and the outlook is positive. We are seeing positive housing trends in the Treasure Valley Marketplace.

The news is scattered with headlines projecting what we should expect from the housing market in 2012…“Turning the Corner” “Rebound” “Picking up Speed” “Improving” “2012 The Year for a Turn Around” they go on and on. No matter how they say it, the outlook on the real estate market finally seems optimistic.

But, what is in store for our local area, you ask? Our numbers are in and the outlook is positive. When reviewing the total available MLS listings in Ada and Canyon Counties and comparing them with the absorption rate, we are seeing positive trends. While we are not in complete recovery we may be headed there, or as they say, turning the corner.

The total months of inventory for Ada and Canyon Counties have dropped to approximately 2.5 months from 3.5 months in mid 2011. As the supply of homes and the selection of decent distressed properties decrease, combined with the frustration of the tedious short sale process, buyers may find themselves in the unenviable position of  sitting and waiting for new homes to come on the market. This is a positive trend! With a limited supply of  “good” listings in most price ranges we will find homebuyers ready to jump when they find a  suitable home. Many buyers may find themselves in bidding wars on price. This will force home prices to not only stabilize but to appreciate.

What does this all mean for sellers? The “buyer’s market” we have been hearing so much about may be nearing its end. List your home NOW! In the past, sellers may have been unwilling to list because the market was not in their favor but, the longer you wait the higher the price may climb on that larger home, new home, or investment property you have been dreaming about. Sellers, right now is the time to consult with a qualified real estate professional to determine the  situation with your home.  You may be surprised at your value and how it relates to the market now. Recently, real estate professionals have been receiving multiple offers on listings within the first few weeks, sometimes within days of coming on the market. Buyers are eager for more selection.

A shift between supply and demand not only puts buyers and sellers on equal footing when negotiating, it also creates a trend toward price stabilization and appreciation.