Submitted by Bruce Hecht

Whenever we invest our money we want it to grow for us.  Living in Portland Oregon and investing in real estate has always been a smart move.  I was talking with one of my neighbors last night at a neighborhood Summertime BBQ.  He asked me what I thought about the real estate market and the fact that is suppose to go down?  I said, what do you mean?  He said that we are only suppose to be seeing 5-12% growth in real estate in Portland Oregon in 2007.  I asked him why he thinks that is "going down"?  He said, "well, last year homes were going up 10-18%!  I said, yes, you are correct.  But if your home goes up 10%, instead of 18%, how can you think or say, that the market is going down!? He agreed, appreciation is... appreciation.
 
Many economists and real estate experts link the buying habits of "baby boomers" and investors, to the demand for homes in this country. They argue that the population will stabilize or decline as these potential buyers age and their children are grown.

What is left out of such a picture is that the emerging real estate market is made up of people who are immigrating to this country. It is also made up withinvestors wanting to try to establish and build their portfolios. When these newcomers have achieved a stable income, they look for the best living situation they can find, often preferring buying to renting.

Real estate continues to be an attractive investment opportunity. If you are sitting out the current market because you are afraid that the appreciation won't continue, you may want to re-think your decision. Today's market is providing opportunities for homeowners and smart investors from all over the globe.  Buy now and reap the benefits of appreciation .