According to a December report by The National Association of REALTORS (NAR), existing-home sales rose slightly during the month of November, giving analysts reason to believe that the housing market is stabilizing. Although total existing-home sales rose 0.4 to an annual rate of five million units, this figure is still 20 percent below sales for this time last year. Existing-home sales include single family homes, townhomes, condos, and co-ops.

Lawrence Yun, NAR senior economist, is hopeful about the market. "Near term, existing-home sales should continue to hover in a narrow range, just as they have since September, and that’s good news because it’ll be a further sign that the housing market is stabilizing," he said. "Mortgage interest rates are near historic lows and the most current data shows decelerating price declines, along with a modest reduction in the number of homes on the market." Disruptions in mortgage availability and pricing peaked in August, which caused sales to slow in subsequent months.

Although the national median price for existing-homes has decreased, prices are actually up from the previous quarter in nearly two-thirds of the metro areas. "Just like the weather, there are large local variations in home prices," Yun said.

January ushers in a time of reflection and renewal. For many people, a new year's resolution can inspire us to make changes in our lives for the better. We've compiled a short list of the most popular resolutions. Did yours make the list?

• Become More Organized. A quick way to do this is to make lists of things that need to be done and check them off as you go. Get started by sending your Thank You notes early, or by organizing your holiday decorations for easier access next season.
• Stay Within Your Budget. Many of us feel the pinch after the holiday season. A good way to avoid this in 2008 is to set a monthly budget. Envision the things you would like to do in the year ahead and anticipate seasonal expenses. You'll be amazed at how much easier the holidays will be on your wallet if you can plan ahead.
• Exercise More. Many people strive to find health, wealth, and the time to enjoy them both. Take some time this year to focus on your health and get your body into shape. By starting small and working yourself up to a regular routine, you'll find you have more energy, increased metabolism, and an easier time sleeping.
• Lose Weight. This goes hand in hand with exercising. Most people make losing weight a new year's resolution but it’s hard to stick to unless you start right away and stick to it. Start by throwing away the remaining holiday treats so they are no longer a temptation. Stop thinking about it as a "diet" and more as a new way of staying healthy.

No matter what your resolution, it's always good to share them with a friend or family member for added accountability. Don't get down on yourself if you slip, just keep on going!  Here's to a great 2008!