Expert Interview: Mike Forsum, Chief Operating Officer and President, Landsea Homes

Industry vet gives us his outlook on sustainability, as well as updates on where the company is headed in 2025

Green Home Builder: As it pertains to energy efficiency, are there any exciting news or projects you have lined up for 2025?

Mike Forsum: Energy efficiency has always been a cornerstone of our High Performance Home (HPH) program, and in 2025, we’re taking that commitment even further. We’re constantly adapting and working to integrate new features into our homes that push the boundaries of sustainability and energy savings. 

We also collaborate with cutting-edge and leading manufacturers to test the next generation of energy-efficient building materials. For example, we most recently incorporated WaterSense fixtures and energy-efficient windows into our homes, which help reduce costs on monthly energy and water bills and improve comfort. 

Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that our homeowners have access to the most advanced energy-saving solutions on the market. 

GHB: What is your stance on using fire resistive building materials to build hardened homes?

MF: The safety and wellbeing of our homeowners is always a top priority. We fully support the use of fire-resistive building materials and techniques to construct hardened homes, especially in regions where wildfire risks are a concern.

Our approach is rooted in being proactive rather than reactive. By incorporating materials like fire-resistant roofing, siding and insulation, as well as using non-combustible materials for exterior features, we aim to ensure our homes are better equipped to withstand fire threats. Additionally, we follow strict adherence to building codes and regulations that address fire safety and work closely with our trade partners and experts to stay at the forefront of fire-resistant construction technologies.

This is not just about compliance—it’s about responsibility. As builders, we understand the need to adapt to evolving environmental challenges, including wildfire risks, to create safer, more resilient communities. Combining these materials with our High Performance Home program allows us to deliver homes that are not only safer but also sustainable and aligned with the needs of today’s homebuyers.

This is not just about compliance—it’s about responsibility.”

GHB: What are your expectations around interest rates, rate buy downs and incentives this year?

MF: We’re closely monitoring the broader economic environment and its impact on the housing market as we move through 2025. Interest rates remain a significant factor influencing homebuyer decisions and we understand that affordability is top of mind. 

Given the uncertainty around rate movements, we expect that rate buy-downs and financial incentives will continue to play a key role in attracting buyers and easing some of the financial pressures they may face. We’re committed to offering solutions that help make homeownership more accessible. This could mean working with our lending partners to offer creative buy-down options or other incentives that ease the upfront costs for buyers.

While we can’t predict exactly how interest rates will evolve, we’re confident in our ability to adapt and offer programs that make the homebuying process as smooth as possible. We’re also keeping a close eye on the broader market to ensure we’re offering the right incentives that align with both the economic climate and the expectations of homebuyers.

GHB: Do you have any concerns about policy changes that impact housing? What in particular?

MF: We stay closely attuned to policy changes that can impact the housing market. We believe it’s essential to have a balanced approach to development that addresses the growing demand for housing while also ensuring sustainability, affordability and quality of life. 

While we support policies that encourage responsible growth, energy efficiency and the integration of innovative building practices, we also recognize that certain regulatory changes—especially those related to land use, zoning, or construction costs—can create challenges for builders and homebuyers alike. 

We’ll continue to engage with industry groups, policymakers and other stakeholders to ensure that housing policies support innovation, affordability and environmental stewardship.

GHB: What are your thoughts on how Landsea will perform in 2025 overall as a company?

MF: I’m optimistic about Landsea Homes’ performance in 2025. We’ve built a strong foundation based on our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability, and I believe these core values continue to position us well in the market.

We’re seeing strong demand for our High Performance Homes, which are resonating with homebuyers looking for functionality and sustainability in their new home. As we continue to adapt to the evolving needs of our customers, we’re confident that our offerings will remain competitive.

Additionally, we’re focused on expanding our footprint in strategic markets, ensuring we provide the right mix of homes in the right locations. 

While there may be some challenges ahead, I believe Landsea Homes is well-positioned to navigate them and emerge even stronger. We’re agile, innovative and dedicated to providing exceptional homes, which will drive our success in 2025.