Where Do You Get Your Housing News?

In Richmond, Virginia, should we believe the news recently reporting that the real estate market is finally turning the corner? Notice I didn’t say “improving”. Nevertheless, media reports have been more forthcoming with increased frequency about where the housing market is these days, and that perhaps we hit bottom back in December. I’m also getting reports from other parts of the country claiming more positive housing trends.

So why do we need the media to tell us that things are getting better? I’ve spent the last six months evaluating the market in order to better counsel my buyers and sellers. I’ve done my best to put a positive spin on what has been a difficult time, but there is no denying that this is one of the best times in history to buy a home.

For whatever reason, most people don’t want to hear about real estate changes from their Realtor. They would prefer to wait for it to be reported in the news. I hate to say it, but who do you think has the inside line on housing trends; the people who work in the industry daily, or the ones reporting on it from the outside?

Do I believe the market has corrected itself? Do I feel the housing crisis is over? Do I think the home situation is completely stabilized? The answer to these questions is "NO"! I do believe there is no one out there more qualified to help our buyers and sellers evaluate the market in order to make informed decisions bout their housing choices than REALTORS®. You don’t need the media to tell you how it works; find a trusted advisor and consult with them. That’s what I do in every other aspect of my life, why should Real Estate be any different?

John VanderSyde is an Associate Broker with Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company, and is also a Licensed Architect.