January 9, 2012 - The number of housing markets showing measurable improvement nearly doubled in January with the addition of 40 new metros to the National Association of Home Builders/First American Improving Markets Index (IMI), released today.  The IMI now boasts 76 improving markets, up from 41 in December, with 31 states and the District of Columbia represented by at least one entry.

The index identifies metropolitan areas that have shown improvement from their respective troughs in housing permits, employment and house prices for at least six consecutive months. Note: Minneapolis Minnesota made the list this would include Blaine and Coon Rapids Minnesota and surrounding areas. New entrants to the list in January include the following (listed alphabetically by state):

See the entire list here:http://www.nahb.org/news_details.aspx?newsID=14478