New Home purchases and home prices remain strong while foreclosures continue to fall, according to the November edition of the federal government’s housing scorecard. The monthly scorecard collects key housing data and the results of the administration’s recovery efforts. Released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the most recent scorecard finds progress in the housing market, though officials caution that the overall recovery remains fragile. Still, according to the report, housing affordability remains above historical norms, despite rising prices and mortgage rates. Kurt Osowski, HUD’s deputy assistant secretary for economic affairs, said continuing growth in the economy and job market, along with rising home prices, have combined to reduce foreclosure starts to levels not seen since 2005. More here.