On The Market
By Nancy Puder

Are you a first time home-buyer or perhaps you want to re-enter the real estate market after renting the past few years?  Whatever your situation is,  it may be time to pick up the pace and take steps to move your plan along.
Most homes on the Central Coast have returned to “pre-bubble”  value.  As the job market becomes stronger and mortgage guidelines become more reasonable, more buying opportunities are available to those seeking homeownership.  This increase in demand will continue to push home prices upward.
Mortgage rates are at record lows and there are new first-time buyer programs that make it easier for some buyers to qualify for a loan.  As home values continue to increase and possibly interest rates too, it may not be as easy to qualify for a loan later as it is today.  The bottom line is that you are more likely be able buy more house today than you will be able to a year from now for the same amount of money.
If you have been thinking about buying a home this year, it is time to make a plan and take some steps. Here is what you can do now to pick up the pace and help you move forward with your dream of homeownership.
First, talk to a local mortgage professional who has a great reputation for taking care of their clients. If you need a couple of referrals, I would be happy to give you names and contact information of mortgage lenders my clients have had good success with.
Second, make an appointment with a great Realtor who is more interested in helping you achieve your goal, rather than just “selling” you a home.  Most people don’t realize there is a vast difference in the quality of services provided by real estate agents.  There are those who have real estate licenses and then there are “pros: The actual pros in the business are few, so be sure you don’t make a rash decision on who will guide you through this huge financial and life-changing decision.
These two steps are the most important ones you can make right now and will not cost you anything.  Let a trusted professional help you decide if now is the best time for you to enter the market.  My advice is to act now because you really have nothing to lose but so much to gain.  Good luck and as always, if you have any questions concerning buying or selling real estate, you can contact me directly.  I always enjoy hearing from you!

Nancy Puder is a real estate broker with Nancy Puder & Associates, the premier real estate boutique company in Arroyo Grande, CA. Nancy Puder is one of the largest listing brokers on the Central Coast. Call or Text Nancy (805)710-2415 with your real estate questions anytime. She always enjoys hearing from you!  To access other articles written by Nancy Puder, go to www.nancypuderassociates.com.  Readers can also email  with questions or to discuss their own real estate needs.