2006 Housing Forecast
America's 2006 economy will be markedly better than 2005, despite a softening housing market, according to a panel of real estate trade group economists. NAR Chief Economist David Lereah predicts that housing resales activity will slow about 4 percent to 5 percent this year, but adds that the market may only be taking a one-year breather.
Two housing bright spots: Manufactured home sales will surge, courtesy of rebuilding efforts in Gulf Coast areas damaged by 2005 hurricanes, and consumers will continue to spend freely on remodeling.
Among the scenarios the economists believe could trip up the economy: a sudden end to heavy foreign investments here; another major increase in oil prices; a sudden Federal Reserve shutoff of borrowing ability.
Source: Florida Association of Realtors®
Two housing bright spots: Manufactured home sales will surge, courtesy of rebuilding efforts in Gulf Coast areas damaged by 2005 hurricanes, and consumers will continue to spend freely on remodeling.
Among the scenarios the economists believe could trip up the economy: a sudden end to heavy foreign investments here; another major increase in oil prices; a sudden Federal Reserve shutoff of borrowing ability.
Source: Florida Association of Realtors®