Security firms are required to mention to clients that "past results are no guarantee of future performance." But sometimes the recent economic patterns do carry forward. Although Landmark Mortgage's focus is on helping our clients obtain the best loan at the best price, our Advisors are often asked about the economy, and where rates are going.
As economic data from the first quarter of 2011 has come in, Freddie Mac has concluded that the first three months of last year experienced growth that, although slower than the last quarter of 2010, was up from three of the previous four quarters.
The Freddie Mac House Price Index, for one, showed that home values rose by at least 0.5% in 13 states when compared to the preceding fourth quarter, while in 28 states, values declined by at least 0.5%. Certainly we are seeing that in the 580/680 area. This might mean that the housing market is bottoming out, which, when combined with the record-low mortgage rates currently on offer, would be conducive to a rise in sales in 2012.
The first quarter's data also indicated that the bulk of homeowners who chose to refinance their mortgages chose to reduce the size of their loans, while around one third opted to shorten the terms of their loans. This is something our Landmark advisors are also seeing. Refinances under HARP 2.0 picked up to comprise a fifth of all Freddie Mac refinancing activity, the highest proportion since the program was rolled out.
Based the data, Freddie Mac's position was one of general optimism. The data may not have been "uniformly positive," but the agency concluded that the economy as a whole is exhibiting positive movement. And although an expanding economy generally nudges rates higher, due to the "slow and steady" U.S. economic pattern being combined with the uncertainty in Europe, no one expects rates to head much higher in the near term.
I like the Ads you see on T.V. recently that show men and women disturbed by the fact that they are not being "heard", and it would lead you to believe it is a Significant Other that is letting them down. But, the Ad ends with "what you need is a new Doctor"! The Ad then claims that their Medical Professionals on their Staff will take the time to "have a Conversation" with you and listen to your concerns.
Well, your Relationship with your Mortgage Advisor falls along the same lines. A true dialogue about your short and long term goals is very important. Folks just can't feel shuffled around with getting no answers.
Studies show that when real conversations occur, particularly conversations of "topics that matter", we tend to "come alive." Research indicates that when we examine life, especially together with an expert, it enhances the relationship immensely. At the moment of purchasing a mortgage, clients are making a financial decision that can have enormous impact on many areas they care very deeply about. ie: their family, children's college, lifestyle, and retirement.
What a Blessing and opportunity we as Mortgage Advisors have to engage with our clients in conversations that truly matter! You deserve to be heard and understood and to know your best Mortgage Solutions that suit you and your family the best.
So, I ask...is it time for a new Mortgage Doctor?
Pleasanton, CA – July 17th, 2012 – Local mortgage banker, Landmark Mortgage Group, was recently recognized in two categories by readers for the Readers Choice Awards 2012 conducted by Pleasanton Weekly. The categories were Best Mortgage Company and Best Mortgage Professional (Scott Eaton). More than 25,000 readers cast their votes for mortgage companies and Landmark Mortgage Group remains Pleasanton residents' favorite.
"This is quite an accomplishment for us," said Rick Benitez, Pleasanton Branch Manager and managing partner, Landmark Mortgage Group. "We truly believe in being a total lending resource to our clients and referral partners. The Readers Choice Award is a testament to the quality of services we offer and we're honored that the community has chosen us as their favorite for the past three years."
Scott Eaton, Mortgage Advisor Pleasanton branch, has gained a stellar reputation for his commitment to providing exceptional service. His approach to residential lending helps clients understand what they can afford within the context of their complete financial picture. "Our team has deep roots in the Pleasanton community, and strong relationships with Realtors and business owners," said Scott Eaton, "with the strong entrepreneurial workplace and operational support I receive here; I manage to focus more on my clients' needs."
Landmark Mortgage Group would like to thank everyone who voted for us and let us keep enjoying the sense of community that we have all built together. We will keep providing exceptional services to our clients and referral partners. Our Landmark is YOU.
Contact Scott Eaton at 925-980-9862 or seaton@lmglending.com or www.lmglending.com
About Landmark Mortgage Group
Landmark Mortgage Group, a division of Opes Advisors, Inc., is one of the Tri-Valley's fastest growing mortgage companies with a team of experienced and dedicated loan originators. Landmark is a total resource for residential mortgage services and considers a home an asset that needs to be managed properly. We provide a comprehensive approach to residential lending with proven solutions to our clients and referral partners. Landmark has offices in Pleasanton, Livermore, Capitola and Brentwood.
About Opes Advisors
Opes Advisors is a mortgage bank and wealth management firm offering integrated personal financial services encompassing real estate, real estate financing and investment management. Opes Advisors is licensed by the CA Dept. of Real Estate, Real Estate Broker license 01458652 and NMLS 235584. Equal Opportunity Lender. www.opesadvisors.com
CONTACT Rick P. Benitez Landmark Mortgage Group 925.600.2000 rbenitez@lmglending.com
This week we have several important data releases that we should look out for!
Today, the Department of Commerce is releasing Retail Sales Data which should have a large impact on the market. This report measures the total receipts of retail stores and is a very strong indicator of broad consumer spending patterns. On Tuesday, July 17th, look for CPI receipts numbers to update their price levels on a fixed basket of goods making it a widely accepted and valuable inflation indicator. On the same day, look for the Federal Reserve to update Industrial Production numbers mesuring the physical output of our nation's factories, mines and utilities. Real Estate will be the key data points to look for during the remainder of the week. The Department of Commerce will update Housing Starts and building Permits on Wednesday the 18th indicating new construction on residentail units. Finally, on Thursday, July 19th, the National Association of Realtors will provide updated sales levels for existing homes.
So, stay tuned and be ready to ride the ride as we get updated all through the week with strong economic indicators being released to us.
Landmark Mortgage Group is a division of Opes Advisors and licensed by the CA Dept. of Real Estate, Real Estate Broker license 01458652 and NMLS 235584. Equal Opportunity Lender. 
