Is now the time? (personal, long..) experts?

[Evan A]

I've been looking at condo type places for a while now. Most of them are in prestigious neighborhoods, have great schools, walking distance or a short drive to a train station that goes into NYC, and close to great downtowns. Most are either 1 bed, 1 bath or 2 bed 1 bath with around 800-1,200sq ft. I am looking to purchase, and then rent the location until the market appreciates or I might just move in myself in a few years. The whole reason for this is to be an investment, wether I end up moving in to the unit as my first place to live, or sell it in the future. The places I am looking at are anywhere from 250-450k (ideally looking to spend 280-350k).

I'm 20 years old and have been investing money since I was about 6 years old (law suit). I'd probably put the 20% down and try to get a mortage on the condo but I'm still unsure on the best option for that (opinions?).
I spoke today to a realtor that specializes in luxery homes in prestigious neighborhoods as well as specializing in condos. I'm giving her a call back tomorrow to tell her my price ranges and to possibly meet up this weekend to go look at a few spots. I also have my parents backing me, but they've never done this before either.

I'd like to hear some opinions from guys who invest. I am located about 20 minutes outside of NYC and the house i live in appreciated from 500k to around 1.3 in 9 years of living here (though i'm looking for a rentable condo to buy) - I figured i'd throw that out there just as an example of the type of towns i'm located around.

What are your opinions? is now the time to buy because of the market? I told the realtor that this is going to be an investment, and that I am looking for an excellent location for a high re-sale value in the coming years. How much faith do you guys put in realtors? On her website, shes selling a home for 12.5 million!! And has also been in the business for 30+ years.

Apologies for the long post and all the questions, but I just had to ask because I'm seriously considering making a move if the time is right. I am a business major and hate school (though i'm forcing myself through it) and I'm dying to do something on the side to keep myself busy and feel like I'm taking steps foward. I mean, it is a buyers market ... right?

Thanks