Yesterday we learned that a local Vancouver couple is off to compete with the best magicians on the continent. Their original illusions are aimed at presenting creations that seem real. It’s no secret that statistics presenting data related to housing activity can be just as mystifying.

The Chief Economist Of Housing Research at Metrostudy has now suggested in this interview on Bloomberg Radio that the weak housing statistics of late do not corroborate with Metrostudy’s ‘on-the-ground’ findings. Metrostudy is the leading provider of primary and secondary market information to the housing and related industries nationwide; we’re told they survey single-family residential subdivisions and perfected the lot-by-lot survey methodology that sets the industry standard today (HT: Mark Kennedy, CIBC).

It’s been suggested that lumber traders in all regions share a common interest in welcoming a little magic to spur market interests this summer.

“The bigger-than-expected (GDP) gain further cemented views that the decrease in America’s overall output during the first quarter was most likely a fluke tied in large part to unusually stormy winter weather and other anomalies.”
– US Economy Grew at 4% Rate in Second Quarter, Beating Expectations. New York Times.

“Home prices across the U.S. are poised for a fifth consecutive year of recovery. The market is still faced with low inventory and demand, buoyed by an expanding economy, which, among other factors, remains healthy. Both supply and demand conditions are moving from extreme bullish conditions to healthy conditions.”
– Altos: Critics wrong about housing, it’s going to soar. HousingWire.com