That is right; I have studied the maps, looked at the stars, consulted the hair ball, worn out my boots and talked to those who should know.  The news is encouraging. Foot traffic is up at open houses.  Sellers with listings are serious about selling their homes.  Rates are down, very down.  The State of Washington is close to a measure that will allow qualified first time homebuyer’s to utilize their full tax credit this year, before they file their 2009 return.  Everything is in alignment.  This is the perfect scenario for our recovery to officially begin.  All we need is good weather.

The Farmers’ Almanac provides support for my bold prediction.  You see, according to the Farmers’ Almanac we are going to have great weather on the weekends of May 8th and May 16th.  Puget Sounders will spend at least part of the May 8th weekend finishing work in their yards.  When the next weekend of good weather rolls around (May 16th) mom will have cabin fever and will want to get out.  Most will stay close to home because the Memorial Day weekend follows.  What better way to spend a lovely weekend with the yard work done than visiting the local offerings of homes for sale?  It is free, always interesting and of course you have the chance to engage with any number of local, committed real estate professionals.

I say transactions will be started after the weekend of May 16th.  That week will be full of counter offers and final agreements.  On May 26th, everyone in our market will agree, the real estate market has turned the corner.  

Count on it.  The Farmers’ Almanac told me so.