Houston’s market is healthier in real estate then other real estate market. Why does this not seem so uplifting?

You know I have read report stating that Houston’s real estate market is considered one of the healthier markets. I can understand this for several reasons: 1) energy industry 2) world renowned medical center 3) Low cost of living

Forbes noted in January 2009 that Houston was a strong real estate market. Why does this not seem to be up lifting? However, when you look into the analysis, we still have a negative growth projection.

This is like being in a “Least Ugly” beauty contest. It is not that you are not Ugly, but you are less ugly compared to the other competitor.

Houston’s market as noted by Houston Association of Realtors shows in February that sales fell over 22%. This is just a sad fact of how data can be spun. We are strong, but still have 22 to 26% decrease in sales.

However, it should be noted that rental rates increased for single family homes about 5% and condos rental rates increased by 17%. If you are a investor, you may have to evaluate your purchase with a longer term exit strategy. The quick dollar is not a strong play in this market. If you build a portfolio of rental cash flowing properties, then you will be better served.

We may be the one of the least ugly contestants in the real estate market beauty contest, but this just means you will hate to date a loser of this competition.