Alpharetta Real EstateThe most recent home sales data from the Case-Shiller Index shows home values rising for the 17th straight month. The 10-city composite is up 4.1% and the 20-city composite is up 3.2%.

Is This Encouraging or Meaningless?

Readers of this blog know I don’t like to talk too often about national numbers because each market is different. What happens in Boston means little to us. On top of that, the Case-Shiller Index is on a 60-day delay and doesn’t reflect current pricing. Also the 20 cities it tracks is too limited. Cities like Houston, Philly and San Jose aren’t even included. Because of these reasons the report might not be meaningless but the value is limited.

This data is great for talking heads on the news and economists but my seller down the street probably doesn’t care. They’re more interested in the home sales date for Milton and Alpharetta.

However, it does show trends. We can look in the rear view mirror and confirm where we think we’re headed (on the way out of this mess). Yes, slowly, but headed in the right direction. So in that respect it is encouraging.

Local Data is Better Data

The Case-Shiller Index is what all the news agencies can’t wait to quote. It does show trends and has an impact, both good and bad, on confidence. But if your a home seller or buyer in North Atlanta and you need the numbers in your city and your community. If you can’t find those numbers, click here and send me an email, I’ll be happy to get it for you.