Doug Duncan, chief economist for the Mortgage Bankers Association, expects the 30-year mortgage rate to hover around 6.5 percent for the remainder of the year, but climb to 6.8 percent by the end of 2008.

Duncan is “optimistic about a rebound” in the housing market next year, citing still-low long-term interest rates, robust capital expenditures, and rising equity prices, among other factors.

In Ridgefield we had 330 homes sell last year and currently there are 230 homes on the market. Despite inventory levels being higher than what we’ve seen in past years, there are gaps in some price points.

It’s too early in the season to predict where we will see prices go this year. We may or may not be able to get today what we could have gotten last year because so much depends on your competition.

As always, attacking clutter, making your rooms bright and roomier, fresh paint and lit rooms give the home a fresh and inviting look. The secret to selling in this market is to be the best in the price range.

If your competition looks better or your home has not kept up with current trends (central air, updated kitchens and baths), it may take longer to sell.

Today’s buyer is working harder and longer hours and has less time to update etc.

They also are usually taking larger mortgages and the ability to spend more to redo may just not be there.

First impressions are extremely important and buyers will get their first impression as soon as they drive up to your house. Make it a good one if you are selling.

When it comes to negotiating an offer, I have sold hundreds of homes in Ridgefield over my 27 years in the business here. One of the best ways to ensure that you win in an important negotiation is to have an expert on your side, and not discuss your details with your neighbors or friends. I’m ready to use my knowledge, skills and dedication to help you when selling.

As always the Internet is driving our marketplace. We have estimated in our firm that 76% of the buyers start their search on the Net. William Raveis has an extremely customer friendly website as well as my own, and I am personally adding links to more Home buying sites to bring customers to my listings, ex. HarmonHomes.com, Homes.com, Homesekers.com, Immobel.com, Reaffinity.com and Sell.com plus my site continues to place at the top spot on Google which is the choice search engine. Being ahead of the curve in today’s competitive world is where we need to be.

Next month my blogging site will be up and running and I’ll explain that then. End of the year stats will be compiled for Fairfield County shortly and I’ll send that off to you. Feel free to call me direct 203.702.1549 or home 438-2284 with any of your real estate questions.

As always, I value your referrals.