Beige Book Says...

Latest Federal Reserve Beige Book is out.  Search on Beige Book for earlier posts on how to read it. 

FRB: Beige Book--Summary--April 14, 2010

For the San Francisco District (ours on the west coast), real estate comments include the following:

"The pace of home sales remained mixed across areas but appeared largely stable overall, while home prices edged up further in some parts of the District. However, contacts noted that continued limitations on the availability of nonconforming "jumbo" loans have restrained sales of higher-priced homes in some areas."

Certainly spot on regarding recent activity in the South Bay.  Prices have completely stabilized; numerous multiple offer situaions.  Jumbo loans will be a big boon when they become available on the more expensive properties, especially once stated income reappears.  Commercial looking a little tough! - David

RCLCO Market Outlook - Brightening Horizon?

"As economic growth matures into employment growth—probably later this year and in 2011—move-up activity, in particular, will accelerate, creating more dramatic pricing power as the market becomes significantly more fluid."

This forecast, relating to residential real estate, is from Robert Charles Lesser & Co., the leading commercial real estate consultancy in the U.S. and perhaps the world.  Their forecasts for the real estate markets tend to be focused and intelligent.  Here's RCLCO's Spring 2010 Market Outlook, including sections relating to both retail and commercial markets. - David

Tips for Negotiating With a Potential Landlord - American Express OPEN Forum

-There's much to know when negotiating to lease commercial lease in which to operate your business.  Almost everything is negotiable.  Be sure you have a capable Realtor on your side when you enter this often unfamiliar area of real estate. - David