Construction Boost Builds Optimism - 2004-01-06
U.S. construction spending increased for a sixth straight month in November to an all-time high, and builders commenced work on houses at a record rate.

Mortgage rates hovering close to a record low have helped spur demand for housing, which accounted for about a percentage point of the 8.2 percent increase in third-quarter gross domestic product. Construction spending on offices and other commercial buildings also increased in November.
Read the full story at Tampa Tribune

No bust but housing market to weaken - NAEA - 2004-01-06
Still no bust despite a weakening market and more increases in interest rates’, is the verdict of the latest Economic Report and Forecast from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA).

The report is predicting that interest rates will rise to 4.75% with the potential for mortgage rates to hit 6% for the first time since 2000. This could stretch some households re-emerging from cheaper fixed-rate and discounted deals arranged last winter.
Read the full story at Mortgage Introducer