The  Triangle Journal had a story Tuesday that discussed the fact that the economies of Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties are forecast to grow 4 percent during 2010, faster than the state and nation.  The study was based on positive economic indicators by two economists at UNCW. 

The article stated that,  ”North Carolina is expected to grow 1.5 percent, while the nation grows 2.0 percent.  Local, state and national economies are forecast to exit the recession late this year.”

Among the keys signs of improvement mentioned are:

* Container tonnage passing through the Wilmington state port facilities is rising after being down through much of 2008.

* Residential real estate sales show that sector is likely to start growing again after bottoming out during the first quarter of the year.

* And unemployment rates have remained stable after hitting historic highs earlier this year. Still, Hall says that unemployment is a lagging indicator of economic health and likely will remain high, or even increase, after the recovery begins to take hold.

This is fantastic news for the greater Wilmington area.  To learn more about Wilmington area real estate contact me at 910-431-9395 or visit my website at www.livingbythecoast.com.