Homebuilder optimism rises in August, but not enough to dispel affordability concerns 

Although homebuilder confidence rose one point to 66 in August, market affordability continues to threaten future growth, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde said even as builders report a firm demand for single-family homes, they continue to struggle with rising construction costs stemming from excessive regulations, a chronic shortage of workers and a lack of buildable lots.