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.

42201 W Rummy Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763092
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immaculate Waterfront Home, Fully Furnished in the Award Winning Active Adult Community of Province. Pride of ownership is eminent upon entry of this gorgeous home. Luxurious cherry bordeaux cabinets throughout with 14' ceilings at the great room and a spectacular backyard with an extended paver patio with pergola, putting green and a walk way down to the lake perfect for enjoying those gorgeous Arizona sunsets. Brand new HVAC system just installed this year including a 10 year warranty. The kitchen has rich granite countertops, black appliances with a newer stainless steel fridge and a gas range. Split floor plan with a spacious owner's suite including a bay window in the bedroom and his and her vanities in the bathroom with a nice size shower and walk in closet. Extended 4' garage extension with built in cabinets and a workbench. Additional features in this beautiful home include: a whole house water filtration system with soft water and RO system, upgraded lighting and plumbing fixtures throughout, ceiling fans and window coverings. Front paver courtyard provides another wonderful outdoor living space. The home also includes spray foam insulation and dual pane Low E windows. The home is also fully furnished including all accessories, dishes, pots and pans, linens and miscellaneous garage items. Bring your clothes and a toothbrush and Start Living the GOOD LIFE!

305 W Alamo Drive Chandler, AZ 85225

$549,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,025 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782452
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully renovated home featuring the latest in design and comfort. This warm and inviting property is punctuated with all the best of Southwest style combined with the comforts of contemporary design. Gorgeous master bedroom welcomes you to rest and rejuvenate. Plenty of space lets you and family stretch out and relax. Open concept kitchen makes family dinners special every day! Come home soon....

2532 E Aster Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,470 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764797
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing opportunity to own this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in a quiet cul-de-sac! Features a brand NEW 3.5-ton Trane AC unit with all new ductwork, installed in July. Located near restaurants, shopping, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The living room offers wood like tile flooring, large windows, and a calming color palette. The spacious Arizona room opens to the backyard, ideal for entertaining. The kitchen includes shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom features plush carpet with dual closets. Primary bath includes dual sinks and large walk in shower. The oversized backyard offers a pool, RV gate, parking, and a storage shed. Don't miss out!

1703 S Wallrade Lane Gilbert, AZ 85295

$549,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,147 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ok, these descriptions are rarely looked at, I get it, they go on forever. The bottom line is this house is incredible, ALL NEW CARPET & INTERIOR PAINT THROUGHOUT, Spacious Great Room, Large Open kitchen, Huge Kitchen Island/Bar with granite and stainless appliance Package, including the refrigerator, Beautiful, low maintenance backyard with covered patio and turf, The Primary Suite has everything you're looking for, plenty of room for a sitting area and all your furniture, primary bath boasts a double vanity, a walk-in closet, I swear could be used as a 5th bedroom, All of this is a great location and newer home, Living near San Tan Mall, Epicenter and easy access to the 202 is perfect for working from home or the office, this is a winner guys.