Single-family housing starts in May rose 28.5% over last year, with 708,000 starts recorded in the month compared to 551,000 units a year earlier, the government said Tuesday.The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development compiled the report, which also shows housing starts down 4.8% from April's estimate of 744,000 units.Building permits in May rose 7.9% from 723,000 in April to 780,000 last month. From last year, building permits were up 25%.Single-family permits also hit 494,000 in May, up 4% from April.Meanwhile, home completions in May fell 10.3% from April to 598,000. That figure is still 10.1% above the 2011 rate of 543,000 home completions."For the latest month the single-family component gained 3.2% after a 4% rise in April," Econoday analysts said. The multifamily component, which is volatile, fell 21.3%, following an 8.4% boost in April. By region, the fall in starts reflected a 20.3% decrease in the Northeast with the Midwest declining 13.3% and the South falling 6.1%. The West rose 2.6%."Econoday noted that housing permits improved in May which could suggest construction growth in the next several months.More questions we can help you, at County Properties, 25 years of brokerage experience, trust and a Member of the local Better Business Bureau!If you have equity in your home, we will sell your home and get top dollar in this challenging market with our  Internet Marketing and Sales Program or click Want to know what your home is worth? . If you do not have enough equity, and you must sell your property as a short sale we have the expertise to do so also, go to www.ShortSaleRealtors4U.comNew Pro-Property Search. We will setup a customized search for you by our professional REALTOR® Team. Sit back relax and shop at home! We will make changes to your Pro-Property Search any time you like, just let us know. Have fun!Want to know what your home is worth? [iframe http://tools.1parkplace.com/valueWizard/vluredirect.aspx?userid=47042 780 1100]