This month, we reported on an exciting new development: The announcement of the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA). The LIRA predicts growth in the remodeling industry out three quarters.
The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University uses nine variables to calculate the LIRA. We didn't have room in the print edition of the magazine to name and explain those variables, but we do here. Click here to see a chart, courtesy of the Joint Center, that explains where the LIRA comes from.