Real Estate Market in this area

Since I am asked so frequently asked about the market in this area...well, usually, I'm not asked, I'm told how difficult the market is right now. I thought I should once again state my opinion on the current trends in this market. Folks, it is fine. Quit listening to the national news and applying it to this area. This area is along the I-85 corridor. Businesses in this area are thriving and new industries are and will come here. This area is growing by leaps and bounds. Yes, there is a lot of inventory right now. Great, that means more to choose from! And, this is spring. More people put their houses on the market in the spring. That's not a surprise. People try to move when the weather is pleasant and children are out of school.
I even see my fellow Realtors showing concern about this market. I understand that the news is telling us information that makes us all want to panic. (I certainly don't want to pay five dollars a gallon for gas.) This panic is leading to some cut-throat competition. I've stated before that I do not think that a highly competitive spirit in Real Estate makes a successful Realtor. Realtors understanding current market trends is conscientious. Realtors backstabbing other Realtors over sales is fear of not having enough. And let's be honest, there is enough business for each of us, if and only if, we work together. I work with some outstanding Realtors on a regular basis. They are not concerned. They are working just like I am. I am grateful to each of them for their kindness and fairness towards me and my clients.
So, what are the benefits to this market? Since housing prices are dropping, its a great time for investing, or deciding to upgrade. Maybe, this is a time for current renters to consider becoming a home buyer. That's good news. I understand that homeowners want as much value as possible for their home. But, if we all can take a step back. We can see that most people can still afford the type of home they want. If the value of your home is not what you thought it would be, chances are neither is the home you've had your eye on for the last six months.
The bottomline is the real estate market in our area is ok. Fear breeds a sense of lack. We do not lack. We live in the one of the wealthiest countries on Earth. If you are ready to sell your house, sell it. Listen to your Realtor and sell it. If you are ready to buy for the first time, buy. Listen to your Realtor and buy it.