My wife and I bought our first home together in the spring of 2007. At the time, we knew we would have to sell before we could buy and the downturn in the market was a bit of a concern. We were faced with the idea that if we didn’t sell and move at that time, the value of our current home would drop and we would never be able to get into our new home. We made the move at the right time that worked for us and we are glad we did.

One year later, I look through the Saturday Homes section of The Bakersfield Californian and see that the prices of homes are much lower and much more inviting. I remember, however, that if we had waited, we would have never sold our home for what we needed. We would have been stuck.

I learned that timing is everything. We made our purchase at the time that was right for us. Although the value has dropped in the year we have owned our home, it is of no concern because we have no plans to sell. This is our home. This is the place where my children will grow and enjoy time with their family.

The current real estate climate is much different than it was a year or two back. We read and watch news every day that warns us to stay away from local real estate. But there is a hidden story, one that is not being told. Ask any real estate agent and they will tell you there is more to this trend than what we see in the headlines.

Bakersfield Life gathered five professionals from the local real estate industry to talk about the state of the market. What we heard was not a bias toward their industry, but facts and figures that show local real estate is still moving. We wanted to hear what was going on in Bakersfi eld and these professionals held nothing back.

Additionally, inside Bakersfield Life this month you’ll find our annual article on Relay for Life. Relay is such a large event that you either are participating or know someone who is camping for the weekend in support of the cause. This annual event is full of stories of courage and although we couldn’t tell all of these in a year worth of issues, we hope that you find inspiration from the stories we are able to tell. When you read these, I’d hope you’d take a moment and think about those in your life who are affected by cancer.

Finally, on a lighter note, we are getting ready for camp. On page 20 you’ll find great information about many of our local summer camps and what they offer. It’s a great opportunity to decide where your kids are going this summer.

Make sure you look for our annual “Best of Kern County” issue coming in May. We’re counting all youre votes and will publish the results on May 17.

Chris Thompson

Managing Editor

Bakersfield Life magazine

“Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine”

A product of The Bakersfield Californian

661-395-7492

cthompson@bakersfield.com