Hi everyone, now is the time when most people start their holiday shopping. In this slow and poor economy, we could all use some ideas for inexpensive gift ideas. If you are looking for a gift for a coworker and like to cook, cookies in a holiday decorated tin are a great and inexpensive idea. Here are a few links for some gift giving ideas:

For customized gifts for men:

http://www.personalizationmall.com/Best-Selling-Personalized-Gifts-for-Men-d1229.dept?storeid=20&did=94396&wordID=6290199200&gclid=COSHsJDi86UCFQty5Qod7X1aAg

For unique gift ideas for her:

http://www.uncommongoods.com/?9gtype=content&9gkw=unusual%20gift&9gad=6277571697&gclid=CJH5m7Lj86UCFYnd4Aodqn_Dmg

I hope these ideas were helpful. Happy holidays!

Now is the time to buy. Intrest rates are at an all-time low. Most 30 year mortgages are now between 4% and 4.5% fixed. That means extra savings for you the home buyer. It also means you may qualify for a higher loan ammount, which in turn means you may be able to purchase a larger or more expensive home. Contact me if you are thinking of moving in the Philadelphia or South Jersey area. I can assist you with finding you the perfect home and get you a great rate on a mortgage with one of my affiliate lenders.

If you are a first time home buyer or are looking to upgrade and move to a more expensive home, you are running out of time to get the government’s tax credit. You will need to be under contract by April 30th. Contact me if you have any questions or would like help.

The market statistics reports for October 2008 and October 2009 for the Philadelphia region (the region Trend MLS services and reports) are in. In 2008 there was a much larger inventory of homes on the market 8,825. In October of 2009 that number dropped to 8,034. In addition, the average median sold price in Oct. 2008 was $130,000. In Oct. 2009 that number increased to $132,000. While these numbers aren’t earth shattering, they do show some improvement in the market. Home inventory was down and prices were higher as well.  Sellers are receiving between 91% to 98% of their asking price when selling.  The average days on market for the city is 73. That number is down slightly from the 2nd quarter of 2009 at 79 DOM. All of these numbers show a slow recovery to the damaged real estate market in Philadelphia. The government’s tax credits for first time buyers (and now to some sellers) has helped push up some sales numbers and has helped overall to stimulate the real estate market in our area.

I do fear some of the positive information in this quarter’s report is a false sense of hope. The numbers are inflated because of the government tax credit. What will happen when the tax credit goes away? I don’t know for sure, however, I think the market recovery will slow when the tax credit expires. Homes will continue to sell, just at a slower pace and possibly add to the market inventory. Thanks for reading.

Welcome to Christopher Rossmaier’s Blog! This blog will provide you with valuable information, tips, and general insight into the real estate market in Philadelphia. Visit my website at http://crossmaier.featuredwebsite.com.