I meet with several people each month to review our seller-friendly marketing programs and to discuss their real estate needs. In some cases, depending on the seller's motivation and what they need to net from the sale, I have to recommend the seller stay put and not sell in this market. The truth is that this is not the market to put an overpriced home up for sale.

But in cases where the seller is selling their home to buy a larger, more expensive home, I say Go for it! It's simple math that shows that this is generally a good decision and, if managed properly, such transactions could actual profit the sellers - even if they take less than originally desired for their home. Consider the following example:

Seller A owns a home on the south side of South Bend. Two years ago, this home may have sold for $135,000. But, they receive an offer today of only $120,000 - a whopping 12.5% less than the going price a couple of years ago. At first glance, selling for $15,000 less than desired is not very appealing.

But, the sellers have identified a larger home they would like to buy. Two years ago, this home may have sold for $249,000. But, since this is the same market, we assume the same 12.5% depreciation on this larger home and the going rate is only $217,875 - a savings of $31,125.

The seller gained $31,125 in savings on the new home and lost $15,000 to depreciation on the original sale. The seller's total gain is over $16,000 compared to sales two years ago. Although the seller may have gotten more on their sale in 2006, they would have more than likely paid more for the new home.

Of course this is a hypothetical example that does not apply across the board. Several factors go into determining the overall profitability of any real estate transactions. However, this is an illustration of a concept that is possible in this market and sellers should be aware of it.

So if you are considering upgrading your current home, get in touch with your realtor, (that should be ME), and have a good dialogue about your situation. Now may be the best time to make your move!