First time home buyer federal credit of $8000 has indeed played a major role in increasing sales for the homes in the $200k - $300k range as first time home buyers are scrambling to take advantage of this benefit before the November 30th deadline.  I listed a very nice townhouse in Centreville -- priced it on the high side and to my surprise, I received a contract in 24 hours for higher than asking.   I'm not sure what will happen to the market after this benefit expires.  I will keep close watch of the market statistics and report here any changes in the market place.