If they say they are HAPPY WITH WHAT THEY ARE SEEING they KNOW I'll be pressing them to make an offer. Expressing dissatisfaction is the safest expression for a buyer.

I have a number of buyers not happy with the current inventory.  Though, if they continue to wait and not compromise, they will find themselves priced completely out of the market.

Things have really tightened up here in Southern California.  Buyers have disappeared and sellers are either lowering prices or canceling listings.  China sent a fear into the market and it hasn't stopped.  That came leading into slowdown that occurs around Halloween.  Now with the El Nino coming this could be one of the slowest winters in local real estate we've ever faced.

Some wait, most dont.

dont you think that is a common claim? which may be true, and perhaps it isnt? or is it true for them... or maybe itsa way to suspend the decision

Mostly, lots of frustration because there's not much to see and too many multiple offer situations for the good homes.

Buyers sense that the market is shifting. They are more patient and starting to low ball sellers whom they know are in need of selling during Winter months.

About 50% are on the sidelines waiting for the right property, be it for price or features, or location.

Inventory is light; better is wanted. It's a process of elimination, but we need a better batch to work with for certain. It's taking most of my buyers 2-4 months to close and they are writing 1-5 offers before getting accepted (multiple offers). Most have to compromise "wants" criteria to fit "needs" budget.