Wow! Where did this year go? I seem to say this every December, and this year is no exception.

The market in Bend is all anyone ever wants to talk about.and why not? When the market was super hot in 2005, it was the key topic as well.

There are some incredible buys to be had, and also many over-priced homes with wishful sellers. My new buzzword is ?compelling', which is more appropriate now than ever before. It is not good enough just to be competitive. Sellers have to be compelled to price their property at well below what feels good, and also be patient enough for the buyers to notice.

The next six months will continue to be a challenge, but we are selling homes, more so than most agents in Bend. Having a positive attitude, a smile and being brutally honest is the way I know how to run this business. It has seemed to work in this crazy 2008 calendar year, and our team will be here for you in 2009!

If you get to the end of your rope, tie another knot and hang on!