Talking Points …

  • Home builder confidence held steady in May as the housing market continues to gradually improve, but the level of confidence for home builders hasn’t moved in four months, according to the monthly index of sentiment by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
  • The index registered 58 yet again in May. Fifty is the line between positive and negative sentiment. The index stood at 54 one year ago and hit a recent high of 65 last October.
  • Sales expectations in the next six months increased 3 points, to 65, while the current sales conditions and buyer traffic both held steady at 63 and 44, respectively. Home builders say that even as the market shows signs of more robust growth they are facing increasing regulations and a low supply of lots.