Dawn Isenhower Sibcy Cline Realtors

When gas prices started on their roller coaster ride a few years ago after hurricane Katrina, I would try to strategize the "when" and "where" of filling my tank. I remember everyone around me saying, "make sure that you buy your gas before Wednesday, or the price will go up."

Pretty soon, I got tired of trying to play that game. It always seemed like I would put off filling the tank and I would end up needing gas when it was at its highest. To this day, I still look for the most reasonable place to purchase gas when I need it, but in order to keep my sanity, I now just take advantage of a good deal when it presents itself. I do not stress over the rest.

I think that the same can be said of the housing market. The mortgage rep. for our office came to our business meeting yesterday and assured us that now is a great time to buy. Interest rates are low, and financing is out there for people who have 20% down and a good credit score. He also said, however, that there are those out there afraid to buy because we have not "hit bottom yet." This seems to be the same line of thinking as that of the gas tank strategy to me. I would caution those buyers who are waiting for "the bottom:" If you wait too long, you may just have to pay a higher price and a higher interest rate later on.

My advice to any buyer is to look at your financial situation and look at what is available on the market today. Interest rates are low and there are some unbelievable deals right now. You will not get the home of your dreams with no money down, but there is financing that is still available and there are still stable lenders out there as well. Take advantage of a good deal if it presents itself and do not stress about a theoretical "bottom" for the market. If you are purchasing a home as a long-term investment, it will pay off in the long run.

As the stock market has demonstrated over the past few weeks, real estate is still your safest investment.