Every day I read that the housing market is recovering and we are heading out of recession. That may be true on a large scale, but in Portland, I see a slower recovery due to unemployment, the end of the tax credit benefit, the end of the Fed pumping up the secondary mortgage market, and the availability of purchase money for anyone who has less than perfect credit. Oregon will continue to see more foreclosures coming to market.

Buyers should remain patient, get organized and focus on their investment in housing as a major important event. Set time aside to handle the negotiations. It goes without saying (but I am still saying it) to hire a professional who you trust and who you like talking to because you will be talking several times a day. Trust is key.