The RE market is somewhat similar to the weather. That is to say that it seldom, if ever, happens that one gigantic weather pattern engulfs the entire nation.

While it may be raining on the other side of the country or in several isolated areas, you are not similarly affected if the sun is shining where you live. Similarly, while national media constantly discuss the national housing downturn, not all areas are affected similarly. The real estate climate on the coasts may be different from that of the nation's interior, and there may also likely be differences between metropolitan, suburban and rural areas.

In short, all real estate is local. As a RE professional about your local conditions, don't try to second guess.

All you need is one buyer to buy your home. If personal circumstances are forcing you to sell, it is just as likely that some potential buyer in your area needs to find a place to live for reasons of his or her own.