Is anything ever as "bad" as it's reported?  Not very often.  In fact, "The Market" is local.  In other words the news you hear reported is typically national reports.  When what you, Mr. Buyer or Seller, need to know is: What are local market conditions?  This is a very important question to ask any real estate professional before you decide to buy or sell a home.  If you are like most buyers and sellers you will be selling your current home and buying another.  So, another question for you: Is it better to buy in a "buyer's market" or sell in a "seller's market"?  If you wait to sell in a "seller's market" then you will be buying in a "seller's market".  So which is better?  Unless you're moving to another part of the country it's rarely a "buyer's market" and a "seller's market" in the same city.  Therefore, it's never a "bad" market.  The simple fact is you need to work with a trusted real estate professional who can explain local market conditions in a way you can understand so you can apply.  Also understand the basic investment strategy of "buy low - sell high", meaning you make your money on your buy not your sell.  So, truly it could not be a better market to buy a home than right now!  So what are waiting for?  I know your answer: "Market conditions to improve."  Hmm :)

Currently, the Kansas City market is a "buyer's market".  However, there are segments/price ranges where it's more of a balanced market.  This can be better for sellers in those segments but unfortunately this is were the national news reports influence the buyer's perception of the market and influence offers.