U.S. Housing Market Still Attractive to Foreign Buyers

NAR has just released its 2009 International Home Buying Activity report. While the report shows a further decline in home sales to foreign buyers from the 2008 and 2007 studies, the percentage of decline has narrowed. According to the study, 23% of REALTORS® served international clients in 2008/2009, compared to 26% reported in the 2008 study and 32% reported in 2007. The decline mirrors the overall decline in the existing home sales market, which decreased 39% between September 2005 and January 2009. There is confidence that once the global economic market conditions improve, the rate of home purchases by foreign investors and buyers will increase as well. The reports offers detailed information on sources of in-bound buyers and buyers’ location and property type preferences. New with the 2009 study is data on commercial purchases and also information on barriers to successful transactions by foreign buyers of U.S. property. Download the full report.

In Focus: Regional and State Housing Trends

By Ken Fears, Manager, Regional Economics

Although every market is unique they share similar demographic, economic, and migration fundamentals. Consequently, some trends repeat themselves around the country to varying degrees. Foreclosures are having a substantial impact in some markets, while unemployment is the primary concern in other locations. This article highlights some of the broader patterns that are making an impact on regional housing markets.

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Aspen Real Estate Market Picks Up With Summer

Another positive article about the real estate market gaining positive momentum.  Is this happening in your area?  Let us know!

Friday, August 28, 2009
ASPEN — Despite an “astounding” number of properties for sale in Aspen, summer real estate activity has been encouraging, according to one local broker.

From June 1 through this week, sales have roughly kept pace with last summer’s numbers, according to Carol Hood of Mason & Morse Real Estate.

“When I compare it to last year, it seems like we’re in line with last year’s sales,” she said.

READ MORE:   http://www.aspentimes.com/article/20090828/NEWS/908289998/1058