The Real Story Behind the Housing Market
By Elizabeth Hanson The Callan Team
F ormer President Ronald Reagan once

described the government's

view of the economy: "If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." This philosophy has never been more poignant. Today's unstable market conditions have everyone on edge. But honestly, dear buyers, take a long, hard look at the market. Inventory is decreasing. Historic lows prevail for mortgage rates. The employment climate in Worcester County is strong. The government is helping to lure buyers in with FHA loan reform and higher limits on Jumbo loans. This move will release the pent-up demand that the industry is facing and eliminate the excessive pessimism of buyers who are "waiting it out." There is "nothing to fear but fear itself" to quote another American president.

Truth is, buyers who purchase a home today (and stay put for five years) are guaranteed to come out ahead. A few buyers have taken advantage of the values, the condition, and the location of real estate, but not enough. Why did so many buy homes as prices went up? Why aren't they buying now when prices are down? It is baffling, but be assured, by working with a savvy agent who has the negotiating skills, knowledge and fortitude to understand these confusing times and to be able to translate them to today's buyers makes all the difference in the world. But what is really holding buyers back from buying? Why is the confidence level of consumers so low?

508-864-1012 cell www.Mass-Homes.net

Buyers are being held hostage by the media! The housing reports talked about on the news and in the papers are national stats, not local. The press reports only bad news. Who is interested in the rosy picture? Because of rising foreclosures, prices are still falling, holding back buyers. Buyers are being brainwashed by the media to believe that the Federal Reserve will continue to slash interest rates even though there is not a direct correlation between Fed rate cuts and mortgage rate changes.

Here's the real story, according to my irreverent Dad (to whom nothing is sacred): Helium is up, feathers are down. Paper is stationary and knives are up sharply. Hiking gear is trailing. Elevators continue to rise, while escalators continue on their slow decline. Mining has hit rock bottom and diapers remain unchanged. Ships are at an even keel, but balloon prices are inflated. Everywhere, batteries are exploding in an attempt to recharge the market …

Hmmm, let's all take a collective deep breath. Sellers still want to sell and buyers still want to buy. And we are still here to help buyers and sellers navigate this crazy market!
ELIZABETH HANSON
The Callan Team
Independent
Real Estate Group
508-864-1012 cell
www.Mass-Homes.net