SouthCoast Magazine Summer/Fall 2015 | Page 24

R E A L E S TAT E BUYINGbig A SECOND HOME bear property “Lets go to Big Bear!” has been a familiar phrase for several decades for people living in Southern California. There are many activities inviting people to Big Bear; the four seasons, incredible snow skiing, fishing and boating opportunities on Big Bear Lake, rugged hiking and mountain biking trails in the surrounding National Forest, training opportunities at altitude for world class athletes, and the opportunity to retire close to family and young grandchildren. For many people, owning a cabin or home has become both a part of their lifestyle and a financial asset in their portfolio. The overall health of the real estate market in Big Bear is excellent! Big Bear has yet to experience a return to the peak prices and number of sales during the last boom. However, there are signs that assure the extended real estate downturn is a thing of the past. For example, there is a balance of supply and demand. Available inventory is currently 15% lower than it was this time last year. The closed residential sales OW E! for 12 mos.e k lectric Tri versions ff o 0 0 1 $ ths. g an rcise by usintress. s k of heart s nversieors.n o C & s e Ebik alid with any oth-1e5r. off Not v 0-10 Expires 1 are up 17% over last year at this time, and the number of residential properties under contract is up 29% compared with last year. Price appreciation has been moderate and steady. The Big Bear MLS statistics are very clear. Other noteworthy anecdotes are; new construction is providing a steady supply of new homes while many exis [