Builder Confidence Is Building
Home builder confidence in the housing market rose in September for the third month in a row from 18 to 19, which is the highest level since May 2008, according to the monthly index calculated by the National Association of Home Builders and Wells Fargo.
The index hit a low of 8 in January. Any number below 50 is considered negative.
The NAHB credits the first-time home buyer tax credit for this summer’s market improvement, as well as low interest rates and home prices, says Joe Robson, NAHB’s chair.
The index also projects the strength of the market going forward. That measure fell one point in September to 29 because of the expiring tax credit. In a statement, Robson says, “Builders are concerned about what will keep the market moving once the credit is gone.”
Source: Bloomberg, Bob Willis (09/16/2009)
