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Dear President Obama, plea from a Realtor,

Dear President Obama,

With all due respect sir I would like to discuss what is truly happening with your promise of "CHANGE" from the view of a Realtor. I do believe your intentions are good. I do believe that you believe what you are telling us. I do believe you want the best for your people and this great United States of America.

The challenge I feel you have at this moment is a great one. You, sir, are able to draw a document of thousands of pages to help the American people, you are able to dole out trillions of dollars to act as glue to hold this country together, you are able to place moratoriums to postpone the massive loss of homes due to massive loss of jobs and the massive debt this country has incurred. You can talk about health care for the good of all but what good is health care if people are living in the streets?

Many Realtors are stepping up to help save people who have found themselves struggling to keep their homes. Need I mention that Realtors are hurting too?

President Obama, my analogy to you is this. You sir are sitting up on Capital Hill and you believe you are handing out the necessary tools to allow the country and economy to correct itself. You're putting the money out there and expecting that it will be well spent for the corrections. iceburg.jpg iceburg image by orangesquid_2007

I beg to differ. You are working from the TOP TO THE BOTTOM. The help sir isn't reaching the bottom. It's the same as placing an iceberg in a drought ridden field and expecting it to melt in time to water the plants that are dieing a mile away!

You promised help. Lenders won't even answer their calls. One of my clients was told, "she said they really didn't get much money to help and she's not sure if I will qualify." And sir, she is losing her home. She has the means to save it if the lender would work with her. We are being told "NO" in every direction. Do you know what the lenders are doing? Are you aware of the GATE KEEPERS that won't allow the people to work it out? Have you told the lenders one thing and the public something different?

Once the flood of houses are sitting in the neighborhoods deteriorating as the owners are pitching a tent down the road, no one will be able to move into the deteriorating houses as they will not qualify under the lenders new and improved "TIGHTENED" GUIDELINES.

President Obama, again with due respect...it's NOT WORKING. Where is the money going? Why is it not reaching the people? Is the slow drip of the iceberg evaporating before it can provide relief to the ones that need it? Are you holding anyone accountable for the money you are passing out so freely?

My plea is for you to follow through with your plan by making sure these people get help. If your overall plan is to eliminate Realtors and Lenders all together, it's working. Would you mind sharing with the public what is really happening?

For heavens sake, WE sent a 90 day warning to Iraq before declaring war...can't you give your own American People a little heads up? Thanks for listening Mr. President.

Sincerely,

Debra A Brooks, Realtor

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Brooks Prime Properties, LLC
Waterfront Real Estate Specialists
936-295-0005
Lake Conroe Real Estate, Lake Livingston Real Estate
Your Waterfront Realtor® Deb Brooks

www.brooksprimeproperties.com

www.lakeconroeprime.com

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Posted by Deb Brooks, Lake Conroe Real Estate, 936-661-2624 on 03/09/2009 05:10 PM

Comments (226)

Politics in the Real Estate Market Channel

dear mr president, diary of a realtor, debra a brooks, deb brooks

Originally posted at: Deb's Lake Conroe Real Estate & Stuff! : Dear President Obama, plea from a Realtor,

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226 Comments on Dear President Obama, plea from a Realtor,

MAR

2009

Deb

Words very well spoken

Sincerely

Tom Braatz

Well written, I applaud you! and thanks, WE ARE struggling, struggling to keep hoping and struggling, that's how bad it is. Things will get better, and the sun will shine again!

You raise a point many of us have been wondering about. The Bush administration didn't answer your question and it will be interesting to see if the Obama administration ever answers the call. There's a lot of lip service given but no action.

Tom, I'm feeling the pain for the people around me that are losing their homes, lives and hope.

Marilyn, thank you. We all keep hoping and praying.

Later in the rain~Deb

Cynthia, I think it's falling apart at the "service" level. I don't think the lenders are equipped with the staff or knowledge to handle this type of "call to action". And of course, it will probably get worse before it gets better.

One man can only do so much. We need to find a way to work from the bottom up.

Later in the rain~Deb

Deb, I like the iceberg in the field image. Kind of like a constipated trickle down model. It certainly isn't moving fast enough I agree. The lenders are STILL holding on to the funds.

The President needs to be flooded with letters such as this one. I will send him one also.

We the people need to help save our country.

Deb, very nicely done. :) We sure do need some help out here down here!

Well written, we have to keep beating the drum. It's so hard not to feel helpless when so much is out of our control. Making our voice heard is somethng we ALL can do.

Bravo Deb! I have also been disappointed in NAR's response to this entire mess. They have the resources to make our voices heard. If they won't do it, then we must take matters into our own hands. Hope you'll actually send this off - for all to read.

MAR

2009

Deb, this is a wonderfully written letter and I surely hope that you have actually sent it to the president! He really dowsn't get what is killing our country! Spending is not going to the right places!

And don't get me started on the lenders!!! UGH!

Thanks for the thoughtful commentary. Very nicely done!

Lake...i agree...the service lenders just aren't ready to handle this type of 'call to action.' -- Look at how they are handling short sales and foreclosures--this should give us some idea...however, on positive note--it will take time....how much time? This is the unknown...but it has to get better...We can look at the number...in 2008, 2.3M homes were in foreclosure...2009, projected 2.8M and through 2012, project 6.8M homes will be foreclosed...whew! It's difficult to comprehend!

The number of foreclosures is incredible. I think it was a great letter and I hope you sent it!

Great post, Deb. I wonder if the present administration would like to see a governmental run real estate industry. That seems to be what they are working toward, huh?

Deb,
Excellent and I'm recommending it for a Feature! I think we should all sign it and send it to the White House for sure!

Deb - I think the last line sums things up nicely. I appreciate this post, and the passion behind it. Nicely done!

Deb I hope this makes it all the way to the White House!

Deb - no matter what your opinion you just did exactly what we must all be doing right now. Letting out elected officials (most of whom don't live in the same reality you and I do) know where we stand and what we are demanding from them. They have the power to do some constructive things - we must demand that they do it! Thanks and keep it up!

Deb, every day it seems to get a little worse. Well said!

Great post! Maybe we should all go on the site http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/ leave a short message. Tell him how things are from the Realtor point of view. What we see happening.

Sadly, they can't fix what they don't understand.

Mr. Obama speaks in conclusionary statements about the goals of his administration. Sadly they have no plan to achieve the goals.

They will respond to the highest bidder. Home owners don't have a lot of clout, in fact, none.

What you are saying has merit. BUT The guy has been in office less than 2 months and his bills have been enacted less than that . Some stuff does not even take effect until April 1. So what you are saying is correct because most of his stuff isn't out there yet. Now if we want to go back to the original stimulus that is fair.

The problem there is the idiots in the white house told us this money would go to banks for us in housing. They did not realize the size of the problem. The stimulus if they had used it the way we were all lead to believe would have not stopped credit from freezing. So they made a decision to liquefy banks . This helps us not a whole bunch but keeps the system going.

You post is a bit early. However I share your concerns , feel the pain, and hope that this will work itself out. I will say that we have not had this type of transparency in DC for a wile so good bad or indifferent it is refreshing

Hey Deb,

I like your spirit, keep it up. This is the only way we can be heard, have a voice. We should be demanding transparency, and you hit it right on the nail.

-Lisa

We in Cleveland have seen our disproportionate share of foreclosures, so no amount of attention to the systemic decline is enough.

I love this!

Good post. Tragically, things seem to be more chaotic by the day. Everyone is falling over themselves, but those in charge really have no idea of what is happening.

I love Valorie's idea of going to the White House website direct.

Best Regards

I'm going to the White House Website and ask some very important questions. WHAT ABOUT THE REALTORS? Maybe we need a Bailout!!!

Jeanette Hemmer, Re/Max Plus Realty, Clarksville,Ar

Deb, Thanks for the post. My sister has a 10% interest rate, owes more now on her home than it is worth in the current market, has a decent job as a teacher, and has been told 4 times NO by her bank that they will not renegotiate the terms of her loan. If she could just get the interest rate to 5 or 6%, her payments would drop by a few hundred dollars and she could afford to live. As it is, she is struggling and worrying and stressed. She wants to stay where she is. She has a job. She is the exact person they should be trying to help and still they say no. Her next option is to try a short sale but how does that help her or the bank???

The problem is really with the banks and their blatant mismanagement. The irony is the CEO are still being rewarded with bonuses that taxpayes are paying for yet the poorly managed business is doing more harm than good. If we let the big banks fail the will be replaced by smaller more efficent banks and we will be on our way to a recovery. It will hurt in short term, but the way we are heading we are going to be hurting for many many years to come.

Deb, I believe your plea will fall on deaf ears! But I hope not.

Deb, It is no use our country has a president who is still campaigning and pleasing the huffington post and the George Soros group. It matters not about the common man or woman. He was just a speech. There was no truth in his speech. I was sadly correct when I said what would happen if he was elected. I fear it has only just begun. We are headed for hell in a hand basket. This is true lunacy

With Obama being able to keep his Blackberry, I don't see why someone can't reach him with a message like this.

The only problem is that the system (from a historian's perspective) is designed not to protect the rights and needs of all, but only the rights and needs of the few - the wealthy, that is....

Much needed. Maybe there is a way this can be forwarded to the official White House e-mail?

With Obama being able to keep his Blackberry, I don't see why someone can't reach him with a message like this.

The only problem is that the system (from a historian's perspective) is designed not to protect the rights and needs of all, but only the rights and needs of the few - the wealthy, that is....

Much needed. Maybe there is a way this can be forwarded to the official White House e-mail?

Bravo. Well written. I am seeing much of the same here in Bend, Oregon. All we can do is band together and help each other out.

Thank you for your post.

Fred Mannila

Owner, Principal Broker, GRI

Fred Real Estate Group

www.fredrealestate.com

Hi Deb - Interesting post. I know it may be easy to get frustrated or challenged from what we are experienced but President Obama has been in office for about 45 days!!!!!! Unfortunately, we didn't get in this jam in one inning, nor will we get out. For me, the benchmark I view is.........are components being put in place to offer "some type of solution." If the answer is No, then I would join you and perhaps panic, but even President Obama cannot mircalously cure systemic issues we are dealing with.......overnight, but I'm confident in time we will see MORE results.

Just my 2 cents!!!

Cheers

Well written.

Being a Canadian I cannot fully put myself in your shoes, but I think given time he will do many good things for your country. In President Obama's defence ... if it took 8 years to make a mess, it should take a bit of time to thoroughly clean up the mess.

But we're rooting for him (and you) and all those affected.

Very nice Deb but did you really expect Obama to make much difference? He is making huge changes and I expect the most noticeable will be the deflated value of the few dollars we have left to spend.

Congratulations Deb on another feature. I very much like the passion you put into this one.

Deb, I hear you !!

Deb - Great post.

Everyone - Great Comments.

President Obama - ARE YOU LISTENING?!?

Really great post! Well written and right on the point!

Didn't read every comment but Deb - you need to send this in to them or send it around as a petition. I would sign it.

Really, Please, get a grip on yourself... It took eight years of bad policy, miss management and down right fraud to get to this point. Your expectation that all this would be solved overnight just illustrates your total lack of understanding of the issues at hand. You seem to thrive on immediate gratification and blame shifting. I ask where you and your soapbox were a year or two ago. I bet you had no problem enriching yourself at the sake of others back then. Stop acting like someone took your pacifier away. I guess you forgot it was the Bush administration who doled out the money to the financial institution without any accountability measures in place, not Obama, When I read bias propaganda like this, the only thing I can think about the author is "uneducated redneck."

Evening Deb, Unfair of you to put all the blame on our President after so short a time. Why don't you direct your energies toward the lenders - that's where the system stalls out

Now does President Obama (or any of his assistants) get google alerts :) ~Rita

This is one of the best posts I have ever read on AR. I hope you have sent this to the Whit House!

I often wonder how a group of politicians can fix the real estate market, when the don't have any Realtors or lenders on their team.

I am proud of you for composing this post! It is a masterpiece.

Deb - Thanks for sharing our exact feelings. It's amazing how this great country of ours could be in such condition; especially with all of these intelligent people running this country. People's frustration is beginning to spill over, seems so much is out of control. How can you do business if folks won't answer a telephone or give you a straight answer. People have to live somewhere, lower the payment and extend the loan so they can stay in the home. It's called "negotiations" and it could be a win-win.

I like every other Realtor out there wants help asap. And now you can have a direct line to the President...and he and his "helpers" closely watch the internet. Go to MOVEON.org or directly to the President's site. Your voice can be heard.. just not a voice in the forest, or preaching to the choir as it were.

WHOA!

ATTENTION MR.NO NAME~

Your comment without a name is quite offending. If you think I am bashing our President you need to think again. I am afraid you're wearing your heart on your sleeve.

I admire our USA Administration. I am also a little guy....AN EDUCATED REDNECK... and I don't appreciate your slander.

If you'll leave your name we can all visit with you.

Right now. Not later....not after a learning curve for heaven's sake. Figure it out. Now we know why Mr. Bush looked like he didn't know what he was doing! He had two recessions cross his desk, 911 and so many crashes it's amazing he got out alive.

I am not bashing our President sir or madame. But, if you think that the way our lenders are handling the fallout I believe you should think again. Your ugly comments are unfounded.

I am working daily to save more than one person's home for them.

Are you?

God Bless,

Deb

Deb, what a touching post. Gently stated, but clear as can be. Banks have gotten hold of a pile of cash, which they are holding for their own purposes, whether to prop up their balance sheets or pay their own creditors. People are suffering, and we will all feel their pain, if we don't stabilize this economy and housing. I hope this letter circulates widely and reaches those who most need to read it.

Interesting article...I like it.

Hi again Deb - I'm back. Don't take it personal as it appears you did............

"Where exactly did you commenters get that I'm blaming the President???? Try reading the post again! Actually, try reading it for the first time! Get over yourselves. You think I'm looking for a pacifier???? No, I'm looking at the people that are losing their homes and wanting something to STOP IT RIGHT NOW!"

Here's a tip (not that you need it from me as I think I understand the spirit of your blog)..........The Blog is like "your baby" and let's face it as much as we try and provide the correct perspective of the topic we are writing......lo and behold, some may misinterpret. I know on some of my Blogs - after reading some comments....... steam was rolling from my ears but I had to take a deep breath and realize........that's the neat thing about Blogging - Your opinion is what is being showcased, so comments, etc. while needed are also the opinion of those responding. In the end of the day - We need Bloggers and We need critics, I mean Readers.

Cheers

Deb, I appreciate the thoughtfulness you put into this post and the respectful manner in which you raised your questions. I like to see something passionately but respectfully debated and you did a great job here!. As far as the variety of comments. it is to be expected when covering anything that is political, I just do not care for anonymous wisecracks specially when the tenor is nasty!

Deb,

I really appreciate the tenor of your post. When all is said and done, if we keep following the direction we're headed, we're headed off the cliff. Read Warren Buffet's comments today on Bloomberg. He supported the President, but he's convinced that the present policies are unhelpful in achieving a recovery any time soon.

Mike in Tucson

Deb: I just hate these blog fights, especially over politics. I do think that your message was clearly to follow through with change. I also agree with you that it must be a priority. I don't feel it is a priority at this time. Isn't that what you were trying to say. No blame on your post, just a "call to action". :)

Thanks for writing this blog Deb Brooks, now can you please forward it to www.whitehouse.gov? once you do this everyone at activerain should do the same

Just one word.... AMEN! Thanks Deb. ....geri

Deb...

I wouldn't worry about castigators that resort to racial slurs, they have already shown themselves for what they really are.

WHENEVER you bring up politics, this is what happens. (differing opinions no suprise)

I will say that it is also unclear to me WHEN and HOW the money is getting to those who need it.

BUT on another note: I am also irritated that many people who DO make their house payments recieve NO HELP and those who over extended themselves DO get help. Makes me mad. I know that is a generalization but I am seeing it FIRSTHAND. Just " quit making your house payment" and whine. Some people need a huge dose of SELF RESPONSIBILITY. Some people are in a true crisis.

Deb, good post. If you have not already I would encourage you to send it directly to President Obama. If this is where I need to sign in agreement then great. If not show me where. Thanks.

DEB..Three Cheers for You!! I am getting more calls and trying to help more clients with their mortgages that they are behind on ;then I am finding homes for people.I can't turn my back on these people .They are good people who fell on hard times..

Uneducated Redneck... LMAO... that's a case of the pot calling the kettle black! Isn't it great to be able to hide in anonymity!

Let's all go back and count how many times Deb offers up "due respect" to President Obama.

Of course there's a touch of sarcasm here... thankfully or this post wouldn't be half as interesting!

I wouldn't even call this a rant as much as a commentary.

Sheesh I hate ignorant people.

If anyone thought I was upset with anyone but Mr. NoName I do apologize. Anyone that starts calling names for no reason and does not even leave their name Knows nothing about accountability.

For the rest of the Realtors out there that are concerned....BRAVO!

Deb

From what I can see this post is touching some VERY important issues. And I believe it is addressed in fairness, because nothing is really happening except the markets cratering.

To the commenter who doesn't seem to like that his Hero the President hasn't been able to miraculously solve the problem already, and wants to go back and re-start trashing President Bush again. Who really needs a pacifier? Someone who can dish it out, but can't take it? Want to start calling names, Mooch? What do you have to give away? Something you couldn't ever produce? Grow up.

Deb: I appreciate the frustration and passion in your post. More importantly, I appreciate the fact that we have this wonderful forum for everyone to express their opinion, including "Ashamed." I am just sorry that he (she?) felt the need to be so confrontational about it.

Hey Deb... I know I'm a bit sadistic, but I do love it when you get fired up! :) Hit-and-run-artists don't deserve acknowledgment, much less honor. I loved your post, and if President O gets it, and I have a feeling he's learning quickly, "trickle down economics" with our current leadership and banking officials just doesn't work. There are too many money-hungry, power monsters between the top and the bottom. Thanks for adding your and publishing an incredibly respectful 'open letter' to our President.

I hope your voice travels all the way to Washington! You have articulated what so many of us are feeling, especially Realtors who are witnessing so many families losing their jobs and homes. I think President Obama would appreciate this letter, and I hope this message will reach the White House circle of CHANGE... Thanks, Deb.

Deb - Excellent post. Remember anytime that you take a stand you face the possibility of attracting negative comments as well. And that is fine. What I do object to in this case is the tenor of the comment. Also that is the only anonymous comment out of the many on this post.

Deb, that is a lovely letter and a nice sentiment. There are only a couple of problems... Politics is about perception. The politicians, from the President on down, are really only worried about being percieved as helping. The actual helping is less important than being seen as helpful.

The bigger problem is that the market needs to work this out. In the mean time throwing money is only going to make the rest of us poor. But, the most important thing that the government can do is to get out of the way of the people that are going to lead the recovery... but that doesn't look like doing something.

Deb-I thought it was a great post! Some people just have no patience for others with differing opinons then them. And such a coward not leaving his name! I am amonth the many out there that IS worried about the future of our economy and our chosen industry. And it is not wrong of us to question what is being done about it by the person sitting in the oval office. Bravo to you for having the courage to put it out there for the world to see. And even though it was an offensive comment by Mr. NoName, it was only one and the rest of us were impressed by what you had to say.

Deb, definitely a great post, well written and to the point. I hope you send it on to the White House, as most of the commenters have suggested. As far as the unidentified person's comments goes...he has a right to his/her feelings/comments. But, hey when it comes to politics...it's war!

S/He is a coward for not putting his name in the comments. I will say I really got hot when I read the comments, but after reading ALL the comments, I feel much better, and you my dear should feel GREAT. Your post is!

Just remember, you had more comments on how GREAT this post is...so forget the unidentified commenter and SEND IT ON TO THE WHITE HOUSE...

Deb, I am an ardent Obama supporter and I truly believe, as your letter stated, very respectfully, that his heart and mind are in the right place. I have decided that I will no longer comment or debate on political posts because I am usually well in the minority and it's too exhausting. I am commenting here to support you, because I know you to be a kind, thoughtful and intelligent Realtor. Your open letter to President Obama was thoughtful and respectful. The cowardice of an anonymous commenter should just be ignored. You are a good person and your points are well taken. Trickle down help, just like trickle down economics is not working. I'm not sure what will work. I don't feel qualified to even offer an opinion on what will work. I haven't gotten a pay check in well over 6 months. My husband has a small carpeting company and we are struggling like a lot of other people. I just keep plugging away and hoping for the best. Not sure what else I can do.

I echoe your complain Deb. All this talk about the stymulus package has not reach those who need it the most! those whose houses are in foreclosure with a deadline fast approaching! who is getting the money? the banks! You are right Deb, nobody at the top is making sure the ones at the bottom get the help promised and it is frustrating.

As for the "no-name" people who disagree, it is O.K. that is why we are here, to discuss the issue but It should never get personal, not ever!

Antonio

Congratulations on the feature....you are obviously not alone in your thoughts. I hope this get where it might get a call to accountability and action too.

Deb - I thought your blog was very respectful. I also know it will fall on deaf ears. Those of a certain political persuasion are looking to turn this into a socialist nation where the many are totally reliant on the State. The reason? It guarantees power because if you become reliant on the State then you are never going to vote for the other guy who will take it away. There will be a brain drain in this country - I've witnesed how this occurs first hand so I do know what I'm talking about. As for the cause - easy to blame the previous President - and I do blame him for handing over such a large amount of porinted money to the Banks. Failure in our society HAS to be an option if we are to survive. Once you remove that then "average" becomes the norm. I',m not going to go into what caused the housing crisis, but the one person it wasn't was indeed the last President.

Mr. Noname,

When time is spent and a noon broadcast is about reversing stem cell research and not dealing with this home/mortgage debacle...it makes me wonder if he has priorities at all.

All those little pork things that some senators added to get their name on the list should be terminated from their jobs for not taking care of the American public first. People need homes. Addressing the MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE, which is keeping people in their homes and making sure the lenders are lending money and not hoarding it for salaries and other issues should be a criminal offense. I want people who have disabilities to get the help they need, don't get me wrong. However, without a home...what's the point?

The wars and the housing mess needs addressed first. Not research stuff that can wait until each and every home owner who is having difficulties right now is getting help. AND, PEOPLE HAVE JOBS.

The Pres. needs to have chosen a better cabinet. There's no change, there's just the same ole, same ole, keeping things at status quo.

Thank you Republicans for standing your ground. No confidence on wall street? No wonder.

Great post...pass it on to the White House....

Deb, With all due respect, are you kidding me??? This man has only been in office for a month! I don't know what your politics are and I honestly don't care, but I will say that before you leap you might wish to gain a greater understanding of this issue. The problem is the loan servicing industry, (not the lenders) - here by rights of the capitalistic society we enjoy. They make more money with a foreclosure than when they work to renegotiate the loan terms. Obama is throwing money their way to stem that conduct and attempt to induce the servicing industry to work with the homeowners who are in trouble. And I don't know how I feel about that. But... I agree with my honey who just said in his current post,

"...please quit even wanting to rely on the government for anything."

I hate to see anyone lose their home, but I will say this: There is dignity even when living in a tent, if one has the fortitude to endure and work hard. Life deals some surly blows and we will survive.

Finally, I support you as a blogger and a fellow rainer, but I take exception to your email. You can count on your friends to back you here, but I object to any attempted suppression of opinion.

Mwa!

@ Karen... THIS noon hour featured a very interesting interview by Terry Gross of Fresh Aire on this very topic. I found Elizabeth Warren of the Congressional Oversight Panel enlightening and educational. Check it out here.

People like Mr/Ms Noname have no place stating their opinion if they insist on making it personal. You letter was well stated and respectful.

I'm not sure what the answer is, but I have to agree with Bethann--why not give everyone some help-those not making their payments, AND those who are!

Dear Jenn,

Your comment ...

"...please quit even wanting to rely on the government for anything."

just explained my entire letter. The "service portion" of our lending system is Nil. It is void with mediocrity and confusion. So, aren't you the slightest bit concerned that our money...again, our money isn't making it to the service departments that are suppose to be saving our homes?

Jenn, I love the ability to disagree on an adult platform. I invite it. I do not admire anyone that will not leave their name. But, thank you for your opinion.

Oh, and Jenn, thank you so much for your support!

Later in the rain~Deb

2-19-09 to 2-23-09 123 new foreclosures in Larimer and Weld County Colorado -- I don't see it working... yet.

I would like to know if you have any other plans for the president to follow, it is easy for us to criticize from the bottom but how can he follow on all the bad loans and what lenders are doing , give him time he deserves at least that, he inherited this mess from Bush and We are going to suffer this for a while, I hear so many negativity but no answers.

Politics is volatile for many people.........your letter was well written and timely........and the bulk of your comments were supportive too -...I didn't particularly find his comment overly offensive and I missed the racial slur.........but perhaps it didn't need to be so condescending - i'm always in favor of people being respectful in the expression of their views...I'm sorry he wasn't.

What a long list of comments! Dont let the coward get you down....

The problem is not that the PrezBo has only been in office for about 2 months, the problem is that nothing has been said that gives anyone confidence. Everytime he opens his mouth, the stock market takes a dive. His "well appointed" cabinet leaders really don't have a plan, and we can tell!

I guess your anonymous commenter didn't read the 1,000 page porkulus package either.

LOL

The fact is I love the USA. I am proud to be an American and a Realtor. If I'm a redneck then I guess I'm proud of that too. If Mr. no name wants a resume...contact me. He'll see just how redneck I am. I hope he/she sleeps well tonight.

Anyhow, I am back to work on a new short sale I am about to attempt for a lady friend of mine. So sad how so many people are misplaced in this world. I wish things could be different. Don't you?

Hugs, Deb

Deb, I see nothing out of line with your post. You have expressed your opinions and generated some rebuttals, which makes for excellent discussion. Your post was written with the utmost respect for President Obama. True, he's only been in office a short while, but calling attention to the issues we experience every day doesn't not give someone the right to bash you for your opinion. Stand tall and thanks for the discussion.

Hi Deb, Just stopping by to show my support for you. Your post shows that you have a caring heart for people who are suffering. That's a wonderful thing.

Hey Deb, I've not read all of the comments, but your original post was a lot tamer than mine would have been. I sincerely do not believe Obama and his cronies know what they are doing. If they don't even know they didn't pay their taxes, how are they supposed to run our country? They are stumbling all over the place. Too little too late....100 days in office, and as far as I'm concerned, lots of time and money wasted. I had one of my people call me today about her house payment being too high.....I really don't think the powers that be in the government can do much, but I would like them to remember WE are the people of this country, therefore, it is OUR government. Just let the large banks fail that deserve to fail. The FDIC is closing down smaller banks.....There, I said it....and I mean it. ;-)

Deb, this is the nature of writing a political post. Now in saying this I don't think it was really a political post, I saw it as an open letter to our President.

I wrote one before the election and yikes, honey I was called much worse than a redneck. Heck in being a transplanted Southerner I love to be called a redneck!!!

I heard your heart in the letter:

people are hurting
the money is not reaching them
Please Mr. President get the money to the hurting home owners.

I deal with it everyday as primarily a lisitng agent.

Housing, ie... bad loans brought us into this and housing will get us out. Just think how many ancillary jobs the housing industry supports, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, roofers, concrete subs, drywall subs, and on and on...

Now one final political thought....it was when Clinton who was President when Congress decided everyone had a God given right to OWN a home. They then told the lenders (the folks you and I deal with) to package the bad with the good and sell them together.

Many Congessman stood up and said this has to stop but to no avail. Life was good until............

The chickens came home to roost.

Excellent plea for practical solutions. CHANGE for the sake of change won't cut it. We need effective improvements for our foundations. That can only happen from the ground up.

Personally, I felt your opinions were too "soft". If I wrote a blog like this, I would have tomatoes thrown at me from every angle. I'm disgusted by what's going on around us. "They" keep saying the banks want to work with people, yet, people are being turned down right and left for loan modifications.

And, personally, I don't feel bad for the people who bought homes at a 1.9% 3/1 ARM thinking they could ever afford that house in three years when the payments would be their entire monthly salary. It's the other people who work hard everyday who got "honest" loans and are now falling on tough times from a layoff or cut-back hours.

I'll stop here, as I could go on, but I feel the surface of help has not even scratched the surface yet.

people keep forgetting that he is the president not Jesus FC. everyone is expecting miracles. just give us the $8000 for everyone not just first timers and stop burrying my children in debt.

Deb, I feel your pain! I do stay out of politics and religion here in Activerain. I have plenty to say but not here.

Hey Deb, Click on the link I included. What I was trying to say is that Obama is bribing the servicing industry into working out loan modifications with struggling homeowners. As I said, I'm not sure how I feel about this, but it's a problem he INHERITED. But it does appear that he's addressing this issue at the very least. We may have a situation too big for any one person or plan to remedy.

As for anonymous commenters, I've had a few myself and I suspect some don't realize they need to include their name in the box. In any case, an opinion is still valid from behind the curtain. It's the American way to have one :)

Deb:

Your letter was very respectful, but I think Jennifer made some great points (above).

I hate it that people are losing their homes too, but I assure you that problem has cost me a lot more than the price of the average home around here in money. In fact, I could probably buy about 20 of them with the current foreclosure prices. I've got money that I will NEVER collect that is owed to me. I didn't do anything wrong. I did my job. I still didn't get paid. Yet, I'm not crying about it - I'm working hard and trying to work my way out of a mess that a lawsuit caused (a lawsuit that I won after spending a fortune in attorneys fees to prove that I was right).

Life is hard. Sometimes it just doesn't seem fair because it isn't. As long as you have the people you love, the country that gives you freedom - you can always start over. There is dignity in a tent. Jason and I spent over a month in a camper driving around trying to figure out what to do when my employer didn't pay me money that was owed to me and thousands of dollars in reimbursements where I personally paid for this for HIS company. But, you know what...it didn't kill me - it made me stronger.

As long as the American people rely on the government - they will be weak and enslaved. Or maybe: in-slave(ry)d.

This is why I hate talking politics with people. You never know who will start attacking over a difference of opinion.

No Name:

You have turned what could have been an intelligent discussion on differences of opinions into something hateful and irrational. It makes me ashamed to say I agree with you on the issue of your statement.

I agree with you that Deb is definitely jumping the gun on blaming Obama, it is way too early and Bush has most of the blame at this point to me.

But to call someone a redneck and accusing her of standing on soapbox? What do you think people blog about? I would say most of it is their opinion on things. To put your spin on life and work.

What is wrong with people having differences of opinion? Why do you have to be so hateful?

Deb all I can say is even though I do not always agree with your opinions and take on life I know you have a wonderful heart.

These are the comments you must ignore and keep living your life trying to make a difference in your own way!

We are all different and that is what makes us special and unique.

Deb: Thanks for sending the letter on--I had read it earlier and wanted to respond then but got distracted; so it was really appreciated when you reminded me again...and this time I now REALLY have something to say to the Bush Basher who left no name:

This is typical of the kind of person who can't get over the fact that we maybe, just maybe put an individual in office who can't really handle the magnitude of the responsibility of the White House....the commenter is evidently more angry at himself/herself than at you; just look at what he said to you, he who does not know you and then look at the fact that he could not bring himself to sign his/her name!....more evidence that he/she really was speaking to their "self"!!!

With due respect, the person who is in over his head in a responsible position is the person who can be found running all over the place both physically and emotionally. This kind of person, who finds himself in a place of huge and overwhelming circumstances can be found doing a whole litany of things that have nothing to do with the real job---and this individual may not even be aware of what he/she is doing! The level of counter-activity with regard to what is needed and intended by the individual is usually a big clue as to the state of mind---that's all I am going to say about it!

God be with our President as he goes through this terrible time!

Now, about your letter: I think it was so lovingly written--from the heart and without malice--a compassionate letter that is deserving of much respect from all who read it.

(By the way--the graphic says "sweetberry"......how appropriate!

Deb: Congrats on the feature. Putting money at the top of the pyramid, hoping it will eventually help the little guys, isn't going to work. Didn't work with Bush's bailout...and certainly not going to help because someone from a different political affiliation followed suit. Businesses are learning bad behavior and spending the money doing anything BUT helping. Meanwhile, I think we are all learning something from our elected officials. They care deeply for those with deep pockets...corporations and big businesses. This system needs a complete makeover.

Jessica.......you got it! What you just said is,

As long as the American people rely on the government - they will be weak and in-slaved.

I could not agree with you more! Heaven only knows that I want to see the hard working people succeed and the "needy" for lack of working all in their place. I've worked my buns off to have health insurance and I can also tell you that when Mr. No Name said..."I bet you had no problem enriching yourself at the sake of others back then.

I actually feel sorry for him/her. only one that can understand this would be accusatory of such a thing.

That's not the way I work. I work for my client with my ethics first.

Enriching myself at the sake of others? You sir/madame are dead in the water. You must be referring to yourself.

Deb

Hi Deb... I love a lively debate! BTW, There was a GREAT interview on NPR with Elizabeth Warren who is the head of the Congressional Panel in overseeing TARP. It's worth the time to listen: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=101611260

As for the letter to the President, I am hopeful that as his policies come online that we will begin seeing the results we are all hoping for. I so deeply respect your concerns... I think that we all share them for ourselves and our clients, however, I also agree with those who have stated that it has taken the past 8 years to get us to this point, to expect that President Obama would have us out of it in less than 60 days in office is just unrealistic. It's just premature to declare that things are not working.

Damn Jessica... I'm impressed! I may be calling you soon to get some hints on that camper living experience :)

The truth is, we WILL survive if we all stop crying and blaming - an enormous energy drain and it does little for our collective morale. I'm just sayin'...

@ Steve... that's the story I linked to above. We agree... you all need to check it out!

You have to give him time please, I do not care for the comment about him wanting us out of a job, if we spend less time with negative comments and more time trying to do oyur part we will be fine, for so many years it was so easy to make money in the business and now we have to work extra hard to make things happen, so lets get to work and stay positive.

I was pro Obama, but he is just another politician all talk and all lies. Just part of the crooks that take our money and waste it.

Who is blaming whom?

I've got some news for you Bush blamers and you Obama Slammers: YOU'RE WRONG!

It isn't Bush's fault. It isn't Obama's fault. It's YOUR fault. It's MY fault. Our leaders are nothing more than a reflection in the mirror of who and what we are as a society. You can point fingers all you want at the president, but WE are the ones to blame.

Take responsibility for our own actions. Put on our big girl panties and go to work.

Deb,

You certainly have my support in your obviously very thoughtful and heartfelt letter. I too see the bottom doing without, without jobs, without food, without security and it seems that NO ONE in Washington even gets it at all. And while I don't want to get into the whole political issue, I'm very proud to call you my friend and tell you how much I support you and see you as an American who loves her country and fellow Americans. I am sorry the cowardly commenter can't see that.

Deb you are absolutely 100% correct. The top down approach isn't working. The intention was to bail out Wall Street in order to save Main street, but Main street must be the focus. It's what made Wall Street so fat and (irrationally) giddy all those years. The focus is ALL wrong!! Warren Buffet came out today (or maybe yesterday) and said the Economy has fallen off a cliff in the last 6 months....Gee-maybe we need to STOP handing out money to Banks and Wall Street CEOs???

It is so frusterating for the American People to see the politicians saying they are doing all these things, and then the people go to the lenders...and the lenders tell them NO. If it doesn't take effect until a certain time, then they need to really make that point to the people. People are worried that they are probably losing their homes now, that in a few more months...if this takes effect...wouldn't loose it. And the lending laws are now getting so tight...that people who do qualify, but have one late payment on their record within the last year can't get a loan...(i just had this one happen to a client.) But they are suppose to work with people who are almost ready to loose their home with lower rates, etc. Too confusing and not really fair. But what with government was ever fair.

This is embarrassing to me....we sure didn't get where we are in a heartbeat...did you really expect it to be over in a second ? Whining doesn't work....working does...

I just recently finished up on a short sale here in South Jersey. The buyer was supposed to get something (anything) back to help with Termites. When you do a short sale and it is approved, the bank gives you a bottom line number. We met that with $3300+ SURPLUS.

I had the seller but i thought the buyer had every right to get some money, it was in the contract and it was approved. When I went back to the bank to ask for SOME of the surplus to go to the buyer, the answer from the negotiatier was EXACTLY this...

"IF THE BUYER DOES NOT LIKE IT, TELL HIM TO WALK, THE HOUSE WILL GO INTO FORECLOSURE AND HE WILL LIVE IN HIS APARTMENT"

moral of the story... the banks dont care! Mr. Obama needs to get to the root of the problem. And btw, "Deb's" letter was NOT premature. POLICIES ARE CHANGED INSTANTLY!!!!!!!

I see both sides here, but once again, policies can change instantly. Demand bank policy to change...

Deb, Honestly, from what I got from you wonderful post is a total lack of frustration at not being able to help people.....not blame and the fact is that right now, the money isn't going where it's needed. If you didn't care so much about people, you wouldn't have written such a well thought out, effective post.

And I do mean EFFECTIVE. I too hope it reaches the "top" because it needs to be heard. As for a person who won't put a name on a post, that's cowardly. People can disagree RESPECTFULLY. It always shows the professionals I believe.

I wonder if I am the only one who feels that way, but, guys, could you listen to what you are saying?

The President is only one month in office, and this goes again and again. Well, during just one month he signed spending more money than Bush spent in 8 years, and more money then both Afghanistan and Iraq was cost us. HE is spending $39 Billion a day.

The insatiable appetite for social wasting spending is plain terrifying. The best part is that nobody knows if that would help, and we actually know that it wouldn't, and your letter is the sing of this understanding.

Or, we need to give more time and see if the money reaches anyone. How much more money our children and grandchildren already owe, before they even get their wallet?

This is the biggest theft of the nation's money. Are you really going to plea with the hand that is stealing? Even if this is President's hand?

Dear Sally and David, please don't be embarrassed. I don't hear anyone whining here. I hear opinions and we are all entitled to them.

Thanks,

Deb

"Our leaders are nothing more than a reflection in the mirror of who and what we are as a society."

"Put on our big girl panties and go to work."

DAMN! I love that girl!!

Deb...

I have to say that Jessica has addressed the root core of the problem. Good discussion!

Debra: The previous Bush administration of eight long, grueling years spent 2,920 days getting us into this mess. Pork spending, smashing away of much of the regulation that had been in place to rein in the mortgage industry... this all took TIME to get this mess where it is now.

Obama has only been in office for seven weeks. He has put forth an incredible effort in surrounding himself with experts in just about every field that is possible... in an effort to rein in this mess. By contrast, look at who the previous administration surrounded itself with... mostly hacks and good ol' boys.

Complaining about the lack of "making things happen" and skewering Obama for not being able to wave his magic want to turn things around in 49 days... that is just plain nutz !

To scream about not being able to turn around what took eight years to make... in 49 days... makes about as much sense as a guy having sex with his wife on Tuesday, and then yelling at her on Friday... "Hey... where the heck's the baby ?" Sheesh !

Deb, These comments are all over the place, as is to be expected. The "slam" commenter should have left their name. Chicken, I say!

I would hate to have walked into the lions den that Obama did. I'm not pointing fingers and not willing to debate politics. I hope he can pull a rabbit out of his hat for all of us, but I think the problem is much bigger than that.

Deb, These comments are all over the place, as is to be expected. The "slam" commenter should have left their name. Chicken, I say!

Deb, anonymous posters deserve no more than hitting the ignore and delete buttons at the same time.

While I agree, that the president hasn't been in office long enough to truly affect the change of direction of the ship of state, I respect your post, and your right to state your opinion. And I respect it enough to post with my identity intact.

Step one "ignore"

Step two "delete".

Karen Anne,

Looks like you had the same problem submitting the comment. Mine was "hanging" and I had to push submit several times, then got the Proxy error message and still several repeated comments, that I deleted. What is nice though is that we have the same problem even though are standing on different sides of the fence (LOL)

Okay, sorry but I'm going back to my letter. I realize that emotions run deep since we are talking about our and our children's and grandchildren's futures and on and on.

I am NOT and I hope no one else will bash our current President or the past Presidents. This, where we are now, is a cumulative progression of time and for God's sake, interest when we're talking money.

When was the last time that our government was out of debt? Can you answer that? I can't. I'm only 39 years old...how could I answer that?

I am truly concerned about the people that are losing their houses RIGHT NOW. RIGHT NOW is what I am discussing. You can say he's only been in the Presidency for a few days but really who cares? I don't. I care about the people that are losing their homes Now...RIGHT NOW...RIGHT NOW.

If our President were to give orders as to what MUST HAPPEN WITH THE GRANTED "GIFT" MONEY right now then his plan might just work. How many people are padding their pockets RIGHT NOW? I know I'm attempting to save a few people's homes as we speak and there are no promises from the lenders, no guarantees, no funds from what they're telling me.

Where did they go? That's what I"M SAYIN.......

One other thing Deb: We the people have not been fully informed of the September 11th or 15th of '08 the $550Billion that was pulled out of the monetary system in 1 hour!!!---that happened and I heard one thing about it on FOX---then it disappeared from the media--entirely!

This huge amount of money was pulled out of money market funds and the President and Paulson found out about it and that precipitated the $750,000 TARP fund (that ended up being used as bailout money)...that crater in the economy was growing so big that by 2:00 the same day, if they had not acted when they did, the country would have gone down in flames leaving a -$700Trillion loss!!!

So, we truly don't know who is to blame for the devastation in our economy---it's a big problem that only a rare soul would be able to pull us out of....it may also be a manipulation of a terrorist group---which was what I heard in that little sound bite i heard back in September...That may be why the gov't does not want us to know!

Deb: This is a great post...many great comments as well.

I hate it when I hear that banks are taking bail out money to buy other banks instead of helping the individual home owners in need. YES.. there are many Realtors that are also hitting bottom as well.

Hopefully President Obama will hear the word of the people and offer help for ALL

Does anyone here remember Ross Perot saying the GIANT SUCKING SOUND and that basically US jobs were going to be sucked up overseas?

Deb some people are going to lose their homes.

There is nothing that is going to stop everyone from losing their homes.

They and we are not all vicitims. People have chose to gamble on a future they cannot pay for and we are going to have to stop living on money we have never made.

The world is changing.

We cannot continue to consume all of the world's resources and not think the rest of the world is not going to figure it out.

This is a global problem built on a consumption rate that is going to take years to work its way to balance.

Paula, my instincts are something I've always listened to. I "felt" exactly what you're talking about "hearing". I didn't hear it. It just "felt" that way to me. God knows I hope there is no truth in it. I'm truly scared of the decisions that our government is making daily. It feels bad to be helpless yet aware of the actual happenings in front of us. Mostly happening with a veil of non-reality. I admire your thoughts and your words. Thank you. Deb

Bravo! Fannie Mae wont return any of my phone calls or e-mails. How can I be a vendor if they wont release the inventory and codes? Why ask us to participate, give us forms to fill out, we hand in the application and then we never hear from the Gov when we ask for more information. WTF? I want to help people but I can't help people if the banks don't give a flying fig. Are they trying to "steal" the homes of Americans out from under 'em? I have to wonder why it takes forever to get a simple yes or no... Is this how the banks plan on transferring the wealth from the public to their institutions? Help us, damn it. GIVE US THE TOOLS YOU PROMISED SO WE CAN HELP OUR CLIENTS.

Thanks C~ I'm going through the very same thing. I can't get passed the gate keepers to get help for my people. I just want to help them.

No whining here...I'm not behind on my mtg...yet. I'm going to keep working honestly and put my best foot forward.

Again, Thanks C~

OK, am I the only one here who likes pork? An agent in my office gave me a recipe this afternoon, for a pork tenderloin cooked with Lipton onion soup mix, catalina salad dressing and cranberries. I can't wait to try it out! Doesn't that sound yummy?

A big ditto for what Jessica and Jennifer said----we all have mirrors---lets use them. If you look in the mirror and see someone you don't recognize----think about doing something different.

Deb - I think your post was very, very well written. I don't know one "redneck" that can spout those words so eloquently as you did. Brush off the bad apples - you're better than that!

First, the post. I find your words Deb, pretty much on key. In fact, I won't disagree on much. It hasn't worked, it probably won't work, and I find it a tad hilarious that another administration is in office and all of the sudden... yeah, we all know the drill. I'm not up Obama's ankles over here, but we may want to give him some time. After all, time hangs all wounds;) Seriously though, I like the guy and knew going forward he'd be more scrutinized than anyone before him. Look at the situation, I say... scrutinize away.

Second, if I may chime in here. To you, Mr. or Mrs. Ashamed to be from the same state... you may never read this comment. You may never read what I'm about to write. I think your comment has a ton of merit. I think, to some extent, there's a brain behind that lurking fragment of anonymity over there. But the thing you may not get, especially from me, is why not just post your name? It makes things easier and causes far less in the way of suspicion. Politics are and will always be a nasty game, no need to add shadows to that equation. I don't think you are a coward per se, I just think you are uninformed. And I kind of like Deb, which leads me too....

The email. I already read this post. I decided not to comment on it because I just didn't want to comment on it at that time. Then, I get an email reminder of why I should comment on this post. Hook, line, and sinker in man. This is my comment. Going forward, not good etiquette. Besides, if I'm let off the leash...

Gang Mentality Sucks and I really don't want any more emails from groups wanting me to add to an already over-responsive alert to somebody's mundane and reactive opinion on your post. I don't know who it was and I really don't care. I think their comment takes away from a very nice post. I think the email takes away from a very nice post. I guess I should unsubscribe to some groups, or at least... not really care. I do care. And Gang Mentality Sucks.

Sincerely,

Sardi

There is a giant difference between intelligence and common sense. To think that an intelligent person has common sense is not common sense. Nice post, but it will be on deaf ears as there is an agenda without common sense that ain't going away.........

To all the chatterboxes above:

When Obama says "I inherited this catastrophy" do you think he is saying that because he believes it? I don't---Bush Bashers Beware: while you are standing there believing that "BUSH DID IT" you are ignoring what really happened; we DO NOT know what happened in September '08!!! We do NOT know who pulled $550 Billion out of the money market funds--no one does! All they (the gov't ) knows is that an individual or an "entity" or "entites" drained the coffers of most major banks---DOES NO ONE BELIEVE THIS??? We are facing a recovery from this devastating act and that recovery will not just happen. The "draining " of the major banks created a vast hole that is very hard to fill---I hear that eventually it will be filled but we need to know that WE are responsible for getting the economy back on track by spending money when we have it.

(Thanks Deb for letting me address your followers!!---I just had to say it!)

Paula:

Tom Clancy wrote about that (pulling money out and economic terrorism) years ago in "Executive Orders" just like he did crashing a plane into the government in "Debt of Honor".

Actually, SNL had it right, but they pulled the clip. That one up isn't the one that aired live.

Sardi, If you had been attacked, whether I agreed with you or not, by an anonymous Mr. Nobody, and they were calling you names, the shackles on the back of my redneck would have stood up.

I believe that the ability AR gave us to send group posts is as open and free as being able to post ones opinion. I have never used this before but I'm glad I did. I alerted many of whom I consider allies and friends to give their opinions...even if different than my own. I respect all opinions as that is exactly what they are and we were all blessed with a mind to make our own decisions.

I don't believe that in an adult social forum anyone should act as if what they say is "the end all" and the only opinion that counts.

If you, and I invite you to with a humble demeanor, will again read the post you will see it is simply a post from my heart. There is no one that can change what is there without a great deal of trouble. I wasn't looking for any trouble. I just wrote a post.

I hope everyone gets their feelings together about this. I simply wish the best for all!

Later in the rain~Deb

PS,

To whom it may concern,

If you can't call on friends when you need them...what good is a social network?

I agree that the help is not trickling down fast enough to stop every foreclosure.

But, I don't think President Obama has failed to do something that he could do. He's set the vision; he's challenged the legislature; he's challenged the lenders. He can't force them.

He speaks of, and expects, accountability. He walks accountability.

Contrast that with the previous administration's carte blanche delivery of $700 Billion with no expectations of accountability. Now, that is money that came down from the top -- there is Deb's analogy of the ice cube in the desert.

I was disappointed with the Congressional and Senate representatives who spent weeks worrying about how individuals might abuse the bailout package proposal put forth by the new administration. These same Congressional and Senate representatives said nary a word about the Wall Street bailout, and rushed to get it done over a weekend!

The newest bailout is not much more than the bank bailout, and is going to many more souls. It is a step in the right direction.

And, yes, it does need to happen quickly.

Why aren't the lenders following the lead? (Response from lenders would be great).

Paula -

So why do you think no one is saying anything about it. Who is trying to hide it? I cannot find much about in on google except Kanjorski saying it happened.

It sounds like a big conspiracy theory to me.

Our economy was doing so well up until Sept of 08 and then it just feel apart with that run huh? :)

great post you made here

Dunes Village Resort

Holy cow, I'm exhausted just reading through these comments! Take a deep breath everybody. We are all going to need our wits about us in the coming month to deal with what is coming 'round the mountain...

Deb, here we go again with the name calling on the political posts. Don't sweat it. It is a numbers thing with politics, sex, and religion posts that someone inevitably resorts to name calling. Very low class but unfortunately typical these days. Glad you left the comment there. Great free speech on your part and inviting everyone else to continue the dialog.

George: I never once said the economy was doing well---and I don't need to make a case here. Facts are facts and one is that the big drain on the economy could have been much bigger than $550 Bil, had Paulson and the others not acted quickly.

I have no idea why it has not been reported---I saw it reported once---when it happened and that was it. My nephew is at CITI and he was fresking out--telling me that there is no money in the banks---none. At the time I thought he was he was being rather irrational--telling me to sell my car and buy a cheap one, stop buying my dog his favortie treats, get rid of my housekeeper, cut out all hair appointments---I was MAD at him! I thought "who do you think you are---a 30 year old telling his aunt what to do---I haven't had anyone tell me what to do since I grew up and left home!"

NO, I don't think it is a conspiracy theory---if someone can pull out $550 billion in 1 hour---they could pull out every thing in 2; and they almost did!

(again, thanks to Deb for her platform)

Deb, I'm with you! Put my name on the petition! re: Jessica's comment I don't wear "big girl panties" but I do believe in personal responsibility big time! Some argue that its too soon to say Obamas plan isn't working - well its not designed to work in the way we need it to. A true stimulus package has to be focused like a laser beam on real immediate stimulative programs and this huge pkg that most who voted for it haven't even read is not! Jon Zolsky has good points too!

Keep the faith!

Brian. (I wear big BOY undies)

Look at Gary being all nice and stuff :))

Alright, I didn't say it the first (or even the third time), but I'm confused by this post. You say you don't want to rely on the government Deb, but this entire post is asking for the government to do something!

"My plea is for you to follow through with your plan by making sure these people get help."

Which is it? Because if you want to rely on capitalism to do it's thing unhindered, then THIS MESS is what you got for your beliefs.

@ My Sardiboy... baby, you DO have a beautiful way with words.

Deb, your letter was respectful and well-written. Although President Obama has many admirable characteristics, he comes from a different background compared to many Realtors. He is from an urban area and does not understand our values of small business, entrepreneurship, and working on commission. He always points to "jobs" and "employers" without acknowledging folks can get out there and create self-employment.

BTW, this is your blog, Deb, and you can delete any comments you wish.

Jenn, I'm sorry you're confused. I think what we are both missing here is that the money is not reaching the end service to which it was given. The money was given, I would like to think, to help the end user...the homeowners. Not the structure of the business and not for paying off the upper management.

So, in that context...yes,

"My plea is for you to follow through with your plan by making sure these people get help."

That's what I meant. ;-)

Deb

MAR

2009

Clapping Hands Deb...BRAVO!

I'm with all the POSITIVE comments here about your post. It is very well written and very well put! As I saw someone write earlier, you took the words right off my keyboard! NOW, check out those sites that have been listed here and SEND IT OFF TO WASHINGTON!!! The new President SAYS he wants to hear from the people, well let's start talking to him.

Yes, he has only been in office for a very short time, BUT, HE was the one that made the promises of what he was going to do in the first 60 days of his administration. I'm not bad mouthing, I'm just stating what HE said in his campaign. The corporations that are receiving the bulk of the monies right now are still just squandering it away. IT HAS TO GET TO THE PEOPLE THAT NEED IT SOME HOW, SOME WAY and VERY SOON. That is not whining or complaining, that is just down right fact. THERE, this educated REDNECK said it.

Deb,

I tend to agree with you that all the money that we as a country has spent has not, is not and will not reach the people it is intended to help unless massive changes are made.

Hi Deb, I came on AR tonight to read and comment. I read your post and all the comments including your Mr. No Name. Didn't get to the others as yet.

Sadly one person who disagrees with your point and your passion went on the attack and then couldn't even use a name. Actually missed your point totally anyway. Sadly there are those kind out there in the world that try to take a respectful innocent post and turn it into something else. But the commenter couldn't do it because he/she destroyed the credibility of any opinion they held by not leaving a name and being accountable .

Thanks for the heads up on your post Deb and I was glad I spent the time reading the many wonderful comments you obtained. There is a lot of insight among our friends here on the Rain.

Oh and something else occurred to me. We here in the Rain, we also look after our own and support each other. Doesn't it make you and all of us proud to be associated with such great friends we have made here. They came and supported and it just pleases the heck out me and you too, I can tell.

William

Deb, today I saw a home go back on the market, foreclosed, for $524,900. Last summer a buyer I was working with offered $640,000 CASH and was willing to negotiate. They turned us down flat and told us to come closer to $700,000. The price was based on a BPO using comps from a neighborhood with a LOT of amenities miles away (subject neighborhood had no amenities). Buyer was insulted and walked.

Bottom line: This is going to my Congressman. They need to be bombarded with this foolishness. This is absurd. They have been carrying the house since July, now it is foreclosed with more attorney's fees and now they have dropped the price $175,000 and it could have been SOLD and saved the owner a foreclosure. Why do banks think they should be in real estate??

I understand completely why you wrote this letter. It's not an attack on Obama - it is a plea for priorities. People are losing their homes who don't have to lose their homes just because they are not getting the help that was promised.

Gary,

My dear friend, I didn't even mean to write a political post! I was just sharing my thoughts with President Obama. My thoughts are not worth getting all bent out of shape over. Really. It won't change my thoughts and it isn't going to do any good for anyone's blood pressure either!

I sure do thank everyone that stepped up to back me up to Mr. Nobody. You're good friends and I truly don't care if we don't agree with each other politically! I like my friends spicy!

If we all agreed there wouldn't be any reason for comments! Ha! Good post, good post, good post, good post....etc. It is a good one if it ticks you off! God loves passion.

Later in the rain~Deb

Deb, Thank you for espressing what many of us are thinking! Great post!!

Deb - What a lively comment stream. Personally, I did read it as a political or a partisan statement. I surprised I some of comments I've read here. Overall, I agree with you that those of us working to find solutions on Main St. have yet to benefit from any of the 100s of billions of tax dollars that were spent or pledged.

Brave Deb --- can you go ahead and turn this blog into a petition, and include our names on the list?

Hello Deb and Activerainers

I understand your frustration with the current situation. There are millions of people across the nation who are feeling the impact of our current economic situation. It started with the banks and will end with the banks.

I do believe there are many people who don't understand the full picture of the problem that confronts our nation. A good place to start is to learn what the problem is: the BANKS ARE INSOLVENT. They lent out our money and have been telling themselves and all the world that the $400,000 house they lent money on two years ago is still worth $400,000. Guess what? It's not and if they have to "mark it to market" (say what it is really worth) their balance sheets would not balance. Now multiply that by oh let's say a million. That's how big the problem is.

Oh and the other problem is your money you put in the banks. That money you deposited is the money that was lent out. Remember? So the $20,000 you thought you had in savings is actually $10,000 or less. That's the reality. When our government gave money to the banks it was just to enable them to keep their doors open.

What's supposed to happen when a bank is insolvent? the government steps in and guarantees your money and takes over the bank. So who's gonna help you now? Private Companies or Uncle Sam?

What is the solution? Nationalize the banks. Take them over, clean up the bad debt, turn them around and sell them back to private investors. The IMF does this all the time for developing countries. We should be no different. As of now the Obama Administration has said this is off the table. Of course this could be true or they could be formulating a plan to take over Bank of America and Citibank and whoever else on one weekend. That's a huge job, and with no investors willing to step up it has to be the government. They would likely need on the order of 2000 people to run Citibank alone. If they don't do it all at once there would be a run on the next bank that looked weak and the next and the next. Nationalization isn't a dirty word, it's reality.

This doesn't even address the money: Trillions. Every American needs to get used to it. To give some perspective there are only 3 or 4 entities in the world able to come up with a trillion dollars: China, Japan the US and maybe all of the oil companies put together.

The reality is that 2 months of the Obama administration are not going to undo 8 years of free wheeling and no oversight. I understand your frustrations, but challenges are part of life. The measure of a person is how they react to challenges that are presented to them. This is an immense problem that will not be solved in a week, a month or a year. It will take a couple of years. Good luck to everyone. Hopefully we will NEVER REPEAT the mistakes made in the last 8 years. Believe it or not I'm actually an Optimist.

I'm just glad we have Obama at the helm, consider the alternative(s).

Wow Deb -- what a hearfelt, explosive post! It sure hit a nerve and is getting quite a response of opinions which is great.

Personally I see a lot of money (paper) being printed and going down into a deep, dark hole that can't be fixed and is only putting future generations into debt and horrible inflation that has not been seem as yet (assuming there will be future generations!) A trickle down economy just doesn't seem to work -- look at all the previous recessions and the "cures" (recessions seem to come in cycles the same as real estate ebb and flows and what is in Gore's world called global warming which are also cycles).

I could just scream if I hear one more time (and I'm sure I will) the nonsense of "I inherited" or "the last eight years"!! I believe politicians in general have created the current problems and its taken a lot more than the last 8 years to get us were we are today. There is certainly more than enough blame to go around -- and we vote these folks in!!

I've heard enough political speeches and rhetoric to last me for a long time. I will say Obama is one of the best motivational speakers I have ever heard (he'd give Tony Robins a run for the money). But, he can't seem to get out of that venue and get down to business!

I could go on and on -- but will stop here. So many heartfelt feelings and opinions have already been expressed and many mirror mine.

I have already written my NC Representatives expressing my opiions (it just feels good to vent!) but I did want to ask if it would be alright to use your letter with my name to forward along to the Whitehouse and Congress. Your post/letter so closely matches my thoughts (with a few changes) and is so thoughtfully well written and expressed.

Thanks for your time -- Sue of Robin and Sue

Deb, Congrats on the feature. I did not vote for the man, nor do currently I agree with his agenda. Far too often, the folks on Capitol Hill sit in their Ivory Towers concocting garbage that the "little people" have to eat. I wish for once that they would walk 10 miles in our shoes instead just looking down their noses at us...

Your building consultant for life in Nashville, TN ~ Michael

Deb- This is a very heartfelt post and your passion clearly rises off the page. As for me, I am very on the fence about what is happening...Although I agree " something " has to be done I am just not sure exactly what that " something " is. At times I feel our President while listening to him is also trying to convince himself that what he has done will work.

The bottom line is that : It no longer really matters who is to blame....we can blame Bush, we can go as far back as Reagan for that matter, we can blame selfish mortgage lenders/banks for giving bad loans to begin with. But while we sit and blame no real resolution is taking place. I don't care if Mickey Mouse was in office, if he could fix it than I say go for it. It's not rocket science to figure out that our economy will start to fix itself if " they" fix the housing market.

That's my two cents ; and boy am I glad to have two pennies to rub together !

Wow-great post. I had a comment but then it took me 30 minutes to read the previous comments (double, triple, and even quadruple comments) and now have forgotten what I wanted to say...need more coffee to finish up. Thanks anyway!

What a great letter. I had no idea the market was bad in Texas as well.

Deb...Great Post....and I think it is worthy of recognition from the White House...Very well written and I think it is the sentiment of what we are all experiencing...You should e-mail it to the President.

Shawn

You ought to e-mail this to him, he has an e-mail address and send it to the local papers as an editorial. Also people facing foreclosure can start the paperwork for bankruptcy and get the lenders attention that was. I have had several after filing getting the banks to do a workout and then withdrawing their filing.

Deb - My dad always told me to ignore something written by a person who would not sign his/her name to it! You expressed an honest and respectful position and got blasted by a 'name caller.' We have too much of that in today's society. I think that your post was well stated. Thanks.

HI Deb, I know you are a very gracious, kind and educated LADY. If you have a redneck then so does the rest of the USA. Commentor #44 should have had the decency to leave a name .. shows their lack of respect for themself, not being able to say something and claim it.

The letter was about how you felt and your opinions. you have a right to express them. Loudly and clearly. All Americans have that right of the 1st Amendment... at least so far we still do.

Living in the same state as yourself, I am proud to be your neighbor! This is an example of good coming from bad, great discussion going on here, so in a way we can thank Commentor #44 for prodding so many of us to express an opinion.

Deb...Congratulations on the feature. I believe you are right, something needs to be done with the lenders who are unwilling to help. Its too bad the "name calling" person cant see things from others perspectives and feels their opinion is the "right" one. Thank you for being bold enough to express yours.

"I am truly concerned about the people that are losing their houses RIGHT NOW. RIGHT NOW is what I am discussing. You can say he's only been in the Presidency for a few days but really who cares? I don't. I care about the people that are losing their homes Now...RIGHT NOW...RIGHT NOW."

Fewer people are losing there homes "RIGHT NOW" than were 4 months ago or 6 months ago. Is this blog the second in your series to Presients? If not then, I wish you and your transparent "supporters" would just speak honestly about what your real gripe or motivation is instead of trying to hide behind a pseudo veil of compassion for homeowners. If you didn't have a burning desire to speak out sometime during 2007 or 2008 (in a comparable open letter to Bush), you betray yourself to be mostly what the anonymous poster intimated. I think reading further comments and your rebuttals heavily reinforces "Mr. NoName's" seemingly accurate description of this particular blog in whinerdom. This is my opinion but you and team ditto head don't seem very obliging to any opinion that doesn't conform to your political view or that doesn't stroke your ego by bashing the few posters who had an INTELLECTUALLY honest response to your blog. The truth is that trying to blame Obama for any of this and whining because your commission checks aren't as high as they were when Bush was allowing the banks/wall street to run roughshod unregulated after Clinton started that ball rolling, is disingenuous at best and pure ignorance at worst. And I say this as someone who supported Ron Paul.

I agree that everyone should put on his or her big girl pants and try to honestly assess the situation and hunker down because things will get worse before they get better and no one has said that more than the President himself but that kind of honesty and forthrightness will get missed if one only subscribes to talk radio for their "news" and non-facts. I have talk radio on at least 5 hours a day but I won't let my overly educated brain get drowned out by the irrational, dishonest rantings of a felonius drug addict who is making $50 million dollars a year brainwashing the weak of mind, regardless of how much entertainment I get from listening. Your Mileage Clearly Varies.

Please forgive the intrusion of a lowly consumer but I dislike dishonesty more than anything, especially when it is clearly intellectually so.

I have become an Independent because of the crappy situation our country has been put in by the politacal parties constant bickering.

The Conservatives can blame the Liberals and vice versa. Too suggest that it was solely Bush's fault is as ignorant as people blindly supporting Obama's plans. My biggest problem with Obama's "rescue plan" is that it is being pushed down the throats of the American people. Our representitives in Washington are voting on spending enormous amouns of money, in Bills full of earmarks, without even having the chance to read them first. Who wrote these Bills then???

I am not optimistic for improvement in the economy any time in the near future. They could have made every bank and lender make interest rates 4% for every consumer and this country would have been headed towards recovery immediately. Too easy though and doesn't allow for enough grandstanding by our politicians.

He is not interested in passing up an opportunity to put in place his socialist agenda. Stem cell research is not a stimulus for the economy. Never miss the opportunity to seize the moment when a crisis arises.

I read so many great posts here...some are still missing the basic principals and going into a deep theory of why? Lets make this simple...

it's "COMMUNICATION"

If the banks dont lend the money we will NEVER recover. Mr Obama can do all he wants, if the government continues to give the banks money to recover and they HORD it, we will all FAIL. It's simple.

I have seen about 4 posts (there are so many i have not read all of them yet) that mention banks holding money and not lending, or they just dont care.. (read my previous post). Happened last week, and btw, we closed.

There is no one to blame and nothing we can do about the past. Mr. Obama needs to begin putting in STRICT guidelines with the banks that DICTATE (yes, i said DICTATE) criteria on lending, if the people fail into that criteria, they get the money they need.

Remember this; CASH FLOW = SPENDING = A GOOD ECONOMY = MORE JOBS = PEOPLE BUY HOUSES AND OTHER THINGS... = = = WHERE BACK?

Sounds too easy does'nt it?

I don't want to offend anybody, this is just an opinion of mine.

It's President of Obama - not Mr. He IS the President of the United States of America - for better or worse and deserves the respect that his title holds, regardless of political views.

umm....Jessica...I like the man, he is my president too...he is definetly tryiing and he is a motivator...nothing was intended...but since you mentioned it, how do you feel when you hear that communist Katie Curic call President Bush, Mr. Bush, on live Broadcast TV. (When he was the President). It got me sick...and I really did not think he was doing a great job.

Anyway...Thank you for commenting on my little blurb there....you are a wonderful blogger and im certain a great Realtor.

"that communist Katie Curic"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

... but you don't want to offend anyone?

Dave:

I don't mean to be funny, but something about saying, "Mr. Bush" makes me laugh. I think I've watched one too many comedy shows/skits and it's hard for me to keep a straight face.

I apologize if you feel that I've signaled you out. I am growing increasingly irritated with the news and people that refer to our president as Mr. instead of by his title: President. As I stated above: our elected leaders are nothing more than a mirror reflection of our society as a whole. I believe that our society has lost proper respect for the office of our Commander in Chief and that is a direct reflection of how society views themselves. Worthless. It saddens me greatly at how the population feels and the lack of respect for themselves.

I realize that I am in the minority in my thoughts, but I believe that respect doesn't have to be earned. Certain positions of authority just DEMAND it by nature. While I may not agree with the man - his title DEMANDS my respect as a citizen of this country.

The same for the former and the one before him too. See, I don't have a "guy" in the office. I'm to the right of most on fiscal matters and the military and to the left of many on matters of social and civil liberties. Not sure what that makes me because I don't smoke pot, thus I can't be a Libertarian. Just kidding...well sort of.

Deb-Bravo! Well written! Just for the record and to be fair, some of the garbage that Bush had to deal with was leftover from the Clinton admin. Obama is not anyone's savior, he is just a man and he cannot "Change" anything only "We, the people, can do that. I am placing my stock in God's economy, because it never fails! Our society has become so smitten with lack of accountability, responsibility and this expectation that Big Brother should always come swooping in and save the day that it is no wonder we are in this mess. Our economy will stabilize and recover when every person regardless of political party, socio-economic status or background begins to stand up on their own two feet and quit expecting bail outs everytime a bad decision is made. I know this is a big shock to many Americans...but bad choices have consequences! It goes like this...if the money is not in the checkbook....don't write the check! If we all lived that way and the government actually ran like a responsible household then my grandchildren wouldn't be inheriting a debt they can never repay! JMHO and I think you should send your letter to Pennsylvania Avenue! You go girl!

Deb,

The fact is that you have blogged on a subject that you do not understand. Your "Open Letter" to the President was a distasteful regurgitation of every Op-Ed letter I have already read, sprinkled with a healthy dash of the De facto leader of the Republican Party, Rush Limbaugh.

Your expecting the Obama Administration to have this problem sewn up completely in two months is asking the President for a temporary fix, kind of like putting a Band-Aid on the wound and never addressing the real problem. Getting things back to where they were is not the objective here. Nor should it be yours! I am a broker and I do not subscribe to the "Temporary Fix" ideology.

I don't believe, Deb that you have any possible way of knowing what wheals are all ready in motion to address some of the issues you write about. If you are a political insider please let me know, maybe I have seen you around on the Hill?

The new Administration has eight years of greed, fraud and total mismanagement to clean up after.

We waited for eight years for Bush to: http://ostroyreport.blogspot.com/2005/10/list-of-bushs-lies-and-policy-failures.html

Win the war in Iraq
Catch Osama Bin Laden
Fix gas prices
Fix the Economy

Please show the same respect and patience that the Majority of Americans showed the previous Administration.

Be an American and get behind your country and this recovery effort. Offer some solutions, not biased criticisms. Hey, why not volunteer some time or join an association or advocacy group?

"Our society has become so smitten with lack of accountability, responsibility and this expectation that Big Brother should always come swooping in and save the day that it is no wonder we are in this mess. Our economy will stabilize and recover when every person regardless of political party, socio-economic status or background begins to stand up on their own two feet and quit expecting bail outs everytime a bad decision is made. "

I take it that you have found clever way to disagree with the original blogger by informing her that Obama is not her "savior", nor anyone else's, and that she, and everyone else, should stop whining and stand on their own two feet, accept responsibility for their actions, and stop expecting the government/"Big Brother" (also sometimes read as President) to bail them out. In short it read ver much like, 'stop whining and learn to take care of yourselves and stop expecting President Obama & the federal government to save you from your deserved consequences".

Maybe I will start giving a pseudo back pat before completely eviscerating another's argument but that would presume that the person(s) with whom I am disagreeing is not sharp enough to know the difference. For the record and to be fair, I don't think the original poster was proclaiming the president as her saviour or anyone's; however, I think she was just begging for a little help but not for her commissions but for the poor, desperate homeowner that she now cares about since there are fewer than during the previous administration (sometimes read as our side).

Nope...I like her blog...

and this is not the place for insults...save that for another forum.

Frankly, I agree with Deb. I am a Realtor but the answer does not belong with the government. It never has. Flat tax is the answer. Take the power from Washington and put it back in the hand's of the people where it belongs.

All our decisions are now being made on the basis of the tax consequence not if it makes good business sense.

If you want to create more jobs, look into the flat tax where the US is pro business again in a good way.

Of the top 30 countries , only one does not have a consumption tax, us! It is putting our industry at a disadvantage globally.

Deb - I read over a hundred of the comments. I see nothing wrong with your post. It's an excellent post and you have written it with utmost respect for President Obama. Remember anytime you talk politics, you'll get comments on both sides. The anonymous commentator should have the decency to identify himself. What was she/he afraid of? We all support your stand on the issue because we are all experiencing it at our end. Stand tall and hope Washington is listening.

WDC and Dr. Jackson,

Nope I'm not an insider. And, you have no clue what I understand but thank you for the opinion. The simple, and I do mean simple letter to our President Obama is a heartfelt plea to fix it. Not just put a band-aide on it. The fix needs to start at the people. Read into this whatever you will.

Now, I have not and am not going to express my personal views here as many have. My views are my business and no one elses. I will not place my views in front of faceless angry people as I hold much respect for my own views and others.

This letter was a product of a meeting I had on Saturday with a woman that is losing her home. I'm not sure of your occupation but being a REALTOR right now is difficult to say the least. Not because I am looking at being homeless as I am lucky enough to have several closings on my books. The difficulty lies within the ability of the service end of the mechanism.

OMG, I said I wouldn't get into my views but this makes me want to get into the mediocrity of our overall society based upon lousy school systems and a learning curve that is taking and HAS BEEN taking a downward spiral for decades.

You see, I'm not placing blame, whining, and I do have my big girl pants on. I am saddened by the lack of cooperation within our banking systems to regroup. This may be a product of too much paperwork and having to cross too many desks. For this we require management of such. That's all I was saying within the letter.

I am co-owner of three small businesses. I am looking at our economy from the viewpoint of a hard working, honest, entrepreneur. One who cares about people in general.

Again, no one knows my views of anything so quit the name calling and get a grip...

I don't want to hear..."oops, sorry but Atlas Shrugged."

Thanks for all the input though! I love a good forum.

Deb

Thanks for the reply OP. On most any other day, your blog would not have garnered a second thought from me but, like someone above, I very much have a strong distaste for ganging up, especially when a situation as highlighted in #179 exists.

I don't think anyone requires or requested an explicit statement of your political affiliation, at least I hope I didn't request such a declaration. I also don't require a meteorologist to tell me when it is raining outside or a crying newborn to tell me that it needs a diaper change....most times one can just smell it. I am not interested in this line of diversion. However, I did ask a specific question in my first reply and I'll note it again with this reply:

Would you provide the link to your open letter to President Bush or the similar blog for when times were worse for wear than they are right now. I would like to read it.

Deb - all good questions. Ever since the election, and especially since the inauguration, the economy is going down hill at an accelerated rate. Whether or not one thinks wall street is good, evil or indifferent, one thing it is very good at is anticipating the future, and since, May, when Obama became the candidate apparent, it has lost 50%. There is no confidence in the administration or the proposals it is making. He needs to bring in people without ideology to get through this, and that has not happenned.

And the so called stimulus, much will not take affect for 2 years or more, some not for 10 years. Plus, there are ideological strings attached. In regard to eight years of Bush failed policy, all I can say is, those who are parroting that are either ignorant of or wantonly disregarding history. The real estate and mortgage crash has been building for decades, driven by polices since 1978 and CRA. Democratic senators stood in the way of any reform of Fannie & Freddie (as well as some republican senators) when Bush, as early as 2003, was telling congress of the problem. In 2005, McCain tried to get reform passed, but again, those same senators stood in the way. Barney Frank, Maxine Waters, et al, are on record against any mortgage reform saying that people were crying wolf and merely attacking Franklin Raines. The 2009 failed TARP plan was written by a democratic controlled congress and implemented according to the guidelines they wrote into it. But Bush is to blame for all of that.

One thing that I learned in business, that it appears no one in politics has, before affixing blame, you fix the problem. Somewhere, in the course of that process, you do a root cause analysis. additionally, And, when the problem is fixed, is when the praise and the blame get delegated out. That is not happenning here.

Obama may have only been president for 50 some days, but his policies have impacted the economy since May and especially so since the election results of Nov. 4. It may be Bush's recession, but it will be Obama's depression.

Deb - This blog took courage and passion to write. And that is worthy of respect. All too often, people do not pick a side. And while not always necessary, a side denotes logical thinking. I have found that mostly it does not really matter to me the side someone is on, but rather they have one, they are passionate about it, and can logically explain it. I respect that. Thank you for sharing.

Amy's sweet signature

"'Maybe I will start giving a pseudo back pat before completely eviscerating another's argument but that would presume that the person(s) with whom I am disagreeing is not sharp enough to know the difference.'

and this is not the place for insults...save that for another forum."

What did you find insulting, the fact that your post is contradictory/oxymoronic to the original blog/blogger or the fact I presumed you actually realized it was?

Dr. Jackson,

You seem to have nothing else better to do and this is the last time I will take your bait. You sir are obviously not a Realtor and are viewing my request per the letter in different terms than it was meant.

Fact 1.

The only possible way you could eviscerate an argument is if an argument existed.

Fact 2.

I would be happy to go head to head with you in private. I have much too much respect for my friends and this forum to do so in public.

Fact 3.

If it makes you feel better about yourself to make insults then have at it.

Fact 4.

You sir are the one that doesn't understand IMHO. If you were in a Realtor's shoes you would not find the post contradictory or oxymoronic. I presume you want it to be so to allow yourself the room to SCREAM SO HARD. Me thinks you doth protest too much.

Fact 5.

No letter to Mr. Bush. While he was in office, and I can prove it through our MLS, there was not a foreclosure to be found around this neck of the woods...I know I'm tempting you there! LOL

Fact 6.

If you know best and you can fix it just why didn't you run for office?

Fact 7.

I have to go to get a HUD statement to a client. We're closing on Friday and that's much more important than this childish banter.

Sorry baby, just gotta go!

Deb

This is so right on the mark! I think O'B is trying to please the following he has--and trying to keep all those promises he made to get votes. BUT you cannot keep a money making press running 24/7 and expect it to solve the problems we have. SOMEONE has to pay that dough back. It's frightening...and LENN said it in one sentence: YOU CAN'T FIX WHAT YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND!

Who said being a redneck is a bad thing? Uneducated was the insult. Deb, I agree with you and I appreciate your post. We are all working toward the same goal.

OP, this is a reply to your post #198. I most certainly am not a realtor. For Fact 6-7 when did I say anything remotely implying that. You do believe in using red herrings to the fullest extent of free speech, don't you.

Regarding your "Fact(s) 1-5", you are taking a question I directed at a reply signed by Jean Ritchie more than a tad personally don't you think. If I didn't know better, I would hold your response to the side conversation between myself and J. Ritchie suspiciously out of balance. I would ask you to prove that there was not one foreclosure in your state during the Bush Administration but I think that inciting others to lie is little better than lying.

I refer you back to my original post in #179 as I think that the anonymous poster that was the benefit of the ditto head gang pileup was more accurate than anyone was willing to give him/her credit for before. It is obvious that you are not good at handling dissent but I hope you don't feel the need to call the ditto head posse on me too, as generally I am on the same team but I can't trade an educated, working brain for partisan/identity politics. In the sane and real world, people will disagree with you MOST especially when you are blatantly wrong; so I leave you with a piece of advice: get accustomed to varying opinions, dissenting views, and people who don't think blind butt-kissing/sucking-up is a virtue. Sorry if that gets under your skin.

Deb, What a great post!! You have expressed your and others opinions well. As for #44, it took longer than 8 years of bad policy, the problem started with Mr. Clinton and the deregulation of the banking industry to bring about the problems we are now bringing to bear. The general public demanded the deregulation of the mortgage industry. I've been in the business long enough to remember going to the bank and asking for a loan to buy a house and having to have 20% downpayment or I had to save it up and wait. Spending our way out is the not the way to resolve the current problems. Tax cuts to small businesses to create jobs, incentives to small businesses to create jobs is a good start, not tax increases. We are heading into a very deep dark depression if the government doesn't get a grip on spending and doesn't get a grip on accountability. Stop the pork belly spending and stop all pet projects NOW. Tighten our belts and save is the way to get things on track.

Deb, All I can say is WOW what a powerful blog I really enjoyed reading it.

That dude is so rude!!! Thank God for blessing me with a sense of humor so that I can laugh about this! Forgive them...for they know not what they do. Over 200 blog comments - that totally rocks!!! So Deb...I cannot wait for your next post!!! :o))

Is it just me or are the counter point comments by "Dr Jackson" "WDC" getting mean? In fact Dr J takes Debs comment about foreclosures in her neck of the woods and changes it to foreclosures in the state! Personal attacks - real nice! #203 - what exactly were you trying to gain by those comments and research? This reminds me of the Ohio state employee who dug into Joe the plumbers records to look for dirt in order to discredit him. Real classy!

Brian.

Deb, excellent post, well thought out, well executed and well done. I think it hits the heart of the real estate crisis. You are so right when you said Realtors are struggling too. We are working hard to keep others in their homes and we may be the ones to lose our homes as well. Leslie

Brian, this WDC person doesn't have a clue what he's talking about. I appreciate your feelings about the slander...as that is exactly what it is. WDC doesn't know who I am or where I sell or how much I sell. Actually he's right about the beginning of this year. I've been laying back a bit due to personal situations and mostly I'm selling my own properties by choice.

I am now, have been consistantly, and will continue to be a multi-million dollar producer on Lake Livingston and the surrounding areas. I am Proud to be a Realtor and a successful one with a good reputation. I would like to keep that rep thank you very much WDC!

That's the very first comment I've EVER deleted! Only because it was simply dirty.

Again Brian, thanks for the support. I don't even know what any of this has to do with the original post! I'm sorry for people that carry that much hate inside of themselves. I'm sorry for them.

Take care and Later in the rain~Deb

YOU GO GIRL!

Holy Cow. I think everyone has said just about all that can be said. Think we all might be a little frustrated in our own way.

Boy ,I had a comment when I read the post but after reading some of the comments I'm not sure what I was going to say.

"Is it just me or are the counter point comments by "Dr Jackson" "WDC" getting mean? In fact Dr J takes Debs comment about foreclosures in her neck of the woods and changes it to foreclosures in the state! Personal attacks - real nice! #203 - what exactly were you trying to gain by those comments and research? This reminds me of the Ohio state employee who dug into Joe the plumbers records to look for dirt in order to discredit him. Real classy! "

Are you practicing your fine art of pot-calling-kettle-black?

I don't know about "WDC" as I don't recall using that acronym in my post, so forgive that I am not up on all internet lingo but I speak matter of factly and too bad if the person I am disagreeing with has an aversion to honesty, dissent, or getting held to backing up her statements. Regarding the foreclosure in her "neck of the woods" or any other state, I try not to incite people to lie, especially when the truth is obvious and the lie so easily disproven. I expect a ditto head to not care either way about truths but to do only what they do best and just 'ditto'. As far as class goes, I'll just say thank you kindly as if I am getting an insult from you I suspect I am on the smart side of any issue.

I must say that I do find it a weakness of character to require "backup" in a discussion. If one can't defend one's outrageous assertions on a public forum, why would said person throw those assertions out there to begin with. Fortunately for me, I don't require a mindless "me too" to engage in a discussion. I generally debate from a sound starting point to eliminate the need for those who echo just to prove that they aren't capable of original thought or intellectual independence. So, in answer to your question "is it me...?", I would expect that you will get a thoughtless ditto right.on.cue; the only mystery is "who" will give it this time J.Ritchie or the OP. I can hardly wait to read further to find out.

" Personal attacks - real nice! #203 - what exactly were you trying to gain by those comments and research? "

OK, Brian, I have re-read my posts and the post # was 201 NOT 203, and I wouldn't call pointing out the incredulousness of a statment that she has zero foreclosures mean or even research. If you think that declining to incite someone to lie further is mean then think again.

Also, in her on.cue. response she said she deleted #203 (which was not a post of mine so I'm unsure of why you direct your discombobulated comments about it towards me), would you care to share what it was about. If an anonymous poster did post something troubling, it surely wasn't me. I am embarrassed for the OP and many in this thread but I surely wouldn't say anything "dirty" to her or even you. The instability is showing and I find it more than a little sad. That is a whole lot of crazy just because I asked to read the first open letter, presumably to President Bush. If I had known such a simple point would send anyone over the deep end, I surely might have refrained from expressing it.

HI Deb! Listen, there is NOTHING that hasn't already been said but, I would like to add that the 'no name' commentors are simply COWARDS and deserve no return comment--I don't talk to people with no faces or names, why would I comment back to them?! TLW would say they have no...well, you know what I mean!

I agree with William--I appreciate your heads-up and I wanted to come over to support you as you have me before--that's what friends are for, right?!

My opinion: We are certainly free to express ourselves, both in written word and in speech; there surely is nothing wrong with a healthy debate, as you've stated. Your letter was eloquent and heartfelt and I didn't interpret the letter as you making a political statement, merely a humanitarian plea. In our business, we see this more than many in other businesses do and I think that the President will respect your opinion more than you or any of your naysayers know.

Thank you for sharing your feelings, Deb, and for staying tuned to your post--I'm not so sure I wouldn't have abandoned this one with all of these comments!! HA! jk...

Debe in Charlotte

Never ceases to amaze me. I believe very heartily in my conservatism, but I have NEVER gotten in someone's face. Yet, time and time again over the last 20 years, I have had a liberal IN MY FACE. I choose to think it is simply a matter of maturity, especially since many liberals grow up to be conservatives. Just my two cents ... and I didn't yell at anyone or name call or anything like that, so don't even think about getting in my face Mr. No Name or whoever or whatever you are.

I am so like waaay too busy trying to make money so that someone can actually afford to bail people out.

Okay, now I am really pissed off.

Kind of interesting to read... I commented a long time ago, but so much has happened.

And just for the record, Since the day after the election, the slide in the stock market can be mostly attributed to President Obama. The stock market is a forward looking instrument. It tries to look 6 months to 2 years into the future. And that means that if "the market" thought that what Obama was doing would improve the economy, it would go up immediately. But they don't, and so they haven't.

Unemployment on the other hand is a backward looking statistic. That is blamable on the actions during the Bush Administration...

Just to give an idea of the power of the President to change a market, last summer W called for Congress to end the OCS drilling ban, and dropped the executive order banning drilling on the OCS. The oil market began a months long tumble... THAT DAY... that drove the price of oil down from the $150 range to the $50 range.

Obama could change the stock market's direction with the right plan... he doesn't have that plan, or he doesn't want to adopt it. You can pick which.

Dearest Deb,

It would seem that such a slummy place as this, with such mediocre agents swimming in the cesspool of online unproductiveness would be a very unlikely place to discover such a distinguished person as the good doctor. Wouldn't his time be better spent seeking out a productive agent, to find himself a home in Texas - instead of bullying his inferiors? Surely he didn't advance through college and medical school to bandy crooked words with sublimating-bloggers till the cows come home?

I reckon that will make me a target (again), but I appreciate you posting a heartfelt letter even if I don't quite agree with the solution. That's of little consequence...

Best of luck to you girl. You and every other real estate agent and their clients are in our thoughts and prayers.

P.S. You don't owe anybody on here a single thing. You don't have to justify your actions or your level of production. I've spent a career of being a Realtor(r) porcupine - a walking defensive system because I've had to fight for everything that I have. I'm learning to just let it go. I slip from time to time, but I would much rather tell somebody where they can go than justify my actions, motivation and reasoning.

Jessica, LOL. Definitely with you! Thank you for your kind words. Honestly they mean a lot coming from one of my respected peers. Mr. Nobody and Dr. "who thinks he's somebody" could come on with encouraging words and I would simply cringe.

It's truly a shame that differing opinions immediately turn into "ignorance" when being pointed out by the biased and pious...and those that feel they are superior to most around them. I believe that our strength of community and our variety of differences is something to be celebrated.

I am so proud to be an active part of this community and I am learning daily from the wonderful contributors such as yourself (whose humor is on my "tickle" side).

Even the members that disagree did it with dignity and lack of malice. The outsiders are just that..."outsiders" and for that I am glad.

Thank you Jessica. I am proud to call you my friend! Cool!

Deb

"It would seem that such a slummy place as this, with such mediocre agents swimming in the cesspool of online unproductiveness would be a very unlikely place to discover such a distinguished person as the good doctor. Wouldn't his time be better spent seeking out a productive agent, to find himself a home in Texas - instead of bullying his inferiors? Surely he didn't advance through college and medical school to bandy crooked words with sublimating-bloggers till the cows come home?

I reckon that will make me a target (again), but I appreciate you posting a heartfelt letter even if I don't quite agree with the solution. That's of little consequence... "

The above quote is pure attention seeking. Who are you and when did I make you a "target" of anything? I have addressed the Original Blogger, "Jean Ritchie", and "Brian". Unless you are one of these users, you are taking victimhood to a whole new level---one that is purely fantasized. Are you that starved for attention that you would try so pathetically to insert yourself into my line of attention. As for your other "mediocre" (your self-descriptor) attempts at snarkiness, not worth a second thought but thanks just the same.

Chuckling about your self-proclaimed, flag waving inferiority...I'll take your word for it.

"Jessica, LOL. Definitely with you! Thank you for your kind words. Honestly they mean a lot coming from one of my respected peers. Mr. Nobody and Dr. "who thinks he's somebody" could come on with encouraging words and I would simply cringe.

I am so proud to be an active part of this community and I am learning daily from the wonderful contributors such as yourself (whose humor is on my "tickle" side).

Even the members that disagree did it with dignity and lack of malice. The outsiders are just that..."outsiders" and for that I am glad.

Thank you Jessica. I am proud to call you my friend! Cool!"

I should apologize to you; your posts are increasingly diversionary, emotionally off balance, and myopic. I didn't understand fully that you were not equipped to engage properly outside of a certain type of bubble. I suspected but I don't always like being right and this is one of those times when I am saddened by my accurate perceptions.

Deb:

No problem. You just keep on working and doing the best you can - each and every day. That's all we can do.

MAR

2009

Hi Deb...From the content of your post it is easy to understand how deeply you feel about the problems some homeowners are having hanging on to their homes. Some deserve help and there are some that do not. It must take time to determine which ones do and which ones do not.

I also believe that President Obama cares deeply about the economic future of our country and is not taking his responsibilities, to us, lightly.

Take care,

Kate

Hello Deb and Activerainers

What's supposed to happen when a bank is insolvent? the government steps in and guarantees your money and takes over the bank. So who's gonna help you now? Private Companies or Uncle Sam?

I'm just glad we have Obama at the helm, consider the alternative(s).

Good morning everyone!!! Guess what??? It is raining in the Texas Hill Country!!! YAY!!! It's a fabulous day to be a Texas REALTOR!!! Please keep the prayers for rain in the Hill Country coming, our gorgeous lakes and rivers need it desparately. It's gonna be a wonderful and beautiful spring here! Come on out and visit, stop by my new office, say hi, have a cup of coffee and please send your referrals...we will treat them like family! Be blessed and be a blessing today and always!!! :o)))

Prayer and God is our only hope. You should send this to the President

MAR

2009

Nicely done. Hopefully it gets to his desk or Blackberry.

Deb, you are an eloquent writer and you have represented Realtors and the public in a respectful manner. I wish the President had access to your words.

You deserve ALOT of credit for writing so well and so clearly from your heart. If Congress would function as respectfully as you wrote, we might have a prayer of getting thru this mess. In the mean time I spend all my time trying to figure out how what is actually happening will affect my clients so I can give them the best advise I can. I wish I KNEW IT ALL like some folks who won't sign their comments but I'm just your average, hardworking, successful Realtor ...like the REST of the folks who commented and signed their names!

Deb - I am not sure that we have allowed President Obama enough time. Nobody promised that our problems would go away in less than 2 months. I think he can turn it around but it's going to take time.

MAR

2009

Deb....the issues are complex irregardless who is to blame, we the people need to get off our duffs, and let our Congressmen and Senators know that we are fed up with their indecisiveness, petty arguing and self benefiting tactics. That to stop functioning as to whats best for the party and what is best for the American people.

I agree without about the bailouts, the money is not going where it should, a strategy for the bailout should be from the ground up, establish a plan and criteria for those behind in mortgages, where as the money would be given to them for the express purpose of paying on their mortgage, to stave off foreclosure. The lending institutions are not utilizing the funds appropriately. I say take it back and give it to the people who need it.

MAR

2009

Great post Deb, well written. We need to speak out. Your letter is wrote with sincerity and compassion. Don't listen to anyone that will try to bash you.

Geri Doyle, Newton, Iowa

www.newtoniowarealty.com

www.doyledevoe.com

Hi, Deb...

The following comment does not represent the views of ActiveRain Corp. or its staff. It is simply the thoughts of an individual with affiliation to the company.

Now that that's taken care of.... *dusts hands off*

I approve of our president. I approve of his platform. I approve of his current policies. I approve of his ability and motivation to jump into a MESS that he did not create and his willingness to fix it.

Even so, I am sadly disappointed by some of the things I'm hearing from the White House. The stimulus package, for instance, does nothing to help those of us who don't own anything but who are still struggling, white-collar, lower-middle class workers. Many of us work in the IT industry. Many of us are young and single. Many of us rent. We're struggling to keep our jobs over those who have families; we're struggling against reverse-agism in finding new jobs. We're struggling to make ends meet, especially when most of us just got our foot in the door to begin with and are not making much to support ourselves.

Many of us have second or third jobs. Many of us are trying to start families. Many of us are trying to make names for ourselves and prove we have what it takes to help forward our industries. Unfortunately, that's hard to do when those with families are favored over those who are not, when those who own homes are favored over those who rent, and those who make a decent salary and have help in supporting their households are favored over those who have nothing and no one.

Truly, for a president who is so highly favored by the young, brilliant, and liberal, I'm very surprised to see that no measures were taken to help those just trying to get their lives rolling. I'm hardly asking for a hand-out, though; don't get me wrong: All I am saying is that Obama is addressing the biggest fire in the city instead of considering the smaller, hotter fires that may eventually converge on the city into a gigantic inferno of economic destruction. We don't just stop living because no one's looking at us.

MAR

2009

Your blog has hit a sore spot for many. So many people have brought up other topics that you did not in your first blog. Why is it that we the common people seem to have some excellant ideas and those that we elect are having such a hard time and struggling with so many issues. One of the biggest is they seem to be putting money somewhere but nobody is seeing it where is it all going? I'm just as baffled as the rest.

I hope that some of this blog gets to the White House.

MAR

2009

Deb, Great post, it will take time.

I agree with you Deb, unfortunately I believe the "CHANGE" when I see it...until then, that's all we'll be left with. Great Post! Thanks for sharing.

Make it a great day!

Deb-

Very eloquently said...... I hope that good comes out of this situation and people learn the real importance of government...

MAR

2009

Wow, glad to see another Flat Tax supporter here! Flat Tax is the answer.

Two years ago I would have reduced and fixed the interest to everybody. Today I would reduce interest and some principal to everybody and avoid so much bureaucracy. It is true some people would be affected.

MAR

2009

Great post. I hope that some how this post gets all the way to the President. He seems to be paying attention. That group of kids that made the video of how things have afftected them got his attention. So we all just need to keep trying to get our points across to him.

Thanks for the post.

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Deb Brooks, Lake Conroe Real Estate, 936-661-2624

Conroe, TX

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Deb Brooks, Lake Conroe Real Estate, 936-661-2624

Address: 188 Wick Willow, Montgomery, TX, 77356

Office Phone: (936) 295-0005

Cell Phone: (936) 661-2624

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