I think most people are happy to say goodbye to 2009, and we hope it may rest in peace.  The greatest part of 2009 was at the end of the year as shoppers increased spending over 2008. Consumer confidence improved through the last quarter, which helps to leave us with a nice warm and fuzzy feeling going into 2010.

Retail sales ended the year  about three percent up from last year. Housing sales were existent which of course is up from nonexistent. The low interest rates and continuing federal buyers tax credit will keep residential buyers in the market. Although banks have been loosening credit a little–we need more money! Durable goods in the fourth quarter were up slightly for a second month in a row. Even though it was only a .02 percent increase, it still is an increase.  These are just a few of the indicators people watch to forecast the economic direction. The bad news is that the indicators are not as predictable as in the past.

There is still plenty of uncertainty over the effect healthcare reform could have on all businesses. Companies will hire only when they are comfortable about the future. Healthcare will keep a dark cloak over  hiring until the debate is over and companies can assess the true cost to their bottom lines.

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Another big an-nouncement is that we are now in our 20th year of publishing.  Our August issue will be the official commemorative edition celebrating our 20th year serving the real estate industry.   

We are now working on our February Yearly Business Review.  We will see you then.