According to HAR  - HOUSTON (February 19, 2008) - We are having a slow start.  Hmm what's new?  This is a trend we all know about.  The Christmas/New Year/Mardi Gras/Rodeo/Valentines day holiday period has an effect of diverting funds and mainly consumer focus onto the more important issues of family and loved ones.  Add to this lack of focus, a constant reminder by the news media that the real estate market as a whole is taking a hit and it is reasonable that some consumers will begin to worry.

Like I said, a slow January is nothing new.  I tell buyers and sellers that they need to think like a surfer...  get your board waxed up, suit up and get ready to paddle out there to catch the wave. (Translation: get your house show ready, get your preapproval letters together, and start watching your the neighborhoods of interest)

Right now its the morning calm but the waves will start picking up and you need to be ready for a good summer for all. 

If you are unsure, checkout HAR.  They said this slow period is coming right after one of the best years on record, something the nation cannot boast but Houston can.

So break out your board and start waxing it up because you are in for some heavy "internet home" surfing this year.

Good luck and Cowabunga!

NC