Despite a broad decline in sales, the median price of existing single-family homes has fallen only 2% over the past four quarters, according to a National Association of Realtors quarterly survey of 150 metropolitan statistical areas.The national median house value was $220,800 in the third quarter, compared to $225,300 in the third quarter of 2006. The report shows that house prices rose in 93 MSAs and fell in 54 MSAs. Regionally, prices of previously owned homes rose 3.2% in the Northeast and 0.5% in Midwest, but fell 3.6% in the South and 3.8% in the West. Total existing home sales, including single-family, condominiums and co-ops, were off by 13.7% compared to the third quarter of 2006. In the West, sales were off by 21.5%. "The housing market correction is clearly focused on transaction volume and not in home prices," NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun said.
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A federal judge in Texas dismissed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's medical debt rule and prohibited states from passing their own laws prohibiting medical debt on credit reports.
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Dr. Mark Calabria takes on the additional role of chief statistician of the United States; retired Ally Bank executive Diane Morais has joined First Citizens Bancshares' board of directors; MainStreet Bank has promoted Alex Vari to chief financial officer; and more in this week's banking news roundup.
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While refinances are behind the latest increases, the pace of purchase activity may be a stronger indicator of where the housing market sits.
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The share of economists expecting a September rate reduction grew in the July Wolters Kluwer survey, but the October or later percentage also increased.
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Rising home prices and softening sales offer a mixed view of a market that some say is shifting to favor buyers.
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The notes are backed by home improvement installment loans originated by approved dealers in Foundation Finance Company's network.
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