Home Prices in February posted the first year over year increase in four years. 

The average home price increased 0 .6% from last year according to a 20 city index. Out of the 20 cities that were indexed, nine showed an increase.  “The homebuyer tax credit, available until the end of April, is the likely cause for these encouraging numbers,” said David Blitzer, chairman of the index committee at S&P.

 Another positive sign for the housing market is the fact that housing starts are also on the rise in much of the coutry.  Many experts in the building industry expect housing prices to remain stable for awhile. Folks in the construction business have begun to regain some confidence lately with both new home sales and applications for building permits also posting gains.