Another weekend has come and gone, but the real estate market ceases to take a rest. All across the nation markets are starting to come to terms with the idea that buyers are in short supply.

The Midwestern markets continue on at a steady pace, despite the lack of buyers, and Southern states continue to face slowed construction rates -- part of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

We look first today to Wichita, Kansas, where a buyers market is seeing prices rise at about .5 percent each month.

One expert notes that the rate of appreciation "seen over the past year appears to have been driven by older, bungalow-style homes, smaller homes, especially those under 1,000 square feet and homes in the city's older, inner-city neighborhoods, particularly those on the city's south side." The current yearly rate, 5.6 percent, is a relatively healthy rate -- and a normal one -- for this area.

Newer and larger homes are having a harder time selling. Even though the economy of the moderately sized Kansas town is in good form, many buyers seem to be shying away from homes that may be a burden if the economy turns sour.

The forecast for 2006 appreciation rates has been lowered to 3.2 percent. The only surprising twist in the market -- building permits for new housing are up an amazing 38 percent from last year.

Next we shift our attention to Birmingham, Alabama, known as the cultural and entertainment capital of the state. Mostly unaffected by this summer's storms, the city continues on as a strong sellers market -- where the average price is currently at $165,000. Home sell in around a month.

Why so low an average price for a city of this size (one of the 60 largest in the nation)? The average household income in the city is just $26,735. And despite rapidly rising prices across the nation, Birmingham seems to be able to keep a cap on affordability for the time being.

Looking for investments in the area? "The Birmingham metropolitan area housing market has turned to loft living. There are currently many loft developments in various stages of construction available in downtown Birmingham. There are lofts available starting in the mid $100's."

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