A total 1,362 single-family permits have been issued metrowide so far this year, just 2 percent off of last year’s record-setting pace. January’s permit totals were upwardly revised to 679 permits, tying a record for most permits issued in the month of January.

February’s small dip in local housing starts was expected due to winter storms that swept through the metro early in the month, according to HBA Executive Vice President Tim Underwood. Underwood also noted that the HBA’s monthly Housing Market Index survey of builders indicated a slight decline in permits was likely, although overall home builder confidence in the market remains strong.

“Last month’s permit activity shows there is no slowdown in the demand for new homes in metropolitan Kansas City,” Underwood said. “With mortgage rates dropping again during the last few weeks, there are now more opportunities for local families to make the move to homeownership. Signs point to the spring being a very good season for both home builders and new-home buyers.”

Kansas City, Mo., remained the top city in new-home construction activity in February with 201 permits issued. Overland Park and Lee’s Summit tied for second with 134 single-family permits, followed by Olathe with 124. Rounding out the top 10 were Independence 69; Kansas City, Kan./Wyandotte County, 68; Shawnee, 63; Grain Valley, 54; Raymore, 51; and Gardner, 43.

Local housing will take center stage this through next Sunday as the area celebrates Greater Kansas City Housing Week. A number of cities have issued proclamations recognizing the vital role housing plays in local communities and special events are planned this week to illustrate the value of housing and spotlight challenges facing local housing development. On Tuesday, former chief executive of the National Association of Home Builders Kent Colton will address the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Mid-Year Economic Breakfast. On Thursday, the Greater Kansas City HOME SHOW, presented by GMC, and Flower, Lawn & Garden Show opens at Bartle Hall including Lofty Living, a display showcasing downtown urban lofts. On Friday at the HOME SHOW, John McIlwain of the Urban Land Institute will headline a forum addressing challenges in providing workforce housing. For more information on Greater Kansas City Housing Week, visit www.kchba.org.

The Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (HBA) is the voice of the housing industry and the source for housing information. Comprising more than 1,000 member companies, the HBA represents an industry that contributes more than $2.5 billion to the Kansas City economy and supports more than 36,000 jobs in the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area.