In this last column of the year we reflect a bit and project a bit, at least as well as we are able in these uncertain times.

We are glad to see our second consecutive year of increases in number of real estate sales transactions. Even so, we are especially aware this time of year of those to whom the market has been less than kind. Of the 2,878 residential sales so far this year, roughly 25 percent were of foreclosed properties. That means that over 700 people lost or gave up their homes. Our hearts go out to those folks and their families and we hope that better times are on their horizon.

Although our stock and trade is in helping buyers and sellers exchange real estate, we are not always fast enough to help people avoid foreclosure. Some of our own members have given up their homes to foreclosure, or surrendered the deeds to their property too in this past year. Every buyer is golden and in this market there aren't enough to take advantage of every available opportunity. This is especially true when the homes already foreclosed upon are sold for less than those hoping to avoid foreclosure can afford to sell for.

Our hearts go out to those unfortunate ones. Hopefully, we have demonstrated our compassion for our community in ways that remind you that we are all in this together. Like you, we have seen our homeless population grow and like many of you we have attempted to make a difference to them.

Among the volunteers involved with charitable causes you will find our Realtor members. As you read this morning's newspaper you can be sure there are many of us out there, right now, serving the homeless, the elderly, the disadvantaged children or the displaced pets within our community. Aside from the tens of thousands of dollars we contribute each year, we contribute immeasurable man hours of time to various humanitarian causes.

We hope you found time this past year to demonstrate your compassion to causes you deem appropriate and will continue to contribute as we pledge to do. As we put this year behind us, let's look forward to better times, knowing that even in good times there are those among us who will always need our help and understanding in the most basic of needs, not just the sale or purchase of real estate.

Projections for 2011? We are probably as tentative as anyone in this regard. We know we will see more foreclosures. We always do. Whether that number will escalate or retreat we cannot be certain. If the efforts of government truly create jobs to reduce unemployment we undoubtedly will see fewer foreclosures and less hardship.

We do see market stabilization but know it is fragile. Based on 2010 achievements we are optimistic that we have begun the long climb back to a healthier market and are cautiously optimistic that this upward motion will continue throughout the coming year.

For now, let's remember what is truly important: our friends, neighbors and families to whom we have something to offer. Let us be generous in offering our assistance.

For a Safe trip Home, call a Realtor. Call your Realtor or visit "http://www.cdarealtors.com" www.cdarealtors.com to search properties on the Multiple Listing Service or to find a Realtor member who will represent your best interests.

Kim Cooper is a real estate Broker and the spokesman for the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors. Kim and the Association invite your feedback and input for this column. You may contact them by writing to the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors, 409 W. Neider, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 or by calling (208) 667-0664 with your questions or commentary.