Survey: Home Builder Sentiment Rises in August but Still Weak Overall

As someone who guides clients through the real estate landscape in Salem, Aumsville, and the Willamette Valley, I keep a close watch on the trends shaping our market. In August, U.S. home builder sentiment inched up to 35, but builders are still facing challenges—economic uncertainty, higher mortgage rates, increased construction costs, and climbing fuel prices are all weighing heavily. To help buyers, many builders are offering price cuts, especially given the limited supply and ongoing affordability concerns. Staying informed on these shifts is key to making confident decisions in today’s market.