FROM THE PUBLISHER

Not a Year for Fence-Sitters

What will 2008 bring in the real estate market? The consensus among the experts we spoke to for this Special Relocation Issue of Jacksonville Homebuyer is a slow stabilization and the beginnings of a gradual recovery.

Why is that important to you? Well, if you’re reading this magazine, you’re likely in the market for a new home. But you’re also likely to be holding off making a decision to buy. Maybe, you think, prices will decrease further and the amazing bargains available today will become outrageous bargains a few months from now.

That was one of the oddest aspects of 2007. Although conditions for buyers had never been more favorable, we still saw a lot of fence-sitting.

But even the most pessimistic economists don’t think waiting is a particularly smart move in a traditionally hot market like Jacksonville. Economic fundamentals remain strong, job growth remains solid and interest rates remain low.

Those factors, combined with the inevitable pent-up demand that follows a slowdown, likely means fewer bargains in the coming months. Of course, if your only motivation for buying a home is to flip it in a couple of months for a big profit, you might as well stay on the fence—and plan to stay there a long, long time. Those crazy days aren’t coming back anytime soon.

But if your motivation is buy a home to live in, it’s hard to imagine a more opportune time to get in the market. Over the long haul, a new home—especially in Jacksonville—is still just about the best investment you can make.

But don’t take my word for it. Read what the industry movers and shakers have to say in our market preview features. Plus, you’ll want to save this issue for its plethora of relocation information. In our "Inside Jacksonville" section, we’ve got where to go and who to call for just about everything from trash pickup to cable TV. It’s a priceless resource for newcomers.

All that and more is in this first exciting issue of 2008. Hope you enjoy it. But more important, I hope you use it.

—Penelope Geismar, Publisher
penelopeg@florida-homebuyer.com

REMINDER: If you’re even thinking about buying a home, don’t miss the big First Coast New Home Buying Expo to be held at the Prime Osborn Convention Center on Saturday, February 2. Many of the region’s top homebuilders will be represented, and it’s an ideal opportunity to talk with them one on one. For more info see the ad on page 7 or call the Northeast Florida Builders Association at (904) 725-4355