Apparently the sky is falling. At least that is what we are expected to believe after reading many of the alarmist articles now circulating about the demise of real estate in America. But remember, much of what you hear through the media is based on national statistics. The only way to accurately assess our Denver market is to look at local market data. This simple idea seems obvious, but many people still are not seeking local information in this market.

One of the most common questions real estate investors ask is, "Should I be buying now in this market?"

Indications are that, yes, this is a great time for investors to buy. The Colorado market is not in the kind of trouble faced by many other areas of the country. Denver's inventory of homes has decreased this year and is considerably lower than last year. Pockets in the metro area are actually seeing appreciation, too.

Denver clearly looks to be underpriced. Job growth and an educated workforce will provide solid demand for housing. The FHA loan revival will help moderate income households buy their first homes. Builders are cutting back on new homes as well limiting oversupply conditions. So the timing seems perfect. Right?

In his best selling book, "The Millionaire Real Estate Investor," Gary Keller talks about market timing, which is one of the most misunderstood concepts in investing.

"When people say timing is important, they are correct," Keller says. "Timing is not only important, it's critical to investment success. The economy is cyclical. Markets are cyclical. Buying and selling opportunities are created by the ebb and flow of the cycles. What is misunderstood is the way timing is actually accomplished."

Area residents can learn about market timing and the current Denver market by attending a Millionaire Real Estate Investing seminar, presented by millionaire real estate investor Kevin Mackessy, from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 17, Dec. 15 or Jan. 12. Seminars are held at Keller Williams Executives Realty, 200 W. Plaza Dr., #200 in Highlands Ranch. To make a reservation, call 720-206-0203.

"What Gary Keller says is true. Market timing is about being active," Mackessy says. "Great opportunities cannot be found sitting on the sidelines watching. The best deals come from the best opportunities, and the best opportunities go fast. Investors need to buy in a way that lets them afford real estate cycles, and investors must know where they are in the current market cycle. The best way to find out about the market is by talking with local market experts. We track every possible statistic for the Denver market, so we know when the 'timing' is right."

According to Lawrence Yun, National Association of Realtors vice president of research, the doom and gloom headlines are not warranted in describing the current real estate market.

"It's all a matter of perspective," says Yun. "Price appreciation is holding up better than media reports would have us believe. What's challenging isn't so much market conditions but the psychology behind those conditions. There continues to be huge pent-up demand, and that demand will grow. Our economy added 4.3 million new jobs in the past two years."

Historically, for every two new jobs created one new home buyer enters the market. But as more people stay on the sidelines, the number of buyers doesn't grow as fast as expected.

"Once people look past the headlines, they'll see this is actually a very good time to buy," Yun continues. "Inventories are flush, prices are moderating, and interest rates remain historically low. Once the psychology catches up to our real market conditions, that pent- up demand will be released."

Investors should take such words to heart, especially in the Denver area. "All of these factors are making our market a very attractive place to invest in real estate," Mackessy explains.

"Nationally, we're forecasting existing-home sales to make a comeback," Yun further declares. "Some local markets like Austin and Denver will do far better. The important economic trend lines are pointing in the right direction."

Investors in other parts of the country have noticed the leading indicators are lining up for a good market to emerge in Denver. "I'm working with investors from California, Arizona, Nevada and Florida right now," Mackessy says. "Investors in these areas and others have made some good investments in the last several years, and as their markets cool, they are looking for promising areas in which to invest. Right now all signs point to Denver. For the lucky few investors who actually live in Denver, opportunity awaits."

To register for one of the MREI seminars, visit BuyHoldWealth.com or call 720-206-0203. Seminars cost $25 and attendees receive a copy of the MREI book.