The question is being asked everyday ... is it time to buy ?  Is the bottom here ? What should I do ?  The answer to all of those questions may also be a question ... ARE  YOU  READY ?  Purchasing a home is a substantial investment in the future, and only YOU  know if you are ready.  Can anyone call the bottom in the market ?  whether it be real estate, wall street, gold, oil  ... no one ever knows ... until it has passed.  Prices have declined considerably over the past 18 to 24 months, there are definitely bargains available and sales have been increasing in the Tampa Bay area .... telling us that some buyers were ready. The Florida Association of Realtors® reports sales of existing single family homes in Florida rose 25% in the first quarter of 2009 compared to the first quarter of 2008.  However, the most important question is :  ARE YOU READY ?   Have you spoken with your mortgage broker and/or bank ?  Do you know how much cash you will need to make a purchase happen ?  Have you researched the areas where you want to live ?  Do you know your bottom line ? Do you want a foreclosure property, a short sale ... or new construction ?  If you think you are ready ... call me and we can take the steps to find out if you truly are ready.  It's easier than you think, especially with a professional guide to help you find your way.