Our neighbors to the north had an encouraging month in terms of home sales. In September, sales of existing homes rose 2.7 percent in Canada. The country’s housing market remains steady and a “bright spot” in the economy. That’s great news for our friends at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Canada!

The term “slim pickings” is being used to describe housing inventory here in the U.S. An article in The Wall Street Journal this week looked at supply and demand in the United States real estate market. While economists proclaim a surplus of inventory, others point out that “some pockets of the country [have] a shortage of attractive inventory.” The key word here is “attractive” as sellers pull their homes off the market, discouraged by low prices. The article goes on to explain how buyers who are ready to take the plunge are disappointed with their options.  Are you seeing similar trends in your local markets?

On the home design front, The Wall Street Journal looked at two interesting design trends this week: patio furniture and the reemergence of the Murphy bed. As patio furniture becomes more comfortable and stylish, it is finding itself in an ironic space: indoors.  Also, the Murphy bed, which folds into the wall when not in use, lends itself well to tighter spaces as Americans build smaller homes and look to maximize space in their existing homes. On the contrary, luxury homes are touting some “over-the-top” amenities that one wouldn’t typically find in the average listing. What are some of the most interesting or eye-catching home amenities that you’ve seen in your experience in real estate? Were they key selling points?

Have a nice weekend!