Signs of a Double Dip?

U.S. home prices fell 2% in the third quarter and may continue down, after having gained steadily since early 2009 according to the S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index.

That leaves national home prices down 1.5% year over year and off 2% compared to the second quarter, according to the information released on Tuesday.

Some factors attributed to the decline were the expiration of the homebuyer tax credit, an increased supply of foreclosures, and a high unemployment rate.

There is also the fear of a "shadow inventory" of homes repossessed by the banks but not yet listed for sale. Millions of these homes could be put on the market at distressed prices, which would force prices down even further.

There is a glimmer of hope with consumer confidence up, mortgage interest rates at near record lows, and reports of fewer jobless benefit claims.