What happened to buy low, sell high?

I know it's an unusual economy, but buying a home in this economy is something no one should take lightheartedly. The turn in the housing market will happen, but that isn't necessarily the reason to buy a home. The reason to purchase a home, especially in the greater Charlotte region, is because you care about your quality of life. Otherwise, there are definitely some better choices: Laguna Beach has a better view - the nightlife in Greenwich Village has a better "beat" - the Cayman Island waters are cleaner - Steamboat Springs has better skiing.

Yes, homes are investments. That is among the absolutes in finance. But if the only reason to buy a home was for a return, we'd all be buying mobile home parks (they've got really great returns).

Instead, you consider the Carolinas - like I did - because there's some compelling reason to be here. For me, a Southern California native, it was the quality of life: great people, modest home prices, perfect weather, well-educated population, small-town feel in the largest Carolina city. Of course, there's more. For some, it'll be a relative. For another, it might be the view from one of those high-rise Uptown condominiums. It could be that neighborhood park, tennis courts, bike trail, or University.

Yes, you could rent someone else's home ... make their payment ... let them enjoy the return your payment offers.

Or, you could consider making the move now while the Obama administration is offering the $8,000 or $6,500 tax credit. You could also take advantage of the 20% commission rebate I'm currently offering my clients.

The choice is yours: put your money in the bank and die with cash there or put your money in real estate where my parents, yours, and each of our forefathers (and our children) will enjoy the pride and joy of home ownership.

If I can help you on your real estate search in the Carolinas, don't hesitate to give me a call at 704 554-1100 or email me at bill@RLSTATE.com.