I live in a community where there are a lot of second homes (vacation homes) and investment (rental) properties. Many of these homes were purchased between 2005-2007 when values were significantly higher. I think it is safe to assume that many of those homes have mortgage balances that are higher than the home is worth [...]

I receive a lot of calls from people who want to look at (and buy) a new home. They are usually very excited about what they have seen on the news and read on web sites — from an over-abundance of inventory…to low interest rates…to tax credits…to bank-owned “rock-bottom” prices…etc. The last thing I want [...]

Buying a home is a multi-step process. The initial search, the in-person previews, the contract offer, the negotiations, the inspections, the appraisal and so on… it’s all a part of the process. Eventually, the closing day arrives. At least you hope it does. Lately, closing on a home has become extremely difficult. Bank scrutiny is [...]