Today's Real Estate News and Advice

Updated: July 17, 2008

 Real Estate Outlook: New Home Loan Applications Up
The economy continues to defy predictions of imminent recession. Economic growth in the second quarter is expected to hit a vigorous 2.3 percent annual rate, according to Orawin Velz, chief forecast economist for the Mortgage Bankers Association. FULL STORY->

Towns To Get Up And Go For
Outside magazine's spin on the best towns is a rundown of places for great alfresco living. DeadlineNews.Com put the list to the home value test and found healthy real estate markets in many of the towns. FULL STORY->

Are You a Real Estate Professional? Maybe Not, Says IRS
Under tax law, a "real estate professional" isn't always a licensed real estate agent or a broker. It's a tax classification, and it's an important one. FULL STORY->

The BEST Way to Build a Strong Sphere of Influence
Agents, go above and beyond every chance you get. Don't ask what your client can do for you; ask what you can do for your client. FULL STORY->

Condo Trends: HUD Assistance Turns Renters to Owners
Condo renters in New York could become some of the latest recipients of low-interest financing through the State of New York Mortgage Agency. A new program from the agency allows renters using the Housing and Urban Development’s rent assistance program, known as Section 8, to borrow money from the Agency and then pay the mortgage, using the Section 8 assistance, according to Westchester.com, a news site covering Westchester County, New York. FULL STORY->

Mortgage Moment: The APR
#42 FULL STORY->

Will Capital Gains Apply?
tba FULL STORY->

Re-examine Your Risk For Flood
Are you aware that everyone lives in a flood zone? Do you know floods are the most common U.S. natural disaster? Do you understand that your home is more likely to suffer flood damage than fire damage? FULL STORY->

Ask the HOA Expert
How does the Board choreograph a meeting if not allowed to meet privately in advance? What’s the best procedure for filing a rule violation complaint with the HOA? FULL STORY->

Credit Scores Remain Misunderstood
Consumers who obtain their credit scores are more informed about the scores and more consumers than ever are credit score savvy, but too many still just don't get it. FULL STORY->

New Homes: California Homebuilding Forecast Appears Gloomy
According to California's Building Industry Association, fewer new homes will be built in California this year than in any year since World War II. This news was announced at the recently held Pacific Coast Builder's Conference by CBIA president Bob Rivinius. FULL STORY->

What is a "Homebuyer's Tax Credit?"
tba FULL STORY->

Economic Proposals: One-On-One With Dr. Krause
Columnist Peter Mosca offers a nonpartisan look at the impact of the McCain, Obama economic proposals on commercial real estate investing. FULL STORY->

Don't Just Wait To See What Happens, Anticipate
Canadians, bombarded by change on all fronts, may really need their "get away" time this summer to prepare for more of the same. PJ explains why. FULL STORY->

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