Deborah Engel

Entry level and median priced homes continue to sell in San Diego County.  See report.

Market trends for detached and attached home in San Diego.

Local home sales statistics: The San Diego Association of Realtors publishes sales statistics for homes throughout the County.  Check out the most recent statistics (latest available is for May 2009).

Making Home Affordable loan modifications. What if loan servicers aren't following the Making Home Affordable guidelines to help modify or refinance current loans?  The National Association of Realtors provides some tips.

Thinking about buying? Yield spread helps buyers now.

Appraisal issues. Problems with the new appraisal process of the HVCC (Home Valuation Code of Conduct) have led California Congressman Gary Miller to introduce H.R. 3044, which would place an 18-month moratorium on the recently imposed HVCC. The HVCC was worked out through an agreement between Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the New York Attorney General’s Office (NYAG) in response to an investigation by the NYAG into Fannie and Freddie. The purpose of the HVCC was to try and insulate the appraisal process from undue influences. The HVCC attempted to do this by placing tight controls and restrictions on the ordering of the appraiser, as well as purposes for communicating with the appraiser during the process.  However, the implementation of the HVCC has resulted in appraisals that cost more, take longer to perform, and are inaccurate. 

San Diego home prices. San Diego home prices inching up.

Are San Diego homes undervalued? Some say San Diego homes are now undervalued.

What hazard zone are you in? The California Emergency Management Agency has a mapping program that lets you input your address to see your local earthquake, flood and fire hazards. Results also include a checklist of things you can do to reduce damage to your home. The Seismic Hazard Zonation Maps are prepared by the California Geological Survey and are state-mandated regulatory maps that show "Zones of Required Investigation" for surface fault rupture, liquefaction and landslide hazards.

Here are some internet resources for July.