Harsh winter conditions in many parts of the U.S. has reduced the confidence of consumers and home builders, creating a mixed picture of the U.S. economic activity.  Meanwhile, jobs data and business activity level continue to improve.  Distressed sales of residences declined (a sign of improvement) and housing inventory declined.  Inflation remains low except in nat gas and propane in the Midwest and Northeast. 

In the past, a weather related lull in consumer confidence typically was followed by a pickup in confidence.  This uptick could be timed with a robust spring real estate market to create a strong bounce back economy.