"...impossible not to think about the possibilities."

“It’s not about timing the market. It’s about time in the market,” says Steve Berkowitz, chief executive officer at Move, Inc., a leader in online real estate. “Once you know how long you expect to own a home, look at the historical value performance of properties in the neighborhood. Be confident about your own job security, down payment resources and tolerance for upkeep, as well as the lifestyle you want today and in the near term. While homeownership may not be for everyone, it is the right choice for hundreds of thousands of people. Today’s housing market, especially for first-time buyers, makes it almost impossible not to think about the possibilities.”

This is very well put. There is so much misinformation and apprehension about the nationwide real estate market that potential buyers and sellers don't stop to consider (a) their local market and (b) their very neighborhood.

Don't be discouraged by real estate trends.  Yes, these are rough times, but yes you CAN avoid discouragement without putting those rose-colored glasses, that got so many into trouble in the hey-day, back on.

• Weigh the pros and cons of investing in a property. Is it right for you?
• Do your due diligence or ask a real estate pro (hey, we know some of those in Spokane!) to help you do it.
• Consider mortgage rates, seller motivation, inventory, and historic appreciation.

*Full article and more good advice here.