Want to know what’s happening in the Sparks-Spanish Springs real estate market.  Here is a recap of what sold in February 2010. (Stick built homes in Sparks-Spanish Springs from MLS data)

There were 45 short sales closed in February with a median list price of $159,900 and median sold price of $156,000.  The average days on market for these closed sales was 190 days.  Short sales accounted for 40.2% of the total sales in February. 

There were 41 REO/foreclosure properties sold in Februrary with a median list price of $150,000 and median sold price of $143,000.  The average days on market for these closed sales was 86 days.  The REO/foreclosure properties accounted for 36.6% of the total sales in February.

There were 26 homes sold that were not distressed sales in February with a median list price of $179,950 and a median sold price of $178,200.  The average days on the market for these closed sales was 106 days.  These sales account for 23.2% of the total sales in February.

Looking forward here is a recap of the Active and Pending Sales in the Sparks-Spanish Springs area.

There are 584 short sales currently on the market.  203 of those are active and 381 are pending short sale approval.  The median price for active/pending short sale listings is $168,250 and the average days on market is 145 days.  Short sale listings account for 62.3% of the active or active pending inventory.

There are 133 REO/foreclosure properties currently on the market.  45 of those are active and 88 are pending sale.  The median price  for active/pending REO/foreclosure properties is $145,000 and the average days on the market is 71.  REO/foreclosure listings account for only 14.2% of the active/pending inventory.

There are 220 non-distressed propertys listed.  137 are active and 83 are pending.  The median price for non-distressed listings is $249,999 with an average of 122 days on the market.  Non-distressed properties account for 23.5% of the active/pending inventory.

So, what does this mean for home buyers and sellers?  Short sales are a large part of the market.  Whether you are buying or selling a home in the Sparks-Spanish Springs area be sure to enlist an “EXPERIENCED” short sale agent to assist you.  These are complicated transactions that require a REALTOR with not only certifications but actual closing experience.

REO/foreclosure sales are becoming more scarce has banks begin to see the value of short sales and slowly release their foreclosed inventory.  These properties require immediate action from buyers as they will typcially go into contract quickly and often with multiple offers.

Non-distressed properties are in demand by buyers, but many sellers continue to over price these properties.  Some buyers are willing to pay for the convience, but not many will over pay just for the convenience.  Sellers for you that means sharpening your price and being realistic about current market conditions.