According to the Case-Shiller National Home Price Index for June, Seattle, Washington continued to lead home price growth for the tenth consecutive month with a June reading of 13.40 percent growth year-over-year. Portland Oregon held second place for home price growth in the 20-City Home Price Index in June but trailed Seattle by 5.20 percent with 8.20 percent year-over-year home price growth. Dallas Texas held third place with a year-over-year home price growth rate of 7.70 percent. The 20-City Home Price Index increased by 5.70 percent year-over-year and was unchanged from May's reading. … [Read more...]
Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Slows in April
Case-Shiller's National Home Price Index indicated slower home price growth in April. Year-over-year, home prices rose 5.50 percent in April as compared to 5.60 percent in March. Year-over-year readings are calculated on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. Case-Shiller's 20 City Home Price Index was also lower with a seasonally-adjusted year-over-year reading of 5.70 percent gain in April as compared to the year-over-year March reading of 5.90 percent. Seattle, Washington held on to its lead for home price growth with a year-over-year reading of 12.90 percent; Portland Oregon followed with a … [Read more...]
NAHB: Home Builder Confidence Highest in 12 Years
According to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index for March, builder confidence in market conditions reached its highest level in 12 years and was six points higher than February's index reading of 65. Housing market index readings are based on three components. Builder confidence in current market conditions for new single family homes rose seven points to 78; builder confidence in market conditions for the next six months increased five points to an index reading of 78. Most surprising was the reading for buyer traffic in new housing developments, which eight points … [Read more...]
NAHB: Builder Sentiment Improves in August
According to the National Association of Home Builders, August home builder sentiment met analyst expectations and rose by two points to a reading of 60; July's reading was revised downward to 58. Two out of three components used in calculating the Home Builder Index were higher. Builder sentiment concerning current housing conditions rose two points to 65. Builders were also more confident about housing market conditions within the next six months; August's reading was one point higher at 56. Builders were less confident about buyer traffic in new housing developments. August's reading … [Read more...]
4 Ways A Real Estate Agent Can Help During The New Construction Process
You've found the perfect new development and think your children would love swimming in the community pool and riding bikes on the wide streets. The new construction's sales agent gave you a price and made a strong pitch urging you to buy immediately. The question is, should you sign on the dotted line or bring in a real estate agent to handle the contract and negotiations? The first thing you need to realize is that the new construction sales agent represents the developer and has their investment in mind. A real estate agent is someone who will be on your side. They'll represent your … [Read more...]