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NAHB (U.S. home builders trade group) CEO: Builder Sentiment Below 50% for 12 Months

According to Jim Tobin, readings have been in the 30s this year, below the 50 break-even, after levels in the 40s a year earlier.

Summary

NAHB CEO Jim Tobin said the housing market remains uncertain, noting builder sentiment has been below the 50 break-even for 12 consecutive months. He added the measure has been stuck in the 30s this year, compared with readings in the 40s a year ago.

Terms & Concepts
  • Break-even level: A threshold where conditions are neither expanding nor contracting; Tobin cites 50 as the midpoint for builder sentiment.
  • Builder sentiment index: A survey-based gauge of home builders’ outlook; readings in the 30s indicate weakness, while 50 marks neutral.