Introduction
Introduction
Construction of new houses is an important part of the overall economy, and new home starts are a key indicator of the health of the housing market. The rate at which new houses are started is determined by the demand for new housing and the availability of funds for building and financing. This paper will discuss the overall rate of new home starts and analyze key factors that influence this rate.
Definition of New Home Starts
A new home start is defined as a housing unit that has broken ground and is nearing completion. This includes both single family homes and buildings that contain multiple units. In order to be counted as a new home start, the housing unit must either be under contract or in the process of being constructed.
Current Rate of New Home Starts
The current rate of new home starts is relatively low, with data from the U.S. Census Bureau showing that new home starts were up 1.9% in July 2020, compared to the same period the previous year. This is a sign that the housing market is continuing to improve, but the rate is still far below where it was prior to the 2008 financial crisis.
Factors Influencing the Rate of New Home Starts
There are several factors that can influence the rate of new home starts. These include availability of finance, demand for new housing, and local planning regulations.
Availability of Finance
The availability of finance is a major factor in the rate of new home starts. When credit is tight, it can be difficult for potential buyers to secure mortgages for new homes, which reduces the demand for new housing. The availability of finance can also influence the cost of building, which impacts the rate of new home starts.
Demand for New Housing
The demand for new housing is also an important factor in the rate of new home starts. When there is a high demand for new housing, builders are more likely to break ground on new projects. This is because they feel confident that they will be able to sell the homes as soon as they are completed.
Local Planning Regulations
Local planning regulations can also have an effect on the rate of new home starts. Certain regulations, such as zoning laws, can limit the number of new housing units that can be built in a particular area. This can lower the rate of new home starts in areas where regulations are strict.
Conclusion
The rate of new home starts is an important indicator of the health of the housing market. This rate is determined by a number of factors, including the availability of finance, demand for new housing, and local planning regulations. As the economy continues to improve, it is likely that the rate of new home starts will increase.