HOLY ESCROW! In the current slow market,...

HOLY ESCROW! In the current slow market, homes remain unsold for weeks and months (D1), driving some real estate agents to embrace an old tradition. “Dozens” are said to be buying statues of St. Joseph--patron saint of the family--and burying them near their for-sale signs--and many report quick sales. . . . The West Orange County Assn. of Realtors has issued 50 statues to agents. Another agent bought 100 statues. Local Catholic gift shops say demand for St. Joseph has been intense. . . . But a spokesman for the Diocese of Orange calls it “an abuse. It smacks of superstition.” Housing Prices Plunge Average home resale price is down 11% from last year. (Figures in thousands) New Oct., 1988: $232 Oct., 1989: $268 Oct., 1990: $263 Resale Oct., 1988: $216 Oct., 1989: $258 Oct., 1990: $229