The New Year seems to be starting off with a bang!  Yes - the headlines continue spouting the latest "factoids" about the implosion of the housing market from whatever company is cranking out the latest set of numbers.  However, buyers may have reached the tipping point and seem to realize that the only way to find out if they can get the best deal on the home of their dreams is to TRY.  And they're out in full force doing just that in most of our markets.  Is it a sea change?  It's too early too tell, but it is motivating to know that both buyers and sellers seem more willing to listen to their real estate professionals now, and are putting less faith in Ivory Tower economists who don't live in the Bay Area or understand the nuances and intricacies of our housing markets.

Over and over, our offices are reporting listings and open houses that are buzzing with activity. Two agents in our office report that they encountered multiple offer situations when trying to present $1M + offers just this past weekend. We have witnessed similar scenarios in our South Livermore-Pleasanton Market. In most local markets agents report that they are very surprised at the excellent turn out and open enthusiasm of open house attendees.  Buyers appear serious for the first time in a long time.

It's pleasant to report that not only are buyers out there looking - they're also buying.    It's been said many times before, but it bears reminding everyone that proper and smart pricing of a home is truly key to entering into a speedy sale.   Inventory, priced right, is getting a lot of attention.  If it's not, it's not.

 We are off and running for the New Year and buyers seem to be ready willing and able to seize the moment....at least so far!

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