HANG ON TO YOUR HAT

All signs indicate that the real estate market in Missoula (and around the country) is on the rebound.  Yes, there are some markets that will not see much recovery for a very long time, but Missoula is NOT one of them.  We have had more activity in the last two weeks on our listings than in the last two years and I feel that the tide is turning and as we move in to the Spring, hang on to your hat.   Sellers, you need to be priced competitively, strategically and better understand the buyers in this marketplace.   Buyers, you need to have your financing pre-approved, be prepared to be realistic and understand that every seller is not in a distressed situation.  Sellers AND Buyers....put yourself in the others shoes, understand the dynamics of your barganing position and be realistic.   Yes, there are bank owned properties (REO's) and there are short sales (they are NOT short timelines) but that is a small fraction of our market and we need to take them into consideration, but not let them "dictate our marketplace"  as it is a relatively low percentage of sales.  The first thing BOTH buyers and sellers need to know is that they need to work with a real estate professional that you TRUST and that has the experience and knowledge to assist you with one of the largest transactions you will ever make.  Check credentials, check references, do they work full time in the industry or do they have a part-time job in something else and do they clearly understand your specific needs?    It's critical that you have an understanding of the process, the potential pitfalls, and the possible unexpected things that can happen in any transaction.    Do your homework BEFORE you get started, it will pay off in the long run.
Buying or selling real estate is NOT an easy thing to do in this type of market, you will really appreciate the expertise of someone that knows what they are doing, in YOUR best interest!