While the wages in Bay County are still lower than most big cities the housing market has dropped enough that locals can afford to buy as well as many new first time home buyers. Many people believe that they have to have a large sum of money saved to buy and with the deals now that just isn't so. Some sellers are offering to pay the closing costs up front even builders are offering closing costs or 3 months worth of payments. Making buying a home less costly upfront. I believe many first time home buyers are getting caught up in the negativity about the market and not taking advantage of this great oppurtunity that they have right now. I personally make it a habit everytime someone says something negative about the market I explain just how great it is for buyers right now. Focusing on the positive and putting a positive spin on the market is not just good for us as realtors but it is also important to stress this to our sphere of influence and get the word out to those first time home buyers who are possibly missing out on their chance to become a home owner.