Ten credible sources offer slightly different

predictions on 2011 real estate prices however

some commonalities still remain.  First, prices will decline in 2011.  Second mortgage rates will increase slightly from current rates but remain low.  Third, because of low home prices and low rates, 2011 will be a good year to invest in real estate.  Click below to see all of the predictions.

Mortgage rates at their 30 year benchmark raise to 4.61%, the 4th consecutive weekly increase.  Homeowners who delayed locking in super-low mortgage rates may have waited too long. Rates are creeping back up, in part because of the tax-cut deal in Washington.

Now those in the market to buy or refinance have to decide whether to take what's available or risk making the same mistake twice. Some can't help but wait if they have offers on short sale homes.