Is Now A Good Or Bad Time To Buy Or Sell (2008)?

There is certainly much speculation as to the accurate forecast for 2008. There are economic indicators that support both a positive and a 'dhicken little' philosophy. But what should you be looking for to determine if the market is right for you to buy or sell?

* MLS inventory levels are stable based on the total number of rooftops although the bank owned properties and homeowners needing to sell their pre-foreclosure properties are keeping overall inventory levels saturated.

* Does this mean dont sell or dont buy? Absolutely not. when inventory levels are high it indicates a buyers market. This positions buyers who may not be good negotiators to have a price advantage over the seller due to the market alone. Buy Low! Isn't that the plan with all 'good' investments?

* Low monthly payments! With the current interest rates at 2004 levels (reported 1/25/2008) including Gov't mortgage programs at 100% financing and stated income programs still available finance is rather attractive. This makes the property more affordable as an owner occupant and creates a potential positive cash flow scenario for the investor! I did say POSITIVE.

* A home is worth what a home is worth... just because pre-foreclosure/short sale properties are on the market for below market prices does not mean your homes value has deteriorated. It is still possible to sell attractive well-cared for properties in the right locations for non-depressed fair market values. Yes there is competition but not in every neighborhood. You still have to pay to have all the caveats.

* Is now the time? Buy the time the general public figures out there is a new market brewing the actual investment opportunities have already passed. Use this as you industry insiders Tip!
If you would like more information on homes or investment properties we have valleywide offices to serve you. Give me a call or send me an email. You'll wish you did.

Todd C. Menard, GRI, MRE
President and Designated Broker
tmenard@cox.net

Buy Arizona Homes at 25-40% Of Today's Market Value!

Buy Bank Owned and Short Sale homes 25-40% under todays value!

How? Arizona has one of the highest levels of delinqencies on purchase-money first and refi mortgages. As the 3/1, 5/1, and 7/1 ARM's adjust many cannot afford the new payment and find themselves unable to sell since the current market value is below what they owe.

Why is it a good time? Obviously you are aware that by the time the general public becomes aware that it is time to buy the investor market has already passsed. Well, the investors are buying portfolios of these products right now. Since we are in the industry we need to paricipate or miss the market as well. Plus, the Greater Phoenix Metro Market is continuing to grow at above state average. 2007 ended at a modest 3% appreciation and 2008 is expected to be an additional 3-5% with recovery scheduiled for 2009 returning to an 8-12% annual appreciation schedule.

What does this mean for you and I? My company searches out the product and provides this opportunity to our own REALTORS as well as share the properties with others. We are known for multi-family acquisitions and now are launching into the REO, Bank owned and foreclsure properties. I am looking for other bloggers to spread the word and also personally acquire as well. All acquisitions are made after full disclosure so there is no portfolio requirements.

Let me know if this interests you. - Todd

PS if you have properties/opportunities for me in the REO, multi-family, self-storage or retail markets please do not hesitate to call me. We have buyers ready. Happy New Year - Todd