As we write this, we consider that about 2 weeks ago we were on a beach in the Bahamas worried about sunburn – more later.

At the start of a year all of us look forward and analyze what’s ahead. We thought you might be interested in some insights from a recent economic conference we enrolled in last week. (See links for Economic Conference visuals.)

• Existing home sales by June 2010 will grow by 15%

• Homes prices a +3%, +5% boost

• Percent of income spent on housing is down 40% from the 1980’s

• Values on both high end and regular homes will be better than last yr.

• High end home value will still be 10% lower than the peak of the 2000’s

• $150,000 or lower homes to be about even in value vs. early 2000’s avg.

• New homes demand will very soon outstrip current supply.

Without the risk of understatement, if you are selling, preparation of your home is key. Carpet, paint and un-cluttering are essential. If we could read to you the various comments, made by buyers with their available choices, the need for good preparation before sale would be evident. Having said this, the economic conference information suggests that selling in 2010 is a good decision. Low interest rates will continue, growing demand and building consumer confidence is a great environment to buy and sell.

Back to the beach; 10 family members, 2 sons, 2 daughters, 2 grandkids and 2 great daughters in law, Barb and Wayne spent 4 nights, 3 days on a cruise. New Year’s Eve on a big boat was a “hoot”. What a nice time for relaxation and freedom to visit. We were blessed with perfect weather; 87 degrees on the beach, bright sun – “like a Corona Ad”. Ask us about it. (If you have an hour). Read Barbara’s overview below in previous posting. Thanks to Bob and Sam for a great 65th birthday year present for Mom and Dad.

We hope you had a wonderful holiday at your homes!

As you know, we depend on referrals in this business and understand that means you have to assert your opinion of us and approach your family, friends and business associates about us. We deeply appreciate all of you for your support and expression of friendship.

We are excited about the New Year, we have new tools to help homes sell and improved search techniques to help find that perfect home.

God bless our men and women serving our Country in the Armed Forces.

Barb and Wayne Cruise

“Once in a lifetime!” I know that is a cliché, but how else can I describe our recent cruise with 10 family members? The palm trees that greeted us when we landed in Miami were harbingers of the gorgeous weather we enjoyed throughout our travels to Freeport and Nassau in the Bahamas. The “free style dining” meant we could enjoy any cuisine anytime, night or day…and enjoy we did!

The activities we shared included everything from snorkeling off a little boat in a choppy cove to enjoying a lazy day in the 87 degree heat on the beach. A day we especially relished knowing there was snow and subzero temperatures back home. Other onshore excursions included shopping in the straw markets, touring the opulent resort and aquarium of Atlantis on Paradise Island, near Nassau, and lunch at the Bahamian kitchen, with true island cuisine.

Even though we were far from home we still managed to gather in the sports bar for major events such as the MU/Navy bowl game and the NU/Arizona game. There were nightly shows, evening sunsets, and more to do than we had time for.

New Year’s Eve on a cruise ship—it was one of those things you just had to be there! The atmosphere was electric with an adult game show preceding the outdoor poolside extravaganza. Our family was one of 28 teams who participated in a frantic “Quest” game that challenged our creativity and sense of fun! We came out as the top team so that started out the night on a positive note. The poolside part included driving music, dancing, champagne, ice sculptures and, for a brave few a jump in the pool.

Now that we are back in KC we are sharing pictures and reliving moments. And that was the best things about the trip—making memories for a lifetime!