Recent market data shows signs of a strengthening recovery, according to the latest housing scorecard released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The administration’s housing scorecard tracks key data and follows the progress of federal foreclosure-prevention programs. Erika Poethig, HUD’s acting assistant secretary, said the results of the September scorecard indicate that the housing market is showing important signs of recovery. Among the highlights, homeowner equity rose to its highest level since the third quarter of 2008, lifting 1.3 million families above water on their mortgages. Also, existing-home sales are now at their strongest pace in two years. Despite the recent positive turn, the report cautions that there is still fragility in the market and that the recovery will take place over time. More here and here.
