After 2-Month Decline, Consumer Optimism On The Rise Again!

[Foster Algier]

How does consumer sentiment affect your business? With it improving once again, we hope to see the real estate investment market become better!!

After a two-month decline, consumer sentiment in the state rose 2.1 points in June as four out of five components moved higher. Respondents' perceptions of their personal financial situation now compared with a year ago showed the greatest increase. It rose 6.4 points from 85.5 to 91.9.

"Importantly, all Floridians share these perceptions, independent of their age, gender or income," says Hector H. Sandoval, director of the economic analysis program.

Is now is a good time to buy a big-ticket household item such as an appliance? Opinions about this increased 1.7 points to 102, although readings vary across demographic groups. "In particular, positive perceptions are seen among women, those under age 60 and those with an annual income of $50,000 and over, while they are negative among men, seniors and those with income under $50,000," Sandoval says.

Expectations of personal finances a year from now rose 3.5 points to 104.8.

"Overall, Floridians appear to be more optimistic. Most of the increase is due to the positive perceptions of consumers' current and future personal finance situation," Sandoval says.