If the media is to be believed, we may actually
be slowly (very slowly) moving out of a recession. Whether it is true or just
wishful thinking, focusing on the positive aspects of the economy will have
better results than dwelling on the negative.
So what is the
media reporting? According to several newspapers, heating and air-conditioning
contractors are making sure that their customers are aware of the energy
efficiency tax credits available through the federal stimulus package.
Homeowners can receive a 30 percent tax credit, up to $1,500, for energy
upgrades to their home. This includes HVAC upgrades, new insulation, roofing
products, energy efficient windows, etc.
It seems that more
often that not, if a contractor mentions the tax credit to homeowners, they are
willing to make the purchase. The tax credits are making it more viable for
customers to replace their aging HVAC system, rather than just repair
it.
Also, the
Associated Builders and Contractors is reporting that single-family housing
starts grew 2.8 percent in April. This is a small percentage, but it’s not bad
for a housing market that was virtually dead a few months
ago.
Finally, the cable news channels were all a twitter when
the Dow closed above 200 points on June 1. I can’t be certain if any of this is
a real indicator of a recovering economy, but it has to count for something.