COMMENTS

IS NOW THE RIGHT TIME?

By: Shelby Gifford April 28, 2008

That's the million dollar question! Is this the right time to buy a new home or rental property. The answer is a resounding YES!!

Many different factors help determine whether we are in a proverbial seller's or buyer's market in the real estate industry. Right now, with so much hype going on about the impending doom and gloom in the real estate market, many are left confused and even worse, afraid to act. I'd like to help clear up a few things.

It IS a buyer's market. No question. Many people assume that the only factor that contributes to a buyer's market is a high level of inventory versus a seemingly low demand. Not true.

INTEREST RATES & FINANCING PACKAGES
With the nightly hoo-ha about subprime mortgages and foreclosures, not much is being made public about some really excellent government-backed programs that are perfect for first-time buyers. Rates are good, the financing IS available despite what you might hear on the street AND even more importantly, with the high level of inventory we're experiencing, many sellers are willing to help with closing costs. Talk about a trifecta!

HIGH INVENTORY
Our market has experienced a high level of inventory in the past year, especially in the single family housing category. Sellers are competing for you and this may translate into new appliances or help with closing costs.

STABLE PRICES
Everybody's speculating about whether we have "hit the bottom" where prices are concerned. Indicators for the Seattle area market say we have. Real estate is a long-term investment with an impressive historical growth record. Get in now while prices are low and watch your net worth increase.


There are many reasons to make the leap into homeownership. You have the "WHY." I'd love to show you the "HOW." Give me a ring at 253.255.1624 or drop me a note at shelby@theshelbynetwork.com and get started on the path to home ownership today!



Shelby Gifford is a REALTOR with RE2K.com and works primarily in the Eastern Pierce County area. As Orting's "Resident Expert", Shelby knows the area's best buys and has a great deal of experience in working with first-time buyers.