Dow, S&P rise following lackluster NAHB builder confidence results

Economists point to the unexpected drop in optimism as one more reason for the Fed to delay its interest rate hike.

By Emily Peiffer • May 19, 2015

Strong dollar weakens foreign thirst for US real estate

Russians and Canadians could lose big when it comes to currency conversions.

By Deborah Barrington • May 19, 2015

Explore the Trendline➔

Top 5 stories from Construction Dive

Construction Dive editors curate some of the industry’s top stories from this year.

By Construction Dive staff

April housing starts exceed expectations, soar to 7-year high

Building permits also saw a bump, indicating a positive future for the industry.

By Emily Peiffer • May 19, 2015

NAHB builder confidence index unexpectedly dips

Experts attribute the results to consumers' delayed entrance into the market, but remain optimistic about Q2.

By Emily Peiffer • May 18, 2015

Nailed it: Construction employment helps fuel economy

The industry added 45,000 positions in April—among the highest number of additions across all sectors.

By Sharon O'Malley • May 12, 2015

NE leads among states posting unemployment rate declines

In 41 states, fewer in the industry are out of work than a year ago.

By Sharon O'Malley • May 7, 2015

Can housing revitalize U.S. economy?

Some are looking to residential construction to improve on the current stagnant growth.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 30, 2015

Student debt hinders likelihood of owning a home by 12%

Goldman Sachs found that for some young adults, the lack of a college degree makes them more likely to become homeowners.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 22, 2015

Nearly 1M homeowners driven to foreclosure now eligible to purchase again

Still, millions more have not been able to repair their credit a decade after they lost their properties, the NAR found.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 20, 2015

Economists baffled as housing starts continue to flounder

Builder optimism so far hasn’t translated into residential construction growth.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 17, 2015

Fed's Beige Book shows steady or slightly improving construction activity

Boston reported the highest demand for commercial building by foreign investors and one of the fastest-growing economies.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 15, 2015

Building supplies sales spike in March

A slight overall rebound in consumer buying could solidify chances for a 2015 interest rate hike.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 15, 2015

Foreclosures take a nosedive

Nearly half of all declining activity in February occurred in just five states.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 15, 2015

NAHB updates report on 'typical' impact of local homebuilding

In one year, residential construction can generate $28.7 million in income for the community and create 394 jobs.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 9, 2015

Rising value of U.S. dollar could delay Fed's interest rate increase

A decision to wait would keep the cost of home mortgages lower, and possibly translate into greater sales.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 7, 2015

Job creation tanks in March, ending industry's 14-month streak

Employment losses occurred mostly in the residential and public works sectors.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 6, 2015

Construction spending slides downward for 2nd month

The poor showing could depress overall first-quarter economic growth.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 2, 2015

Slow but steady: Home prices continue gradual rise

In fact, housing values are growing faster than wages, shutting some potential buyers out of the market.

By Sharon O'Malley • April 1, 2015

33 states add construction jobs between Jan. and Feb.

Labor shortages, funding, and increasing regulations are among the industry’s greatest challenges, the AGC says.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 30, 2015

Home prices rise 13 times faster than wages

The disconnect could continue to dampen sales until traditional buyers overtake investors.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 26, 2015

3 Texas markets top list of best places for real estate investments

Fast-growing economies and a lack of homes for sale drive interest in rental properties.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 25, 2015

Mortgage rates fall in reaction to negative housing reports

At the same time, fewer borrowers are applying for home loans.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 19, 2015

Looming interest rate hike could stop some from buying homes

Until then, consumers might rush to lock in low rates on mortgages.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 19, 2015

CA economy suffers backlash from high home prices

Legislators may consider easing restrictions on high-density and coastal development.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 19, 2015

Why women construction workers earn less than men

An expert from the University of Utah told Construction Dive that location, occupation, and union membership determine wages.

By Sharon O'Malley • March 18, 2015