Sales Will Slow from Now Through the Winter

Sales are traditionally slower from Thanksgiving though February, and this year will probably not be any different. The media, government, and Realtors are all hopeful that the $8000 tax credit for first time buyers and the $6500 credit for move up buyers will encourage people to keep on the hunt during the slow season. I think that there may be a small increase from last years purchases, but it's just not fun to go look at houses and condos in the winter! Not only is everybody busy with holiday stuff, it's cold and dark in the evenings, when most people are looking at homes. If you are on the market for a new place, it can be great to persevere through the winter because there is less competition from other buyers, and sellers are usually thrilled to have anybody interested at that time. While the stats have seemed positive for the last few months, look out for the media to start decrying a second bottom for the real estate market!