I am currently laid up at home recovering from a total hip replacement.  Uncommon for a 43 year old man.  It comes from an old injury.  Anyway, the progress of recovery is slow and sometimes painful.  That being said, I know that this surgery and the therapy will lead to a better way of life for me.  I have had the opportunity, or the curse, of watching alot of television while laid up in the bed.  There is a lot of speculation out there about the return, or the recovery of the real estate market.  I know the recovery has been slow and painful, but I see alot of promise that better days are coming.  Its a great time to buy, especially if you can get credit.  Home ownership is still the American dream and housing is a necessity of life.  There will always be people looking to fulfill those needs and dreams.