home builders

New data from home builders indicate they're feeling more confident, and now that layoffs have slowed, buyers are feeling more secure, too.

Still, there are bumps ahead for the housing industry.

Home builders initiated construction of far fewer new homes in October than the month before, a big and unexpected drop for the struggling industry, according to a government report issued Wednesday.

New home building increased in August, a government report said Thursday, further signaling that home builders are regaining their confidence in the housing market recovery.

The Senate has passed its version of the housing rescue bill. Commentator Jeff Birnbaum says the bipartisan plan includes a surprisingly large, $6 billion in tax credits to help home builders.

The money on Wall Street is again flowing into home building. Marketplace's Jill Barshay reports on why investors are betting against the housing bust.