Existing home sales rose in February, according to US data. For the most part, this is due to the fact that foreclosures and other issues are prompting much lower home prices.

This is encouraging many buyers to make purchases of homes in foreclosure — or from sellers motivated to avoid foreclosure. Indeed, the real estate market trend of foreclosures is prompting home tours of homes in foreclosure.

Be aware, though, that even though there are lower home prices, many mortgage lenders still have rather high qualifying standards. You will need a good credit score and a down payment in order to qualify for a home mortgage loan.