Winners & Losers...

In all markets, there are always winners and losers. It doesn’t matter if you are vested in stocks, commodities, precious metals or real estate.
**Note: If you own a home, you are a real estate investor!
Right now, the real estate industry is taking a beating due to a credit crunch (% of people with access to financing) and huge inventories (foreclosures + new developments).
Losers: Those who have adjustable rate mortgages in declining neighborhoods.
Why? They can’t refinance! This is horrible. I’ve encountered numerous files where the borrower has done everything right. They pay their bills and take care of the property. Unfortunately, their neighbors lack the same commitment and/or resources. Their homes have been foreclosed upon and driven down prices. Ugh…
Losers: Those who wish to sell their home.
Why? Their house may not be worth what they paid for it, they may have lost out on profits that existed a couple of years ago, it will likely take much longer to sell and there are fewer eligible buyers! Ugh…
Winners: Those who are preparing to buy their first home!
Why? Over the long term, homes will appreciate. Treat your home like an investment! Use a competent agent who will provide good comparables!
Winners: Long term real estate investors!
Why? Fewer eligible buyers + thousands with foreclosure damaged credit + huge home inventory = Higher rents and more cash flow potential properties! Once again, you must buy right!
Losers, don’t lose hope (or sleep). Maybe you can rent out your current residence or even do a lease to own! Maybe, you’ll just have to sit tight for a couple of years while the market recovers. There is hope & a light at the end of the tunnel!

Quote of the Day

"Somewhere along the path to and from irrational pessimism, this real estate bust may deliver the place you've been looking for."

**Time Magazine, 9/14/7 http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1661682,00.html

Not Ugly for All...

I spend a great deal of my time working with people in the mortgage industry. It's easy to get caught up in the headlines and horror stories of lender upon lender shutting their doors.

One company paid for happy hour and as it ended they sent text messages to all of their employees announcing that they didn't have a job anymore.... Ouch.

I firmly believe that the mortgage and real estate industry faces a couple of challenging years ahead as loan programs reemerge and real estate inventories dissipate.

Sometimes, I forget about the people who all of these market woes will provide a tremendous opportunity!

1 - 1st time buyers.
IF you know you're going to stay in the property for a few years.

2 - Investors
IF you are ready to deal with renters and all the hassles associated for the next four or five years and have some cash reserves.