As summer comes to a close in what has touted to be the worst recession in many a year, it appears that the Upper Valley has escaped relatively unscathed so far. The first quarter of the year was pretty dead in the real estate world, but since April, activity has steadily picked up and sales are becoming more frequent every month that goes by. Of course, much of the activity has been first time buyers taking advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity for the government to actually pay up to $8000 if you buy a home.

Sadly, that program is over at the end of November, so it will be interesting to see how things go this winter. Foreclosures have, for the most part, been few and far between, but some of the foreclosed properties have been real bargains and some fortunate buyers, especially those with cash, have made some really good buys. I suspect there will be more foreclosure action as time goes on, but not in the crippling fashion prevalent in some over-developed states.

For buyers, there has probably been no better time to buy in the last 10-15 years. Rates are low, tax incentives are there, inventory is high and prices are low. The outlook is not as bright for sellers: prices are down, days on the market are up, and the competition is fierce. But- homes are being bought and sold every day. For brokers, it's more work than it has been in the past, but there is opportunity for everyone who does what has to be done.

At least it's hot enough to feel like summer for the last few days, so enjoy it, all!. The ground will be white before we know it.