There is a lot of indecision in the air these days.  If you are among the many people who just aren’t sure if it REALLY is a good time to buy real estate, your skepticism is not unwarranted.  With current economics being a mixed picture and unemployment remaining high, there is a definite impact in the housing market. However, the confidence of consumers is starting to rise and the inventory of homes for sale in many neighborhoods is dropping.  With the federal tax credit available till April 30th and mortgage rates at historic lows, the decision to buy a home is a good one. 

There is a continuing question of the economy.  Some believe we are in recovery, but the facts show that although the decline has slowed, we are not moving upward quite yet.  The good news is that this is actually what is keeping real estate at the top of the great investment list.  Prices are low, lending, although stricter, is also safer and the inventory is huge.  So how can you make sure that your home buying decision will remain the best choice for the coming years? It’s all about resale!

Even when you plan on staying in your home for the next 50 years, those years will be unpredictable and “the plan” is subject to change at any time.  For this reason, you should buy a home that will appreciate, is in a good, growing neighborhood and can be easily maintained or improved.  Remember, even when you don’t plan to sell, your children might have to and resale is going to predict how much of an asset your house will be to you. 

When it comes to resale value it is important to locate a property in a great neighborhood with top rated schools, good public transportation and easy access to highways. The stronger neighborhoods hold their value in good and bad economic times and will be the first to rebound from the bad times. When you find a property of interest take the time to research the neighborhood.

Besides always monitoring a home’s resale value it is also important to find motivated sellers.  Motivated sellers offer the best possible bang for your home buying buck.  Your real estate agent will able to tell you how long a property has been on the market. If it is your first time to buy a house, you may feel uneasy seeking out the desperate sellers, but this is a chance to get a house at the best price. Another great savings can be found in REO and foreclosure properties.  These properties will be listed at well below marketing value prices.  Any large purchase such as a home will carry some risk, so shopping smart and factoring in the resale value during your decision will make it the smartest buying decision you can make.