End of refinance boom won't hinder consumers--study - 2004-01-13
Worries that consumers will run out of steam after the mortgage refinancing boom dissapates are misplaced, according to a research paper released by the New York Federal Reserve on Monday.

The surge in refinancing in the past three years as interest rates tumbled helped shore up household spending, even as the economy eked its way out of recession and new jobs remained scarce.
Read the full story at Reuters

Used-Homes Sales Break Record in Houston Area; December Sales Up 17 Percent - 2004-01-13
Sales of Houston-area used homes increased 17 percent in December, concluding a record year in which home buyers benefited from a sustained wave of low interest rates.

Low mortgage rates lured first-time home buyers, young couples and apartment dwellers who found that a house payment was comparable with their monthly apartment rent.
Read the full story at Miami Herald