Dale Rosebrugh: Your Real Estate Agent in Wasaga Beach

Dale sells real estate in Wasaga Beach, Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Allenwood Beach, Woodland Beach. He specializes in waterfront properties!

THE TRUTH ABOUT THE MARKET

I realize that a lot of people are weary about the economy and a lot is being said about the housing market, so I wanted to post a message to hopefully shed some light on the situation.

First things first, don't be influenced by what you read in the newspapers or hear on your TV. It's true that market conditions have changed, but human nature has not, life still goes on. Real estate is one of the largest investments people will make in their lifetime. It's also one of the safest. Think about it this way, a home in 1980 that was worth $67,000 and is now valued at over $300,000 today – an increase of 350 per cent and the profit is capital gains exempt.

However, make no mistake at what I am trying to say, 2008 has presented the real estate industry with challenges across the board. Unit sales nationally are down 14% from one year ago, hovering at approximately 397,000, while average price at $305,719 is up marginally over year-to-date figures for the same period in 2007.

Clearly, market conditions in most areas have shifted in favour of the buyer, which is a good thing for many. There are more homes listed for sale than one year ago and houses are taking longer to sell.

Sellers are adjusting to new market realities, although reluctantly, while buyers are taking it all in. I am seeing some people sitting on the fence, waiting for housing values to fall further or interest rates to decline a percentage point or two more. The courageous are jumping into the market, taking advantage of lower prices, greater selection, and less competition.

For those that are Selling and Buyer in the same market, it's all relative. Sellers may get less than they thought for their homes, but they'll also pay less on the other side of the transaction. With market conditions stabilizing, first-time buyers now have the luxury of time in making their housing decisions. They also have greater purchasing power than they had one year ago - and their dollar will go much farther!

Unlike other investment, residential real estate serves two purposes. It's still considered an investment, but it is also a roof over your head. We know from past experience that housing appreciates at an average rate of five per cent annually. It's cyclical, so it may rise and fall, but the risk involved will never be as steep or as serious as in the stock market, where the value of your portfolio can drop 30% overnight and some of your stocks can fall to 0. You also can't live in your mutual fund.


 

Buying and Selling Real Estate in Wasaga Beach:

Dale has been selling Real Estate in Wasaga Beach and area for over 20 years. Referrals from past clients & customers have kept Dale in an elite group of agents consistently receiving REMAX® sales awards. His accomplishments have been achieved by always keeping people's interest and concerns in the forefront of his business. Call Dale and Start Packin'!

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