This makes sense, as first-time buyers aren’t struggling with the sale of an existing home.  Combine that advantage with low home prices, large inventories, and low interest rates, and the result is a positive trend for both buyers and sellers.

More buyers entering the Columbia, MO marketplace means more sales, reduced inventories, and increasing home values. The First time homebuyer tax credit has also made a great impact.  This tax credit is available for principal residences only purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. You may also qualify if you and your spouse have not owned a home within the past three years. The tax credit does not have to be repaid, but homebuyers must use the residence as a principal residence for at least three years or face recapture of the tax credit amount.  The credit equals 10% of the home’s purchase price, up to a maximum, of $8,000, whichever is less.

The profile of sellers shows that over 90% used a real estate brokerage to market and sell their property.  Buyers profiled listed the most important agent services as helping to find the right home and negotiate satisfactory terms and price.

Buyers needing funds for a down payment, mostly use savings or a gift from family, and most often use a fixed-rate 30 year mortgage.  Columbia, Missouri has some incredible opportunities for today’s homebuyer.