The U.S. economy is expanding, fueled by a renewed consumer optimism and increased consumer spending.

If you have plans to buy a home in 2012, the best time to buy may be now. Today’s mortgage rates are low and so are the home prices — a combination that’s unlikely to last.

Consumer spending continues to rise nationwide, fueled by jobs growth and a rosier outlook for the U.S. economy. Unfortunately for mortgage rate shoppers, it may also lead to higher mortgage rates later this week.

The American Consumer is alive and well, it seems. Retail Sales are up 14 months in a row.