In This Issue


May Newsletter
May 7, 2008 12:00AM

The real estate market is always good.  It just depends on whether you are a buyer or seller.  Right now it is an excellent time to buy.  Prices are down, interest rates are good and there is more inventory than ever for buyers to choose from. Real estate has proven to be a wise, long-term investment.  Below are positive angles that appeared recently in the media and underscore why it is a good time to buy real estate.

 -According to The "Real Estate Outlook: Index Says Positive Growth Underway," by Kenneth Harney, Realty Times, April 24, 2008.

Positive Signs for Economy Provide Hope for the Housing Market

It's undeniable that there are some glimmers out there that the underlying economy and financing marketplace, which after all are what support real estate activity, finally may be headed in a positive direction.

The latest Conference Board "Index of Leading Indicators," which is based on a broad survey of industry data and predicts economic activity three to six months down the road, registered its first increase in six months. The index suggests that there should be positive growth underway in the second half of the year, if not sooner.

A new report from the National Bureau of Economic Research which found that industrial production in the U.S. showed an unexpected uptick in March.   

Suzie Orman states, "I'm still a believer in the long-term viability of housing as a solid investment if you buy at the right price. This has me thinking that the current shakeout is in fact creating an interesting sweet spot for first-time homebuyers to at least start checking out the market."  

-- Suzie Orman, author and TV host, "This Could be the Time to Buy a House," Detroit Free Press, April 21, 2008.

It's too early to talk of a trend, but lower house prices and mortgage rates are bringing buyers out of hibernation, at least in some markets. Provided sellers are prepared to cut prices, buyers are willing to bid, real estate agents say."I'm seeing a lot more young purchasers. The phones are ringing, multiple offers, more showings, just a lot more activity than we were having."

 -- Lauralee Ensign, owner, Fairfield, Calif. real estate office, "Brokers Feel a Pulse in Home Market,"

Are you thinking of buying a home? As a Realtor, I pride myself on getting to know my clients to really understand their needs and desires and then helping them to achieve their goals. If you are a seller, I can help you navigate a course through these somewhat challenging times, to set the best price and show off your home to its best advantage. And if you are looking for a new home, there are opportunities and I will help you find them.

Either way, I welcome the opportunity to talk to you about real estate in the Napa Valley. Please give me a call!

Sincerely,

Ingrid Owen
707.363.2894