Local Market Knowledge Helps You Make Better Decisions

Two of the most common questions heard in real estate for the last year are, "If I buy a home now, how can I feel confident that the market has hit bottom."  Just as Warren Buffet recently stated during a televised interview on Monday, August 3, 2009, even with his vast experience he cannot predict "with certainity" that a company's stock has hit its absolute bottom; but that would not stop him from buying stock if it was still a good value.

The Cashiers-Highlands greater market, unlike Florida fortunately, has seen its share of price decreases.  Considering the desirability of the area, much of the "excess appreciation" during the last several years has been stripped away on most homes, wherever the seller has been given good advice by their REALTOR, or they are personally motivated.

In short, it is a good time to buy!  A trained REALTOR can show you homes which are properly priced and represent a good value.

The second most frequently asked question is, "Is this a good time to sell my home, or should I wait for the "market to return?"  The answer is simple, while buyers are limited now, when they do return, which I predict will be between the third quarter of this year and next year, prices are NOT going to "shoot back up" as they were in 2003 through 2006.  The "pricing bubble" has broken, and I would expect home appreciation to slow down for the next few years to approx. 3%, or the cost of living index.  Placing your home on the market at this time, properly priced with the assistance of a competent REALTOR will allow you to have a marketing plan fully implemented, including the strategic positioning of your home to be ready for the "lookers" to become "buyers."  Right now, it is estimated that consumers search for 4 to 12 months on the internet before contacting a REALTOR.   Prospective buyers NEED to see your home now!

For additional information or to contact the writer email Frank@RealtorForResults.com or call (828) 342-9972