The drive-by media loves tragedy. One of the great tragedies is the way they cover reports on the real estate market, especially the national programs. Because real estate markets vary by location it is impossible to categorize "real estate" in general and give it a pass or fail grade.

All real estate is local. What should be of importance to you is your local market where you live or where you are considering buying.

The information from national "news" programs should be taken with a grain of salt or better yet ignored. Check with a local real estate professional you can trust or your local Board of Realtors to get the straight story on what's going on in your area.