The Massachusetts region has been much more active than the overall national market since the second week of December.

With a plethora of bank-owned and short sale inventory on the market, now is the time to buy as banks look to recoup lost money.

Local expert, Richard Kaplan warns that if you wait for the market to gain stability, you may miss these low prices.

As far as where the market is heading, Kaplan thinks prices will stay stable as buyers and sellers who held off last year are now entering the market.

But, Kaplan reports, the buying boom will probably end by mid-2009, bringing a seller's market in 2010.

For now though, the growing activity will only strengthen the market. The wave of short sales and bank-owned properties will draw more activity, keeping prices stable.

Once this dumping of overstock slows down, prices will start to climb.

So where are the bright spots?

Kaplan likes the deeply discounted luxury market and buyers can find plenty of new construction selling at resale prices.

Buyers wanting to invest in a vacation or second home will find great values, and with the harsh market driving out weaker agents, you will benefit from the skill and experience of seasoned veterans.

Beautiful historic Massachusetts has much to offer, with four distinct seasons, and plenty of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, camping, sailing and more.

Massachusetts is also a leader in communications technology and you will also find some of the world's finest medical help and hospitals available.

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Published: February 5, 2008

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