It is hard to believe that we are almost half way through August already. Early in the year I wrote a blog Ready for 2008. This was to set some goals for the year. It was aimed at Realtors but this blog is for both Realtors and home buyers and sellers too.

For me this has been a year of changes and challenges. Just recently I switched companies to Coldwell Banker Town and Country Properties. The opportunity arose and I decided to take it, but that is another blog for another day. As far as my original goals, I am moving in the right direction.

Goal #1 - Break into the REO market. WOW is this a tough shell to crack. I have a new found appreciation for Realtors already involved in this market. It is a lot of work just to break into the market. This doesn't even include all of the work once you do break in. I have made progress with getting connections, but am still waiting for that first listing to come my way. Not giving up yet!

Goal #2 - Stay in touch with past clients. I have definitely improved in this area and have had good results from keeping in touch. Many of my listings and sales this year are connected with past clients.

Goal #3 - Get a website. It is up and running. Check it out!

With each year comes adjustments and changes. Nationwide the housing market is not at the top of its game. Because of that, buyers and sellers images and mindsets tend to get skewed in the wrong direction. Like most of my other blogs, I will tell you that this local market is still doing well. It is definitely a buyers market, but that does not mean it is a bad time to sell. It is also a good time to sell and houses that are priced right are moving. If you are thinking of buying, jump in while there are lots of houses to choose from and rates are still low. Don't wait or you will miss out on great opportunities. If you are ready to sell, get your home on the market before the summer is gone. Most importantly, price your home right as there is a lot of competition out there. Homes priced right SELL.

Todd Jones - Realtor, ABR, OA, SRS - Selling Scranton, Clarks Summit Real Estate