Right now, housing starts and builder confidence are near historic lows. Much of this has to do with the fact that it is increasingly difficult for builders and would-be homebuyers alike to get loans for what they need to do. Builders are constructing homes at a much slower pace — many of them no longer build on spec.

This could turn around in coming months, although housing starts may take a while to recover. With the credit markets easing, it could mean that money begins flowing again, and that homebuyers can get approved for mortgage loans and that builders can start getting the money they need for materials and supplies.