These days I am asked each of these questions numerous times a day. My answer to both of these questions is GREAT. You should see the puzzled look on the individuals face! Let me explain.

In Durham region the price of homes in the last quarter of 2008 dropped by 3% so unless you bought your house 4 month ago and are thinking of selling already, just relax. During the first 3/4 of the year the prices were still rising. All the predictions are that the house prices may drop another 2 to 3% this year. In contrast to this in the last 10 years the price of homes have gone up anywhere from 5 to 7% per year. So home owners have had it good for a long time and will have it good again after a small downward blip.

And what about "How is Business?" Well my business took a little bit of a hit last year as well. The listings took a bit longer to sell and we had to spend more money on marketing so our profits were lower than expected. This however is again a very temporary situation. Traditionally when Real Estate market is good we get a lot of people join the industry, some full time and a lot part time. A tough market however sorts out the professionals from the dabblers. In a tough market people have to put experience, effective marketing plan and the negotiating skills of a professional Realtor before the interest of the friend or family member who just got their license a few month ago or is in Real Estate part time. After all for most people the home is the biggest investment they have. Would you trust a part time surgeon to do a major operation on your body? So the same as the house prices my business is having a small downward blip in profits but we are here to stay and will come out much stronger.

-- Masood Vatandoust