Gary Painter points out that prices, though improving, have yet to see drastic increases.
In San Diego, prices are still about 34 percent off from the peak set in November 2005. Nationally, they're 30 percent below the peak.
"'Hot markets' are often a result of lack of inventory rather than positive market growth, which may explain the steady prices," Painter said. "As fundamentals continue to improve, however, you will begin to see more markets gaining momentum."
