Check out the latest from the respected Economists of the National Association of Home Builders:
Is Housing in a Holding Pattern?
Single-family residential construction hit bottom in the first quarter of the year when single-family starts averaged 358,000 at a seasonally adjusted annual rate. Starts rose in the second and third quarters to 425,000 and 498,000, respectively, undoubtedly boosted by the first-time home buyer tax credit that was in effect from January through November. (more)
Multifamily Construction Continues to Struggle
While single-family construction is showing some signs of life, the same cannot be said for multifamily construction. . (more)
The Recovery Begins to Take Hold
Like housing, the economy is showing signs of revival, the road to recovery will pass through some rough patches and there will still be plenty of pain. . (more)
General Inflation Remains Tame, But What About Construction Material Prices?
General measures of inflation are generally at a low level. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.4% in November. On a year-over-year basis, the CPI was up 1.8%. Core CPI (excluding food and energy) was flat in November, but up 1.7% on a year-over-year basis. . (more)
Housing Still Faces Significant Headwinds
Although the economic environment for housing is improving and the extended and expanded home buyer tax credit will provide a much needed boost, the housing market continues to struggle with significant impediments. . (more)
