You shouldn't necessarily base your decision on the market, but it is an important factor. It will tell you how long and for how much you can sell your home. It can tell you how much and how long you will have to wait to buy a home.

But the most important thing to remember is that the market is not a national condition. Parts of the country are booming, while others are experiencing a slowdown. Some never seem to change.

The difference isn't as wide as east coast to west coast. In fact, a recent real estate search in my area revealed a price difference per acre of land of thousands within a 200 mile radius. The market allows the price to be high in that area due to demand for development land. In the lower priced areas, demand isn't as high.

You have to look at your area and determine what type of market you are in. Hey, the market can even variate between neighborhoods. Some neighborhoods are more desirable -- better schools, nicer location, lessened commute times -- so they bring the highest prices. You often even have to look at the market in general.

A good real estate agent will honestly tell you what type of market the area is experiencing. This prepares you for many things. The area could be seeing a seller's market or a buyer's market.

A good market can change quickly. Often, you are buying AND selling. What helps you on one side can work against you on the other. The solution is to make wise decisions on your purchase. Make sure that you buy median-valued property in a good neighborhood at a price you can afford. Don't take chances if you believe the market is going to change from a seller's market to a buyer's market. If you do, you could lose out if you are forced to sell.

Yes, the interest rate is pushing a few people out of the market. But really, not that many. Housing prices are more likely to push people out of the market. Recent government studies on the consumer price index revealed that rents are going up. This is because the demand is greater on rental properties right now. Less people are buying.

But the increases in interest rates haven't been significant enough to push the wise consumer out of the marketplace. Yes, you may have to settle for a home that is a little less expensive, but with good credit and a downpayment, you are set.

Pay attention to what is going on in your neighborhood. Are there a lot of homes for sell? Are they selling quickly? Are a lot of people looking at homes in your area, or the desired area? Are people fixing up their properties?

Or, are homes remaining on the market for a while? Do you see many owners dropping the prices on properties? Are agents really working to find potential buyers?

No matter what market you are in, there will be a buyer and there will be a seller. Sometimes, it takes a little time. Sometimes, you have to negotiate. But it will all come together eventually. No matter the market.