We're All Ears!

As possibly noted in my brief mid-August update, there's not much "exciting" about the world of finance right now. No "hot rate" to motivate; nothing other than your existing loan becoming adjustable on a fully amortized 25 year loan. If you're looking to buy an owner occupied home, I believe rates are within a quarter of as-good-as-it-gets. This is that sweet spot. My client base has always been that $500,000 to $5M loan size for owner occupied homes. After that: Vacation homes, investment homes, units and commercial (in order of volume of historical closings for me. So, what do you want to talk about? I ramble on here endlessly. What are your thoughts, comments and questions about the real estate world, financing, banking and/or the economy or whatever is on your mind? Let's talk! My staff and I have some free time right now, and we're all ears. Pat Townsley & Associates, 415-485-1776. www.ptre.net

Pray That We're Wrong: Dead Cat Bounce

I've been talking with several c-level colleagues in several financial industries (accountants, controllers, bank CFOs, statisticians) and I was just reading some recent economic forecasts out of China as well. First, I'll assume you heard about the global recession. Next we'll assume you've heard the recent "hype" that we've seen the worst of it and are turning a corner and that last week's "numbers" were good. What if the truth behind it all is that we're just on the first bounce of a bigger declining picture? Not to get all "conspiracy theory" on you, but there are many economic indicators and challenges that are being swept under the rug. The US is resilient, but we're being pumped up with invisible funds and unprecedented half baked federal programs. Follow the money. This is going to hurt. So, Buyer beware. More than ever, I believe it's time to tighten up and buckle down even harder. Proper financing of your properties is just one aspect of your overall financial plan. Let's discuss the options in today's market (while we still have one). Pat Townsley, Mortgage Broker. 415-485-1776, www.ptre.net