July 2010

Consumer spending data suggest why Texas has had it so much better than much of the rest of the nation during the recession. It turns out that states where housing costs are lower, home prices fell less than elsewhere.

Spending on Picassos, ponies and pastures tends to dry up when economy tanks. A Center research study reveals an interesting relationship between prices of one such luxury item — thoroughbred racehorses — and land prices.

It had to happen. Land prices have been in the stratosphere, but now, as the laws of nature dictate, they are coming back to earth.

Texas law relating to transfer fees is complicated and confusing. Suffice it to say that while reading the small print in purchase contracts has always been a good idea, it’s an ever better idea now.

Texas’ population is growing more from people moving here than being born here. That translates to more adults who need housing.