I've been working with two buyers in the Foster City market recently. One just landed a good short sale townhouse. The market has had low inventory since the beginning of the year. This probably will not change much. High demand for housing in the mid-peninsula, especially in the areas such as Foster City with strong schools. Interest rates will stay low for a while - so that will keep things stable. Inventory in the good school areas probably will stay stable too. Historically, from mid-October to January is a gradual decline in inventory. So, the next two months may be your best window.

Popytoys, numbers can deceiving but the market is showing signs of recovery. Usually once the stock market stabilizes, real estate follows. As of 8/9/09 Foster City has 23 Active listings for sale and Burlingame has 66. Foster City has 21 Pending sales and Burlingame has 25.

My advice would be to get approved for a loan, and if you don't have a real estate agent , start looking for one. Most agents have web sites and can link you to the multiple listing service so you can get real time updates on new listings.

If you are in no rush, focus on finding the "right" home. When you find that home, it's time to make a move.

Good luck,

Dave Tap Tapper
Realtor
Cashin Company http://www.DavidTapper.com
650-403-6252

I think you'll find people that will say it is stable and others that will say that it is not. I personally believe that when you are ready to buy and if you are in it for the long run, the price fluctuations will not matter as you are in it for the long haul and real estate has tended to appreciate over time.