Jenny Browne, US Preferred Realtor

Something Good?

In a recent article written by Kenneth R. Harney of the Associated Press, he states that there has been an increase in buyer activity because of the government's takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  The uncertainty over the financial stability of both these companies is now gone, so things are looking better.  Both companies had recently doubled their upfront delivery fees for their loans - the industry is looking for the government to bring those fees back down.  Not only is the writer expecting rates to continue to decrease, but less loan fees at closing is always a good thing for buyers.  The really good news (not that all that is not good enough...), is that mortgage applications increased 9.5 percent the week of the takeover news and specific new loan apps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac shot up by 14.4 percent.  Something Good?  I'd say so.  Have a good weekend.  -Jenny

Government takes over...

Well, the Federal government has taken over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  What does that mean for the everyday American?  In the short run- there will now be less "panic" over the current motgage issues in our country, but when was the last time the government did anything better than the private sector?  Read the current article in the East Valley Tribuneto draw your own conclusions.  Time will tell how successful this seizure will be - how much will this bail out cost us in tax dollars and how well will the government be at running this mortagage business?  We'll have to wait and see.  Have a good week. 

-Jenny

A "money-saving" idea

I hope this finds you all well after your 3-day weekend.  I came across a recent article from the East Valley Tribune that gives you great ideas about saving your printer ink! (click on title to read article).  I know, does that really have anything to do with Real Estate?  Maybe not, but it does have something to do with SAVING money!  It can't hurt to share some of those money-saving tips that are floating around out there... this is one of those.  Enjoy your short week and save that ink!  -Jenny