If you're worried about the value of your home, 2010 could bring a little bit of good news. The National Association of Realtors reported Friday that home prices could edge 4% higher next year. In 2009, home prices declined by 13%. The association's chief economist, Lawrence Yun, says, "Going into 2010, I anticipate that prices will also begin stabilizing or begin to modestly improve." He continues, "I don't think the fear factor will be at play in 2010."

First-time buyers taking advantage of a range of incentives -- including an $8,000 tax credit -- accounted for 47% of transactions this year, up from 41% in 2008. With the credit extended to April 30, 2010, there's hope that first-timers will continue to breathe some life into the real estate market. According to Yun, approximately 2 million people gobbled up the tax advantage.

Enterprise zone tax credits for Harley Davidson Motor Company (NYSE: HOG) in the amount of $4.5 million have been approved by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. With the full involvement of Wisconsin state government and the United Steel Workers Union, this tax credit was arranged to confirm Harley Davidson's intent to invest some $300 million in the expansion of engine and transmission manufacturing in the state of Wisconsin. It is expected that this growth could create up to 200 new high paying manufacturing jobs and will assist in the retention of Harley's 4,100 existing employees in the state.

Harley Davidson was considering expanding outside of Wisconsin but left the door open to stay at Harley's home in Menomonee Falls. The company has always sought home-based solutions first. The administration of Governor Jim Doyle claims it was hard work to get Harley to accept the state tax credits but historically that has not been the pattern. All Harley Davidson has ever asked for is a level playing field.

I'll believe that it was hard work for Doyle to give it to them... when Hogs fly!