HARP 2.0 Makes Refinance Possible for OC Homeowners

Upside down home in Orange County

Orange County’s real estate bust was certainly one of the worst in the country, and because of that, many homeowners have faced real challenges when evaluating the mortgage on their home.   Underwater homeowners wistfully listen to radio ads boasting refinances with ‘record low interest rates’, knowing that taking advantage of those rates in a [...]

Mortgage Market Week in Review

Donna Pacchini, of Pan American Mortgage has generously shared her knowledge and insights with us once again.  Thank you Donna! First Fannie and Freddie: As EVERYONE knows by now, Fannie and Freddie were taken over by the Federal Government last Sunday.   What does that mean?   A couple of things that have become clear so far:  [...]

Fannie and Freddie Bailout Official

This week’s important news about the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac bailout requires some lender expertise and further explanation. Donna Pacchini, of Pan American Mortgage, has been kind enough to share some of her insights with OC Real Estate Voice readers. Well, it happened.  In case you haven’t heard the news, Fannie and Freddie were [...]

Orange County Market Recovery?

Orange County

One of the biggest speculations today is, ‘When is the real estate recovery?’  We can’t have an economic recovery without it.    I got an email from a client and friend this morning.  He and I have had some wonderful conversations about the market over the last couple years.  As I was putting together an email [...]

FHA is a Major Player in Lending Again – And We’re Not Ready!

16 Via Garceta

It was not long ago, lending was easy, too easy. Did you need money?  No.  Did you need assests?  No.  Did you even need to prove you had income?  No.  So why do an FHA loan?  We didn’t. Times have changed and there are limited options for first time buyers that aren’t coming away with a [...]