March 2015 Residential Permit Statistics

Local Building Activity Consistent with National Trend

March 2015 residential permit statistics indicate a small increase over 2014 for the same quarter last year, according to the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City’s (HBA) monthly Residential Building Permit Statistics report. The 392 single family permits issued in March brings the year’s first quarter total to 887 single family units compared to last year’s first quarter number of 865—an increase of 3%.   Nationally, the National Association of Home Builders reports that single family permits rose 2.1%.   Multi-family permitting continues to be active, with 478 units in March and 794 for the first three months of the year.

Comparing single family permits on a county-by-county basis, Johnson County remains at the same level as 2014, while Clay and Jackson counties together have reported an increase of 84 permits.  The Clay county section of Kansas City is experiencing notable growth, with an increase of 51 permits over the first quarter of 2014.  Top permitting cities continue to be Kansas City, Olathe, Overland Park, and Lee’s Summit.

“First quarter numbers for 2015 are remarkably similar to 2014 in total,” said Executive Vice President Sara Corless, “but there has been a 10% shift this year to the Missouri side of the metro that we attribute to higher land development costs and lot prices.  Builders remain optimistic that 2015 sales and permit activity will increase with new designs, energy efficiency and neighborhood amenities available.”

April has been designated New Homes Month by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), which coincides with the HBA’s Spring Parade of Homes.  The Spring Parade will showcase 340 new homes throughout the metropolitan area from April 25 through May 10.

Click here for the March Statistics Report.