A Long 2008

"It's been a long December, and there's reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last."

Unfortunately, this simple song lyric rings true for the majority of the U.S. population for 2008. Gas prices, the Presidential election, the stock market, and just the economy in general has had people worrying about their once stable future and keeping a tight grip on their pockets. The effect it has had on families really hit me when I listened to my Aunt try to explain to her children why they wouldn't be receiving as much for Christmas. Yes, it was a long December....it was a long 2008.

Even being one of the top investments in the country, the effect on the Real Estate market has been no different. With the surplus of inventory and the outstanding low interest rates, the market is leaning strong for buyers, yet the media coverage has people too frightened to test the waters. When I tell people that I'm now in the Real Estate business, their reaction is always the same. "Real Estate!?! Why would you do that in this economy?" However, my feelings are that if I can use this time to really learn and make my way, then I will be ten times the agent when the market turns around.

And that attitude can be applied to everything. If you can stay focused, smart, and make it through today, it will only make you better down the road. Yes, it has been a long, rough year for everyone, but I can only believe that this year will be better. The uncertainty of an impending election is gone and at least for now, gas prices are much more tolerable. So, let me extend to everyone the best for the New Year and a better 2009.

Kristina Deaton, Sales Agent
Weichert Realtors, The WaterLinks Group

www.WRWaterLinks.com