In all of the negative news coverage, there has been little attention paid either locally or nationally to the the positive aspects of the current market conditions. It seems to me that, particularly in a time of political turmoil, terrorism fears, historically high fuel, food and medical costs, not to mention thousands of innocents abroad and in harm's way, that a little positive outlook is both necessary and desirable. Let's think about it -

1. Interest rates are at an all time low. If you are a qualified buyer that has a reasonable chance of repaying the debt, you can get a real estate mortgage loan that is very advantageous. Sure, you've got to work at it a little; shop around, be mindful of your credit report and have some cash available to purchase. But, let's face it, that is really the way it has always been and should have been. That's not negative - it's normal.
2. There is a large selection of available properties to purchase. But, it's the same as Number 1: you've got to work at it a little; shop around, be mindful of the marketplace and have some cash available for the purchase. Not every property is priced the way you would like it to be. (What's different about that?) Not every seller is receptive to a low-ball offer. (What's different about that?) But right now there are some bargains out there.
   
3. If you're a seller, there are a load of buyers out there looking. Sure, you've got to work a little: shop around for a knowledgeable broker or be prepared to do the work yourself, have enough equity in the property or available cash to pay off the mortgage and selling expenses. (What's different about that?) Not every buyer will pay a price that is above market value just because you decide that the price is "what you need" or "what you want". (What's different about that?) Buyers, their agents, and appraisers are tough on market value. (What's different about that?) But properties of all types are selling every day out there.
   

So, as always, buyers are buying, sellers are selling, lenders are lending. The main difference? In this market, everybody has to work a little harder at it.

In my view, that's a good thing.