Home prices down record 11%, 13% for San Francisco

Home prices have declined from 10.7% in average nationwide between January 2007 & January 2008. This is the biggest drop since the index has been created in 2000.

Thus, this is the best time right now to consider investing in real estate, whether in the Silicon Valley or in other states, as both prices and rates are low.

The question now that people often ask me: When will it hit the bottom? People want to invest while the price will be the lowest.

Let's not forget that we are in an atypical situation, where the market has meltdown. A real estate investor should not focus on waiting for the bottom, but investing right now as conditions are more than friendly. Also, you have to think about the mortgage market, and see what loan program will fit you the most.

You have questions about real estate investment? Thinking about purcasing a home in Palo Alto or in the Silicon Valley? Feel free to contact me and let's discuss about the possibilities.

(Source: CNN Money)

Multi-Unit investment seminar

On Feb 12 I hosted a seminar with Mario Pinedo on the topic of Multi-unit investing. We had a great turnout, with a large and diverse audience. With the amount of interest and the kind of feedback we have received, it was evident that that this is timely topic that interests a lot of people. This is the time for true investors to take advantage of the current market condition and build wealth for the long term.

Our seminar started with going over the different investment opportunities, and how to evaluate properties. We then reviewed issues around financing: type of loan programs, various lending guidelines, and most importantly, how to choose the right program with the right payment for the right reason.

Multi-unit investments can seem complicated. There are indeed a lot of components and moving parts to deal with in order to ensure the success of the investment. That is why I always believe in having a team working together, whether it is for my personal investments or my clients'. With the right realtor, he/she will be instrumental in helping you identify areas of opportunities and specific properties that match your criteria. An experienced mortgage planner with investment background can help you strategize on the financing options and ensure that they are in sync with your overall financial goals.

The important thing to remember is that it's a great time to be investing right now, and I do have time to help you and your families and friends.