_Economy and Finance

USA Today Housing starts drop in February, but building permits rise By Derek Kravitz, Associated Press WASHINGTON – U.S. builders are betting that the housing market is finally on the path back to health.

USATODAYmoney: Nov. home sales up 4%, but earlier sales revised down http://t.co/ON9gZVFG Original Tweet: http://twitter.com/USATODAYmoney/status/149519203878187008 Nov. home sales up 4%, but earlier sales revised down By Derek Kravitz, Associated Press WASHINGTON – The number of Americans who bought previously occupied homes rose last month. But the National Association of Realtors says it overstated about 3.5 million sales during and after the Great Recession, showing the housing market remains much weaker than previously thought.

Homebuying contracts hit highest level in a year in Oct. By Derek Kravitz, Associated Press 2011.11.30 01:14 PM WASHINGTON – The number of Americans who signed contracts to buy homes jumped in October to the highest level in a year. But the gain follows three months of declines and isn't enough to signal a housing recovery.

Existing home sales up 1.4%, still at depressed levels By Derek Kravitz, Associated Press 2011.11.21 10:03 AM WASHINGTON – The number of Americans who bought previously occupied homes rose slightly last month but remained at depressed levels. And more deals are being canceled at the last minute, a sign that even those who are looking to buy are worried about the housing market.

Homebuilders feel less pessimistic in November By Derek Kravitz, Associated Press 2011.11.16 10:49 AM WASHINGTON – Homebuilders are feeling a little less pessimistic about the struggling housing market. But their mood hasn't changed enough to signal a recovery anytime soon.