Always the realist, I am know to be conservative in my calls but I think it is official, The Bay Area has hit its own real estate slowdown.

As near as I can tell, the full impact started in San Francisco & the Pennisula about November 10th. I know you are saying "duh" the country knew this months ago.

Well it really did not affect our market until recently and still there are districts in San Francisco that are still active and parts of the pennisula that are still growing in price per unit and sales. (can you say Palo Alto?)

National pundits are saying that the Bay Area was the last to get hit and will be the first to recover so if their prognosis is accurate then lets figure a second quarter turn for us to the upside.

Locally, I have been telling my buyers to get familiar with their targeted market so when we see a change then we can act accordingly. To me that means "snatch up some deals" before prices start rising again.

If you are an investor, think about 6-10 unit apartment buildings now. Because rents are holding steady and there are several local apartment owners who have over extended themselves.

Anyway, I wish everyone the best this holiday season, Happy Holidays!!

For more information or details contact Ken at: kglidewell@pacunion.com

or visit his website at: http://www.KenGlidewell.com