So the national gloom-and-doom headlines do not apply everywhere. But ironically, those headlines have created some “benefits,” he said, for people who know the whole story. With consumer confidence low, mortgage rates have been dropping.

Another plus for informed purchasers: With consumers nervous, most potential buyers hold off on buying, so sellers are more inclined to listen when an offer does come in.

Third, that means there are more houses on the market to choose from. Thostenson said that’s good for buyers because they are now less likely to come back from a day of house hunting with the complaint, “I didn’t see anything I liked.”

Thostenson said now is a very good time to buy real estate — as long as investors are realistic.

“Real estate is a long-term investment, not a short-term investment,” he said.

Mark Newman can be reached at 683-5358 or by e-mail at mgnewman@mchsi.com.