Today, in Albemarle, Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson (and Augusta/Waynesboro, as hey are becoming such a part of our market)***As of 1 January, there were currently 2206 properties on the market in the Charlottesville market area, and 400 were under contract. A quick look back at the past three years shows that our market has changed dramatically. On 3 January, there are 2443 active on the market, and 467 under contract.*I’m choosing to start the year off with this thought in mind:But let’s be frank: After such a run of down and bad numbers through most of 2006 and 2007, will it really be a big surprise if housing demand and sales and new construction finally begin showing signs of recovery — even modest recovery — in the year ahead?Looking back (and stating the obvious), the National Association of Realtors did not have the best track record,while the Mortgage Bankers Association was a little bit closer:Independent of the fact that I make my living representing clients buying and selling real estate in the Charlottesville area, I have been told by several clients that they perceive right now to be an excellent time to buy. *Charlottesville market area has been: Albemarle, Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson** The tables do not include Waynesboro/Augusta, as they did not begin to participate in our MLS substantially until 2007.*** Going forward in 2008, I am going to try to include Waynesboro/Augusta as well.

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