Guess What - Real Estate to Remain Strong. Really?

With the demand for housing continuing to increase, U.S. home sales are expected to reach record levels by the end of 2005, according to the National Association of Realtors most recent forecast. Existing home sales in the U.S. are anticipated to rise 4.2 percent to 7.07 million units, while new home sales should reach 1.29 million units, a 7.1 percent increase from 2004. Additionally, total housing starts are expected to reach the highest level recorded since 1973 with a total of 2.04 million units. The added demand for housing stemming from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina has pushed NAR's sales forecast even higher, according to the report."Short-term momentum is very strong, and our Pending Home Sales Index just set a record," said NAR Chief Economist David Lereah. "In addition to the housing needs of hurricane victims, we may be seeing some 'fence jumping' from homebuyers who are getting into the market before interests rates increase. Please visit our Del Mar real estate site.