Monday’s U.S. economic reports

Factory orders

Orders to U.S. factories fell 0.5 percent in August, reflecting a big drop in demand for commercial aircraft. But outside of the transportation sector, orders rose for the first time since March.

Home sales

The National Association of Realtors said that its index of sales agreements for previously occupied homes rose 4.3 percent to a reading of 82.3 in August. That’s still more than 20 percent below the pace in the same month a year ago.

Durable goods

Orders for durable goods – items expected to last at least three years – fell 1.5 percent in July while demand for nondurable goods – products such as food, clothing, chemicals and paper – rose 0.3 percent.