NAHB: Home Builder Confidence Holds Steady in May

Closing Paperwork: How to Read and Understand the Truth-in-Lending Disclosure StatementThe National Association of Home Builders reported that home builder confidence in the U.S. housing market conditions held steady for the fourth consecutive month in May. Builder confidence stayed at a reading of 58, which was the number expected by analysts and was also the reading for April. Analysts said that the consistency in readings signified expansion in housing markets. Any reading over 50 indicates that more builders than not are confident about market conditions.

Components of the NAHB Housing Market Index include readings on builder confidence in current market conditions which held steady at 63 and builder confidence in market conditions over the next six months, which gained three points to a reading of 54. Builder confidence in foot traffic for new home developments was unchanged at a reading of 44.

NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz said that the higher reading for future sales indicates growing builder confidence in housing market conditions. In recent months, housing markets have been fueled by low mortgage rates and high demand, but supplies of available homes are dwindling. Housing industry analysts have identified building new homes as a major solution for the shortage of homes for sale.

Analysts note that while new homes represent a small part of the residential real estate market, each new home constructed contributes an average of three jobs for a year and yields an average of $90,000 in tax revenue for each home built. Builders repeatedly cite a lack of workers and buildable lots as a concern for building more homes. An NAHB analysis of the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ report on Job Openings and Labor Turnover indicated that there were 210,000 unfilled construction jobs in March, which was the highest reading since May 2007.

Regional surveys of home builder sentiment were mixed. The reading for the Northeast fell by 3 points to 41 while readings for the Midwest and South rose by one point each with readings of 58 and 59 respectively. The reading for the West was unchanged at 67.

Low Mortgage Rates: Will the Fed Raise Rates in June?

In other housing related news, analysts’ predictions are mixed regarding whether or not the Federal Reserve will raise its target funds rate next month when the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets. Uncertainties over the United Kingdom’s upcoming vote about leaving the European Union and mixed economic data appear likely to nix a rate increase, but improving labor markets could be a plus for a fed rate increase. Raising the federal funds rate would cause mortgage rates to rise and is considered a further concern for the gap between growing wages and rapidly rising home prices.

8655 W Alvarado Road Phoenix, AZ 85037

$460,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,819 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6651919
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Home in a great neighborhood with private pool for the hot summer! Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, family room, open floor plan with vaulted ceiling, tile and wood floors, 3 car garage, cover patio, ramada, kitchen with island, new paint, close to schools, park , shopping and 101 & I-10 Freeways.

22348 N Braden Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$460,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,912 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6654144
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This remarkable home is situated in the renowned golf community of Rancho El Dorado, offering a high-end resort ambiance with scenic walking paths, serene lakes, and a variety of dining options and nearby shopping. Located in the ever-growing areaof Maricopa, this Adorable 5 Bed/3 full Bath home is move in ready! Open floor concept, with spacious backyard, landscaped with beautiful green grass, perfect for entertaining! Upstairs features a loft with built in desks and entertainment area. Located near shopping and amenities.

5209 N 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$460,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,192 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6658777
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Don't miss this charming 2 bed/2 bath tucked away in the serene little community of Cloisters in the heart of Biltmore! Light and bright this property features an open floor plan with lots of windows, laminate flooring and fresh paint throughout. You will also find all new cabinetry, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and upgraded fixtures and lighting throughout. The well maintained community is beautifully landscaped and offers amenities such as tennis courts, fitness center, and two pools, spa, tea room, and walking path. And all of this within a short walk to tons of shopping and great places to eat!

21233 N 30th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85027

$460,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,750 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful north Phoenix home in a great location! Luxury vinyl plank flooring and new interior paint provide a bright, neutral landscape for you to personalize. An Arizona room makes a perfect sitting area with it's own mini split, office or gym space. Backyard with grass, patio and paved sitting area. White cabinets in the kitchen and new fixtures have modernized this great home. No neighbors behind, backs to grass field. Additionally, the inclusion of solar panels- OWNED, new Ecobbe thermostat and a Tesla charger highlights the home's commitment to sustainability and modern technology, offering both energy efficiency and convenience for electric vehicle owners. Overall, this property presents an appealing combination of comfort, style, and practicality.