I was dubious about the reports of a tightening housing market, but this morning a friend of mine stopped me on the street. He asked, “do you know someone with a house for sale in Shrewsbury or Little Silver? I listed my house for $559,000 and got a contract for $555,000 in two weeks. These people want to close this month. I need to find a house right away.”

I said, “what about putting your furniture in storage and going into an extended-stay hotel until you find a place? What about a house rental?”

He shook his head. “Dogs….and five teenagers when they are all back from college. Gotta find a house. And quick.”

The Takeaway: If you are thinking about selling your home, now may be a good time.