Foreclosure fears are putting a damper on much of the nation's economy. Some states that saw easy credit and relatively quick price increases are having more trouble than others.

Norman's market seems to have avoided such problems for now. A story in Sunday's Transcript Business section indicates real estate sales in Norman are outperforming much of the country. There were about 5,000 transactions and more than half a billion dollars in sales last year.

Troubled transactions actually were down The number of home foreclosures in Norman last year was actually fewer than in 2003 and in 2006.

Credit area lenders with better judgment and buyers for understanding the downsides of adjustable mortgages. "Real, reasonable, manageable, sustainable growth -- that's Norman," said Maxine Bates, president of the Norman Board of Realtors.