The Internet is wonderful - sometimes.  The big problem is that there is too much information, especially about real estate.  More often than not, opinion is masquerading as truth.  When you're reading a blog, watching talking heads on TV, or reading the newspaper, keep in mind two things:  What is the experience of the person presenting the "information,", and what is the possible bias?

When it comes to experience, keep in mind whether the reporter is well-versed in what she is writing/talking about.  Is this someone who has seen real estate markets rise and fall?  Or is it - in Blanche Evans' words - a "cub reporter" excited just to be permitted to write something that is sensational?  In other words, consider the source (and the source's sources).

Possible bias is very similar.  Do you seek stock advice from your Realtor®?  Then why would you listen to a stock specialist's counsel on home buying?  A home is primarily a place to live.  For many years - in the long run - a home has been a good investment as well.  In the long run, there is no better investment than a home, but that is not important.  It is your home, first and foremost.

You see?  That's my bias.  I help people buy and sell homes.  When the market is "bad" for sellers, it's "good" for buyers, and vice versa.  I do not recommend stocks and bonds.  I provide the experience (since 1979) and information (too much, sometimes) to help buyer and sellers make good decisions.  That's my job, and I love what I do.