November Home Sales Rose in State, Sacramento


California home sales rose in November compared with October, but were down from the previous year, according to data from the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.).  The statewide median price declined from both the previous month and previous year.

  • The median price of an existing, single-family detached home sold in California fell below the $300,000 mark for the first time since February.  The November 2010 median price was $296,820, down 2.4 percent from October’s $304,220 median price and down 2.5 percent from the revised $304,550 median price recorded for the same period a year ago.  It was the first year-over-year price decline in a year.
  • November’s sales were up 9.2 percent from October’s revised pace of 449,480 but were down 8.6 percent from the revised 536,940 sales pace recorded in November 2009.  The statewide sales figure represents what would be the total number of homes sold during 2010 if sales maintained the November pace throughout the year.
  • “Unsold inventory declined slightly in November, as the number of active listings fell from October, particularly for homes priced above $500,000,” said C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young.  “The decline in listings was reflective of seasonal factors and the foreclosure moratorium that took place in October.”
  • For more about the California housing market, watch a video of Ms. Appleton-Young as she discusses highlights of the November sales and price report.

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For all your real estate needs Call
John J. O’Dell
Real Estate Broker
(530) 263-1091

DRE#00669941

Home Buying Paralysis? Tips for Getting the Best Deal Faster


The inventory of homes for sale has increased in recent months, causing some buyers to hesitate before making an offer on a home for fear a better home at a more favorable price will become available.

  • Although real estate agents are showing more homes to clients, people still are buying homes, especially first-time buyers.  According to the latest figures from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR), first-time buyers now account for 50 percent of all home sales.
  • Some agents claim that today’s buyers are having a problem staying committed to the home search.  During the height of the market, home buyers were more apt to make housing hunting a priority and to move on a good deal.  Real estate experts advise today’s home buyers do the same to be successful in their home search.
  • Making a list of “musts” and “wants” for home features will help home buyers narrow down the search.  Identifying key features, such as the number of bedrooms or bathrooms, will help buyers avoid being overwhelmed by the number of homes available.
  • Buyers are best advised to work with a REALTOR® who is familiar with the area.  Media reports that home prices will decline further may be true for some areas, but not necessarily in all areas.  All real estate is local, so finding out what’s happening in a specific neighborhood is most helpful.

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For all your real estate needs call
John J. O’Dell
Real Estate Broker
(530) 263-1091

DRE#00669941