Buyers, flex your muscles! Take advantage of December 2008, one of the best buyer's markets ever for those who are ready, able, and qualified to purchase. December is a perfect time to re-assess those older listings that have built up days on market heading into the slower holiday season, and also a perfect time to jump on a new listing that may be offered by a motivated "holiday" seller. Sellers who are just listing their homes on the market now in December typically have strong motivation to sell, and/or perhaps have already purchased another home.  Sellers also know that buyers out looking this time of year are a very focused crowd. Even in premium neighborhoods, there are currently opportunities to buy beautiful homes at far less than the owners paid. 340 Occidental in Burlingame Park comes to mind. This is a quintessential "East Coast" Colonial that defines the timeless Burlingame charm, and is just a 3 minute walk into downtown. This home was originally listed at $2,275,000 in June of this year, and underwent 3 price drops to rest at its current list price of $1,750,000. This 2600 sq. ft. beauty last sold in March of 2006 for $1,987,500 when it lasted just a week on the market at its $1,795,000 list price.

Speaking of premium neighborhoods, Lower Hillsborough's 501 Roehampton Road boasts one of the town's most coveted addresses, and is now offered at half-a-million less than its original list price. This 6,200+ sq. ft. "grand dame" is now offered at $4,995,000 after being on the market for 138 days.