BUSINESS MEMO: EXISTING HOUSE SALES

WASHINGTON -- Sales of existing homes appear headed for a new record in 1996, according to reports that also suggest moderate economic growth in the new year.

The economy's on an uptrend, but not too steep a one. It keeps employment full, but inflation at bay, said Robert G. Dederick, economic consultant for Northern Trust Co. in Chicago.

The National Association of Realtors recently reported sales of previously owned single-family homes rose 1.8 percent to $4.04 million at a seasonally adjusted annual rate.