The Miami Herald
Posted on Mon, Aug. 13, 2007

STATE'S HOMEOWNERS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT PRICES

The real estate market might be in a funk, but the outlook of Florida homeowners couldn't be sunnier when it comes to the future worth of their homes.

In a recent survey, only five percent said they think their house values will fall during the next five years, according to a University of Florida study conducted in July.

Putting the power of positive thinking to the test, 82 percent expect values of their own homes to rise for a median gain of 18 percent.

A UF economist said popular wisdom may be on to something. Not since the great depression have housing prices failed to recover within five years of a major slump.