
We all got used to scrutinizing the words of Alan Greenspan and trying to interpret every nuance of his oracular utterances for a hint to what the future rates would be. Ben Bernanke has been a bit more straightforward but watched with no less intensity. Investors are fairly certain that rates will remain low for the near term - but are intensely looking for tips on when they will rise. CNBC outlines the process in this article
Under water homeowners may not qualify for a mortgage modification and the banks have been fairly stingy with modifications. An alternative to foreclosure is the short sale. Short sales have been a logistical nightmare and glacial in time of execution. Recognizing this, the Obama Administration is putting together a plan to make short sales more viable. This article in Banker and Tradesman outlines the proposed changes.
About 70 miles of scenic coastline from Lynn to Newburyport will likely soon be granted national recognition as a Scenic Byway. The North Shore is rich in historic sites and has plentiful natural beauty. The national recognition does not establish any local regulations or conditions on the participant communities. It is seen as a boon to a regional tourist brand for the North Shore. Some critics feel that it will just increase already clogged local traffic, particularly in the Summer months. Proponents say they are offering a chance for tourists to get out of their cars and experience the regions many delights. Here is a recent article about the Scenic Byway from the Gloucester Times. More information from the Essex Heritage Society is available here
Every once in awhile I stumble upon a really useful website. The Family Watchdog Website is just such a site. It is an excellent national registry for sex offenders. In my area finding where convicted sex offenders reside is often a difficult task - even on the web. Family Watchdog makes it simple with an address search and interactive map with the places offenders live mapped and clickable. A photo and details of the offender's criminal history is readily available. More than a registry, Family Watch Dog also provides important info like Consumer Recalls, and Background Checks and more, I reccomend it to families that are seaching for a new home
Existing 'For Sale' housing inventory is ready to balloon over the next 2 years. An article in the November 19th Wall Street Journal takes a good look at the challenges for housing in the near term. Builders are gloomy. An estimated 7 million new foreclosures are set to hit in the next 24 months. Tajke a moment and let me know what you think of this article
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