There is no doubt prices have been slowly softening over the past several months, much like a slow leak in a tire. Even though, historically, interest rates are super low and price points make it “easier” to buy a home than in years past, buyers are in the driver’s seat as short sales and foreclosures continue to dominate the market.

Buyers are more fussy. Even in entry level homes ($400k range), they want granite countertops, current colors (not “white”), newer appliances (not “avocado green”), and for heavens sake – no “cottage cheese” ceilings! In the past, buyers were willing to accept perceived shortcomings, but with both husband and wife working full time jobs, they want things to be move in ready. Homes that don’t meet that criteria have to be discounted price point wise.

So take a look at these trend charts. Note that we won’t have the updated quarterly charts until the end of this month (first quarter, 2011).

Sold prices – Single family homes in Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo:

• 12 month graph

Sold prices – Condos in Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo:

• 12 month graph
  

Numbers sold – Single family homes in Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo:

• 12 month graph