Get While the Gettin's Good

Posted at 5:05 AM, Sep. 15, 2008

Just as any good thing comes to an end, so will the buyer's market.  There is still a surplus of properties waiting to be had.  Yet still, too many buyers are riding the fence; debating with themselves whether or not is this the right time.  There is no right time.  Ever.  Not to have kids, change jobs, move, get married, buy or sell anything.  This is what I know to be true.  There is only right now.  Anything that requires major change will require faith.  Faith that for YOU, this is your moment. 

So, if you are going to take advantage of this market trend, do so with a few pointers in mind. 

Start with what you want.  Forget the numbers and look at where you are in your life and where you would like to be in the next 10 years.  It doesn't have to be a near reality, just a desire.  Seperate those wants with what is necessary and what is a desire.  Do you need to be close to the train, or do you want to be close to the train.  How would you decifer that?  Ask yourself, would you pay $20K more for a home for that privledge?  If not, that it isn't a need.  Apply that to your entire list.  If you get these things on your list without paying extra, well, that's just gravy!

After you have established that, look at your numbers.  Pick a reasonable range that reflects your need list and broaches perhaps your wants.  From this, you can realistically see a good deal when it presents itself.  Then ask yourself, do you expect to move, or are you just entertaining it because of the times?  No one likes a luke warm buyer anymore than a self-decieved seller.  If your not in it for keeps, get out.  Rules to live by.