Last week's economic readings included reports on sales of new and previously-owned homes, and weekly reports on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims. Sales of New and Pre-owned Homes Falter in July Home sales were lower in July, with new and pre-owned home sales falling short of projections and June sales. According to the Commerce Department, new homes sold at an annual rate of 627,000 sales as compared to 640,000 new home sales projected and a pace of 638,000 homes sold in June. Downward revisions for previous months contributed to a lower sales pace reported in July; but the average…

Last week's economic reports included readings from the National Association of Home Builders and Commerce Department releases on Housing Starts and Building Permits issued. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were released, along with a monthly report on consumer sentiment. NAHB: Home Builder Housing Market Index Drops 1 Point August's reading for the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index dropped one point to 67. This was the lowest reading for home builder confidence in housing market conditions in 11 months. Analysts said that trade wars are causing concern among builders due to higher costs for…

Last week's economic reports included readings on job openings and inflation along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Job Openings Hit Third Highest Reading on Record Job openings held steady at 6.70 million in June, which was the third highest reading since reporting started in 2000. Analysts said that the high number of job openings combined with low unemployment rates indicates healthy labor markets. Fewer jobs were available in transportation, utilities and warehousing, but jobs in education increased. Job quits remained at 2.20 percent for the fourth consecutive month. Quits are considered an indicator of worker…