Builder Confidence at Seven-Month High

Washington, DC, Aug. 18, 2014 -- Homebuilder confidence rose in August to the highest level in seven months, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

NAHB said its index rose two points to 55, while economists were looking for a flat reading.

Readings above 50 signal that builders, generally, are optimistic about their industry.

August marks the second consecutive month of above-50 readings.

NAHB's measure of builders' views on future sales of single-family homes rose two points to 65 in August, while a barometer of builders' views on present sales rose two points to 58.