Pending sales of previously owned U.S. homes unexpectedly rose in September to their highest level in nearly three years ahead of the expiration of a popular tax credit for first-time buyers, a survey showed on Monday.  It was the eighth straight monthly rise in the index, the longest streak since the measurement started in 2001.

Congress, meanwhile is moving to extend the credit to buyers who sign sales agreements by April 30. Lawmakers also want to add a $6,500 credit for buyers moving into other homes as long as they have been in their current residence at least five years.

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