Wow it has been a long time since I have been on here and I apologize:) I have recently noticed an extremely high number of internet buyers looking at homes online. I know that this is no surprise due to the fact that it is WINTER but the actual numbers of visitors is somewhat astounding. I have seen in previous years where this number of internet visitors has spiked in the winter but this winter seems to be different. I believe that buyers are getting prepared for their purchase in the coming months and not just looking for entertainment.

This makes me feel very good about the months to come in this area of our economy. Confidence seems to be improving. That is extremely good news as it compares to last spring where everyone was unsure about housing prices bottoming out or not. It is a fact that in the Manistee County area, the prices are here to stay as they are right now. There are still quite a few sellers who have not yet adjusted their prices to what the current market suggests, but overall you can see the big picture. When you can purchase a home(albeit a money pit) for a mere $15,000, it begins to sink in.

If you are a buyer looking at purchasing one of those homes that are priced similar to a used car, remember the old saying "You get what you pay for". Expect evrything to be broken and if it isn't, BONUS.

But back to the homes that are in good condition that are not give-aways. These home prices have come down an average of 26% over the last 2 1/2 years. What a great deal for buyers! I might sound like I am beating a dead horse but WOW! I think that todays buyers are aware of this fact and have now begun to realize how important it is to purchase property soon.

It is not only important for first time home buyers to start building wealth, it is also a great time for buyers who plan on moving up to a bigger home to get it while the gettin' is good. The tax credit for existing home buyers is still a great incentive! $6,500!!!

Whatever situation you might be in, this is the time to get things going. Spring is historically a time when homes sell quickly so if you are on the fence waiting for the right time....it might slip past you.

www.manisteehouses.com