In a news release today WAMU, Washington Mutual, stated the current real estate market conditions will hold through the end of next year. That isn’t surprising news to those active in the real estate business. What it does mean though, is that it is critically important for agents to step up their efforts with regards to being the market expert in their defined geographic area and to also continue or expand their marketing efforts to promote themselves as the go to agent when the consumer needs to complete a real estate transaction. A slower market does not mean there is no market. The public will turn to those they know and who are perceived to be the expert during these challenging times. As I mentioned earlier, now is not the time to panic. It is a time to step up your marketing with the goal to “hold the line til 2009!” You will then be well positioned to capitalize on the improving market while others will be falling by the wayside.