Paul Klemme's Blog

With all the negative news around the economy and the real estate market these past few years, a moment of good news is in order. 

Here are a few things to consider:

Mortgage Rates: They are still extremely low.  This, of course, is good news for both buyers and sellers.  Low rates equal low payments and they look to stay low in 2012.

Home Values: The Case-Shiller Housing Index has shown home prices falling in most markets they track, however Phoenix stands out.  Once one of the fastest falling rates with some of the worst foreclosure stories, Phoenix has now started to show improvements in home values.  Way to go Phoenix!

Unemployment: In the fourth quarter unemployment numbers actually dropped below 9%.  In a sideways unemployment year, it could have inched up or spiked up by year end, however it dropped slightly. 

Affordability: The National Association of Home Builders Index shows homes are now the most affordable since 1971. 

401k’s and Stocks: They were stronger than anticipated in the fourth quarter.  Investor confidence is one key element needed to move this economy forward.

Personal Savings Increased in 2011: Thousands created or improved their safety net.  Perhaps we are learning to manage our spending.

Europe Didn’t Collapse: The biggest fear in the last year was the challenges Europe faced with key countries’ debt levels.  The currency union remains intact.

Pending Home Sales Are Growing: This shows more houses are under contract, a good sign for inventory, days on market and eventually values.

No Double Dip Recession: The economy did not fall backwards as some had feared, but rather, it is slowly growing.  Slow growth is better than no growth.

Now doesn’t that feel better than reading all the negative news out there? 
Did we miss one? What other good news should we post?