Consumer Catch-up: New home sales, Cyber Monday deals, Giving Tuesday

New home sales up

Americans bought new homes in October at the fastest pace in a decade, a 6% increase over September. This marks the third straight monthly gain, and the best sales clip since October 2007.

Many buyers are turning to new construction because there is a shrinking supply of existing homes for sale. The lack of inventory is fueling higher prices. The average sales price of a new home jumped more than nearly 14 percent over the past 12 months.

The nationwide average home price is now $400,200.

Stores expecting record Cyber Monday sales

Cyber Monday is bringing good news for some retailers. Adobe, which crunches the numbers, says online sales for Cyber Monday are up about 17% over last year. Amazon, eBay, Walmart and all the usual suspects are reporting record sales.

Some of the best deals: travel sites. Shoppers are snagging tickets to Europe for around $500, and cheaper hotel prices. Now is one of the least expensive times to travel, ahead of the Christmas holiday. Airline, hotel and third party booking websites are all piling on.

One of the hottest deals is from WOW Air. The Icelandic discounter is offering flights from the West Coast to Europe for $129.

Charities prep for Giving Tuesday

If you're almost shopped out from Black Friday and Cyber Monday - try taking a breather and giving back.

Giving Tuesday is tomorrow, it is like Cyber Monday for charities. Participating is easy, just give to the charity of your choice.

Be careful, though. Scammers know people are looking to give this time of year. It's best to give only to names you know and trust.