Blog entries tagged with "economy":


economy: Weekly Market Update - 03/10/08 09:42 AM
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economy: "How's the economy in your hometown?" - 03/10/08 06:13 AM

Is the US in a recession?
"Is your state in a recession?"
According to the legend on the map in USA TODAY the red states are "In Recession"... yellow states are "At Risk" and the green states are "Expansion."
The linked map is interactive, go to USA Today and click on … (9 comments)

economy: Recession? Take Note of Historic Cycles and Capitalize on Our Great Economic Recovery! By Greenville, SC Realtor, Kirk Westervelt - 03/10/08 12:02 AM
Are we in a recession? Regardless of the formal definition being obvious and present (two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth) we have some extremely intelligent and successful people suggesting that we are in fact in a recession. Warren Buffet recently declared that the U.S. is "essentially in a recession", regardless … (0 comments)

economy: Failing to plan, is actually PLANNING TO FAIL - 03/08/08 11:45 AM
My good friend Chris Catanese's blog got me thinking today.  Chris is not only a great friend, mortgage wizzard, and pretty darn good realtor, but has become quite the social economist.  (Chris, you know where to send the check).  His blogs deal with the economy and it's effect on the real estate … (4 comments)

economy: The night is darkest just before the dawn. - 03/07/08 03:28 PM
 
In the current economic environment, a lot has been said about the "R" word, recession. The market keeps slipping and sliding like car tires on ice.  The newscasts are full of stories filled with sadness, depression, tears, and anger.  The veil of doom and gloom is thick and hanging over us like … (17 comments)

economy: FHA Limits Raised - 03/07/08 12:32 PM
Great News!FHA has increased their loan limits.To see how it has affected your state and county follow the following link:https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/hicostlook.cfm … (1 comments)

economy: Market: What is going on? - 03/07/08 12:23 PM
The Capital Markets Sales Desk has fielded a large number of calls from customers simply asking,  "What's going on?  Why is the mortgage market trading lower every day?"  The following are reasons that could help explain why mortgages are struggling and why current market conditions are so volatile:  The question is, "Why are … (0 comments)

economy: Go Away, make money! - 03/07/08 09:09 AM
When I first started in REal Estate my boss said ...plan a vacation and the buyers will come.   How crazy is that theory?  But it is soooooo true.   I was at the C21 Conference and sold two houses?   How does this happen...is there a great cosmic shift that screams..."she's away, buy … (12 comments)

economy: Beige Book Released By Federal Reserve For March 2008 - 03/07/08 12:08 AM
The Federal Reserve recently published their latest issue of the Beige Book.  It is available online. The following is a brief list of it's overall (national) summary findings (using data as of February 25th):    1. Economic activity has slowed since the beginning of the year.  Business activity was weakened, slowed or subdued.2. Consumer spending reports were … (0 comments)

economy: Worst Real Estate Equity in 40 Years?!! - 03/06/08 10:35 PM
On the news tonight I heard a story that I have a hard time believing.  As we all know, every newscast has something bad to say about the real estate market and it just feeds the fears of the buyers and sellers.  Now tonight I hear that we are, for the … (2 comments)

economy: In the News: Real Estate, Economic, and Personal Finance Woes - 03/06/08 11:55 AM
In February of 2008, Americans filed an average of 3,960 bankruptcy petitions daily. That puts us up 28% from one year ago. As well, we're at a 23 year high on late mortgage payments.
That's scary.
Things are looking down. Times are hard. How are you helping those who are suffering? … (0 comments)

economy: The only thing we have to fear is fear itself - 03/05/08 11:16 PM
75 years ago yesterday, on March 4, 1933, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt gave his first inaugural address.  The country was in desperate economic shape – the throes of the Great Depression – and FDR had been elected in a landslide to do something to pick the country back up. 
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economy: How the Phoenix-area real estate market is like my backyard, or, how the real estate market could turn around this spring - 03/05/08 11:13 PM
Happy March!  It’s hard to believe that it’s already time for spring pruning – how the time flies.
I was out in the yard this weekend, pruning the dead branches and leaves and I thought about how my yard is kind of like the Phoenix area real estate market (I know, … (0 comments)

economy: It's nice to know - 03/05/08 01:38 PM
I have to admit I'm surprised to know that people are actually reading some of my blogs. With all the blogging going on I am actually being heard. It's nice to touch base with people from all over the country. Keep up the good work. No matter what happens to the … (4 comments)

economy: Lock that rate... - 03/05/08 11:20 AM
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economy: Mercato Uptown is the New Address for Luxury Real Estate - 03/05/08 01:51 AM
My excitement seems to build a bit more each time I drive down Vanderbilt Beach Road and catch a glimpse of the new Mercato shopping center. As a real estate professional my interest is obvious, but my enthusiasm also comes from an understanding of what this shopping center will mean to … (0 comments)

economy: Believe the press and we will be at their mercy. - 03/04/08 09:39 PM
Whenever I hear the news people talking or when I read about their perspectives on the Real Estate Market or the economy or whatever topic they act like they have all the answers about, I remember the source.  These are people who are paid to daily publish a story that will … (2 comments)

economy: March Financial Tip of the Month - 03/04/08 01:31 PM
As you may know there are lots of things you can do to get your financial health back in shape. It can be very overwhelming. I'm going to make things easy for you, one step at a time.First step, start an emergency fund. An emergency fund is easy accessible money for … (2 comments)

economy: Self fulfilling prophecies... - 03/04/08 11:41 AM
Much is made of the media's impact on the public's opinions and actions.  Most seems to be true.  Approximately every seven to eight years our economy goes through a boom/bust cycle. Obviously we are now in bust mode. 2000/01 saw the dot com crash and the economic impact of the 9/11 attacks.  … (3 comments)

economy: "Will the Feds send us deeper into debt by lowering rates?" - 03/03/08 06:44 PM
Everyone is talking about what the Feds will do tomorrow. Will they lower or raise the Feds Fund Rate? A lot of people actually believe that the Feds will lower the feds fund rate, but they disagree on whether it will be .25% or .50%. For a discussion on that, feel … (1 comments)

economy: Rates improve sharply - will it hold? - 03/03/08 11:27 AM
Last week was just what many loan officers and borrowers were looking for: a week of sharp improvements in rates.  What we saw was a substantial "flight-to-quality" as investors shied away from stocks and moved their money into safer treasury bonds.  This was triggered by several reports indicating higher than expected … (3 comments)

economy: Our Economy Today - Opportunity or Despair! - 03/02/08 07:56 AM
We are living in historical times involving the real estate industry!  I remember the meltdown of the 80's.  For some it was a time of despair.  Homes were going into foreclosure in record numbers.  Interest rates skyrocketed at times above 20%!  Slums were being formed from foreclosed homes that sometimes stayed vacant … (0 comments)

economy: Coweta County GA could be anytown USA! - 03/01/08 02:11 PM
 The economy is on everyone's mind these days, and residents of Coweta County GA, a bedroom community near Atlanta, are no exception. The county seat, Newnan, could be like any other small town in the United States. We have our quaint downtown square, which is still alive and robust, with nice little … (1 comments)

economy: Home value Indicator by Zillow - on Decline? - 02/29/08 11:26 PM
Zillow has posted a home value indicator  for 4th quarter. It shows percentage decline/increase in values by area with color values . Check it out:http://www.zillow.com/quarterlies/QuarterlyReports.htmAlthough we all know Zillow has it's faults, it's an indicator in it's own right by comparison. They have realized this, and allowed for local input by price … (5 comments)

economy: On top of the Roller Coaster coming down - 02/29/08 11:05 PM
Wow...last week, I was talking with people who were seriously considering getting out of the real estate business.  You see it was only 3 weeks ago that mortgage rates were awesome.  They were quite stimulating for the economy....a reprieve, if you will in the bastion of negative real estate news. 
Last … (2 comments)

economy: Time Magazine says "Ignore the Headlines"... - 02/29/08 12:57 PM
Whether you are in the Apex NC Real Estate market, or elsewhere, Time Magazine says "Ignore the Headlines"...  (Read full article here: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1713483,00.html)
Great points and SO true. I applaud the writer for this article. It's unfortunate that too often "bad news sells". It's so easy for all of us to fall into … (7 comments)

economy: Today was a great day...weather was great...so are rates! - 02/29/08 12:16 AM
Today was a great day!  Sunny, over 50 degrees and the snow is melting quickly!  It's been a snowy winter, and I for one am happy it's almost over.  The other great news was the sounds of the 10 year bond dropping through the floor!  Yes, mortgage rates are getting better … (6 comments)

economy: Real Estate Revolution: How Real Estate Rebates Will Save the Economy - 02/28/08 07:49 PM
With the continuing news that the economy maybe slipping into a recession or currently is in a recession, it is time for consumers to seriously consider the reality of the current economic crises. Fed chairman, Ben Bernanke, has a grim outlook on the economy and continues to cut interest rates in … (2 comments)

economy: MGIC - Is there good news in their $1.67 billion loss? Yes.... - 02/28/08 10:41 AM
Mortgage insurance giant MGIC issued their 4th quarter and 2007 figures this month. Included was a $1.67 billion (with a B) loss.
Many people only read the headlines on stories like this, then they would rather shoot their PC than read more doom and gloom.

I  fought the urge and read … (0 comments)

economy: What Rate are doing this Morning? - 02/28/08 08:19 AM
Thu, Feb 28 - 9:06 AM ET-Weak data pushes Mortgage Bonds up and over the 100 Day Moving Average - currently up 62 basis points. 8:36 AM ET - Sprint Nextel posts a $29.5 billion Nextel writedown. GDP comes in at 0.6% - slightly lower than expectations. Freddie Mac loss widens … (0 comments)

economy: Are the Feds Fueling Inflation? - 02/27/08 11:05 PM
Fed's Expansionary Policy to Fight a Recession:Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke told Congress on February 27, 2008 that the Feds remain on the course for additional interest rate cuts, thus continuing their expansionary policy to combat recession.  The Feds hope to combat recession because lower interest rates will stimulate economic activity by … (1 comments)

economy: "Distinctly Less Favourable" Economy - 02/27/08 07:21 PM
Where are you investing your money? How are you securing it? What makes that investment secure?
Today, news broke that the dollar has hit a new record low against the Euro. Fed Chairman, Ben Bernanke, has sparked this through his recent comments about the economy when he said things are “distinctly … (5 comments)

economy: Not all doom and gloom - 02/27/08 05:34 PM
Some interesting numbers were just recently released.
In a report showing Real Estate prices from 150 MSA's (Metropolitan Statistical Areas) a total of 73 MSA's showed 4th quarter price increases.
Fourth quarter price increases ranged from a modest 0.1% to an impressive 19%.
As in the past, the Real Estate market is correcting … (3 comments)

economy: Are you worried about interest rates? - 02/27/08 01:00 PM
Most consumers are worried about interest rates, but recent bloomberg articles and headlines in my local paper are now postulating the theory that Stagflation may rear its ugly head!  What's stagflation, well the simple definition is that it means that interest rates increase, wages decrease, business decreases, and it's a self … (1 comments)

economy: 2008 Economic Outlook Breakfast: Opinions Negative, Research & Technology Key to RI Emergence - 02/27/08 09:35 AM
I attended the Sovereign Bank Economic Outlook Breakfast this morning at the Providence Westin.  This is the 3rd year I've attended this event, and each year seems to bring a larger crowd.  The event's purpose is to unveil the results of a survey conducted in the 4th quarter of the year … (2 comments)

economy: WHY TODAYS BAD PPI NUMBERS MAY NOT BE SO BAD FOR HOUSING - 02/26/08 03:26 PM
Hello to all my colleagues
I know that I am beginning to sound like a broken record when I use the word volatility. Unfortunately, there just is no better way to describe it.  Let's get all the bad news out of the way. Last month I told you that my sources indicated … (2 comments)

economy: Hmmmm....gotta look at contingents and pendings too... - 02/25/08 11:13 PM
After posting my latest blog, I popped over and read Renee Burrows' latest blog (I have much respect for her opinion) and she made note of the increase in pendings.  So I took another look at my stats and WOW!  My stats are a snapshot, and the "snapshot" from 4 Feb … (3 comments)

economy: Here are the numbers...what do YOU see? - 02/25/08 10:24 PM
Well, I've been blogging (somewhat inconsistently) and sharing the stats that I watch since about November.  Since I have about eight or nine people that watch the stats I post, I want to ask you if you see what I see, or am I just being blindly positive about my future … (3 comments)

economy: Existing Home Sales Dropping Rapidly: Time to Buy - 02/25/08 02:29 PM
"'Expect sales and prices to keep falling,' said Ian Shepherdson, chief U.S. economist for High Frequency Economics. 'There is no end in sight for the housing disaster'." (Check out the entire article over here at Yahoo Finance.) Believe whatever you like about the economy. Prices and sales continue to drop and … (1 comments)

economy: Fed Cuts Rates, but Mortgage Rates Go Up? - 02/25/08 10:59 AM
CNN this morning reported on a new "conundrum" faced by the Federal Reserve.  Industry veterans will recall 2-3 years ago when then Fed Chief Alan Greenspan noted the unfathomable disconnect between bond yields and Fed rate moves.  Now Ben Bernanke is faced with the prospect of his moves having a similar, … (2 comments)

economy: $729,750 is the New Jumbo: Update - 02/25/08 10:51 AM
Last week, we received word from one of our lenders regarding their interpretation of the new Jumbo mortgage rules included with the economic stimulus plan.  Here's what will be happening:
HUD will release Median Home Prices for the country within the next 30 daysConventional limits will increase to the higher of the … (0 comments)

economy: This week in Mortgage markets! - 02/25/08 09:22 AM
its going to be a big week in the mortgages rate game.  Rates are on a roller coaster ride, and this has been happening since December.  This past Friday rates were to say to be down for the week, however the stock mark swang to a gain raising rates for the week.
 This week … (1 comments)

economy: How tough is it for America's Middle Class? - 02/23/08 11:11 AM
"To hear the Lou Dobbses and Bill O'Reillys of the world--not to mention politicians ranging from Ron Paul to Hillary Clinton--the middle class of America (however you define that term) has never had it so tough. Between credit squeezes, out-of-control immigration, rising costs of education and health care and everything else, … (0 comments)

economy: Banks Charging fees after emerging form bankryptcy. - 02/22/08 05:48 AM
Here is an interesting article on CNBC.  IT is about beople who went through chapter 13 to get there life back in order.  And upon coming out, their lenders hits them with fees from before, and it is supposedly legal.
Check this link out.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/23281474/for/cnbc/
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economy: What will the Economic Stimulus Packaged do to interest rates? - 02/21/08 03:07 PM
This package could actually be bad for mortgage rates.  If Wall Street feels that this plan will work it will make the stock market rally. Which means the bond market will Fall  and interest rate will actually increase. Remember mortgage interest rate have nothing to do with the Fed Cutting Rates.
What … (0 comments)

economy: Cash Buyers in Down Markets - 02/21/08 01:57 PM
Despite the terrible economic signs across the country, Manhattan real estate agents are enjoying quite the boost in sales of apartments. According to this article by Don Dahler, of CBS, they're experiencing the best sales they've had since the dot-com boom of 2000.
I can't help but believe this can't and … (1 comments)

economy: The Housing Market Summary - Should I buy? - 02/20/08 02:03 PM
In his Feb. 14th, 2008 commentary, Dr. Lawrence Yun commented on the reality of the current state of the nationwide housing market. He states, that although the national media churns out article after article about how bad the housing market is, there are many markets which are not only seeing appreciation, … (0 comments)

economy: What The Economic Stimulus Package Means to you and why Buyers should act now. - 02/20/08 12:57 PM
President Bush Wednesday signed off on the $168 billion stimulus packaged approved by Congress last week, which, in addition to tax rebates for millions of working Americans and business owners, includes a vital, but temporary increase in the conforming loan limit.  The economic stimulus package will allow the Federal Housing Administration, as … (1 comments)

economy: Keep your eyes on the prize!!!! - 02/19/08 10:28 PM
This market is insane.  Bond prices got rocked today.  The rates shot up....AGAIN!!!!  That's all that has been happening receintly.  Bernanke, last week, said that our economy sucks, but we have worries of inflation.  So our stock market drops, but the rates go up!  When the stock market goes up, rates … (0 comments)

economy: UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEXITY OF THE REAL ESTATE MARKET AND THE ECONOMY. - 02/18/08 08:22 PM
 How fragile is the real estate market in comparison to the rest of the world of economics, and what does it take to get us back on track to stabilility and eventually growth?To answer that, we must understand how all the componets work.The Federal Reserve System and the Secondary Market (FannieMae and FreddieMac) … (0 comments)

economy: How the Economic Stimulus Package Places the Burden upon the American People - 02/18/08 03:54 PM
 
Is the US economy in trouble? If it is how long will the crisis last? Will the elected representatives and traditional news media tell the American people the truth or hide the true facts? These are all the questions the American public wants answered and has the right to know.
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economy: How the Current US Economy Parallels Past Financial Crises - 02/18/08 03:39 PM

Is the US economy in trouble? If it is what can be the extent of the damage? What is unique about the subprime mortgage crisis? Will the elected representatives and traditional media tell the American people the truth or hide the true facts?
Recently, I found an interesting paper titled, … (0 comments)

economy: Financial Markets Update: Can you say Volatile? - 02/18/08 03:13 PM
Last Week in Review    The material contained in this newsletter has been prepared by an independent third-party provider. The content is provided for use by real estate, financial services and other professionals only and is not intended for consumer distribution. The material provided is for informational and educational purposes only … (0 comments)

economy: US Presidents' Housing Achievments (and a rate update) - 02/18/08 11:02 AM
Good morning!
This Presidents' Day is a wet and windy one here in Rhode Island.  Today, in addition to a brief interest-rate market recap and preview, I thought I'd bring you a history of significant events in United States housing history, and the Presidents who effected those changes. 
In 1862, Abraham … (0 comments)

economy: The Truth About the Mortgage Market - 02/16/08 02:49 PM
The Truth About the Mortgage MarketBy Mike BerriosIntegrity Home Financewww.IntegrityHomeFinance.comwww.RanchoBlog.com  Rancho Cucamonga, CA - Subprime mortgages have now been credited for bankrupting well over 110 lenders and seriously damaging operations at many major mortgage firms. They've reportedly wiped out 5 hedge funds, tens of thousands of jobs, and have led to millions of … (0 comments)

economy: What the Economic Stimulus Pkg Means to You - 02/16/08 12:22 AM
Buyers . . . do you need 100% financing? It is not a blanket endorsement, but is instead based very specifically on your geographic area.For instance, if you were hoping to purchase a home using 100% financing . . . you'll want to read the following. Many online loan approval sources … (3 comments)

economy: Newspaper Interviews - 02/15/08 11:00 PM
The other day the local newspaper called to ask my opinion of the "real estate crisis" in our fair town. At first I was flattered that I was asked my opinion but reflecting upon the conversation I feel as though I was a pawn being used by the local media to … (0 comments)

economy: Illegal immigration affects us all... - 02/15/08 10:28 PM
Illegal immigration should be a concern to all American citizens in this election year. With increased anxiety over the economy, Americans should be aware that illegal immigration is expensive -- so expensive that it will deprive taxpayers of enormous, hard-earned benefits in years to come. Click here for more information.With our … (8 comments)

economy: I had breakfast w/NAR chief economist Dr. Lawrence Yun - 02/15/08 03:37 PM
Every year our company, John L. Scott, honors it's Top 1% Realtors with an awards breakfast.  Lucky for me that these elite agents also get to bring along their broker!  This year the keynote speaker was Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors.
I must admint I … (10 comments)

economy: Montana Economy Remains Strong & Resistant to Recession! 4% Growth Predicted in 2008 - 02/15/08 01:11 PM
Montana is still a great place to live AND buy and sell real estate. There was an article that just appeared in the Daily Interlake that quotes Paul Polzin, director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana.
"As a whole, the Montana economy gains 90 percent … (1 comments)

economy: What will the Feds do? - 02/14/08 01:34 PM
So......Why are rates heading higher? Is the economy really doing better?
Overnight in Tokyo , for example, US Treasury prices were lower, and rates higher, after a stronger-than-expected GDP number from Japan , which caused Asian stocks to rally. This followed a day in the US where the curve continued to … (0 comments)

economy: Market Recovery: Are You Ready? - 02/14/08 01:17 PM
Market Recovery:  Are You Ready?
After months of doom and gloom, industry-wide panic, and talk of recession, we sure could go for some good news!  In one of my recent blogs, I suggested that the market may have bottomed out in October.  Housing inventory has not increased since then, and at the end … (2 comments)

economy: As Housing Goes, So Goes the U.S. Economy - 02/13/08 05:51 PM
 For many who didn't know, recent developments have brought home the fact that a robust housing market is key to the overall health of the United States economy. Soft sales activity, falling home prices and rising foreclosures are creating a challenging situation for real estate professionals and local governments, and scary … (1 comments)

economy: 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)

economy: Is The Economy Slowing or Growing? - 02/13/08 12:45 PM
Is your local economy slowing or growing? Aside from the real estate business what are you seeing? Is your employer spending money on new technology and increasing payroll or are they cutting back and watching expenses more than usual? In your personal life are you going out to dinner less, shopping … (1 comments)

economy: Oh boy, Credit Crunch round #4 - 02/12/08 06:51 PM
Ding, ding, ding...
Looks like Round #4 of the credit crunch is just about to start.  I wrote a few months ago in Credit Problems - Round 3 how drops in the ABX indices foretold the major credit problems in Feb, Aug, and then the ones in Nov a few weeks in … (14 comments)

economy: Stimulus Plan Passed H.R. 5140 - 02/12/08 04:13 PM
Stimulus Plan: With an 81 to 16 vote, the Senate passed an amended version of H.R. 5140, a $150 billion plan to jumpstart the economy with temporary tax breaks for consumers and businesses, extended benefits, and most importantly, two provisions designed to assist the housing market.  According to CNN, the House … (0 comments)

economy: January Housing Statistics from the Ann Arbor Board of Realtors - 02/12/08 01:21 PM
February 12, 2008
Ann Arbor Area Board of REALTORS®
According to Lawrence Yun, the National Association of REALTORS®, sales activity is expected to remain soft through the first half of the year despite a generational low in mortgage interest rates. "Household formation was only half of what it should have been last year … (0 comments)

economy: Today's Market News - 02/12/08 09:24 AM
Bond prices rose a touch on Monday in quiet trading. The big news of the day came from insurer AIG who said that its prior accounting for credit default swaps was in error and the previously reported $1.6 billion in write-downs really turned out to be $4.88 billion. The error was found … (0 comments)

economy: Affordability Affects the End - 02/11/08 05:04 PM
Two main factors are affecting the market beyond what even the financial experts can predict:1. Housing is now within an affordable range again, and 2. Emotions of buyers are being given a boost by Fed rate cuts and the impending election.Emotions drive almost all markets, from stock to real estate, but … (2 comments)

economy: Rates on a Bungee Cord - 02/11/08 12:52 PM
Last week held out my expectation that the market is looking to move long-term interest rates higher, as rates increased close to 0.25% from Monday to Friday.  There was a substantial disappointment with service industry growth Tuesday, which led markets to open with lower rates, but as the day wore on, … (0 comments)

economy: $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)

economy: What does Olathe and Lenexa, KS real estate look like right now? - 02/11/08 12:03 PM
"What does Olathe and Lenexa, KS real estate look like right now?"  Well, here we go:
What this means to you:
If you're buying a home, it is important that you work closely with a highly-motivated realtor® who understands what's going on with the real estate market and local economy.  I can advise … (0 comments)

economy: Make The Stimulus Plan Stimulate You! - 02/11/08 10:08 AM
What would you do if someone walked up to you on the street and gave you a check for $1,200? If the federal government's economic stimulus plan passes as expected, you could have to face this decision as early as May.  Since 2/3 of the U.S. economy is based on consumer … (1 comments)

economy: Looking Back And Looking Ahead : February 11, 2008 - 02/11/08 08:45 AM
Mortgage markets are conflicted about the U.S. economy and the confusion is impacting home buyers.If you've recently tried to lock a mortgage rate, you've probably experienced it personally. On one hand, reports of plunging sales suggest that the economy is slowing more quickly than expected.  This is recessionary and tends to be good … (2 comments)

economy: Economic stimulus bill passes senate - 02/09/08 12:06 AM
This is great news for California, hopefully more buyers will hop back into the market.
This is a portion of an email that was sent to members of the California Association of Mortgage Brokers by the chief lobbyist for the organization with an update on the Stimulus bill being voted on by congress.
"As … (0 comments)

economy: Are American citizens an economic experiment? - 02/08/08 01:15 PM
2/08/2008 Sand through the hour glass              http://www.integrityrealty.net/ joel@joellawson.com  
As a real estate broker experiencing the fallout of our subprime market, I have a few thoughts to share on what appears to me to be a draconian experiment.
I listened to the political pundits talk about our consumer driven economy.  They talk about getting people … (0 comments)

economy: 2007 Saskatoon Real Estate Market In Review - 02/08/08 12:23 PM
For those of you who keep track of the real estate market across Canada you will know that Saskatoon, Saskatchewan has the fastest growing real estate market in 2007.  The average selling price on a home in Saskatoon for 2007 was $232,362.  In January, 2007 average price was $190,037 and ended in … (0 comments)

economy: Senate passes economic stimulus - 02/08/08 10:39 AM
Good News !
(CNNMoney.com) The Senate, ending a contentious and partisan debate, voted 81 to 16 on Thursday to approve a roughly $170 billion version of a House plan to spur the economy.
The Senate bill would pay one-time rebates to 117 million low- and middle-income households, 20 million senior citizens living … (0 comments)

economy: Is There a Home Buyer's Tax Credit In Our Future - 02/08/08 10:18 AM
I  am a franchise owner of a very progressive privately owned real estate and related-services provider.  While many of the corporate franchises in my neighborhood are focusing on increasing ways to get a dollar out of a client, my firm is focused on increasing ways to bring buyers and sellers into the … (0 comments)

economy: Today's Market....the cyclone continues to spin.... - 02/08/08 09:42 AM
Today's Market CommentaryBond prices plunged on Thursday as a miserable thirty-year auction, hawkish comments from Dallas Fed President Fisher, and technicals combined to batter bonds. Yields rose 15bp or more across the bulk of the curve. Despite selling at the lowest level since 30yr auctions began in 1977, the long-bond auction … (4 comments)

economy: FHA Loan limits - Maybe next week! - 02/07/08 08:15 PM
I just read that congress is sending the approved stimulus package to the President. There was some speculation that the final bill would not include increased loan limits for FHA backed loans. No more speculation. . . it's in there and it's great news for consumers in high cost areas. This … (4 comments)

economy: Are Florida's property tax changes enough to help Economy? - 02/06/08 08:01 PM
Will lower property taxes be enough to get people to buy homes in South Florida? It may have helped 18 months ago but many other factors in home buying decision making have changed for the worse. And these property tax reforms only affect homesteaded properties which according to the City of … (5 comments)

economy: Recession Risks: The Silver Lining - 02/06/08 05:09 PM
The US appears to poised on the very brink of recession. Investors are reacting as news of a contraction within the service sector for the first time in five years, an FBI investigation into predatory lending, and increasing unemployment statistics, has sent shock waves of panic through stock markets worldwide. Who … (0 comments)

economy: Today's Market.... - 02/06/08 09:22 AM
Although Tuesday was billed as "Super Tuesday" for the Presidential nominating process, for the economy and stocks, it was everything but a super day. The ISM non-manufacturing index, which has grown in stature over the past couple of years even though it still carries less weight than its sister report, produced … (2 comments)

economy: In Case of Recession: Learn How to Protect Your Finances - 02/05/08 08:42 PM
January 28, 2008

As economists like to do, they’re prophesizing on whether the economy will go into a recession.  Some say yes, others say no.  Some say there’s a 40% chance; others say the odds are 60/40.  But the fact is that even the brightest economist, with the best data, … (1 comments)

economy: Domino Economics - 02/05/08 05:30 PM
You would think that fed cuts would spur the availability of credit. The opposite seems to be the case. Banks are now tightening (lending standards) credit for consumers and now businesses.
It is harder for the average American with less-than-pristine credit to even get a car loan at a reasonable rate, much … (3 comments)

economy: Why the FED may cut deeper soon, and the scary implications... - 02/05/08 12:04 PM
Ok, just a warning before reading any further, if you are having a good day, don't proceed as this post may be a little disturbing...
In the last several week the FED has cut the target overnight rate by 125 basis points.  It's the most they've cut in a single quarter in … (16 comments)

economy: Today's Market Commentary - 02/04/08 03:42 PM
The yield curve shifted surprisingly little on Friday despite major economic news. Yields fell two basis points or less across the Treasury note and bond curve. The December payroll report was very weak, posting a decline in jobs for the first time since 2003. The ISM manufacturing index rose to 50.7, … (0 comments)

economy: Tell the Senate that the Economic Stimulus Package Must Contain Relief for Homeowners - 02/04/08 03:05 PM
Tell the Senate that the Economic Stimulus Package Must Contain Relief for Homeowners  
I thought you might be interested in this Realtor Action CenterCall for Action.
Please encourage the Senate to include FHA Reform and GSEincreases in the economic stimulus package currently underconsideration.http://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/campaign/sen_econstimulus?rk=u1%5fEIAKqfzZsW
Let me know if you are taking action and what you … (0 comments)

economy: This week's econmic updates -- Could rates be 1% higher by June? - 02/04/08 11:20 AM
Good morning! 
After a very busy couple of weeks, expect this week to be much quieter.  Like Punxatawney Phil (who saw his shadow, and is back to sleep for another 6 weeks), the market looks to be substantially quieter this week than it was last week. 
Here's a quick rundown of … (3 comments)

economy: What are the Monolines and why is everybody trying to bail them out? - 02/03/08 05:57 PM
One of the big stories that has finally started to hit the mainstream media in the last week or two has been the Monoline credit insurures and everybody from banks to the government trying to arrange a bail out for them.  I thought I'd try to put together another one of … (33 comments)

economy: Emergency Fed Fund Cut of 3/4% - 02/03/08 02:06 PM
**Click Here To See The Original Post at WealthWithMortgage.com**
Big news this morning!  The Fed announced a 3/4% CUT to the Fed Funds Rate reducing it to 3.5%.  The discount rate was also reduced .75% to 4%.  I personally suspect this was a move the react to the global stock-market sell off.  … (3 comments)

economy: New Home Sale Are The Worst Since 1995 - 02/03/08 01:27 PM
New Home Sales Are the Worst since 1995   Purchases of new homes fell to a new 12 year low ending in Dec of last year, the biggest annual decline on record. The medium price also dropped last month by 10% from Dec 2006, the biggest decline in 37 years.  These reports may reinforce … (1 comments)

economy: The Economy and Market Indicators - 02/03/08 09:41 AM
Despite what Washington or the media says, all signs point to the fact that we are in a recession. The 2008 Presidential candidates claim we're in economic trouble. Recent bold moves by the President, the Congress and the Federal Reserve are aimed at halting further economic decline.In an emergency session on … (0 comments)

economy: Austin, TX The Next "Hollywood" - 02/02/08 05:50 PM
Between our recent ranking as the #1 City to Live & Make Movies by MovieMaker Magazine and the upcoming ground-breaking of Villa Muse, a studio-focused development, Austin is moving into the big leagues in the entertainment industry.  While we've always had a plethora of creative talent, Austin has taken the back … (2 comments)

economy: 2008: Lending Practices in Review - 02/02/08 05:41 PM
2008:
Lending Practices in Review
 
For quite a while now, I have been writing articles regarding the mortgage and real estate industry.  Just recently I decided to publish them, superseding the apprehension that I may spark controversy with my realistic and unbiased views on the industry and the big players in the sector.  … (0 comments)

economy: Waiting For the Bottom of the Market - 02/02/08 05:03 PM
So here we are 2008 and the first month is in the books.  Economists say we are in a recession.  Other economists say we are not in a recession.  A couple of weeks ago we had the most mortgage applications since 2004.  The stock market has a hundred plus point gain … (3 comments)

economy: 25% drop in real estate prices inevitable? - 02/02/08 12:00 PM
 
I recently saw an interesting article that touched on the possibility that we may need ANOTHER 25% drop in home prices before the real estate market gets back to normal. 
It cited that every market (real estate, stock, etc) has corrections that usually put it back on its normal pace of appreciation.  … (10 comments)

economy: Are pigs smarter than economists? - 02/02/08 01:18 AM
In a story from Reuters:
CHICAGO (Reuters) - "Darke County Dave," a local hog, will opine -- or oswine -- on America's economic outlook on Friday, the Ohio treasurer's office said.
In his inaugural outing, Dave will choose between a trough of sugar or one of sawdust to gauge the economy's future … (7 comments)



 
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