The latest Roanoke College Poll looks at consumer sentiment. Virginians are feeling prosperous and the political divide has shrunk now that the mid-term elections are over. 

Most Virginians plan to spend more than they did a year ago this holiday season, largely paying in cash. Overall, 40% plan to hit the stores the day after Thanksgiving. 

The Virginia Real Estate Indexes indicate a robust real estate market in the Commonwealth. The index for current real estate conditions increased significantly to the highest value on record.

The Virginia Index of Consumer Sentiment fell modestly by two points over the third quarter but remains above the historical average. The dip is largely due to consumer expectations for the coming year. Consumers report improved incomes from a year ago. The party gap increased, reaching the highest value since the 2016 Presidential election.

Democrat incumbent Senator Tim Kaine holds a 17-point lead over Republican challenger Corey Stewart in the Virginia race for U.S. Senate. Libertarian Matt Waters has four percent of likely voters. Respondents also weigh in on President Trump's job performance, as well as his language and actions. 

The Virginia Real Estate Indexes are mixed. The index for current real estate conditions fell slightly, driven primarily by the buyers' side of the market who face increasing challenges. Home prices are above historical average in all metro areas across Virginia.  

Democrat incumbent Senator Tim Kaine holds double-digit leads over three potential Republican challengers for his seat. In the Roanoke College Poll prior to Republican primary, the three Republican candidates were largely unknown. 

Consumer sentiment in Virginia dips but remains near its historical high. The political party divide increased slightly.   

The Virginia Real Estate Indexes are mixed. The index for current real estate conditions rebounded from a six-month drop and finished close to its historical record from May 2017, while the index for the future real estate conditions remained strong, but fell from last quarter.

The Virginia Real Estate Indexes continued a six-month retreat from their record high of the second quarter, but remain well above the historical average. Home prices are higher than their historical average in all major metro areas across the Commonwealth.