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The "doom and gloom" news just keeps getting better and better, doesn't it? Every “expert” is predicting cataclysmic events in our economy, and pointing to the state of affairs in real estate as the catalyst for a meltdown. While there are some viable concerns, particularly from buyers that had no right getting into a mortgage in the first place, hopefully you can see through some of the hyperbole and see the reporting for what it is -- a way to sell newspapers!

I know you may be skeptical now, but consider a few things:

First, The Boston real estate market is driven by a few unique factors that will not change any time soon. Geography is one. With a city that has a small gross living area and is contained by the bay on one side, and a river on the other, residential space has been at a premium here for quite a while.

Second, we have a youthful city with over 80 colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area. There is always a fresh influx of students and teachers that will always drive turnover and demand for housing. Another advantage of this segment is a talented and educated pool of workers, which has caused many businesses to locate near that resource. From medical to biotech to financial services, Boston is a desired relocation destination for many large companies and their workforce.

Third, the general trend of our aging, working and retiring, population, the "Baby Boomers" has been a move back to the city life. Not just in Boston. Many large American cities are seeing an influx of “empty nesters” who seek the excitement and access to the urban venues and amenities that city living provides. Fortunately there is usually enough equity in their family homes to adjust to the current pricing, and, properties can still be found at value. The first three points are basic tenets of supply and demand.

Lastly, the federal government has taken strong interest in keeping the real estate market from continued decline by keeping interest rates lower overall. This means more buying power for everyone. The Federal Reserve just lowered the Prime another 3/4 of a point yesterday. That's stimulation! The tax advantages of home ownership are amazing as well. Already, the latest real estate data from 2007 shows that the prices, and number of transactions, are slowly creeping higher in many Boston neighborhoods. The money is available for qualified buyers.

The most popular question that customers ask right now is, “Is now a good time to buy?” The short and sweet answer, based on everything that we know right now is "YES". Without the proverbial crystal ball, no one can predict what the Boston real estate market will look like next year. But, with an overall positive outlook on Boston, backed by all of the present data, finding a house you love will still ultimately prove to be a sound investment. People are shopping, now!

We are always here to help, answer questions, show you properties, whatever you may need to find a home you love. It’s our job!

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