It’s that time of year again.

Normally the spring market brings the real estate buyers out in force. Every year has a different characteristic to it, and this year promises to be no different.

Buyers who are serious about purchasing in this market should get pre-approved, free up available cash, get gifts from family and “season” it by putting it in their bank account.

With your pre-approval letter in hand, tour homes online, and then find a savvy real estate agent to help you wade through the pitfalls of this market. Buying bank property has it’s own inherent risks, make sure you don’t get in over your head.

If you are lucky, you find an undiscovered gem and negotiate swiftly with the seller. Your advantage is not having any competition. The minute you have another offer to compete with, you lose your edge.

The mantra of the savvy buyer is “be patient locating the right property, move swiftly when you find the right one.”

This market lacks humor. The pendulum always swings too far in both directions, or so it seems to me after all these years. Do the best you can, and don’t take anything too seriously. It’s not worth losing your health over these problems which shall also pass.