Sacramento Real Market Commentary - 2008 01

Are you waiting for the "rock bottom"?  Did you know that the majority of this down cycle is behind us?  According to smart economists, the press has been exaggerating the issues.  Sure, there are some good people in a bad situation but the market is correcting itself and some areas are already on the increase.    

• The Market:  Inventory is being snatched up by investors and buyers who know the bottom is nigh.  The indicators below have been hinting that the bottom is forming.  Unlike peaks in the market, the trough takes more time to develop.  The momentum of the changes indicates opportunity.  I study the market every day and offer this edge to all of my clients.  
• The Media:  The speed of bad news still exceeds the speed of light.  And good news...  Well, it doesn't even find the light with our media.  But I see a lot of activity with most [well-priced] listings getting multiple offers.  
• Congress:  Help who?  Now they want to fatten themselves with pet projects ("pork") which is delaying their actions.  Don't bank on congress doing anything with efficiency or effectiveness.
• My counsel to Buyers:  With homes in the affordable range, rates so low and rents on the rise, this is a great time for 1st-time buyers and investors.  I can help YOU find the home that meets your requirements.  Two years ago, buyers had to settle for a home since the selection was small.  Now there are some great properties just waiting for you.  Let me help you weed through the noise and find the best home for you.  Call for my FREE report on making this important buying decision.
• My counsel to Sellers:  Your competition is pretty high but buyers are making offers.  If there are ways you can stage your home and make it more attractive than your competition, then you should consider the updates.  Marketing is key.  Data suggests that buyers use Realtors and my marketing targets Realtors.  If you must sell, let me help you with preparation, staging, and marketing.  When you get multiple offers, the negotiating strategies I use will help you tremendously.  And if you are selling AND buying, the opportunity to recover the loss on the next sale is great!  Call for my FREE report on selling in this buyer's market.
• My counsel to Investors:  If you wait too long, others with capital will take the best properties.  Rents are on the rise which means your homework should include elasticity of that income.  Let me help you.  Call for my FREE report on investing in real estate.
• Bottom line:  If not now, when?  Are you in a position to buy now?  Do you know someone who has talked about acting on their desires but needs to find the right Realtor?  Look no further.   

If you are contemplating a purchase of a new home, be sure you know about all of the recurring costs; Private Transfer Taxes, Mello Roos, HOA Fees, and other "unspoken" costs could double your mortgage payment or make it difficult to sell when that time comes.  More often than not, using a Realtor to purchase a new home will get you a BETTER deal than if you work only with the developer.  If you register with a new development without me being with you, the builder does not have to honor our relationship -- and they won't.  Landscaped backyards, upgraded kitchens, maybe even a pool are possible incentives but the builders will have the upper hand unless you know what to say and when.  And it won't cost YOU anything.  The builder/seller pays for my buyer agency fee.  This is also true for bank-owned properties.  Call me today to get started with your search.  

---

You can get my privacy policy here.

Jay Emerson, Realtor®, 5006 Sunrise Blvd., Ste 202, Fair Oaks, CA 95628. (916-517-9606)  All rights reserved. All statements or expressions of opinion, or any other matter herein, directly or indirectly, are only offers for real estate consultation and representation of buyers and sellers of residential homes or investment properties in California.  While I believe the sources of information to be reliable, I in no way represent or guarantee the accuracy of the statements made herein. I, Jay Emerson, Realtor®, do not provide investment counseling nor act as an investment advisor and am not a registered investment advisor. Unauthorized reproduction of this newsletter or its contents by Xerography, facsimile, or any other means is illegal and punishable by law.  Copyright © 2007 Jay Emerson, Realtor®