Market values are still falling.  That's the bad news.  The number of sales is actually still up - I think 4 months in a row now.  However, because of declining values, people are having to sell 'short' to avoid foreclosure.  This means that the bank agrees to take less than the full mortgage balance when the house sells.  The seller doesn't get any money at closing but they do avoid foreclosure which is a big deal.  We have taken several courses in handling short sales.  We are nearing completion of our CDPE designation which is probably the most comprehensive program available for Realtors out there right now.  If you know someone struggling with a pre-foreclosure situation or needs help selling their home to avoid foreclosure, please have them call us. We can help get the house sold and handle a short sell for the owner.  It's important to get started with this process before the foreclosure gets too far along so timing is important.  If you know anyone who could use our help, please have them give us a call.