 3-5% in recent months given the strong demand. The team also notes getting a mortgage seems like less of an issue, labor is still tight, and rental costs are, in part, behind the boosted entry-level interest.