I am continually amazed by what I find under the secret “agent’s” section of the MLS called the “private remarks.” What, you didn’t know that there was a secret “agent’s” section of the MLS? Well, there is, and it is a repository for all kinds of information that, for whatever reason, the listing agent thought the buyer’s agent should know about the property but did not want to reveal to the general public.
Feb 27
The agency clarifies documentation that taxpayers will need in an effort to curtail widespread fraud in the program.
via latimes.com.
Feb 11
While mortgage rates remain at historic lows, borrowing in the current tight credit climate can prove challenging. Prospective homeowners therefore need to be as well-informed as possible about the mortgage process and what it takes to qualify for a loan.
via HispanicBusiness.com.
Jan 04
The housing market, which brought the economy to its knees in 2008, struggled to recover in 2009. The modest gains of the past year can be credited in many ways to federal support that will be removed at some point in 2010.
via WSJ.
Jan 01
The fundamental value of a house is the present value of the future housing service flows that it provides to the marginal buyer. In a well-functioning market, the value of the housing service flow should be approximated by the rental value of the house.
via Federal Reserve Bank.
Dec 26
Vicarious liability is a legal term explaining how one person can be held liable for the actions, good or bad, of their agent. Do you want a real estate “agent?”
via suite101.com.
Dec 07
Ever since May 1, when Fannie Mae's new appraisal guidelines for home mortgages went into effect, buyers, sellers, real estate agents and loan originators have complained bitterly about the new process. It's inefficient, often inaccurate and time-consuming. In some cases, it could be contributing to lower home prices.
Nov 10
If you use a 20-year time horizon, and assume prices will return to the trend line, then our residential property bubble will bottom after values fall over 40% from current levels
via Seeking Alpha.
