This report from "The Buyers Rep" is good news for real estate agents across the country.  I know that real estate is always local but national trends, especially those that are published, have always helped buyers and sellers in every location.   

To quote the article:

As the primary reason for moving, No. 1 on the list was to live in a bigger/better home (26 percent), followed by living in a better neighborhood or area (24 percent); to be closer to family/friends (12 percent); living in an area with a lower cost of living (9 percent); or a move that was sparked by a change in marital status (6 percent). Moving because of school, job loss, retirement or foreclosure each garnered 3 percent or less.

These facts indicate that more and more people are seeing the benefits and rewards of buying a home now.  If the new tax incentives that congress is considering pass, $1500 tax break for any home buyer not just first time buyers, I believe we will see an even greater increase in home buying.

We still need to keep in mind that finances always play an important role in any decision to buy a house. The report continued:

While finances still factor into the moving decisions, the survey indicates that fewer people were feeling the need to move due to job losses, foreclosures or downsizing to cut costs. The people who looked to improve their living situation were a mix of those buying a home or renting that were seeking to take advantage of lower rents and home prices to move smart.

Moving can be very stressful.  But with the right attitude and the right agent every transaction can be smooth and enjoyable.