National survey finds home builders plan to hire more in the next year

According to a national study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) forty percent of single-family home builders plan to hire skilled labors during the next year. Sixty-two percent, however, have concerns that prospective workers may need training to up their skill level.

In the Midwest, 46 percent of builders expect to hire, with 39 percent in the South, and 29 percent in the Northeast.

The survey was conducted on behalf of the Home Builders Institute (HBI), and it also found that many specific trades are in high demand from builders due to a shortage of skills.

Shortages of more than 20 percent were found for painters, bricklayers/masons, finished carpenters, rough carpenters and framing crews.

For more information: www.hbi.org