Info that Hits Us Where We Live
QUOTE OF THE WEEK..."If you have to forecast, forecast often."--Edgar R. Fiedler
INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE...Economist Fiedler, Assistant Treasury Secretary under Presidents Nixon and Ford, knew that wise forecasters give themselves lots of opportunities for revisions. This time of year, the focus is on forecasts and even though many will soon be revised, some are worth considering. The chairman of the Fisher Center for Real Estate at the University of California, Berkeley, feels home prices have bottomed and are increasing, though not rebounding, where there's strong job growth. But other economists anticipate a 5% decline in home prices over the next two years.
Several industry watchers expect mortgage rates to stay low in 2012, especially the first half of the year. But buyers and those looking to refinance shouldn't drag their feet. Freddie Mac's chief economist expects rates to rise at least somewhat during the second half of the year. Fannie Mae's chief economist thinks rates will stay flat most of the year, but may go up a tick the last quarter. And he's hopeful lenders will work with more buyers with good credit scores.
BUSINESS TIP OF THE WEEK...Don't fall victim to "analysis paralysis," putting off a decision until you've evaluated every possible option. Successful people just focus on the critical details, then act.
My thanks to Scott for keeping me and you up to date on what is happening in the Mortgage Finance world... Contact him directly for all your real estate mortgage needs... (214) 444-9750
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