The real estate market has shifted to more of a buyer's market, which is great for investors and for buyer's who are left from last year's housing frenzy.

Good news for buyers: negotiations with sellers are back. I am getting more calls from listing agents who are eager to know what my clients thought of the home. In the seller's market of recent years, they didn't have time or the need to make such a call since it would likely be sold by day's end!

Good news for sellers: if you price right and hire the right professional that will provide a proactive approach to listing your home, there is no reason you still can't get a good price for your home. Of course, preparing, staging, and marketing your home are key. And once you get into contract with a buyer, you want an agent that has transactional control so the escrow flows smoothly.

Since I read a lot about the market and my profession, I will pass on one of my favorite real estate articles that sums up last year's market called the "Top Mistakes of Buyers and Sellers in 2005" provided in the link below.

Along with all of your other annual check-ups (auto, portfolio, taxes, dentist, doctor, etc.), don't forget your free real estate Property Value check-up!

As you know, I run my business differently than most agents. In addition to providing excellent customer care in the real estate department, I have a high priority on taking care of you and serving those in my database network.

I provide a free market analysis of any properties you may own here in the South Bay for your files. If you've been considering cashing out with a refinance or selling, this gives you a good idea what your value is. If you plan on staying put, just file it in your real estate files, and I'll send you another updated Property Value report next year, or anytime at your request.

Note: If you are currently receiving mail from me at your office address, I may not have your property address, so please let me know your address(es) of properties you own.

I'll be in touch with you soon to follow up and get your Property Value out to you.

Marketing is a very important component in my business. How I market own business sets me apart from other agents.

It's also important for me to work with a company like Coldwell Banker who spends millions on marketing and advertising. For a sneak peak at our marketing campaign for our new office, check out this link!

I've got answers for those questions you always wanted to know about real estate, but didn't want to ask! I'd like to clear up misconceptions, or help you understand more about the industry.

Did you know that if you are a client of Coldwell Banker, you automatically have lifetime privileges to use the Concierge Service? This free program offers you local pre-screened service providers that can assist you with any aspect of home ownership or the moving process.

Visit the Coldwell Banker website for more information and to view all of our office listings nation and worldwide!