October had higher than predicted real estate sales nationally according to National Association of Realtors (NAR). Perhaps the pent up demand along with slightly lower interest rates, lower prices and increased inventory of homes has finally made its mark in some areas.  This all boils down to affordability, which is the real driver of the market place.  Although it is not here in the Mid- Willamette Valley locally, this is a good sign for down the road, as we are seeing this increase in sales in California and a few of the hardest hit areas.  The buyers are mostly first time and primary residence purchasers not investors.