Lowe’s, a home improvement retail store, reported a jump in earnings last quarter showing signs that the housing market is still making strides towards recovery. The report showed a 26% increase in earnings, and experts say the rise is due to new home construction and many consumers being able to set aside extra money for home improvements. Robert A. Niblock, Lowe’s Chief Executive said, “the home improvement industry is poised for persisting growth in the fourth quarter and further acceleration in 2014.” More here