Positive economic reports pointing to a better job market and a housing recovery nudged stocks higher. Home starts rose 12% in December and initial jobless claims plunged to 335 000 dropping by 37 000 claims which is the lowest the indicator has been in five years. Investors are also awaiting details on the Fed balance sheet which will be announced after the close.   The Dow (INDEXDJX:.DJI) edged higher to 13 565.43 up 0.14%. The S&P 500 (INDEXSP:.INX) opened at 1476.44 and moved up 0.06% to 1477.71. The Nasdaq (INDEXNASDAQ:.IXIC) opened at 3131.14 and then fell to 3129.88 down ...