For August 2012, the National Association of Homebuilders reports the monthly Housing Market Index at 37 -- an increase of more than 100% from one year ago and the highest HMI value since February 2007.

Rising home prices are taking a toll on today's home buyers. For the first time in 4 quarters -- and despite falling mortgage rates -- home affordability is sinking.

Should you lease a new car, or should you buy one? Like most financial questions, the answer depends on your situation

Past due foods can both give off bad odors, and make you sick. Here's a guide to how long different foods last.

According to data from RealtyTrac, a national foreclosure-tracking firm, the number of foreclosure filings dipped below 192,000 in July 2012, a 3 percent decrease from the month prior.

80 U.S. metropolitan markets are showing "measurable and sustained growth" this month, according to the National Association of Homebuilders' Improving Market Index.

As another signal of an improving U.S. economy, the nation's biggest banks have started to loosen mortgage lending standards.

Planning to make a late-August purchase closing? Keep an eye on your calendar. The last Friday of the month coincides with Labor Day Weekend, which may make for a complicated, end-of-month closing.

The average family of four uses 146,000 gallons of water per year, at a cost of $700. With just a few small changes, however, that cost could drop by as much as 28%.

This week, for the first time since mid-June, the 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate climbed on a week-over-week basis, moving 6 basis points to 3.55%, on average.

Breaking down the FOMC's August 1 statement.

All 20 Case-Shiller Index markets improved between April and May 2012.