by Erin LaBuda

Being in the business of helping people buy and sell real estate is always a
rewarding occupation but now, with the market changes, it has become increasingly
difficult to help clients understand the shift.  Why? Primarily, it is the
challenges my buyer clients are seeing because of the new credit regulations,
inventory inflexibility and fear about investing in what is perceived as a
declining market.  However, there is hope!  Fortunately, credit problems can
usually be fixed within a 12 month period (with advice from a reputable
mortgage loan officer), inventory inflexibility is manageable by creating
realistic time lines (with help from a reputable real estate agent) and the
declining market is a result of excessive inflation that is correcting itself (with
the help of home owners and buyers).   So, I thought, what (if any) is the
silver lining?

If you can do it, invest in local real estate.  Because of the above problems
facing home buyers, the desire to rent for the short term or long term is going
to continue to increase. Additionally, the buyers are going to want homes in
the communities where they wanted to purchase because of land, schools,
transportation, families, friends, etc.  There are great "deals" to be had out
there if you have good credit, patience, perseverance and quality
representation.

If you have any questions about how to become a real estate investor or
questions about becoming a homeowner (regardless of current credit and market
challenges) please give me a call and I can help you determine if investing,
purchasing or renting is a sound way to manage your hard-earned dollars.  The
market will change again and if you don't understand the advantages and
disadvantages of the current climate, you may miss out on an opportunity that
will fall away with the next shift.