So far, it’s been a bumpy 6 years, as home prices correct themselves from the peak of 2005 (values saw  double digit increases from 2000 to 2005).   The median price declines we are now experiencing seem more painful because of this boom. -1.9% in 2006,   -1.6% in 2007,   -9.9% in 2008,   -9.8% in 2009,   +1.4% in 2010,   -6.2% in 2011 The S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices show that as of March 2012, average home prices across the U.S. are back to 2002/2003 levels. Where are we going?  According to a March 2012 survey of economists, real estate experts and investment and market strategists conducted by Pulsenomics, home values are predicted to slowly rise starting 2013. -0.72% in 2012,   +1.39% in 2013,   +2.55% in 2014,   +3.18% in 2015,   +3.32% in 2016 What does all this mean?   For sellers, realistic pricing is of utmost importance if you wish to sell.  Price for today’s market; not what it was in 2005.  For buyers, there may never be a better time to buy than this year.  Call me if you want to work with a REALTOR® in the know!  603-526-4116

Donna Forest, Broker Associate