In January, 2010, 1,830 homes were sold in the Tampa Bay area which includes Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. This compares with the 1,628 homes sold during January of 2009. The average price of homes sold was about $161,500 while the median price (the point at which half the homes sold above and half sold below that level) declined slightly to $123,000.
This positive news is at least in part due to the extension of the Federal Home Buyer Tax Credit Program which offers up to $8,000.00 to first time buyers (or buyers who haven't owned a home in the last 3 years) and up to $6,500.00 to those who already own a home. Owners who currently own a home must have lived in their current home for 5 consecutive years over the past 8 years. Certain income limits do apply so you may want to contact me at (813) 263-6806 for those details.
Most real estate professionals believe we are either at the bottom of the market or close enough to it that this is the right time to take advantage of both the low prices and the tax-credit program. Buyers seem anxious to snatch up good deals now since all deals under this program must be under contract by April 30th and closed by June 30th, 2010.
The inventory of unsold homes on the market has been reduced to it's lowest level in several years with a 24% decrease in the number of homes for sale from January 2009 to January 2010.
Whether your interest is in a home or a condo, a newly-built home or an existing home or a bank-owned or short sale property, I can help you find exactly the right property for you and your family. E-Mail Me or call me at (813) 263-6806 today. I would be pleased to answer your questions and show you the many great bargains available right now here in Tampa Bay.