How much are you going to spend on gifts this holiday season?

Too much.  As I have been shopping I have noticed that the stores have not been super crowded.  It must be because people are spending less.

Is now a good time to buy a home?

I think if you have 20% to put down it could be a great time.  I think home values are not going to climb super fast but if you need a home it is a buyers market.