Several indicators are showing signs of easing in the downward trend of the recession as posted in a recent article by Christopher Rugaber.

Christopher S. Rugaber, AP Economics Writer

The pace of new-home construction seems to be nearing a bottom. First-time jobless benefit claims fell more than expected for the second straight week. And JPMorgan’s profits were larger than analysts had expected. In the past week, two other banks, Wells Fargo & Co. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc., issued positive earnings reports, too.

All told, growing evidence indicates the economy may be stabilizing.

“The economy is still very weak, but there are some encouraging signs that support cautious optimism,” Dennis Lockhart, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, said in a speech Thursday.

Locally we have seen similar indications such as the increased activity in the housing market.  Multiple competing offers on homes under $300,000 and even increased activity in higher priced properties. 

The Utah Home Run Grant of $6,000 toward the purchase of an existing “new home” has spurred increase activity in a variety of price ranges.  Though the Home Run Grant may be used by any buyer, when coupled with the $8,000 tax credit the Home Run Grant gives an attractive opportunity to a first time home buyer.