Related Links
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Economics
Short sales provide better solution for families and communities
HAFA is a government-sponsored initiative overseen by the U.S. Treasury Department and administered by Fannie Mae. It assists all Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP)-eligible homeowners in avoiding foreclosure, specifically through short sales or deeds-in-lieu of foreclosure. »
No Comments »HAFA modifications designed to help avoid foreclosures
HAFA’s intent is to assist borrowers who cannot stay in their homes, to help them avoid the foreclosure and to provide an easier transition, according to Danielle Kutch, policy analyst with the U.S. Department of Treasury. »
No Comments »Survey reveals concern for commercial market
Commercial property values and rental prices are expected to continue to drop in 2010, according to a recent online survey of executives conducted by global consulting and accounting firm Deloitte. »
No Comments »8 myths about the mortgage deduction
One of the most sacred cows in the U.S. real estate market is the mortgage interest deduction available to taxpayers who itemize deductions on their federal income tax returns. This tax provision is traditionally viewed as one of the key elements favoring housing as an investment in the virtually impenetrable U.S. tax code. »
5 Comments »$40 million available for Rural Development home loans
An extra $35 million for mortgages is available through the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), thanks to the federal stimulus package. The problem is many consumers are unaware of the USDA Rural Development’s Direct Homeownership Loan Program. »
No Comments »Loan modifications lower FICO scores
Recently, FICO revealed how various activities will likely affect borrower’s scores; this information was traditionally kept hidden away as part of the statistical mystique of the mortgage finance system. »
2 Comments »New FHA regs change condo financing
Darlene Shannon, a representative with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), said spot loans were previously given in projects that did not have FHA project approval. »
1 Comment »Refi flow slows
Even with current fixed-rate mortgage rates under five percent, a nearly historic low, a Wall Street Journal article reports an absence of refinancing activity compared with previous eras. »
2 Comments »FHA doubles number of mortgages issued in last several years
Minority homeowners have been hardest hit in the housing crisis, FHA official David H. Stevens told those gathered March 4 at the Multicultural Real Estate and Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. »
No Comments »Real estate 2010: We’re not in Kansas anymore
With recent changes in the real estate market, you too may be feeling a bit like Dorothy and Toto in the Land of Oz. PAR's Consulting Economist Dr. Austin Jaffe put together a list of just how much the landscape has changed in the last few years. Follow the yellow brick road. »
10 Comments »
