year end

Well as 2010 winds down and as the numbers come in there are definitely signs of improvement in the real estate market: the general public has come to understand the "short sale" process and that it is not as easy a process as all had thought and that buyers sometime don't get what they thought they would, leading many to search for new homes in the traditional market especially with the values that are available. Sellers and buyers realized that they are not going to sell their house for as much but they also were or are not going to pay as much for their new property. When the interest rates went up slightly that also created a little surge as the "fence sitters" realized rates were not going to go lower they got into the market, also a great time to refinance : AS LONG AS YOU USED A TRUSTWORTHY LENDER.... now the bad part: banks , under pressure from our government, still have not realized they have swung too far the other way, yes we were way too easy a couple years ago but now as typical the pendulum went to the far other side. costs have gone up since the government created appraisal boards, and they are hurting values by using appraisers not familiar with the area they are going into. and of course sprinklers... but we will work on...

Good News in the Housing Market

Good News! New home sales were up 14.8% in April, and 50% higher from April the previous year. New jobs are being created, which is also expected to raise demand for housing.

Some economists remain a bit skeptical, citing the high volume of homes currently on the market as a hindrance to recovery. However, the House recently passed an extension in the federal homebuyer's tax credit, which could stimulate demand if it is passed by the Senate. Interest rates are still at record-low rates, which is another great incentive to buy real estate.

We have been seeing a higher level of activity this month, with plenty of settlements and new listings to keep us busy. However, we love to hear good news about the housing market, and look forward to an economic recovery!

Market Got You Down?

We don't have to be victims of the current economic crisis. Falling home prices and overall worries about the stability of the global economy have home buyers and sellers worried. However, now these tough economic times provide an example of why a Realtor is essential in any home transaction.

In your busy life, you don't have the time to keep up with current events in the community and home market. That's where a Realtor comes in handy. An experienced, knowledgable, and conscientous real estate professional can give you all the information you need. Realtors are service providers, and knowledge is their #1 value proposition. These tough economic times make information infinitely more valuable. With volatility in the home market, the help of an experienced professional, who actually understands what is going on, is priceless.

These are tough times for people all across the county (...unless you have a huge stake in Apple, Inc.). Don't let the home buying or home selling process stress you out!