The spring and summer months are traditionally the busiest times of year for the residential real estate market. Weather is more cooperative and many families like to move while the kids are on their summer break.
      But in recent years spring, for many regions, has meant more homes on the market, but also more buyers, fierce competition and an increase in prices.
      The National Association of Realtors projects the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage to average 6.5 percent in 2004, up from a generational low of 5.8 percent in 2003.
      "On the heels of three consecutive record years for home sales, the uptick in mortgage interest rates will offset some of the benefits of an improving economy," said NAR's chief economist David Lereah. "However, the impact will be fairly minimal because the fundamental conditions for a strong housing market remain -- a growing number of households, an improving job market and generally good affordability conditions."

     With homeowners' priorities shifting to their outdoor living spaces, it's more important than ever that your landscaping and backyard areas look their best when it comes time to sell.
     Members of The Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association say the growth of the outdoor living phenomena is the result of North America's interest in 'cocooning,' the trend toward a more casual lifestyle, an aging population and the popularity of porches, decks, and patios in homes.
     And with more outdoor living spaces come more elaborate and beautiful landscapes.
     Studies have shown that attractive landscaping can increase the value of a home.
     Two studies, one by Mark S. Henry of the Department of Agriculture and Applied Economics at Clemson University and another by Robert L. Degner of the Florida Agricultural Market Research Center, University of Florida, found that landscaping contributes to higher resale values in single-family residences, according to the Associated Landscape Contractors of America.
     Henry's study, "The Contribution of Landscaping to the Price of Single Family Houses: A Study of Home Sales in Greenville, South Carolina," pointed out not only did homes with excellent landscaping sell 4 to 5 percentage points