The Nation - News from Aug. 26, 1986

Three of four American families are optimistic about buying homes and cars, as low interest rates have raised consumer buying attitudes to their highest level in at least 40 years, a University of Michigan study said. The study of 1,971 consumers surveyed nationwide from April 1 to June 30 revealed consumer buying attitudes were at their highest level since the university’s Institute for Social Research began its studies in 1946. The study said 85% of those interviewed were optimistic about home purchases, and 75% were optimistic about car buying conditions.