Keep in mind that “national” statistics for real estate mean about as much as a forecasted high temperature for the entire nation.  Consumers get skittish when they hear that 40% of foreclosures are due to doubtful subprime loans, but it's important to put that in perspective, because those loans only constitute about 10% of all mortgages.

As the lending industry stabilizes and interest rates rise only slightly, buyers who are ready to purchase will discover that housing is still the best investment out there. Ask a real estate agent to monitor new listings, selling times and final sales prices, and then to advise you when conditions are right to either buy or sell. 2008 should be a year of opportunity in the real estate industry.