We are still in the midst of a very strong seller's market. In the first quarter of last year home sales dropped 5% lower than last year. This isn't because we lack buyers. This is because new listings also dropped 6% lower than last year. That's over 500 houses less than there were last year.

So it's still a great time to sell and a difficult time to buy.

I can't stress enough how invaluable it is to use a real estate agent to buy a home in this market. A good real estate agent knows the ins and outs of the market, the industry and the contract and knows how to make your offer stand out above the others you are competing with. It's not all just about price - earnest money, deadlines and contingencies can also help make your offer stronger than the competition.

If you're looking to buy or sell your home - or perhaps do both - give me a call.