Buy low and sell high. This is one of the axioms of investment that is possible in this market. The goal of all investors is to increase their wealth position through investing in vehicles that will maximize their internal rate of return. Real estate has historically been a sound investment vehicle assuming that you are not purchasing at the top of the market nor acquiring property in a blighted area.
The fundamentals of Phoenix are strong, still among the fastest growing metro areas in the country and forecasted to continue for the next decade. The Valley of the Sun has a relatively low cost of living, friendly corporate environment, and the amenities and weather that go along with the highly desirable South West. Prices in Superstition Foothills, Gold Canyon, Las Sendas have never been better for buyers!
Nobody can know where the bottom of the market is (was) until it has passed and on the increase. "I have always said that you have to look in the rear view mirror to see the bottom of the market." There is no doubt that the Phoenix area property values are no where near their record setting values in 2005 or even market values prior to the boom.
What this means to the investor or buyer is growth potential. Current prices have been flat for several months which could indicate that we have hit bottom. A recent study shows that prices increased 14% from March 2009-March 2010. Absorption and sales have increased 100% over a year ago and demand is beginning to catch up with supply. As Realtors® we cannot make any guarantees about where the market will be in the future; however, it is fair to say that the upside potential is tremendous. We are far below historic property values, there is an ample supply of renters to fill the rental properties and plenty of room for capital appreciation. The market correction has left a considerable amount of opportunity for the investor who desires a “fix and flip” or rental property with a 3-5 year holding period. Or the buyer who intends to live in their home for a few years.
Please refer to the graphs and market data that I post on this website; it is current and will give you a good idea as to where prices have been and the opportunity that lies ahead. I would also like to represent you in your transactions and believe that my years of experience, and personal investment experience will enable you to maximize your profit potential with minimal risk.
