A recent survey of builders shows increasing confidence in the market for new homes among buyers over the age of 55. According to the National Association of Home Builders’ latest 55+ Housing Market Index, significant gains were made in the third quarter as compared to the third quarter of last year. The index found confidence in the market for single-family homes, rose 14 points to its highest third-quarter number since the survey began in 2008. It also represents the eighth straight quarter of year-over-year increases. Robert Karen, chairman of NAHB’s 50+ Housing Council, said there has been steady improvement in the 55+ housing sector as buyers are attracted to new homes and communities that offer the lifestyle they desire. All components of the survey gauging interest in single-family homes experienced double-digit increases over last year. The survey asks builders to rate current sales, expected sales, and traffic of prospective buyers on a scale where any number over 50 indicates more builders view market conditions as good than poor. More here.