Selling/Buying in California, 4 Reasons to Buy/Sell Now in Southern California

RIVERSIDE, CA Feb. 15 (FreeRateUpdate.com) – Selling a property in this tough market can seem like a challenge. Here are four reasons that actually make this a good time to post a For-Sale sign in California.  We already know that with sparkling beaches and fun packed mountains within 2 hours of each other not to mention the many theme parks, Hollywood and sunny weather California is a very desirable place to live. 

1. Sell low and buy low. Because all property values are down, the loss on the property a home owner sells is really only a paper loss because the next property he buys also will be a bargain. If he/she buys wisely, when prices come back up in a few years, he’ll/she’ll be in better shape.  Prices aren’t expected to be where they were in 2005/2006 for another 10 years or more.

2. Down-payment help is widely available. While $0 down loans have disappeared, it is easy to find down-payment assistance for lower-income and first-time home buyers. Programs vary all over California, but one good way to find them is to search online for “down-payment assistance programs” and the name of your city or county.  Here in the Inland Empire we have Neighborhood Housing Services of the Inland Empire, Inc., San Bernardino Economic Development Agency, and County of Riverside Down payment Assistance Program to name a few in this area.
3. Your uncle (Sam) has money to share. Besides the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit and the $6,500 move-up credit, there are an array of energy tax credits that can make home improvements pay off in cash you better take advantage of this credit soon as it is scheduled to disappear.

4. Good help is available. Really talented real estate agents/brokers, contractors, and designers are available and eager for business.