economic: George Bush's Speech this Morning!? - 10/10/08 11:24 AM
Just wanted to start this one off. Sounds to me like a lot of bank bailing out and really no help for those wanting to purchase a home. This is the Presidents tenth time on the tube trying to "ease" Main Street. I'm not very political but what the hell is … (0 comments)
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economic: The Fed Lowers Rates By 1/2% - 10/08/08 06:49 AM
The Federal Reserve lowered short term rates by 1/2 % in a move that was mirrored around the world on Wednesday morning. The European Central Bank and Bank of England joined as well as banks from Switzerland, Canada and Sweden . The federal funds lending rate now stands at 1.5 percent … (9 comments)
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economic: NAR CAll to Action - 10/05/08 02:51 PM
NAR has issued a call to action...
Emergeny Economic Stabilty Act
The link provides a form letter and a summary of what the act is asking Congress to address...
MARATHON FLORIDA REAL ESTATE SEARCH
Coco Plum Realtors is small family owned and operated real estate business in Marathon, Florida. … (0 comments)
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economic: AIG Bailout, one mans take on it all - 09/26/08 10:16 AM
I came across this in an e-mail sent to me today and thought I would share it. By the way, I have no idea who this Birk guy is but I personally giv ehim an A+ for creativity.
"This idea sounds just crazy enough to possibly work, so naturally it won't … (6 comments)
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economic: What Did Cheech and Chong Teach Us About the Current Housing Market? - 09/23/08 09:01 AM
What Did Cheech and Chong Teach Us About the Current Housing Market?Those of us old enough to remember the comedy duo of the 1970's, Cheech and Chong will no doubt remember the bit they did about dog droppings. As I ponder the routine, I can still here it in the echoes … (1 comments)
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economic: Economic Indicators for the week of the 21st - 09/22/08 12:08 PM
Below are the economic indicators for the week of the 21st, when you click on the link you can chart it out as well.
… (1 comments)
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economic: FX Market | Sigma Forex - 09/18/08 08:14 PM
Forex Trading different roles in the FX Market
Central Banks And Governments
Policies that are implemented by governments and central banks can play a major roll in the FX market. Central banks can play an important part in controlling the country's money supply to insure financial stability.
* Banks
A … (0 comments)
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economic: Lehman, AIG, and Bear Stearns... Oh My!! - 09/17/08 04:06 PM
I recently got into a friendly "discussion" with several buddies about who is to blame for the housing and credit crisis that is, according to some, shaking the very foundations of our financial system. So who is to blame?
If you like to bemoan the evils of "Corporate America", then … (0 comments)
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economic: The Chickens Have Come Home to Roost - 09/17/08 12:53 AM
There must be a “Bad Moon Rising” because I’ve been trying to go to sleep for about two hours. With the actions on Wall Street today, I just can’t seem to wind down… I believe it’s called “over-stimulation”. I feel as if I’ve had 10 cups of coffee.
We've Been Had... … (30 comments)
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economic: Sigma Forex Market Over View - 09/15/08 04:30 PM
CHICAGO - JANUARY 22: Traders signal offers n...
* 3-month Eurodollar Deposits
The interest rate on 3-month dollar-denominated deposits held in banks outside the US. It serves as a valuable benchmark for determining interest rate differentials to help estimate exchange rates. To illustrate USD/JPY as a theoretical example, the greater … (0 comments)
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economic: Twin Mortgage Giants – Fannie & Freddie Collapse - 09/06/08 08:16 AM
Just some observations on this rainy Saturday morning...
Did Fannie & Freddie collapse, or were they shot down? Were bombs planted inside these entities?
On 9/11 the twin towers went down. Now the twins, Fannie & Freddie, are going down and are be taken into conservatorship by our government.
… (10 comments)
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economic: Campaign for Liberty - 09/04/08 11:53 PM
… (3 comments)
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economic: Green Community or Toxic Landfill? - 08/16/08 04:32 PM
… (8 comments)
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economic: Housing & Economic Recovery Act of 2008 Tax Credit. - 08/14/08 04:59 PM
Just a little more info on this Economic Recovery Act....
•Applies to owner occupied purchases from April 9, 2008 through June 30, 2009
•Tax credit of up to $7,500 for first time homebuyers - no ownership in the last three years (credit = 10% of cost of home up to $7,500)
… (3 comments)
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economic: Why Charlotte, NC Is The Place To Be! - 08/14/08 01:10 PM
As real estate professionals, we often meet people who are moving to Charlotte from other cities, states, and in some cases, a different country. Being natives of Charlotte and absolutely loving it here, we have absolutely no problem boosting our Queen City up in the eyes of a newcomer! We often … (0 comments)
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economic: Tax planning by death... - 08/12/08 12:07 AM
If you have a lot of investment properties, here is an income and estate tax strategy for you:
Move out of your primary residence and into one of your investment homes, sell off all of your other investment properties before 2010, and plan your death for December 31st, 2010.
Just joking, … (0 comments)
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economic: ForexGen | Weekly outlook for major currencies - 08/11/08 03:59 AM
The new week of trading was not without drama right from the open as the market looked to continue where Friday's 2% drop in EUR/USD left off. After the Euro was decimated late last week in what many have foreseen as a day of reckoning where it plummeted from 1.5500 … (0 comments)
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economic: ForexGen | Fundamental Outlook for New Zealand Dollar - 08/11/08 03:57 AM
This week's economic calendar is unlikely to offer much support to the beleaguered Kiwi dollar. Second-quarter Producer Prices will most probably tick higher as the data will not take into account July's sharp downward correction in crude oil. The same considerations will guide the Retail Sales figure: receipts fell to … (0 comments)
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economic: Forex technical analysis with ForexGen - 08/04/08 05:18 PM
FOREX analysis is divided into two types: Fundamental and Technical. Fundamental analysis attempts to predict movements in currencies by examining current political and economic events. FOREX technical analysis uses historical economic data to predict movements in the FOREX.
Basic Principles
Technical analysis is based on three assumptions:
1 – Price … (0 comments)
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economic: ForexGen | Quick History Lesson About The Forex Market - 08/04/08 05:32 AM
Currency trading was historically based on a gold standard. This means that currencies were valued in terms of gold, rather than in terms of other currencies. The original gold exchange standard provided stability for currencies, but had a weakness of boom or bust patterns. A historic accord was struck in … (1 comments)
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economic: Why SigmaForex ? - 08/03/08 11:13 PM
Market's Lowest Spreads1 pip Spread On 12 PairsFree Swap AccountsInstant DepositsFast WithdrawalsPowerful Trading StrategiesStrong Partnership PlansHigh LiquidityMonthly Rewards24 / 7 Live SupportNo Commission FeesPowerful Technical IndicatorsUnique Forex AccountPip Value CalculatorPivot Point CalculatorDaily Economic EventsNo Dealing Desk AccountsFast Trading Execution
… (1 comments)
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economic: Euro Continues to Flounder As Additional Signs of Slowdown Emerge | SigmaForex - 08/03/08 10:44 PM
The Euro did little but consolidate below 1.5580 on Friday, as German retail sales proved to be weaker-than-expected at -1.4 percent for the month of June. While this didn't necessarily impact the currency much, the release will be useful a leading indicator for next week's Euro-zone retail sales report and … (0 comments)
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economic: Japanese Yen Holds Up Versus Weak Euro, British Pound | SigmaForex - 08/03/08 10:43 PM
Many of the Japanese yen crosses have been mixed lately, with the currency still somewhat weak against the US dollar, but gaining some ground versus the Euro and British pound. There was no pertinent economic data on hand for the currency, though it's questionable if that matters as the yen … (3 comments)
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economic: Billionaires - Some Surprising Information - 08/03/08 10:13 AM
In analyzing Forbes’ list of Billionaires, it’s not surprising to learn that Warren Buffet is number one billionaire and his net worth is estimated at $62 BILLION. What is surprising is that the U.S. only has 4 on the first page of 24, that Saudi Arabia only has one, but Russia … (2 comments)
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economic: First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit - 08/01/08 08:13 AM
One of the provisions of the new Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, signed into law by President Bush on July 30, 2008 provides a First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. The tax credit is available to qualified first time homebuyers. A first time homebuyer is anyone who has not … (6 comments)
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economic: Could Non-Farm Payrolls Drop by 100k? | Sigma Forex - 07/31/08 09:54 PM
The US non-farm payrolls report is one of the most critical releases for the US dollar, not only because it is market-moving, but also because it can help us gauge the broad status of the economy. Despite the fact that GDP rose 1.9 percent in Q2, up from 0.9 percent … (0 comments)
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economic: Trading the Non-Farm Payrolls Release | Sigma Forex - 07/31/08 09:54 PM
Very few economic indicators are as exciting to trade as the release of non-farm payrolls for the US economy. Indeed, the change in non-farm payrolls for the month of July could determine both the outlook of Federal Reserve monetary policy as well as the fate of the US dollar for … (2 comments)
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economic: Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 - 07/31/08 03:43 PM
I just got this from one of my contacts and would like to pass it on for all to review:
Key elements of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 include:
A temporary first-time home buyer tax credit. The tax credit will stimulate home buying, reduce excess supply in housing … (5 comments)
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economic: What You May Not Hear About The Housing And Economic Recovery Act of 2008 - 07/30/08 06:47 PM
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 was signed today and that could mean you or someone you know may qualify for up to a $7,500 Refundable Tax Credit.
But...
Be Informed
There are some strings attached to this tax credit that you may not be aware of:
(Click here … (3 comments)
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economic: The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 - How First Time Home Buyers can get a $7,500 Refundable Tax Credit - 07/30/08 06:44 PM
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 was signed today and that could mean you or someone you know may qualify for up to a $7,500 Refundable Tax Credit.
A simple overview of how it works
You are eligible if:
You are a first time home buyer (meaning neither you … (0 comments)
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economic: Partnership Services | Sigma Forex - 07/29/08 09:17 PM
Overall ViewSigma helps a various groups of partners around the world to enlarge their business and expand the fullpotential of the Forex market.Sigma´s services include: Introducing Brokers: Join our IB network and receive compensation for directing new clients to Sigma. Money Managers: Full service trading capabilities, plus dedicated account management, client … (0 comments)
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economic: Money Manager | Sigma Forex - 07/29/08 09:15 PM
Elevate the quality of your trading, Money managers trading pooled or individual client funds benefit from Sigma´s trading and administrative tools and services.With preferential rating access to Sigma´s research staff, sophisticated trading platform and reporting tools, Sigma´s money manager solution is one of the most competitive in the marketplace.Sigma provides … (0 comments)
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economic: Introducing Broker | Sigma Forex - 07/29/08 09:12 PM
Expand your business and revenue potential while offering your referred clients the highest available level of service and support.Sigma´s Introducing Broker Program allows individuals to receive remuneration for directing new clients to Sigma.Refer new self-directed or managed account clients to Sigma and make easier the account opening and funding process. In … (0 comments)
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economic: Housing Bailout, Bubbleheads and OverStimulation - 07/29/08 06:42 PM
Several years ago, my husband and I went out to eat with five other couples. The restaurant was one of the most upscale and expensive restaurants in the city… very posh with an elaborate style of cooking, haute cuisine ("OAT kwee-ZEEN").
One look at the menu and I knew we were … (3 comments)
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economic: Great Town Home, Qualifies All Buyers for the National Real Estate Stimulus Program, 658 85th Ave NW, Coon Rapids, Minnesota, MN, 55433 - 07/27/08 12:56 AM
It is a great time to involved in real estate! For more information about my services, guarantees,or how I can help you find your next home, sell your home, buy a business or investment property.Just call Patti Ann Kasper today at 763-548-1418!
To view my interactive on-line real estate magazine … (0 comments)
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economic: North Metro Town Home Qualifies All Buyers for National Housing Stimulus Program, 658 85th, Coon Rapids, Minnesota, 55433 - 07/26/08 11:53 PM
This comfy Coon Rapids Town Home qualifies for the National Housing Stimulus Program. All buyers will receive a cash bonus of one point seven percent of the sale price up to a maximum of ten thousand dollars. That's right, a tax free cashiers check is mailed to the buyer after closing, upon … (0 comments)
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economic: Foreclosures up 121%, but ECONOMIC REVISIONS suggest ecopnomic stabilization....Go Figure!!!!!!! - 07/25/08 10:09 PM
U.S. new home sales fell marginally in June but the pace was much higher than expected due to +50k of revisions over the past three months. Economists were surprised by the report and said it may be a tentative sign of stabilization.
Some Cheif Strategists suggest that it "paints a brighter … (9 comments)
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economic: Charlotte County Economic Development July 2008 Figures little Surprise - 07/25/08 07:31 PM
This week, the Charlotte County Development Office put out its' July 2008 Economic Indicator Report which had little surprises. Unemployment was higher that the state and national levels at 7.6% (FL & US 5.7%.) Tourism revenue is up, but that is deceiving because of additional taxes of 1% added in October … (2 comments)
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economic: Feds surround Freddie & Fannie - 07/23/08 08:29 PM
The Federal government and the Treasury department teamed up Sunday putting together the final touches of a financial plan giving mortgage giants Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae some financial security. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson is pushing Congress to approve the plan that will keep the mortgage giants solvent, Fannie & Fredie control nearly fifty percent of mortgages nationwide.
Part … (0 comments)
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economic: Are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac In Trouble? - 07/16/08 01:24 PM
If you have been listening to the news this past few days, you have probably heard about the federal government's offer to back Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with emergency funds, if needed.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac own about half of all the mortgage loans in the country. According to those in the know, … (0 comments)
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economic: What's Happening with the Anheuser-Busch Buyout? - 07/01/08 12:08 PM
InBev's CEO Carlos Brito asks shareholders to override the Anheuser-Busch board. He wants them to approve the buyout.
He thinks that Anheuser-Busch's present plan is too risky. He asks shareholders to look at InBev's previous track record of international expansion and profitablilty even during bad economic times.
I'm not sure if that's going to … (6 comments)
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economic: DOWNTOWN DC ENJOYS HEALTHY ECONOMY DESPITE NATIONAL RECESSION - 06/30/08 04:19 PM
The Downtown DC Business Improvement District (BID) recently released its 2007 State of Downtown Report, which shows that the Downtown BID area's economy has remained surprisingly robust in the midst of international and national economic and financial hardships.
During 2007, visitors in the Downtown BID area hit an all time high … (0 comments)
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economic: Do You Believe in Magic... Come Follow Me ~~ - 06/25/08 04:05 PM
During the “red hot days” of the “subprime”, you could get a loan that required no documentation. All you had to do was go into the bank and say “Hey, I want a home loan” and voilà… a genie appeared out of a bottle and you were granted your wish. You … (3 comments)
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economic: Detroit Metropolitan Real Estate Economic Summary - 06/17/08 04:01 PM
Recently, I was asked by an out of state relocation company to write a summary on the economic climate of the Southeastern Michigan Real Estate Market. The Relo Company needed to legitimize the shortage on a property in inventory that received an offer of 60% less then what the seller purchased … (1 comments)
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economic: Catch Me If You Can... - 06/14/08 10:12 AM
John Dillinger, when asked why he robbed the banks said… “I just like to rob banks”
Catch Me If You Can is a title that has taken me on one adventure after another of financial train wrecks. This is a post about corruption and greed. It is a post about the … (8 comments)
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economic: Lehigh Valley, PA Cited as "Shining Star" by Fox News-Watch Video - 06/11/08 04:42 PM
LVEDC, Lehigh Valley Cited as "Shining Star" By Fox News
4/14/08
LEHIGH VALLEY, PA - April 14, 2008 - The Lehigh Valley was cited as a "Shining Star" by the Fox Business cable news outlet Monday during a segment that included an on-air interview with Philip B. Mitman, President … (0 comments)
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economic: Bernanke's Commentary - - Today is just like 1975 - 06/04/08 09:30 PM
Bernanke spoke......his BOTTOM LINE: In a speech focusing on two key areas -- energy and productivity -he contrasts today with 1975, the year he graduated from Harvard. For the most part, with appropriate caveats, his view on today looks more constructive. News wire headlines focusing on the fact that inflation is … (0 comments)
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economic: Philadelphia Market Trend 2008 - 06/04/08 09:36 AM
My Philly Buyers and Sellers: Check out this quarterly report...PAGES 28-34.
http://www.trendmls.com/Media/MarketStats/Watch2008_q01.pdf
If you want to see other quarters from years past, send me an email with the specific request, NikkEB@aol.com
… (0 comments)
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economic: Florida Residential Growth, Impact Fees, And Local Government Planning - 05/20/08 02:03 PM
Local governments are being hit with a heavy economic burden with the slowdown in residential real estate. Sizeable reductions in new home construction and demands from the state of Florida requiring local governments to cut back their budgets are taking their toll. Fewer permits being pulled for new home construction means … (0 comments)
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economic: Central Florida Real Estate Market Downturn - Economic Variables & Causes - 05/20/08 01:51 PM
The residential real estate market in Central Florida has been good since the last recession that occurred in 1991. The real estate market was red hot for a six month window between April to September, 2005. I had never witnessed such phenomenal price increases in my entire 30 years as a … (0 comments)
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economic: New Government Action to Rescue the Housing Market Just Happened - 05/09/08 02:42 PM
Fannie Mae Changes Policy and Pricing on "Conforming" Jumbos
Fannie Mae announced a series of new initiatives called "Keys to Recovery" in its first quarter 08 report. This effort is geared toward basically providing liquidity, stability, and affordability to the housing and mortgage markets for the long term, keeping struggling borrowers … (2 comments)
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economic: 2nd Annual Valley Real Estate and Economics Conference - 05/02/08 03:28 PM
Get ready for the 2nd Annual Valley Real Estate and Economics Conference. Last years was a great success as many people enjoyed and learned from the insights from our CEO, Mike Zagaris.
As everyone is aware, the outlook of real estate throughout the United States has changed. At the conference, … (0 comments)
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economic: Understanding the Present Market for York County - 04/28/08 10:34 PM
York County is growing - growing from people moving from California to New York and from Minnesota to Florida. People are coming for a better lifestyle, better climate, employment transfer, or purchasing their second/vacation home. The "transplants", as the locals call the influx of people, are surprised 'how expensive' both homes … (0 comments)
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economic: What buyers SHOULD know - 04/24/08 11:42 AM
Shopping Around
I think I can get you the best deal, provide you with the best service and like so many others turn you into a very satisfied customer. However, if you want to look around, I want to help you do that wisely as well!
First, make sure you are working with … (1 comments)
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economic: Market Update 04/21/08 - 04/21/08 09:54 AM
Market Commentary
At Legacy Mortgage we are constantly seeking ways to enhance our dedication to our clients and real estate partners. Our postition as an innovator in the field of real estate finance allows us to help you make informed decisions regarding your customers mortgage financing. We have scoured through the financial … (0 comments)
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economic: What's All the Bracket? NCAA Tourney Thoughts - 04/01/08 02:25 PM
Big week in the Men's College Basketball world. The field has narrowed from 63 teams to the Final Four. Interestingly, the four teams that were seeded #1 are the four teams that are left. There's usually some surprise team in the final couple of games; some underdog that rose from obscurity … (3 comments)
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economic: When a conforming loan is non-conforming... - 03/30/08 12:35 AM
Is a buyer who is borrowing $450K to purchase a house going to get into a jumbo loan at jumbo rates, or a conforming loan at conforming rates?? The answer will surprise you.
On March 6th, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the FHA (unfortunatley, VA loans were mistakenly left out) all announced … (1 comments)
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economic: It's Getting Better all the Time - 03/27/08 09:52 AM
On it's inaugural list of the best cities to live, Fortune Small Business ranked Charlotte, NC #8. This number is not perfectly accurate (we all know it is #1!), but this is a welcome accolade none the less. FSB researched towns that enjoy healthy business environments and alluring leisure offerings, then … (4 comments)
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economic: Economic Stimulus Plan Increases Loan Limits For Homebuyers! - 03/08/08 12:33 PM
A News Series from Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC Highlighting Real Estate Tips
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PLAN INCREASES LOAN LIMITS FOR HOMEBUYERS
More Options Now Available for Consumers Looking to Buy, Sell or Refinance Homes
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 5, 2008) - President Bush recently signed a new economic stimulus bill into effect. But many people … (0 comments)
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economic: The Truth About Traffic - 02/25/08 10:27 AM
I've been seeing these things a lot lately. Those black tubes stretched across the various roadways I drive. At first I thought they were some kind of traffic enforcement device and there were cops lurking nearby waiting for suckers like me to fly over them at unlawful speeds. But no, they are actually … (9 comments)
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economic: Montana, Gallatin Valley Economic Growth - The Growing Valley - 02/19/08 05:16 PM
THE GROWING VALLEY
IN THE GALLATIN VALLEY, ECONOMIC GROWTH WAS ONCE AGAIN THE STORY OF THE YEAR; CONSTRUCTION BOOM IN 2007 MAKES AREA ONE OF THE STATE'S HOTTEST SPOTS
By GAIL SCHONTZLER
Chronicle Staff Writer Growth was again Gallatin County's biggest economic story of the year, making this area one of the brightest spots in … (5 comments)
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economic: Economic Stimulus Package - 02/14/08 02:18 PM
The President has signed the Economic Stimulus Package. This package will give temporary relief to the Jumbo market by raising conforming and FHA loan limits. The unfortunate part of this plan is that this is not a set limit nationwide.
Several steps must occur before lenders can accept applications with the … (0 comments)
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economic: The Economic High Wire Act! - 02/13/08 03:13 PM
Hello from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Welcome to the IowaMortgageGuy Blog! Glad to have you as a guest and hope to see you back again soon. Hope you find the information useful and informative.
It takes a lot of effort to keep our countries financial system balanced. Have you ever wondered how some … (0 comments)
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economic: $729,750: The New Jumbo (for now) - 02/11/08 12:27 PM
That's right, the economic stimulus package will be in effect shortly, and with it will come the ability for Government Sponsored Entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, along with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), to increase their loan purchase limits significantly in higher cost areas. Sure, more of us are thinking … (2 comments)
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economic: Recessions from 1962-2007, world wide - 02/06/08 01:11 AM
The Economic Research Center studies recessions.
Between 1962 and 2007 the following countries have been in recession x% of the time:
Germany - 37%Japan - 18%Italy - 18%US - 13%Britain - 10%Canada - 8%What is a recession?A recession occurs when an economy grows at less than 0 ... or negative ... over two … (4 comments)
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economic: One Down, Twenty-Five To Go - 02/05/08 09:11 AM
I just read an article about the 2007 Chicago Marathon and my calf muscles cramped just thinking about what these 25,000 people went through. In case you hadn't heard about it, Chicago had an unseasonably warm race day, to the tune of 82 degrees and 78% humidity at the start of … (13 comments)
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economic: Mutant Carrier Pigeons, Dancing Lizards, and Cashew Perfume - 02/04/08 02:09 PM
The Superbowl has come and gone, but the memories of the commercials linger in the air like the smell of wet socks. From what I heard, a 30-second time slot ran the advertisers something like $2.7M. Or $100,000 a second. Just you reading my first three sentences would've cost $500,000, if … (2 comments)
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economic: Retail Project Underway in Orange County - 02/02/08 02:59 PM
We are eager for the Orange County Investors to receive approval for their $5 million retail development. In recent weeks the process has moved forward which is good news for anyone seeking to invest in the area. The spot is approximately 120 acres on Buckhorn Road between Hillsborough and Mebane. … (0 comments)
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economic: REAL ESTATE MARKET REPORT - SIOUX FALLS, SD - JANUARY 2008 - 02/01/08 11:38 PM
As many parts of the nation continue to see a downturn in home values, high foreclosure rates, and poor economic trends, Sioux Falls and the surrounding area appear to be the the exception to the rule. In 2007 the median home values increased 4.9% according to the REALTOR'S Association of the … (0 comments)
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economic: Fed Makes it's move.... - 01/31/08 08:47 PM
Well....as expected the fed made it's move today. It met today at 2:15 eastern time and announced that the Fed was cutting the fed rate. Analysts have been split as to how much of a fed cut it would do. Many thought the the cut was to be 50 bps or … (0 comments)
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economic: Burning Your Tongue Despite the Warning Label - 01/30/08 12:58 PM
<-----Do you see it? The little warning at the bottom of the cup telling you how extremely hot your beverage is? I saw it too, but I figured enough time had passed since ordering my venti, and I tipped the cup back and proceeded to sear the kris kringle out of … (7 comments)
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economic: Today's Markets...ahead of the Fed Meeting - 01/30/08 09:25 AM
Yields rose again on Tuesday with most spots on the Treasury curve rising 8-9bp in calm, orderly trading as the market awaited today's FOMC meeting. December durable goods came in much stronger than expected, rising 5.2%. The S&P/Case-Shiller US Composite Home Price Index, which measures housing prices in twenty MSA's, declined … (2 comments)
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economic: What's the deal on this economic stimulus??? Good, bad or indifferent... - 01/29/08 08:46 PM
One of my great friends, Ken Webster, or Sir Kenneth to the common man, called me today to B.S. and talk about life, love (married people having babies), and our economic stimulus. After sharing with me a brief overview, I told Ken that I'd love to hear his rant and rave. … (3 comments)
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economic: Ignoring the Dashboard Warning Lights - 01/24/08 08:52 AM
We've all done it. You're driving along and suddenly a bright little icon blinks on. Check engine it tells you. So what do we do? Ignore it. Hope it flickers out. Maybe it's just stuck. My engine is fine; it must be a mistake. I'll deal with it later. Pretty light, … (4 comments)
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economic: Line Dancing: More Than A Country Music Fad - 01/22/08 05:22 PM
I was never any good at line dancing. Nor did I look good in tight jeans, boots, and a cowboy hat. But the line dancing this post refers to isn't done to a Brooks and Dunn song. The DJ in this case is Fannie Mae. The tune they are playing is … (10 comments)
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economic: The Consumption Bubble~Before the Mega Bubble Part II - 01/19/08 11:35 AM
This is Part Two to my article The Consumption Bubble ~ Before the Mega Bubble
I wrote an article no too long ago about body language… >>> Boy-If Looks Could Kill. One look at Bernanke’s body language sends a message to me… what about you? Man, what have I gotten … (6 comments)
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economic: The Consumption Bubble ~ Before the Mega Bubble - 01/18/08 04:44 PM
We as a society have turned into risk-taking fools… and the biggest risk of all may be the use of the credit card. The banks are reporting that the credit card mess may be worse than the sub-prime mess.
I'm calling this time in our history "The Consumption Bubble". This … (28 comments)
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economic: Dude, Your ARMS Are Looking Good! - 01/18/08 02:01 PM
No, not a self-photo. Although I did pump some iron this morning to keep the pythons looking healthy. More importantly, I took a look at my wholesale lender rate sheets today, and it turns out, I'm the dumbell.
Funny how you get used to doing things a certain way, and for the … (9 comments)
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economic: Can The Bush Tax Cut Work? - 01/16/08 09:31 PM
After weeks of increasingly dismal reports from the financial sector, many regular Americans are beginning to worry that the US may be close to or already in recession. While government intervention in the economy is relatively uncommon in US history, since its establishment in the 1930's, the Federal Reserve has been … (0 comments)
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economic: It's A Full Doc World, and I'm A Full Doc Girl. - 01/16/08 09:37 AM
No, I'm not really a girl. I think I had a Madonna song stuck in my head. But the heart of my title is this: Lenders are slowly squeezing loans back into the full doc box. If you haven't heard, no doc loans are gone (other than hard money). In fact, … (11 comments)
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economic: Are You a Donkey or a Moose? - 01/15/08 09:11 AM
No, this is not a question about which political party you favor. It is a question I'd like you to consider. I was jogging on the treadmill in the gym this morning burning off some holiday grease and I saw this news blurb come on about a moose that fell through … (21 comments)
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economic: The World's Biggest Lender: The Universal Bank of Ameriwide - 01/11/08 08:33 AM
So it's really going to happen: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22606833/
It's funny. I've seen quite a few posts about this in the past week. Rumors of CW going BK. Rebuttals from the PR spin doctors at Countrywide. Every prediction under the sun from media pundits to the fine folks in AR. And here we … (12 comments)
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economic: Hunting Rabbits With a Bowling Ball - 01/10/08 05:07 PM
Is anyone else having a hard time keeping up? Just when you think you learn the new rules of lending, they change. You study program guidelines, check out lender websites, grill your account execs, and tattoo new Fannie Mae manuals on your forearm to no avail. I'm just too slow.
OK. 100% No … (6 comments)
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economic: Analysis Paralysis - 01/09/08 05:04 PM
Proverbs 23:7 "As a man thinketh, so he is." What if a man thinketh way too much and doesn't doeth anything about it? Then we have a serious real estate log jam with inventory out the ying-yang. Being a mortgage consultant, I see the financial side of real estate transactions and … (0 comments)
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economic: Such Cutting Remarks - 01/08/08 11:17 AM
OK, the title is a little misleading. The cutting remarks I'm referring to aren't the ones that professional wrestlers hurl at one another before grappling on the WWE. I'm talking about the ones the Federal Reserve (more specifically, the FOMC) are in charge of implementing. Recently there have been some remarks that seem … (5 comments)
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economic: I'd Like To Sell A Vowel, Please. - 01/07/08 09:56 AM
It blows my mind, but back in 1939, an author did publish a 50,000 word book, "Gadsby", without using an "e". Crazy, I know. What an amazing thing to accomplish. This Wright guy had such focus and insight; his singularity of thought did allow him to attain his goal.
How was a story told … (20 comments)
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economic: Can You Spare Some Change? Need AR Help! - 01/06/08 09:05 AM
So it's been a little over two weeks (since joining) and close to 5,000 points later and I'm asking for some help from my AR brethren. I've got a couple of questions; feel free to chime in and let me know what you think.
1. I know that posting to my blog … (8 comments)
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economic: Calgary, Alberta Real Estate Appreciates 18.62% in 2007! - 01/05/08 07:44 AM
The stats are out ... and Single Family Homes in Calgary appreciated 16.62% in 2007. Condo's increased by 20.41% ... for combined appreciation of 18.62%!
The year-to-date average price of a single family Calgary metro home in 2007 was $472,230, and the year to-date average price of a metro condominium was $316,370.
The … (4 comments)
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economic: I Give Thee Seven, No, Eight Commandments! - 01/04/08 09:21 AM
OK. It's January 4th and if we're honest, many of the resolutions we made, both personal and business, have been compromised. We've snuck some chocolate, slept through our alarm rather than go to the gym, and chewed on our fingernails in a nervous moment. But take heart! If you set goals … (10 comments)
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economic: Squeeze 10 Lemons - 01/03/08 09:34 AM
I was talking with one of my loan officers yesterday who was struggling with putting deals together and finding leads. He was telling me how hard things are and how it seems like lenders are constricting their guidelines. True. He mentioned how difficult it is to put loans together. True. He … (15 comments)
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economic: Potato Chips, Floss, and Fear of Committment - 01/02/08 08:48 AM
It was New Year's Day 1986 that I decided to give up potato chips. Don't ask why. I think I weighed about a buck thirty at the time, so it wasn't about shedding pounds. I guess it was about discipline. I figured if I gave up something I really liked, I … (9 comments)
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economic: Do you ever wish there was a RESET button for your life? - 12/31/07 12:59 PM
When I was a little kid, I used to have a slight video game addiction. Not that I was any good, but if things weren't going my way trying to get to the next level of a game, I'd just hit the RESET button. Problem solved. Well, I still wasn't any … (7 comments)
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economic: Will rates dip into the fives by the end of the year? They just did! - 12/31/07 09:32 AM
We're finishing 2007 on a positive note as mortgage-backed bond prices have ridden the UP escalator the past 3 sessions (+9 bps today) and interest rates are loving it. With a few of my lenders, rates have dipped into the high 5% range. If you look back at my past few blog entries, … (2 comments)
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economic: Through Efficiency and Technology - We Can Cut Our Nation's Energy Consumption 50% by 2025 - 12/29/07 11:18 PM
There is a big debate out there on how much energy consumption that our nation can reduce through technology and conservation. If we concentrate on efficiency one recent report suggest that we can reduce our energy usage by up to 35%, yet the Environmental Protection Agency disagrees, stating in a recent … (2 comments)
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economic: Boing! Bonds Bounce Back Beautifully. - 12/28/07 09:39 AM
What goes down must come up! OK, so maybe the housing market still has a way to go before the media proclaims a full recovery, but for the day, rates have taken a turn for the better. The FNMA 5.5% Bond is up a whopping 50 basis points and that is … (2 comments)
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economic: Ham Hangover - 12/26/07 02:08 PM
Interest rates are eating a healthy portion of leftovers from the main course we had earlier in the week: a bunch of goose eggs and a lame duck. With no good news to feed off and a stock market that's trying to make a comeback, mortgage-backed securities are currently down 16 bps, … (1 comments)
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economic: A Bounce of Prevention? - 12/24/07 09:04 AM
Monday morning and mortgage-backed bonds must have missed their cup of coffee as they are drooping miserably down 22 bps. The bond sell-off continues and we are resting on an important floor of resistance called the 50-day moving average. This puts rates in the 6.25-6.375% range for the day. The question is: … (1 comments)
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economic: Bond Bombshell - 12/21/07 01:55 PM
It's 2:45 EST and the bond market is getting whacked harder than a pinata at a 4-year old's birthday party. Since my blog posting this morning, the Fannie Mae mortgage-backed securities fallen even farther down the rabbit hole and the currently stand at -50 bps. That's a hefty loss. Turns out … (5 comments)
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economic: What do the economic tea leaves predict now???? - 12/21/07 12:14 PM
So the market is up 170 points today. The Fed has promised to do what ever it takes to keep credit markets in play....see report , and consumer spending is through the roof....see report . Hasn't anyone heard that we're in the worst real estate market in over 16 years and … (3 comments)
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economic: Shop and Bonds Drop! - 12/21/07 09:38 AM
A big economic number was released this morning called the PCE (Personal Consumptions Expenditures). It basically measures how much the average consumer is spending and believe it or not, wallets and purses are coming out more than ever. The number was expected to come in at 2.0%, but it exceeded … (3 comments)
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