The Hits Keep On Comin’

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The other day, I mentioned my astonishment at the Housing Affordability and Stimulus Plan and how it really leaves California (the most troubled housing markets in the country) out in the cold. Then the announcement came regarding an $8,000 tax credit.  Forgive me, but whoop-dee-do. While this may be meaningful in the lower price points,… [Continue Reading]

State of the OC Market

Recently Jonathon Lansner posted a podcast that he did with Steven Thomas of Altera Real Estate.  Great information whether you are a buyer or seller in Orange County.  Mr. Thomas posts his Market Time Report every two weeks and continues to be an excellent resource for analysis on Orange County real estate. If you are… [Continue Reading]

The Bottom – Are We There Yet?

Country road

Remember those long car rides that seemed to last forever?  I used to pester my poor parents with the tired question, “Are we there yet?”  As a mother to 3 kids, 10 and under, I’m now on the receiving end of that tired question. This Orange County real estate market is one of those long… [Continue Reading]

The Numbers Are Telling You a Story

One of the things that I constantly talk about on OC Voice, is the need to be an educated buyer or seller.  My goal is always to provide information that helps to educate my readers about what trends we are seeing – without putting you to sleep.  Heck – I still want you to keep… [Continue Reading]

Break Out the Crystal Ball

Crystal Ball

The Orange County Register has recently posted a series of predictions about the future of the real estate market in Orange County – Eyeball 2009.  The predictions are from local experts, economists, and Realtors.  If you’re interested in the varies perspectives – take a look at the various links provided below. I’ll share with you… [Continue Reading]

2008 Housing Review and 2009 Predictions

Steven Thomas, President of Altera Real Estate recently released his latest Orange County Housing Report and it is definitely worth taking the time to review if you are curious about how the 2008 housing market finished and the possible outlook for 2009. It’s a very comprehensive summary. I would encourage you to review the charts… [Continue Reading]

Loan Modifications May Not Be the Answer

Back to Square One signpost

This may not be the most politically correct piece that I’ll write but that’s never been my goal here on OC Voice.  So here goes…. One of my clients sent me a link to an article published online on CNBC about ‘Mortgage Re-Defaults Rising with No Sign of Slowing’.  The article states that, “…after 6… [Continue Reading]

Foreclosures Making it Tough for the Traditional Seller

Real Estate for Sale

Even in a tough market for sellers, there are still those that must sell due to personal circumstances.  Whether it’s a divorce, job relocation, or financial strain – there are still homeowners with equity, that find themselves in the position of having to sell and in this market, that can pose some challenges. I come… [Continue Reading]

CNN Money Predicts the 10 Worst Housing Markets – 8 Out of 10 in California

This morning I came across an article on CNNMoney.com.  They predicted the top 10 worst housing market for 2009 across the country and California had the unfortunate distinction of having 8 out of 10 spots.  Ranked as number 6 for the worst real estate markets in the country was the Santa Ana – Anaheim area. … [Continue Reading]

Tracking the Bust and the Misconception of ‘MEDIAN’

This week Jonathon Lansner did his recap of the Dataquick report on the Orange County real estate market. Where are we today?  And what does it really mean? The Median Sale Price as reported by Dataquick for a home in the OC was $400,000 – which brings us back to May of 2003 if you’re… [Continue Reading]