Charlotte Area House Prices Still Strong (April 30, 2008)

As noted by the Case-Shiller periodic review of nationwide house prices, Charlotte is the only city showing gains of 1.5% through February. Of course, Charlotte was lagging in terms of the peak of house prices being experienced in other parts of the country, as such, this gain may not necessarily hold true for too long; however, with the economic stimulus packages in the works, and a downward trend in interest rates, there is greater likelihood that the housing market may pick up, later in 2008.

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Home Prices Expected to Continue Falling (Feb 27, 2008)

Clearly the downward pricing pressure continues to exert its influence in the Charlotte area as well. Although Charlotte is not as badly affected as other parts of the country, it also faces some challenges. This always presents an opportunity for buyers and creates what is callled a Buyers Market.

More details here

Charlotte also affected by Housing Trends (Jan 30, 2008)

Although Charlotte bucked the trend for quite a while, ultimately it has too succumbed to the housing malaise gripping the nation. While the situation is difficult for sellers, it is a great time for buyers to be on the lookout for great deals. There is a lot of real estate activity going on in Charlotte and now is the time to take advantage of great bargains.

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North Carolina is 6th Fastest Growing State (Dec 28, 2007)

North Carolina is attracting a lot of newcomers from other states and as the 6th fastest growing state in the country, this brings a lot of positives especially for the Charlotte region. This trend will continue to make the local economy strong.

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Charlotte Leads Nationwide Home Price Increases (Dec 26, 2007)

According to the 20-city S&P/Case-Shiller index that tracks year-over-year changes, Charlotte defies the downward price trends among major metro areas. Charlotte lead the pack of 20-cities and posted a 4% increase in home prices, in stark contrast to a drop of more than 10% for cities like Detroit, Las Vegas, Miami and San Diego.

For the Case-Shiller report, click here.
Charlotte Observer coverage, click here.

Update on 20 Key Charlotte Projects (Dec 23, 2007)

If you are curious about what's going on with some of Charlotte's high profile projects, such as when the Trolley will start, the status of the Baseball stadium, etc., you can get an update here.

Status Update

Senate Passes Mortgage Relief Bill (Dec 15, 2007)

With a vote of 93-1, the Senate overwhelmingly approved a Bill that will provide relief to homeowners facing sharp increases in rates in 2008. By refinancing into FHA-backed loans with more clearer terms, homeowners will at least get some temporary relief.

For more details, click on this link.

North Carolina Pushing for Written Disclosure of Agent Bonus (Dec 13, 2007)

The NC Real Estate Commission is taking steps that would require Agents to provide a written disclosure of bonuses they may receive on real estate transactions. This is certainly a welcome rule, since it does not really impact agents with ethics and morality. Real Estate agents typically strive to forge long term relationships with their clients and any agent with a sense of responsibility would advise his/her client of getting a bonus for a particular transaction. Agents who care for their clients and hold their interest above their own should not have any concerns about the new proposed rule. For the full story, please click here

Using Reverse Mortgages for Retirement Income (Dec 9, 2007)

Reverse mortgages are gaining popularity for homeowners (especially seniors) who have equity buildup in their houses. These types of mortgages essentially provide a means of accessing that excess equity by 'adding' to the existing mortgage, and letting the lending bank subsequently take ownership of the house after the homeowners have passed away. Obviously some important considerations should be borne in mind before going the Reverse Mortgage route.

Here is an article on how these Reverse Mortgages work.

Presidential Candidates and their positions on Real Estate (Nov 29, 2007)

Given the current state of the real estate markets, it is very important for all of us to know how OUR preferred presidential candidate stacks up. The whole economy is on the brink of a recession and unless a presidential candidate has a strong, clearcut policy for reviving our real estate markets, Americans' future could be at stake.

Find out here what your presidential candidate stands for.