Laura Perryman

Market Conditions for the first four months of 2008 compared to the same period of 2007 in the Pensacola, Florida MLS area.

Here are some numbers that may make you cringe:

Current monthly sales indicate an upward trend, which is typical for this time of year. However, compared to 2007, there have been 512 fewer sales in 2008.

The hardest hit, by far, is the $100,000 to $199,999 price range, with a staggering 248 fewer transactions. The next hardest hit is the $200,000 to $399,999 range, which accounts for another 171 less transaction. These two price ranges have a combined loss of 419 transactions or approximately 82% of the 512 sales lost year to date through April.

Sellers with homes in the $600,000 plus price tier have fared slightly better compared to the same period last year. This price range has seen a net gain of 29 sales. It doesn't sound like much until one considers that only ten sales closed in this range in 2007. Sales for the same period this year have almost tripled. The biggest gain was in the $950,000 to $999,999 range, with an increase of 20 transactions. Resistance at the higher price levels is evident. There were ZERO transactions on the MLS in 2007 and 2008 for properties priced at $1,400,000 to $1,850,000.

The number of properties on the market in April has dropped from last year with 639 fewer homes. Considering an inventory of 7,132 residential properties for sale, this decrease in the number of listings seems negligible.

For those sellers in the hardest hit price ranges, take heart. Historically, most transactions in your price range will happen in the next three to four months.

And for those ever elusive buyers, your options have never looked better!

Numbers generated using data from the Pensacola MLS and are deemed reliable but not guaranteed

If you are not already here you should come visit Pensacola Florida. AKA "The Other Florida"

We have some of the worlds most beautiful beaches, but if that doesn't interest you how about camping, fishing, boating, diving, canoeing....the list goes on.

Pensacola Florida is having one of the longest parties
in history to celebrate having the longest history in North America.

Did you know Pensacola was founded in 1559? That is six years before St. Augustine was founded. Spanish sailor Don Tristan de Luna arrived in Pensacola on August 15, 1559. Shortly after establishing the settlement, a hurricane destroyed supplies, eventually causing the Spanish to flee the area and not return until the 1600s.

To commemorate this 450th anniversary Celebrate Pensacola, Inc., a non-profit organization managing the celebration, is planning numerous special events and programs. The celebration will last 450 days starting May 23, 2008 and continue to August 15, 2009.

The events include parades, art exhibits, heritage walks, historical reenactments, educational programs, a Spanish wine festival and possibly a visit from Spanish royalty. The 450th celebration will culminate on August 15, 2009 with a national birthday celebration.

The kick off party is May 23, 2008 on Palafox Place at the Escambia County Courthouse fountain. Free hot dogs, Coca-Cola and music by the Pensacola Civic Band.

Visit CelebratePensacola.com for more information

We also have a lot of other events coming up to occupy your time. Here are just a few:

June 5 - WUWF Radio Live in Museum of Commerce

September 26, 27, and 28. Pensacola Seafood Festival

April 21 - September 27 Fiesta of Five Flags Celebration

November 7,8, and 9 Greater Gulf Coast Arts Festival,