Sales of existing homes probably climbed in April to the highest level in more than three years, giving a lift to the U.S. expansion, economists said before a report today. Purchases of previously owned residences rose to a 4.99 million annualized rate last month, the highest since November 2009, from 4.92 million in March, according to the median forecast of 78 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. Housing has gained strength as borrowing costs near record lows and job gains rebuild confidence, spur demand and stabilize prices. The effects are rippling through the world’s largest economy, affecting builders including ... (full story)