According to the Conference Board of economists, the Consumer Confidence Index rose over 12 points in March up to 39.2, which is the highest that it has been since November!

As consumer spending counts for over 2/3 of the economic activity in the country, during times such as these, economists keep a close eye on the consumer confidence. When consumer confidence goes up, spending begins and the economy has a fighting chance to right itself once again.

Two of the biggest fears that could lead to a drop in consumer confidence are the rapidly rising unemployment rate and the swine flu outbreak! The swine flu could actually stall economic spending with the travel and tourism industry.

However, the real estate industry is showing positive signs of recovery, as prices seem to have hit bottom and the inventory is starting to diminish, especially here in Citrus and Hernando County Florida!