In August, 1,358 building permits were issued for single-family homes, the best month so far in 2023, according to the Northeast Florida Builders Association.
In July, the number of permits issued had dropped to 918 from 1,173 in June.
Through August, 7,890 building permits for single-family homes have been issued.
The market comprises Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties.
“I can’t say that I expected it but I am happy with it. I think we will be trending upward for the rest of the year,” said Jessie Spradley, NEFBA executive officer.
June was the second-best month, followed by May’s total of 1,165 permits.
Clay County rose to 92 permits in August from 87 in July; Duval increased to 534 from 233; Nassau dropped to 66 from 96; and St. Johns rose to 666 from 502.
So far in 2023, St. Johns has had the highest number of single-family permits at 3,612.
Spradley said there is plenty of building activity in that county in Bridgewater, Cordova Palms, Entrada, Ravenwood Village, Rivertown, Silver Landing and Silverleaf
He said there is an increase in permits issued for town houses, which serve as a more affordable entry-level home purchase for those wanting to own but are priced out of the single-family home market.
“One of most effective ways to meet that demand is through town homes. It is what the buyer can afford,” Spradley said.