I think  the market is picking up. I'm getting about a buyer a week coming to my web site and using my Dream Home Finder to register for a Listing Cart on the Ocala MLS. I then send them listings according to their search criterea. About 90% are from out of the area, either from south Florida or some where up north. Most buyers are looking at a 3 to 6 month window, so I'm expecting a very good spring and summer.
  I think the reason for this influx is buyers is partly people looking to retire to a warmer climate and the decrease in prices that we have experienced here in the Ocala market over the last year or so.
  A note to sellers. Don't expect prices to go back up any time soon. We have 7600 homes on the market when we should have more like 2500. Price is the be all and end all of this market. Buyers don't even look at over priced listings.
  In general I'm optimistic for the first time in a long time. I still think we'll see a lot of short sales and out right foreclosures but we are now in a time that is a real buying opportunity. If you don't buy very soon you'll be kicking your self in 5 years for missing out.