Hello Daniel,
I believe today is the day with all the stars in alignment. I mean we have 4.536% APR on conforming 30 yr fixed loans along with median prices in Goleta going down to $469,500 from $650,000 last October. The benefit of the tax credit is just icing on the cake for a buyer today and don't the media has scared most of your competition away.
If you are interested in seeing the lowest rates offered with great Real Estate service give me a call.

Thadeus Brewer
Real Estate Broker
Cal Coast Realty
Lic #01299155
805-451-6374
219 W. Carrillo St. Ste. D
Santa Barbara, Ca 93101

Hi Daniel
As you can see, I answered your question back in September
Interest rates are still good, the low end of my area is red HOT with sales, and the 1st time home buyer has now been extended into next year.

Still a great time to buy! Motivated sellers stay on the market over the holidays.

Kathleen Barnato
Prudential CA Realty
Santa Barbara, Hope Ranch, Montecito

Hi Daniel, I cover the South Santa Barbara County area - from Carpinteria to Goleta, and including Hope Ranch, Montecito, and Santa Barbara. The zips you mention are all in my area.
According to our Santa Barbara Multiple Listing Service stats, the market "bottomed out" in March of 2009 - each month since then we have seen more sales and less inventory. Interest rates have remained historically low. Important considerations to answer your question: : (a) time the market for interest rates rather for market value (b) you know the market value of homes AND you know what interest rates are now (c) there is no assurance that the $8000 credit will be extended beyond November 30: (c) this is a very good time to buy. Don't wait! Kathleen Barnato http://www.kathleenbarnato.com k@kathleenbarnato.com 805-570-3366