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MARQUETTE -- The housing market in the U.S. is showing some signs of recovery, and Marquette may be poised to lead the way in 2010.

Housing Predictor lists Marquette as one of the top 25 cities in the country expected to see home prices go up this year.

Selling a house these days isn't easy, and for many it's a several month process.  And while sales did slow down in Marquette in the past few years, Cheryl Jackson of ReMax First Realty, said home sales in Marquette have been slightly more active than the rest of the nation.

What are home buyers looking for in Marquette?  Jackson said location and price.

"If there's a great value, someone might buy the house around the corner or out just a little bit further," said Jackson.  "Because that price is very important.  People are looking to be wise purchasers."

In fact, Marquette was named one of the top 25 cities in the U.S., according to Housing Predictor, expected to see an increase in home prices in 2010.  Ohio held the first four spots with cities like Cleveland and Columbus hoping to see around a 10 percent jump.  Marquette made the list at number 12, expecting to see a 3.2 percent increase in home sales.

Jackson and members of Lake Superior Community Partnership say events like the Noquemanon draw potential buyers to the city.

"Young people are saying, 'Hey I want to be able to play and work,'" said Amy Clickner.  "And I want to work where I want to play."

Jackson said in 2005 and 2006, homes could turn in thirty days.  In the past two years, it's been more like six months and realtors hope this year that time will be shorter.

"I think we're going to have a good year," Jackson said.  "We've got a great place to sell real estate."

No one has got a crystal ball, but sellers and realtors are hoping the national predictions for Marquette come true.