I am working with several buyers who are looking for a house trying to get into one before the $8000 tax credit expires.  Right now in Sherburne, Isanti, Anoka and Wright counties there simply is not much out there. I have not been seeing many new listings.  The ones that do come on the market are getting multiple offers and selling fast.  A few of the homes that are lasting are because they are in terrible condition and really need a cash or rehab loan buyer.

So what do you do if your a buyer? 

1. Be patient but persistent-  You can't get too worked about what is NOT available.  You just need to keep looking and trying and be ready when one comes up.

2. Plan NOT to get the tax credit (sort of) - I always like to hope for the best and preach that you must stay in an uplifted state of mind and that your thoughts become things.  However, at this point your going to need to find a house with in a couple of weeks and have everything go near perfect to close in time.

3. Factor in the flood of closings in November - If you get an offer accepted soon chance are that there may be an underwriting flood that could slow final approvals done, so get all your documentation to your loan officer NOW!

4. Buyer in December and January - if your frustrated with the amount of competition out there when you make an offer then buy a home when less people are buying and in Minnesota that is in the COLD winter months!

Chuck Carstensen - Re/max Associates Plus inc - 612-290-3809 - chuck@thediscoveryteam.com