But the markets that are identified by Wells Fargo as being “Distressed” – as opposed to “Soft” (not that bad) and “Severely Distressed” (really bad) – are closer to home than I would like …
Alexandria (City)Â Â Â
Arlington County  Â
Clarke County  Â
Fairfax County  Â
Fairfax (City)Â Â Â
Falls Church (City)Â Â Â
Fauquier County  Â
Fredericksburg (City)Â Â Â
Loudoun County  Â
Manassas (City)Â Â Â
Manassas Park (City)Â Â Â
Prince William County  Â
Spotsylvania County  Â
Stafford County  Â
Warren County
Note that none of the Central Virginia markets are broadly identified as being distressed or declining.
I heard a remark this week that Prince William County had been described as Virginia’s Miami – and not because of the comparable weather patterns.
This news reinforces my opinion that if you are a buyer who is well-qualified and planning to be in the area for at least several years, now could be the best time to buy. If you’re a seller, price your home aggressively and do not do anything to discourage showings of your house.
Moving forward ….
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Culpeper County is conspicuous by its absence, unless it’s in the severely distressed category. But I don’t see how Arlington & Alexandria could possibly be lumped together with Prince William. Something’s fishy.