This has been a hectic week for everyone.  Many family members, friends, and clients have been calling me to get my opinion about what's happening.  I could go on and on about why I think this bailout plan is wrong for us and will prolong our recovery but that's not the purpose of this blog. 

After all of the voting has taken place we still have people that feel alone and are in deep financial trouble.  I want these people to know that you are not alone and there are solutions.  Don't give up and don't allow these financial troubles to make you sick or ruin your relationships.  The dust will settle and we will survive.  The question for many is when and the honest answer is we don't know.  We have many hurdles to jump over such as corporate greed, fraud, legislation, and consumer confidence. 

Keep in mind that we live in the greatest country and we continue to learn and adapt from lessons in the past.  Our economy is more diverse than ever before and new industries will develop from this shakeout.  We have always had business cycles and can I honestly say that we've hit bottom, no because some have not even acknowledged that we were in a recession.  I don't have the numbers in front of me but as a common person I can honestly say that it feels like a recession.

The purpose of this blog is to let the consumer know that we as Realtors are part of their community.  Many of us have first hand experience dealing with these cycles. Some of us have experienced foreclosure, bankruptcy, divorce, and many other life changing events.  Lately it seems that we have added therapist to our job description.  I know I don't speak for myself but for many other Realtors when I say that we are here to help.  Our careers are about relationships.  Many people see us as salespeople only but that is just a small part of our job.  We build relationships with clients and other professionals.  We continue to educate ourselves with what is happening in the market and government.

If you are having problems in this market and are looking for a solution I would recommend that you call a local Realtor.  At the very least they may be able to refer you to an organization that can give you the help you are looking for.  You are not alone during these tough economic times.

These past few weeks I have met with financial planners and loss mitigation companies.  I have learned that if the government plan does pass then they are going to require lenders to work out a solution with the borrowers so that foreclosures can be avoided.  You don't have to let your home go into foreclosure and for buyers the rental market is strong so if you have the cash for a down payment then finding some rental properties right now would be very smart.  I invite you to call me if you or anyone you know needs to talk about your current situation and maybe we can find a solution that is right for you.  There's no obligation after all we are just talking and hopefully I can help you.  You may ask what's in it for me, well believe it or not I believe this is what my purpose in life is. 

Mario Villagran, MBA, Realtor

mvillagran@dovproperties.com

(818) 416-7511