Phoenix Real Estate: Save Now, Buy Now

The rumor mill is buzzing. Now is an opportune time to buy a new home. Median prices are low, and getting lower. Fixed mortgage rates hover around 5%. And realtors are offering potential buyers enticing tax credits.

In Phoenix, the market is especially attractive. If you have good credit and ample capital, the next six months could present a unique buying opportunity.



But still people are hesitant. The economy’s forecast is making potential buyers think twice. They are worried about keeping their jobs, earning the money that will pay their mortgage, and spreading roots in a city that may or may not recover from the current recession.

Realtors and experts are trying to assuage buyers’ concerns. The Arizona Star recently ran an article on the situation.

"Right now is probably the best time we have had for buyers, as far as the convergence of prices, interest rates and the number of properties to choose from," said Martin Eggers, an agent with Desert Roadrunner Realty.

"The window, I think, will be relatively short-lived. Interest rates I don't foresee staying low like this forever, and then the next part of the equation is once people realize it is such a good time to buy, they are going to start buying," he said.

Again, the fact comes down to buyers who are ready to buy – that means having enough capital and good credit. This is in stark contrast to five years ago, when home were sold to people without capital. Many of these homes are now in foreclosure. But this is a positive sign. It represents a new era of personal responsibility, and will help balance the Phoenix real estate market.

Again from the article:

All of this sounds good for potential buyers, but University of Arizona economist Marshall Vest said it's important to remember all the caveats out there, especially since he expects the recession to continue for at least another year and for the Tucson economy to lose thousands more jobs.

"If you have a job, and if you have good credit, and you can come up with a down payment, and if you have sufficient income to amortize the mortgage, now is a great time to buy," Vest said. "Mortgage rates are low, and there are some really good deals out there."

The current Phoenix real estate market, for the few who feel stable and confident enough to invest now, is an ideal market to buy.