Category: 2012 Housing Market

Bankruptcy Drop Shows Economic Upside

By Mike Colpitts Consumer bankruptcy filings declined through the latter half of 2011 and have now reached pre-recession levels, indicating a positive sign for the U.S. economy, according to credit report bureau Equifax. The drop in bankruptcy petitions paralleled a similar decline in foreclosures. Consumer and commercial bankruptcies dropped steadily from the second quarter of… Continue reading Bankruptcy Drop Shows Economic Upside

Home Builder Confidence Upswing

Home builder confidence in the senior housing market, age 55 and older, rose four points to 18 compared to a year ago, according to the National Association of Home Builders housing market index. The 55 plus single family index measures builder sentiment based on current home sales, new home buyers’ walk-in traffic and projected home… Continue reading Home Builder Confidence Upswing

2012 Mississippi Housing Market

Mississippi has experienced its challenges over the years, especially when it comes to the economy and Mother Nature. But the Mississippi real estate market is showing improving signs of recovery, despite tough economic realities. Homes in South Mississippi along the Gulf Coast, which was all but destroyed by Hurricane Katrina are selling at a faster… Continue reading 2012 Mississippi Housing Market

Mortgage Modifications Slip, but Outpace Foreclosures

By Mike Colpitts More than 1-million U.S. home mortgages underwent permanent modifications in 2011, according to the independent alliance of mortgage servicers Hope Now. The figure represents a steep decline of 40% from a year ago, but outpaces the number of foreclosures sold during the year. In December affiliates of the organization completed 80,000 loan… Continue reading Mortgage Modifications Slip, but Outpace Foreclosures

Refinancing Picks Up Speed on Lower Rates

By Mike Colpitts Refinancing picked-up speed as homeowners applied for lower mortgage rates in greater numbers to obtain lower mortgage payments even as home purchase financing slowed, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Almost half or 43% of those refinancing home mortgages chose shorter 15 or 20 year loans during the fourth quarter of 2011,… Continue reading Refinancing Picks Up Speed on Lower Rates

2012 New Mexico Housing Market

A more diversified economy has helped New Mexico through the U.S. financial crisis, but it hasn’t been able to fully protect it from the economic hardship associated with its fallout. Better employment levels than most other areas of the country translate into a stronger local economy. Industries that have suffered, however, including some of the… Continue reading 2012 New Mexico Housing Market