Market Insights

Joe Scarlett has another prescription for a fast-changing business world: continuos learning.

Existing-home sales dipped in June by 0.8%, to 4.77 million from 4.81 million in May, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This figure remains 8.8% below the 5.23 million unit level in June 2010, which was the scheduled closing deadline for the home buyer tax credit, the organization noted. 

Sales gains in the Midwest and South were offset by declines in the Northeast and West. Single-family home sales were stable, while the condo sector weakened.

Along with the latest AHMA industry confidence index came a plea to legislators: think before you tax.

Import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports is expected to remain at about the same levels as last year through July before starting to resume increases later this summer, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Hackett Associates.

An article in Consumer Reports highlighting Home Safety Month listed the top injuries that occur to homeowners doing home repairs, remodeling, yard work and other projects. Citing statistics from the Home Safety Council, the magazine reported that one in five consumers will need medical attention this year, as 43 million homeowners tackle 57 million home improvement projects. 

The Home Depot sets a good example re: being present for consumers via mobile.

The NRHA delivered some quick and dirty retail tips at the Orgill Dealer Market. Here are five.

Building products giant 3M has agreed to purchase Nida-Core Corp., a Florida manufacturer that makes composite building materials, according to an article in the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal.