east bay real estate: Help Me Help You--Part Two - 04/22/08 05:33 PM
Last time, I blogged about what sellers can do to "help me, help you" --and now it is the buyer's turn. I'm going to be doing a lot of work researching properties, putting together tours for us, creating offers, negotiations, scheduling inspections, and more. And, there is a lot that buyers … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: Help Me Help You--Part One - 04/18/08 11:20 AM
There is that great line in the movie Jerry Maguire where sports agent Jerry pleads with his only client Rod Tidwell to do things that will help him be a better agent on Rod's behalf. He tells him "Help me help you!" Well, as a real estate agent, I often have … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: Choosing a Mortgage Broker - 04/16/08 03:13 PM
When you are getting ready to buy a home, one of the toughest decisions is choosing a mortgage broker to work with. This is especially true in today's rocky mortgage market where you don't know who to trust. These are confusing times, so you need to make sure that you are … (5 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Top East Bay Restaurants - 04/08/08 04:15 PM
The San Francisco Chronicle just came out with its annual list of the Top 100 restaurants in the Bay Area. Of course, most are in The City itself, but they included 14 East Bay restaurants. Of the 14, several are old favorites of mine and others are now on my list … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Lock Bumping--Home Security Concern or Urban Legend? - 04/08/08 11:55 AM
I've recently come across the phenomenon of "lock bumping" (also known as "key bumping") as a method used by thieves to break into locks. At our friendly, local locksmith, they even had handouts about lock bumping and what you can do about it. A quick internet search demonstrated, however, that it … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Moving Day Tips - 04/02/08 05:58 PM
Today is the big day--moving day--are you ready? Moving is one of the most stressful things a person can endure. But, some planning ahead can help make things go smoother.Before the big day, make sure you have taken care of changing your utilities, changing your bank accounts, and submitting an address … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Spring Cleaning Tips - 04/01/08 03:16 PM
Spring has sprung, so let's get that house of yours looking beautiful for that first gathering or party of the season! I'm not talking about vacuuming and doing the dishes. I'm talking about those little things you always think you should do someday.
First of all, get yourself organized and de-clutter … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: My Favorite Real Estate Statistics - 03/28/08 03:40 PM
The media is full of information and reports and statistics and projections and forecasts about the real estate market. And, it can get a little confusing. Is it a crisis or a correction? A meltdown or a slowdown? Is it a good time to buy or a bad time to sell? … (6 comments)
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east bay real estate: Save Money by Going Green - 03/21/08 01:12 PM
I like to check in from time to time with ways to go green, and this month I will be mailing to my clients a list of helpful tips on ways to save money by going green. Yet another reason that going green is great is because it appeals to both … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: Home Design Deals in the East Bay - 03/19/08 04:27 PM
Well, I'm back from a little break. This time we hit the Rhine River from Amsterdam to Frankfurt with stops in Dusseldorf, Cologne and more. Now, back to the real estate market...and real estate blogging!I love Ikea as much as the next person, but sometimes you need something a little different. … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Countrywide Foreclosures in Oakland - 02/27/08 12:45 PM
As I've written about before, a lot of people still ask me about buying foreclosures. Due to the media's coverage of real estate market and the sub-prime fallout, there is a belief that there are tons of foreclosure deals out there just waiting to be snapped up. But think again. The … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Inspection Contingency Period - 02/26/08 05:06 PM
So, you've made an offer on a home and it has been accepted. Congratulations! Within the escrow period, there is the inspection contingency period for you to look into all of the nooks and crannies of the house to make sure it is the perfect home for you. And, if you … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: The ABCs of PMI - 02/20/08 01:39 PM
With all of the seismic changes happening in the mortgage markets, one aspect to keep in mind is PMI, aka Private Mortgage Insurance. PMI is when you buy insurance to cover your lender (not you) because you are taking out a loan deemed to be riskier than most.PMI is usually needed … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: "Rockridge is Just Different" - 02/15/08 04:40 PM
Today, Ron Kriss, our broker here at Lawton Associates, announced a comprehensive and historical comparative analysis of the Rockridge real estate market. And, he has concluded that "Rockridge is Just Different." I have worked with Ron Since the mid-90s and we have seen the market in all of its many ups … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Below Market Rate Condomimiums - 02/13/08 01:43 PM
One terrific option for first time homebuyers in any market is the purchase of a "below market rate" condominium. These are generally city-run programs to provide affordable entry to the real estate market for low and moderate income earners, especially in areas where housing prices can be high.Every program is different, … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Why I Haven't Blogged in Two Weeks... - 02/12/08 03:28 PM
Why haven't I blogged in two weeks? Because I'm so busy with my clients! They say the market is busting, but I am not seeing too much evidence of that in our market. This just goes to show you that the real estate market is truly a neighborhood-by-neighborhood market.Here in Berkeley, … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Highly Touted Jack London Square Revival - 01/31/08 04:47 PM
Living in the East Bay for the last 15+ years, it seems like the powers that be are always talking about a revival of Jack London Square. And, it looks like it might actually be on the verge of happening!First, there is the highly anticipated California Harvest Hall, which is planned … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Keep Renting? Or Buy? How About a Lease Option! - 01/28/08 05:27 PM
As most people are now realizing, this is a terrific buyer's market--possibly the best buyer's market in over a decade. With home prices staying steady and even going down in parts of the Bay Area, now is a great time for first time homebuyers to to make a reasonable entry into … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Getting Ready for Tax Season--Part 2 - 01/24/08 01:24 PM
Yesterday, I blogged about getting ready for tax season by helping you decide whether to hire a CPA or do it yourself. Today, I'll provide some tips on getting yourself organized to make your work go smoothly. Of course, everyone's tax situation is different, but these are some basics to … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Getting Ready for Tax Season--Part 1 - 01/23/08 04:41 PM
Each month, I send my regular clients a selection of tips and advice on real estate, home ownership, finances and other life issues. This month, we focus on getting ready for tax season. Today in the blog, I will look at whether you should hire a CPA or do your … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Candidates on The Housing Market - 01/16/08 06:21 PM
Last night, I was watching the Democratic Presidential Debate, and they discussed the topic of the subprime mortgage meltdown and the housing market. If my memory is correct, this was the first time I had seen the topic discussed in depth at any of the presidential primary debates. So, it made … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: What is a Reverse Mortgage? - 01/15/08 03:13 PM
More and more people are becoming curious about reverse mortgages, and I am seeing an increase in coverage about them. I even see banks hanging big banners promoting their reverse mortgages to lure in new customers. But what are they, and are they right for you?If you are 62 or older … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: "Corner Unit in Circular Building" - 01/11/08 02:27 PM
Okay, time for a few laughs on a Friday. One thing I love about being a Realtor is seeing all the ridiculous wording to describe less-than-attractive properties. You know the ones...the listings that describe a house as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece and it turns out to be the most ordinary house … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Basics of California Real Estate Withholding - 01/10/08 02:49 PM
January means tax season is upon us, and there is one aspect of real estate than can be quite confusing when it comes to filing your taxes. That is the California Real Estate Withholding requirements. Legally, sellers of real estate owe taxes on the sale, but it is a complicated process … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: Feng Shui Your Way into 2008 - 01/09/08 11:46 AM
Want to start the year off in a peaceful, calming manner? Who doesn't after several weeks of hectic holidays? Implementing some basic tips from the school of Feng Shui is a great way to begin 2008 surrounded by harmony.I'm sure you have heard of Feng Shui, so you probably know that … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: HOAs and Special Assessments - 01/02/08 05:01 PM
Buying a condominium can be such a great deal and a very affordable way to enter the housing market. But, always look beyond the mortgage at your HOA dues and special assessments, making sure to figure them in to your real estate investment.Now most people know that you have to pay … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: The New "Cost vs. Value" Report for the Bay Area - 12/20/07 06:24 PM
You just know that an updated bathroom would help your house sell, but you wonder if you will be able to recoup the costs of the renovation. I hear this question, and others like it, all the time from sellers. That is why the annual "Cost vs. Value" report is so … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: McCormack's Guides - 12/19/07 06:07 PM
If you have been in the real estate business for awhile, you might remember the McCormack's Guides. These are terrific little books with everything you could possibly want to know about a geographic area, and more. And, I mean EVERYTHING, from school scores to history to the local zeitgeist. All of … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Quick Trips Around the Bay - 12/14/07 03:20 PM
This holiday season, take some time out to have a little adventure with your family and enjoy all that the Bay Area has to offer. If you are here in the East Bay, plan some day trips to get out and enjoy something new. Set a destination and let the day … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: Methods of Holding Title - 12/11/07 06:50 PM
Okay, students, time once again for a little Real Estate 101. Today's topic is methods of holding title. Many people begin by wondering, "What does holding title mean?" Well, when you own a house, there are many ways to own it, or, in other words, many ways to have the title … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: A Little Perspective on Today's Market - 12/10/07 05:59 PM
I just returned from Buffini & Company's two-day Turning Point real estate seminar in Sacramento, and wanted to share some of the statistics and information on the real estate market that Brian discussed. I always get so much out of these seminars, and love to share the information.Newspapers and the cable news networks continue … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: The East Bay's New "Green Corridor" - 12/05/07 02:06 PM
Four major East Bay cities--Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville and Richmond--have announced that they will work together to create what they call the "Green Corridor," a business region comparable to the Silicon Valley that will focus on Green technologies and solutions. This is a terrific commitment that should greatly benefit the local economy … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Berkeley's Golden Duplex Rule - 12/04/07 06:41 PM
Every town has obscure laws that can be confusing, and one to be aware of in Berkeley is the "Golden Duplex" rule. If you are buying a duplex with tenants in Berkeley, or if you are a tenant in a duplex that is being sold, it would be wise to find … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Getting Ready to Move - 12/03/07 04:05 PM
So, you have sold your house and bought another one. You thought that was challenging, but now comes the hard part--actually moving all of your stuff from one home to another. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, moving has the potential to be one of the most … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Rumor Control--Foreclosures - 11/28/07 05:36 PM
A few weeks ago, I wrote a blog entry on the basics of the foreclosure process. With so much in the media about foreclosures almost every day, people have a lot of questions about foreclosures and how they work.In addition to sharing this information, I would also like to help put … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: Guide to East Bay Farmer's Markets - 11/27/07 03:45 PM
If you live in the East Bay and live for fresh locally-grown produce, then you are in luck. There are more Farmer's Markets in our region than you could ever believe. You can get fresh lettuces and peppers and berries and oranges and almost anything your heart desires at a local … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Safety Measures for New Homeowners - 11/26/07 05:23 PM
Do you consult your buyers on how to make their new homes as safe as possible?
Oh, it is so exciting to move into your new home. So much new space to explore and discover. Buying and arranging new furniture and decor. Having your friends and family over to see the new … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: 2007 Toy Drive for Toys for Tots - 11/21/07 04:07 PM
Join Me and Lawton Associates in supporting the annual Toys for Tots drive to help gather toys this holiday season for underprivileged boys and girls. Just bring an unwrapped toy (or 2 or 3 toys!) to the Lawton Associates office in Rockridge, and then join us for holiday treats. We will … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: If it is a Buyer's Market, Why Aren't They Buying? - 11/19/07 02:02 PM
Everyone keeps saying that it is a buyer's market. And, it sure looks like one. There is a lot of inventory on the market, sellers are dropping their prices, and good loans are still available. Well, someone better tell the buyers that it is a buyer's market, because a lot of … (5 comments)
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east bay real estate: It is the Market...not the Marketing - 11/16/07 05:44 PM
As the market continues to correct itself after these turbulent months, most houses are taking longer to sell. It is a good time to remember that in most cases, it is the market, not the marketing.Many sellers are still in denial that their house won't cause a bidding war. They still … (6 comments)
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east bay real estate: Who Are You Thankful For? - 11/14/07 03:03 PM
Thanksgiving seems so early this year, so we better get a jump on thinking about what we are thankful for. My mind always turns to community organizations and non-profit groups, and I would like to give thanks and a big shout out to the Housing Consortium of the East Bay (and … (8 comments)
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east bay real estate: Bay Area Oil Spill~How You Can Help - 11/09/07 01:19 PM
Almost 60,000 gallons of oil have spilled in the bay, after a large container ship scraped up against one of the Bay Bridge towers. Most beaches are closed. Surfers have been getting covered in oil, and even getting sick. Waterfowl and other wildlife are being injured and killed by the spill. … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: "You Gotta Spend Money to Make Money" - 11/09/07 11:29 AM
Remember the old adage that you have to spend money to make money? Well, it certainly is true if you are planning to sell your home, especially in this market. They key word there is "planning". If you plan ahead, you will have a better sense of the scope of work … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Berkeley Solar Update--City Pays & You Benefit - 11/07/07 02:02 PM
As an update to yesterday's post about Getting Started Going Green in the East Bay, the City of Berkeley has just made it a lot easier and more affordable to add solar power to your home. Here are the details.Basically, the Berkeley City Council has approved a financing plan in which … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: Getting Started Going Green in the East Bay - 11/06/07 05:08 PM
Time to look at the Greening of America once again from a real estate point of view. I get the sense that a lot of people really want to get started on making their homes and lives MORE green, but don't know how to move beyond basic recycling and/or using public … (1 comments)
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east bay real estate: From Granite to Soapstone--A Look at Countertops - 11/01/07 03:20 PM
Granite countertops have been all the rage in real estate and interior design the last few years. You would recognize its speckled brown look, and granite is a terrific material for countertops, but there are many types of stone available for use as countertops.Countertops have become one of the first details … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Ghost Busting Tips - 10/31/07 11:38 AM
In all seriousness, and in the spirit of Halloween, it is time to share some ghost busting tips. As a real estate agent, we have to deal with all aspects of homes and the needs of homeowners. And, sometimes, a homeowner might believe that their home might be inhabited by a … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Tax Advantage of Home Ownership - 10/29/07 06:00 PM
We all know that real estate and home ownership can be a terrific investment, and one reason for that is because there are many tax advantages to home ownership. So while you are building equity for the future, you can also get some nice tax savings in the present. A nice … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Yes, You Do Need a Home Warranty - 10/26/07 07:23 PM
A lot of new homeowners get confused on the differences between a homeowners hazard insurance policy and a home warranty plan. And, many think that a warranty may not be necessary, assuming that they are like those questionable extended warranties they offer you on electronics and small appliances. Well, let me … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Computer & Electronics Recycling - 10/24/07 01:22 PM
Time for another GREEN update. One of the toughest things to Reduce/Reuse/Recycle is old computers and other electronic items. Well, I just discovered a terrific resource in Berkeley that should take care of all of your needs--the Alameda County Computer Resource Center. Even if you aren't in the area, they can still help … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: Another Look at the MMAP - 10/23/07 03:10 PM
Normally, I try very hard not to repeat myself on this blog, but I think the MMAP program is worth another look right now. First, it is one of the most viewed pages on my blog and I get asked about it quite a bit. Second, with the recent changes in … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: 2 Weeks to Halloween - 10/17/07 05:34 PM
Two weeks from tonight, I will be handing out candy to all the kids in the neighborhood. So, it is time to start getting ready for Halloween. See, we don't have to talk real estate 24 hours a day! I thought I'd share some pumpkin carving tips and ideas, and direct … (4 comments)
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east bay real estate: Berkeley Landmarks - 10/16/07 06:20 PM
Did you know that Berkeley has designated over 300 buildings as architecturally important? That is a lot! I wanted to make a smaller list of some my favorites--some that are on the list and some that may be there someday.The Fish House--This elaborate Victorian was built in 1889 and is covered … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: The Steps of a Foreclosure - 10/16/07 01:15 PM
After last week's post about short sales, it begs the question about what the difference is between a short sale and a foreclosure. And, with all the media attention to the rise in foreclosures, especially here in the Bay Area, I thought it would be helpful to look at the steps … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: So, What is a Short Sale? - 10/10/07 03:35 PM
In this changing real estate market, everyone is talking about "short sales," but the regular consumer might be left wondering what exactly a short sale is. While we Realtors know all about them, this is something every homebuyer on the market should be aware of. So, here is a quick introduction … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: Oakland's New Seismic Retrofit Incentive Program - 10/05/07 02:30 PM
If you are an Oakland homeowner, you simply must consider taking advantage of Oakland's new seismic retrofitting incentive program. And, if you are buying a home in Oakland, there is no reason not to retrofit your home. The City of Oakland is making it very easy and very affordable for you … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Ecofabulous - 10/03/07 03:57 PM
From time to time, I like to write about the green movement and how it applies to real estate and home design. So, today I want to point everyone in the direction of a fabulous blog--Ecofabulous.com.Ecofabulous is run by Zem Joaquin (and what a great name is that?), a design professional with … (8 comments)
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east bay real estate: Buyers Market=Sellers in Mourning - 10/02/07 02:54 PM
So the market seems to be settling down somewhat (At least, nothing too scary happened while I was on vacation in Russia for two weeks). The last few months have been a bit crazy. And, as I've said before, the market is not plummeting or caving in...it is simply correcting itself. … (3 comments)
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east bay real estate: New Listing--4262 Gilbert, Oakland, CA 94611--Near Piedmont Ave. - 10/01/07 01:22 PM
Well, I just got back from Russia (...more on that later...), and have a new listing on the market. This is a beautiful Cape Cod-style farmhouse near Piedmont Avenue in Oakland. It is on the rear lot behind another home, so it is very private. The address is 4262 Gilbert Street.
The … (2 comments)
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east bay real estate: Weekend Fun in the East Bay! - 09/14/07 04:23 PM
We not only get to work in the incredible East Bay, but we also get to live and play here. So, I like to chime in with some fun things to do in the East Bay from time to time. This weekend, lets visit some Hollywood History right here in the … (0 comments)
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east bay real estate: Greenspan Weighs In - 09/13/07 03:25 PM
Throughout the mortgage industry mess of the last few months, I've been wondering what former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan has to say about all this. For years and years, through Clinton and Bush, his word had been gold. But I couldn't help thinking that some of the policies he put into … (4 comments)
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