I handle 13 new home communities that range from Amherst, Campbell County, through Bedford County. I have noticed that if the pre-owned and or new homes are priced reasonably to begin with, they are getting approximately 97% of the asking price for their homes, which has not changed with the declining market. If they are asking too much, they will eventually have to either reduce their price, take it off the market, or take a substantially lower offer. Homes have a value and it appears to be consistent in the end result.

As for Boonsboro compared to Bedford County, I have noticed the largest growth and consistency coming from the Forest area, which is located in Bedford County. I also feel that Lynchburg City rates are more competitive than in the past. I would be happy to send a Price Comparison that shows average days on the market for each county and price range that we use when listing a home if you would like.

Mr. Secrest is completely right, and we should point out that the list to sale price ratio is still averaging 96.8%, which for the current market is consistent from years past. Sellers do seem to be open to offers on any properties and if they are motivated sellers, would want to consummate a sale. For the last several years, the growth that has occurred west of the city has offered the largest part of the home inventory in our area, but now, other areas are starting to compete, such as Campbell County east and south of the city, and growth in the Amherst County area, north of the city.

Depending on the price range in which you are looking, it is not uncommon to see a $10,000 price difference. If you're looking in the upper brackets you could see very substantial differences (i.e. $20,000 to $50,000) -- all dependent on how many "days on market" and how motivated the seller is. We have quite a bit of inventory to sell off before things get better. If you happen to be looking for a town home now is a great time because we have a lot of them in the $120,000 to $135,000 range. The builders are giving away closing costs, and in some cases, a washer/dryer and refrigerator (perhaps even a big screen TV). These are examples, but you cannot count on this being across the board. Some people get good advice from a reliable Realtor and price their home properly in the beginning.