The U.S. housing market is showing signs of strength. Permits issued for future construction and home sales are on the rise. Home prices have stopped falling, at least.
In the second quarter of 2012, home prices are flat (actually, up 0.1%), compared with the second quarter of 2011. That’s better than the steep declines since the national peak in 2006.
If you are thinking about buying a principal residence or a second home, this might be the time to start looking. If you keep waiting, expecting to find better bargains in the future, you could be disappointed.
Low mortgage rates may be stimulating home sales. At current levels, this can be a great time to refinance your mortgage, if you can qualify for a new loan.