Posts Tagged ‘home sales up’

Critics be damned. Home sales up, prices down

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009

Critics of the Housing Tax Credit were quieted, if only briefly, when the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released data for third quarter home sales. According to the trade group, home sales increased by nearly 6% over this same time last year. Despite the spike in sales, prices have fallen more than 11% during the same period. The U.S. median existing single-family price for the third quarter was $177,900.

Opponents of the housing tax credit feared an inflationary reaction in home prices. Although housing inventories are down, existing units still outweigh the demand.

NAR chief economist,  Lawrence Yun, predicts home prices will stabalize next spring. His prediction may be overly optimistic. Foreclosures and short sales made up 30% of thrid quarter sales. There is no real evidence to suggest foreclosures will take a breather in 2010.

DHW asks: Do you see a bottom to the housing market?

September Pending Home Sales Index up 6.1%

Monday, November 2nd, 2009

The National Association of Realtors reported that its Pending Home Sales Index was up 6.1% in September to 110.1 from a reading of 103.8 in August.

First-time buyers taking advantage of the $8,000 tax credit are believed to be behind the spike in sales.  The group says sales are up 21.2% year over year.

DHW asks: Do you see sales picking up in your area?