What typically happens to housing starts at the onset of a recession in the United States?

Housing starts typically go down at the onset of a recession in the United States due to a combination of decreased consumer confidence, higher unemployment rates, and tighter credit conditions. During a recession, potential homebuyers often hesitate to make significant financial investments like purchasing a home because they are uncertain about their job security and overall economic stability. Additionally, builders may cut back on new projects due to reduced demand and the risk of not being able to sell homes, leading to a decline in housing starts. This downward trend reflects the broader economic slowdown associated with a recession, as real estate is closely linked to economic health and consumer spending patterns.