Last week's economic reports included readings from the National Association of Home Builders, Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued. Sales of pre-owned homes were reported along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Builder Confidence Slips as Trade Wars Boost Lumber Prices According to the National Association of Home Builders, home builder confidence in current market conditions was down two points to 68 as compared to May's index reading of 70. Analysts said that rising lumber prices impacted builder sentiment and have replaced labor costs as builders' primary expense. Increased building costs were…