Although investors continue to buy gold as an inflation hedge, gold prices slid as the dollar index rose. The Fed's statements on Wednesday also set the stage for an upcoming interest rate hike with a upgraded view on the economy

While the one-two punch of unemployment and foreclosures is bound to deal a blow to recovery, the housing market should escape another knockout in 2010 — as long as discount deals draw buyers and banks resist flooding the market with

Purchasing and selling real estate in Mexico can be complex, and in some cases costly, if you don't understand all the rules and practices. While the government and associations are working together to raise standards for property agents, buyers should

Federal policies aimed at rescuing at-risk homeowners have helped curb foreclosure filings across the US, even as job losses and credit troubles continue to pose a threat. With default rates still higher than the previous year, housing market recovery has

Cuenca, Ecuador, the "City of Festivals," offers mild temperatures year-round, picturesque views and ample urban amenities. With furnished apartments ranging from $200 to $400 month, Cuenca is an affordable option for people seeking affordable second or retirement homes. See the

Shanghai enjoys the distinction as the top pick for both property investment and development in 2010, according to an Emerging Trends in Real Estate report that reflects the resurgence of Asian markets and the success of economic stimulus measures in

Foreclosure cancellations in November were up 40%, in part due to the government's Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP). The program provides capped incentives to lenders and service providers who complete permanent loan modifications for homeowners threatened with foreclosure. With less

A weak economy and high unemployment rates have many US builders concerned about potential buyer activity in 2010. Despite favorable market conditions, and federal tax incentives, experts believe that the poor economy and tight lending conditions may continue to deter

While markets were encouraged when Abu Dhabi agreed to help Dubai, even Abu Dhabi's infusion of money won't resolve Dubai's $100 billion in debt. Adding to Dubai's problems is a new law that provides creditors with a legal framework to

Housing starts rose nearly 9 percent in November, following a 10.6 percent increase in September. Building permits and housing completions rose by similar volumes for the month, although, these rates remained lower than last year's levels. See the following article

Cairo's property market is perfectly positioned for expansion in the year ahead, with a solid foundation, ideal location and room to grow across all sectors in both established and developing districts. Their cash-based market has helped Cairo avoid the debt

While the $10 billion pledged by the government of Abu Dhabi to cover Dubai World's debt offers immediate relief, it is not enough to dispel investor doubt. Those looking for recovery in the region's real estate market are not likely

The list includes tropical locations like Brazil, Belize, Costa Rica and St. Lucia, along with the home for the 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancover, Canada. See the following article...

A recent survey indicates a decline in the percentage of homebuyers willing to consider purchasing a foreclosed home. With experts anticipating another economic downturn in 2010, and estimating another 5-10 percent decline in housing prices, homebuyers may be unwilling to

As the housing market appears to be bottoming out, many homebuilders are more optimistic about the possibility of an improved outlook for 2010. While experts still believe that the near-term housing market outlook remains negative, current trends combined with the

With sales of newly built homes jumping to the highest level this year, the Southern California housing market continued to show slow but steady improvement in November. Total sales of new and resale homes sold in November 2009 were down

The large purchase of Gold from the IMF by India, and China's efforts to amass gold through purchase and mining, indicates a waning confidence in the their US dollar reserves. Several countries may be interested in following India and China's

Posting a string of monthly property price gains that have elevated housing values 50% from the same time last year, South Africa is heading into the New Year with renewed optimism in a real estate market that is ripe for

Recent strides in economic recovery have brought the US closer to withdrawing from federal stimulus measures, although, the expected summer 2010 rate increase will come later than many had anticipated. Buffered by an extended homebuyer credit and favorable mortgage rates,

Low mortgage rates, fewer foreclosure sales and increased short sale transactions, were some of the factors attributed to the rise in Phoenix area home sales in October. The median sales price rose slightly from September, but remained nearly 20% below