Recently I've switched from comparing 2007 to 2008 sales numbers as an indicator of trends in Northern Virginia neighborhoods.  Instead I'm posting neighborhood data for the last five years. 

Not all neighborhoods trend the same way at the same time.   However a pattern of when the average prices began to fall, the days on market and seller subsidies began to climb is more apparent with a five year chart than just looking at the last two years.  There is no doubt that I'm not a statistician and rely heavily on the MLS for most of my data.  However since the data is readily available, taking a few extra moments to pull up five years worth of data is a worthwhile exercise.

As an example:

Everyone has their own way of presenting and interpreting data.  Buyers and sellers will look at each report they find with a different view so in no way do I think my way is the right way.  It is helping me with my CMA's before I list a property and for my buyers it gives them a perspective on the ups and downs of Northern Virginia real estate.

If you are thinking of buying or selling your home in Orange Hunt Estates, Springfield (VA) or anywhere in the Northern Virginia area give me a call.  Let's talk about whether now is the right time for you to make a move.  No hassle, no pressure just straight talk about our current market.