As this transition has taken place, it's taken away the summer spike in unemployment. |
Even if the local economy stays strong in 2006, as many analysts project, it is difficult to imagine that significant improvements can be made over the 2005 figures. From a historical perspective, last year was exceptional. |
In today's world, the large divorce rate does play a part. There are other factors, and whatever the single parenthood cause, it is difficult for a single parent. |
The bottom line is that it will be challenging to substantially improve the labor market data because the numbers are so good now. I say challenging but not impossible. If the national economy remains on track, then we will achieve some improvement. |
We've expected existing home sales to weaken for some time. It does appear that we're starting to see that trend manifest itself. |