The steadily improving economy has led many consumers across the country to feel better about their finances in general, and ...Source: http://blog.credit.com/2012/11/consumer-spending-expected-to-surge-this-holiday-season/
Monday, November 19, 2012
Consumer Spending Expected to Surge This Holiday Season
The steadily improving economy has led many consumers across the country to feel better about their finances in general, and ...
Quetta Penson, Broker, Keller Williams Fox Valley Realty, St. Charles
Quetta Penson, Broker, Keller Williams Fox Valley Realty, St. Charles was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
What was your first job in the realty industry? I worked as a licensed assistant for a successful agent at RE/MAX Town & Country in Aurora. He shared his knowledge so unselfishly, and I will always be grateful for him believing in me. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Aurora. I attended college at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Fla., and I came back to live in Aurora in 1997. What is your favorite free-time activity? I enjoy relaxing in front of the TV on cold days and winding ...
Quetta Penson, Broker, Keller Williams Fox Valley Realty, St. Charles was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/DfsNPZPqazQ/
The White House Value: Then & Now
While it's true that the first family's humble abode is unlike any other property in the world, the data heads here at Zillow set out to determine just how much this historical property was theoretically worth.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/OgDdTisxbIw/
Usher Lists Georgia Home Currently Occupied by Ex-Wife
Built in 2004, the luxe home spans 12,544 square feet on more than 4 acres. The 6-bed, 7-bath home has vaulted ceilings, high-end finishes and an outdoor pool.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/gtwMGs_mZ8A/
Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of June 18, 2012
Mortgage markets improved last week, sending mortgage rates lower.
Related posts:
Related posts:
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of June 11, 2012 Mortgage markets worsened last week, breaking a multi-week winning streak...
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of March 12, 2012 Mortgage markets were mostly unchanged last week despite a series...
Storm Sandy knocks industrial output in October
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Industrial output unexpectedly fell in October as superstorm Sandy disrupted production, but the underlying tone remained consistent with slowing manufacturing activity. 
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/news/economy/~3/qmKUkzcHIrU/us-usa-economy-output-idUSBRE8AF0XP20121116
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Housing Market: Double-Dip in 2011?
A few months have passed since I last offered an update on the state of the housing market. Since then, there have been a number of developments which suggest that 2011 could witness double-digit declines in housing prices, and that the long-awaited double-dip will finally materialize. In an analysis of the housing market, it’s difficult [...]
Housing Market Remains Weak
Last week, I reported that mortgage rates have declined to another record low. Unfortunately for the housing market, the resulting uptick in mortgage activity was dominated by refinancings, and there is little evidence that low rates are spurring new borrowers. This is confirmed by the updated S&P Case Shiller Index, which shows that while prices [...]
Source: http://news.mortgagecalculator.org/housing-market-remains-weak/
Why Politics Don?t Matter in Real Estate
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Did you know that the guy behind the deli counter at your grocery store voted for the other guy? Want to know why it matters? It doesn’t. There are a lot of places where politics don’t matter. The deli counter at the grocery store is one. Real estate is another. After the right to vote, the most American thing in this country is real estate. It’s all ours. It can’t go anywhere and it doesn’t shift positions if you call it. Houses can be red or blue, and they can be on ...
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/7HdTqxVL6vY/
Real Estate Websites Help Realtors Stay Ahead of the Curve
Real Estate Websites Help Realtors Stay Ahead of the Curve was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
By Jennifer Mills Klatt Over the last few years in real estate, websites such as Realtor.com, Chicago Block Shopper and Zillow have given consumers information they didn?t previously have in their hands, and it has undoubtedly impacted the way we as Realtors interact with clients. Needless to say, this has both positive and negative effects. Clients have the chance to see homes they like, research areas, demographics and schools. Some information we, as Realtors, cannot even give to them from our MLS site. Issues do arise occasionally from clients having these tools ...
Real Estate Websites Help Realtors Stay Ahead of the Curve was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/r36gPyvQy0E/
Fannie Mae?s ?Housing Insights? Examines Homeowner and Rental Markets
Fannie Mae’s “Housing Insights” Examines Homeowner and Rental Markets was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
By Natalie Terchek Fannie Mae’s Economic & Strategic Research Group released a new edition of its Housing Insights survey that examines how the recession affected homeownership and rental markets. Interestingly, even with rents rising, homeownership rates are on a bit of a decline, specifically among young households. Housing Insights Survey ? Why Homeownership is Declining The recent decrease in homeownership rates is due to many factors, including tighter mortgage qualification criteria and losses of homes to foreclosure. Housing Insights reports that the national homeownership rate declined for four consecutive years, and was 2.6 ...
Fannie Mae’s “Housing Insights” Examines Homeowner and Rental Markets was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/1VUPEgCMo_4/
Summer Market Update
The 5-day forecast calls for highs of 107, 104, 101, 105 and 105 degrees. Well, this IS Phoenix during the summer, so at least we can be thankful the temperature will be under 110! But, nonetheless ? hot is hot, and many buyers are saying the same about the Phoenix Real Estate market.� Although the [...]
Source: http://www.ThompsonGroupAZ.com/summer-market-update/
GLOBAL ECONOMY-Looking hard for reasons to give thanks
LONDON, Nov 18 (Reuters) - With every year that passes,
fewer and fewer people lead a life that is poor, nasty, brutish
and short. So it is only right to step back, as America does
this Thursday, to... 
fewer and fewer people lead a life that is poor, nasty, brutish
and short. So it is only right to step back, as America does
this Thursday, to...
REFILE-Argentina won't pay holdout bondholders- media
* Economy minister reiterates won't pay holdout creditors 
Finance Home Improvement Projects Via FHA, VA Mortgage
Want cash for home improvement projects? Use the traditional "cash-out" refinance, or the FHA and VA home improvement loans.
Click for the complete post : Finance Home Improvement Projects Via FHA, VA Mortgage.
How to save even more money when you refinance
Refinancing your mortgage to a lower interest rate to reduce your monthly payment is one way to pay less for your home. In fact, a lower monthly payment is the driving force behind the majority of refinances.
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
Chicago Illinois Mortgage Rates Week in Review for the Week Ending 10/19/2012
Since the Fed initiated their latest round of quantitative easing, the mortgage market has been holding steady at record low interest rates, but last week the calm waters turned choppy. Mortgage rates rose sharply for the first four days, before a stock market sell-off on Friday sparked a bond market rally which contained the damage. [...]
Ghoulish Reasons to Buy a House Right Now
Halloween is just upon us ? and it’s that time of year that prompts many of us to start thinking about ghouls and goblins, witches and Jack-o-lanterns, and of course ? haunted houses. But, right now is also a GREAT time to think about houses that aren?t haunted ? ones that are more hospitable and [...]
Source: http://www.ThompsonGroupAZ.com/ghoulish-reasons-to-buy-a-house-right-now/
Saturday, November 17, 2012
UPDATE 1-Santander plans to invest in Spain's bad bank
MADRID, Nov 17 (Reuters) - Spain's Santander plans
to invest in the country's so-called bad bank in a sign that
healthy domestic lenders are willing to support the entity
created to clean up the... 
to invest in the country's so-called bad bank in a sign that
healthy domestic lenders are willing to support the entity
created to clean up the...
UPDATE 1-Santander plans to invest in Spain's bad bank
MADRID, Nov 17 (Reuters) - Spain's Santander plans
to invest in the country's so-called bad bank in a sign that
healthy domestic lenders are willing to support the entity
created to clean up the aftermath of a 2008 property crash. 
to invest in the country's so-called bad bank in a sign that
healthy domestic lenders are willing to support the entity
created to clean up the aftermath of a 2008 property crash.
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/reuters/financialsNews/~3/Yo394kajpi8/santander-idUSL5E8MH27O20121117
Markets vote for lower mortgage rates
Below is an excerpt from the latest Market Trends newsletter, HSH.com?s weekly look at how the economy influenced mortgage rates and the real estate market. Sign up and receive the newsletter Friday night in your inbox.
In the end, after much distraction and hundreds of millions of dollars spent, it is four more years for [...]
In the end, after much distraction and hundreds of millions of dollars spent, it is four more years for [...]
3 Reasons Why Buyers Shouldn?t Go It Alone
Given the wealth of easily available property information, you might be wondering whether a real estate agent is even necessary anymore. Here are three reasons why agents are just as important as they were years ago.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/E29HPJpDhwM/
How Will the Fiscal Cliff Affect Real Estate?
How Will the Fiscal Cliff Affect Real Estate? was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
By Peter Ricci Unless you’ve been living in severe isolation the last couple months, you know all about the so-called “Fiscal Cliff,” the rather dramatic name that the media has given to the latest round of budgetary disputes facing Congress and President Obama. Though the Fiscal Cliff is often given preeminence in the news cycles ? with most analysts, the CBO included, predicting it would set off another economic recession ? we wanted to look at the Fiscal Cliff through the guise of real estate, and examine how it could affect housing ...
How Will the Fiscal Cliff Affect Real Estate? was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/khf6coSM4Ao/
Chicago Illinois Mortgage Rates Week in Review for the Week Ending November 9, 2012
We can all breathe I sigh of relief now that the election is finally over. Whether your man won or lost, the good news is that we won?t have non-stop political ads for a while yet anyways, and with the uncertainty of the election settled, the markets can move on to other worries. For what [...]
Why Politics Don?t Matter in Real Estate
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Did you know that the guy behind the deli counter at your grocery store voted for the other guy? Want to know why it matters? It doesn’t. There are a lot of places where politics don’t matter. The deli counter at the grocery store is one. Real estate is another. After the right to vote, the most American thing in this country is real estate. It’s all ours. It can’t go anywhere and it doesn’t shift positions if you call it. Houses can be red or blue, and they can be on ...
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/7HdTqxVL6vY/
Mary Ellsworth | Realtor
Mary grew up as the daughter of an Air Force Dad, so she spent time in Texas, Florida, Maryland then back to Texas, and considers Austin home more than anyplace after Mesa of course. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelors degree in Math and has done a number of [...]
Source: http://www.ThompsonGroupAZ.com/mary-ellsworth-realtor/
Why Politics Don?t Matter in Real Estate
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Did you know that the guy behind the deli counter at your grocery store voted for the other guy? Want to know why it matters? It doesn’t. There are a lot of places where politics don’t matter. The deli counter at the grocery store is one. Real estate is another. After the right to vote, the most American thing in this country is real estate. It’s all ours. It can’t go anywhere and it doesn’t shift positions if you call it. Houses can be red or blue, and they can be on ...
Why Politics Don’t Matter in Real Estate was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/7HdTqxVL6vY/
Radar Logic Says Calling a Housing Bottom Dangerously Short-Sighted
A couple quick hits on home prices coming up today. �First off, Radar Logic released their RPX Monthly Housing Market Report for May this morning. �The RPX composite index rose 2.6% from April to May, and 0.7% from May 2011 to May 2012. �Despite seeing rising home prices, RPX warned that the housing market has [...]
Unequal access to "hot jobs" obstructs women's careers: report
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Women around the globe are blocked from advancing in their careers because of unequal access to high visibility jobs and international experience, according to a new report. 
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/news/wealth/~3/wGPlTLgpYy0/us-jobs-women-gendergap-idUSBRE8AF1CP20121116
How to save even more money when you refinance
Refinancing your mortgage to a lower interest rate to reduce your monthly payment is one way to pay less for your home. In fact, a lower monthly payment is the driving force behind the majority of refinances.
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
Friday, November 16, 2012
UPDATE 1-Five US Republican govs reject state-run health markets
* Ohio, Michigan and Florida willing to work with Washington 
30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Remains Fairly Flat
Mortgage rates for 30-year fixed mortgages rose this week, with the current rate borrowers were quoted on Zillow Mortgage Marketplace at 3.26 percent, up from 3.24 percent.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/cwSv33tUwkA/
Does Your Furnace Really Need a Yearly Inspection?
Some HVAC contractors recommend getting newer furnaces checked every other year, but once they?re more than 10 years old, have them checked annually.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/7TnIQYMlZno/
Report shows an FHA in serious trouble
The report is in. It?s not good.
The ?Annual Report to Congress Regarding the Financial Status of the FHA Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund Fiscal Year 2012? shows the FHA?s reserve fund has fallen to -1.44 percent?far below the 2 percent cushion mandated by Congress, and may open the door to the first infusion of government cash [...]
The ?Annual Report to Congress Regarding the Financial Status of the FHA Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund Fiscal Year 2012? shows the FHA?s reserve fund has fallen to -1.44 percent?far below the 2 percent cushion mandated by Congress, and may open the door to the first infusion of government cash [...]
Lockhart sees active Fed even if fiscal woes solved
(Reuters) - The Federal Reserve should keep stimulating the economy even if looming budget disputes are favorably resolved and despite hints of improvement in employment, Atlanta Fed President Dennis... 
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/news/economy/~3/oovbwL6TPYY/us-usa-fed-lockhart-idUSBRE8AF1IO20121116
Want to increase your net profit? Control those costs!
My grandfather once taught me ?a penny saved is a penny earned.? Nowhere is that more true than in the sale of a home, probably due to the number of pennies involved in the transaction. With sales price being such an important factor for a seller, few stop to think about ways to minimize the [...]
Source: http://www.ThompsonGroupAZ.com/increase-your-net-profit-control-those-costs/
Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of June 11, 2012
Mortgage markets worsened last week, breaking a multi-week winning streak for mortgage rates.
Related posts:
Related posts:
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week Of June 4, 2012 Mortgage markets improved last week in response to ongoing concerns...
- Florida Mortgage Rate Update for the Week of April 9, 2012 In a week of up-and-down trading, mortgage markets improved for...
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of February 27, 2012 Mortgage markets improved in a holiday-shortened week last week, drawing...
Source: http://www.floridamortgageblogger.com/2012/06/11/mortgage-rates-week-june-11-2012/
Best to Even Better!
As I read the business and economic headlines this morning, two separate stories described situations as going from ?bad to worse.?� Clearly those articles were not about mortgage rates as the only proper description would be that ?mortgage rates are going from the best in history to even better.?� As we have discussed many times, [...]
Source: http://www.totalmortgage.com/blog/current-mortgage-rates/best-to-even-better/17693
Today?s Mortgage Rates : Real-Time MBS Pricing, November 15, 2012
Real-time mortgage market updates for November 15, 2012. Updates provided by MBSQuoteline, an MBS subscription provider for loan officers.
Click for the complete post : Today’s Mortgage Rates : Real-Time MBS Pricing, November 15, 2012.
Targeted Home Buying : 125 Cities For Real Estate Investors
In 125 U.S. towns, the local economy has grown 6 months straight. More jobs and housing, plus rising home values. Where does your city rank?
Click for the complete post : Targeted Home Buying : 125 Cities For Real Estate Investors.
5 Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend: November 2-4
This will be a weekend of charity and art, with a little wine for good measure, because Chicago neighborhoods are welcoming the next wave of art markets, festivals and performances. Check out the Lycee Fall French Market for live music and French cuisine, and then head to SOFA Chicago 2012 for a peek into modern art and design. Plus, Canada?s Royal Winnipeg Ballet is bringing the stunning Moulin Rouge to our city. For your fill of chili and beer, go [...]
How to save even more money when you refinance
Refinancing your mortgage to a lower interest rate to reduce your monthly payment is one way to pay less for your home. In fact, a lower monthly payment is the driving force behind the majority of refinances.
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
?For most people who want to refinance, the monthly payment is still their number one concern, says Mark Hanley, [...]
Thursday, November 15, 2012
4 Years After Ex-Wife Sold, Marvin Gaye?s Former Home Hits Market Again
The Motown legend shared the Hollywood Hills home with his first wife, Anna Gordy Gaye, during the 1970s.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/EoTs7wCEIjU/
Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of June 11, 2012
Mortgage markets worsened last week, breaking a multi-week winning streak for mortgage rates.
Related posts:
Related posts:
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week Of June 4, 2012 Mortgage markets improved last week in response to ongoing concerns...
- Florida Mortgage Rate Update for the Week of April 9, 2012 In a week of up-and-down trading, mortgage markets improved for...
- Florida Mortgage Update for the Week of February 27, 2012 Mortgage markets improved in a holiday-shortened week last week, drawing...
Source: http://www.floridamortgageblogger.com/2012/06/11/mortgage-rates-week-june-11-2012/
Hurricane Sandy affects housing on a national level
Hurricane Sandy is hardly making national headline anymore, even though this destructive weather event took place less than two weeks ago.
While the full cost of repairs and replacements is currently unknown, early estimates claimed that the storm would cause $10 billion or $20 billion in damages. Those estimates are plainly understated. Hurricane Sandy?s damage is [...]
While the full cost of repairs and replacements is currently unknown, early estimates claimed that the storm would cause $10 billion or $20 billion in damages. Those estimates are plainly understated. Hurricane Sandy?s damage is [...]
Survey: Realtors are confident, but challenges remain
U.S. housing markets continue to recover, but financing is still difficult for buyers, appraisals often fall short of agreed-upon purchase prices and supplies of for-sale homes are constrained.
Those are but a few of the conclusions found in a recent survey of 3,400 Realtors, who, as a group, remain only moderately optimistic about current housing market [...]
Those are but a few of the conclusions found in a recent survey of 3,400 Realtors, who, as a group, remain only moderately optimistic about current housing market [...]
Interview with Dr. Housing Bubble: ?You shouldn?t take on a mortgage that is 3 times your annual household income.?
Today we bring you an interview with Dr. Housing Bubble, whose blog promises to take a critical look at the policies that have created one of the largest asset bubbles ever known to mankind and whose mission is to�provide a candid account of what is going on in today?s housing market. Below, Dr. Housing Bubble [...]
Resilience and building science are the focus for our eleventh annual BuildingGreen Top-10 product awards.
Last year’s BuildingGreen Top-10 product awards were the first to emphasize resilient design. This year, in the wake of more droughts, wildfires, and the last straw?SuperStorm Sandy?our need to focus on resilience is ever more urgent. Hand in hand with resilience is durability: sound building science helps prevent moisture problems that can compromise our buildings [...]
3 Reasons to Keep Going to Open Houses After You Purchase
One of the best ways to stay abreast of the local real estate market is to go to open houses.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/cR_5EMTFjfU/
NEW: Zillow Mortgage Marketplace App for iPad
The Zillow Mortgage Marketplace App for iPad is a new personalized mortgage research and shopping app designed especially for the iPad?s interactive, multi-touch capabilities.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/-KhJ44zcqIQ/
How To Salvage Your Reputation Online
How To Salvage Your Reputation Online was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
By Stephanie Sims Before social media, people who felt like they had a bad experience with a business, whether bad customer service, a poor product, etc., would complain to the company. But now, thanks to social media, these people can not just complain to the company, but also blast their poor experience all over the Internet. Through Yelp, Twitter and Facebook, if a customer didn’t have a stellar experience, be prepared to hear about it. Social Media and Your Online Reputation While this is many an agent or business’ worst fear, tackling customer ...
How To Salvage Your Reputation Online was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/3LrmnVDROa4/
Mortgage Rates : A Mid-Day Rate Change On Volatile Day
Mortgage rates were mostly unchanged after a volatile day Wednesday. Conforming, FHA and VA mortgage rates closed flat.
Click for the complete post : Mortgage Rates : A Mid-Day Rate Change On Volatile Day.
Before Moving, Check Your New Cost Of Living Estimates
Before moving to a new state, or even long distances intra-state, check your new home town's Cost of Living. It will help you plan a better housing budget.
No related posts.
No related posts.
Source: http://www.floridamortgageblogger.com/2012/06/13/cost-living-town/
Lack of electricians delays New York recovery from Sandy
NEW YORK (Reuters) - It has become one of the biggest sources of tension between residents and the authorities in the worst-hit areas of New York City after Superstorm Sandy: damaged electrical... 
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Hurricane Sandy affects housing on a national level
Hurricane Sandy is hardly making national headline anymore, even though this destructive weather event took place less than two weeks ago.
While the full cost of repairs and replacements is currently unknown, early estimates claimed that the storm would cause $10 billion or $20 billion in damages. Those estimates are plainly understated. Hurricane Sandy?s damage is [...]
While the full cost of repairs and replacements is currently unknown, early estimates claimed that the storm would cause $10 billion or $20 billion in damages. Those estimates are plainly understated. Hurricane Sandy?s damage is [...]
Chicago Illinois Mortgage rates Week in Review for he Week Ending 09/21/2012
The Fed?s new program of Quantitative Easing is progressing as intended. Under the new program the Fed will be buying mortgage backed securities, not treasury bonds, so the money is flowing directly into mortgages and rates have dropped to new record lows. The market was choppy for most of the week following the Fed?s announcement, [...]
Realistic Thoughts on Low Producing LO's; BOK and Impac Earnings; Disasters Don't Boost Economic Well-being
Hey, it's November 1st! Just think: any 60 day rate lock (pretty common place these days) expires in 2013! All those LO's with hefty incomes in 2012, thanks in large part to the U.S. government's programs, will be happy to shift income into 2013 for tax reasons. (And thus it looks like the first quarter of 2013, at least, should be decent.) But what about LO's or branches on the other end of the spectrum: branches losing money, or LO's only funding a loan a month in this environment?
Jeff Babcock from STRATMOR writes, "For all but a few STRATMOR clients, improving Loan Officer productivity has persisted as a significant management challenge, even during this four year period of unprecedented stability and prosperity for the mortgage banking business. To put this issue in perspective, the MBA/STRATMOR peer group average for Loan Officers at independent mortgage banks has been only about 3.5 closed loans monthly; this compares with about 5 closed loans monthly at mid-size bank-owned lenders that tend to enjoy better productivity during refinance-heavy markets. At these relatively low levels of productivity...
...(read more)Forward this article via email: Send a copy of this story to someone you know that may want to read it.
Source: http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/channels/pipelinepress/11012012-broken-window-fallacy-impac.aspx
Housing Market Continues To Improve in Redfin Real-Time Seller Survey
Housing Market Continues To Improve in Redfin Real-Time Seller Survey was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
By Peter Ricci The housing market continued to show signs of incremental improvement in Redfin’s latest Real-Time Seller Survey, a study of the homebuyers attitudes towards real estate in the fourth quarter. A sample of 1,287 homeowners throughout the nation, the Real-Time Seller Survey covered quite a span of topics, including home prices, financing preferences and the top concerns facing home sellers in the current housing market. Real-Time Seller Survey ? Incremental Progress As opposed to Redfin’s third quarter survey, which found sellers to be a reluctant, pessimistic bunch, the fourth quarter Real-Time Seller ...
Housing Market Continues To Improve in Redfin Real-Time Seller Survey was originally published on Chicago Agent Magazine - For the well-informed real estate professional, the leading source for news and perspective for real estate professionals in the Chicagoland area.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/chicagoagentmagazine/news/~3/Gt-r6pfLwdE/
California faces modest $1.9 billion budget gap: report
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - California faces a modest $1.9 billion budget gap for its next fiscal year, a considerably smaller deficit than seen in prior years as a result of economic recovery,... 
Chicago Homebuyers Receive $8.2 Million for Down Payments
Wells Fargo has debuted two new programs that promise to�jump-start�and sustain the meager recovery already taking root in many areas of the country. Both NeighborhoodLIFT and CityLIFT have been announced since early September and include down payment assistance, financial education and special events showcasing area homes for sale. Of the country’s countless real estate markets, Chicago is one of seven that has been chosen to receive a special down payment assistance program. As part of the CityLIFT program, Wells Fargo [...]
3 Steps When the Appraisal Comes in Low
Buyers and sellers need to make quick decisions when the appraisal doesn?t make the cut, and it?s important to be prepared in advance for this scenario.
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ZillowBlog/~3/OB7HGZqKoPQ/
Without fix, alternative minimum tax could hit 28 million taxpayers: IRS
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Some 28 million Americans including some in the middle class would face an unintended tax hike if a U.S. tax aimed at ensuring the wealthy pay a minimum isn't fixed before the... 
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/news/economy/~3/4440x5z_6ps/us-usa-cliff-amt-idUSBRE8AC1A020121113
Fed's Yellen backs holding rates near zero to 2016
BERKELEY, California (Reuters) - Federal Reserve Vice Chair Janet Yellen said on Tuesday that U.S. short-term interest rates may need to stay near zero until early 2016, a half year longer than Wall... 
Source: http://feeds.reuters.com/~r/news/economy/~3/dFCowIQjUXY/us-usa-fed-idUSBRE8AD04V20121114
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