For almost two years now, there have been serious rumblings and grumblings in San Diego real estate circles about Option ARM and interest-only loans that could put a number of buyers in default–resulting in a big spike in San Diego short sales and foreclosures. We call them bouncing mortgages.
I initially gave the issue detached interest, because our clients tend to be a conservative lot when it comes to borrowing. We deal with few real estate speculators and most of our clients are solid buyers of San Diego primary and secondary homes.
My interest in these instant gratification loans is no longer a detached one, because the fallout from these ARMs is contributing to market weakness. Some of our conservative clients are seeing their San Diego home values stagnate or decline, in part due to these lending practices. It has been reported that 7 out of 10 option arm borrowers are sticking to the minimum payment schedules and in so doing, are stacking up substantial additional debt.
Many now owe more than their homes are worth. In San Diego County, short sale advisories on listings are appearing within our MLS on a daily basis, and will ultimately affect appraisals and valuations. In short sale transactions, the lender agrees to accept less than what is owed on the property (and obviously less than the prior appraised value).
In his Nations Housing column, Kenneth Harney writes that John G. Walsh, senior official at the Federal Comptroller of Currency, is sounding a quiet alarm:
We’ve had consumers tell us they didn’t know after 60 minimum payments on a (payment-option loan), they would owe more than they did when the loan was brand new. They should certainly understand the basic bargain: The price of a low payment now is a much higher one later. I think it goes without saying that someone, at some point, should have explained this to borrowers with these loans.
In defense of lenders, I am sure many did explain the consequences and hazards of these loans. I am also certain that many of these borrowers were counting on their homes appreciation to more-than-cover the accumulated debt on their negative ARM loans. ((Why does this so remind me of the investors who were slaughtered by margin calls during the stock market wipeout just a few years ago? Are these the same people who turned that same mentality to real estate?))
The fallout has begun. Once again, San Diego and Southern California are on the bloody edge of the real estate envelope. There are people getting wiped out in this market, and there will be those who make fortunes. We are advising our clients to sit tight if they do not need to sell and if they do, to price their property aggressively. With buyers, we use the same caution, negotiate strongly, and advise them to stick with blue chip properties and locations (usually coastal San Diego and singular luxury properties). We cant help but remind them of that dictum in the securities market:
Don’t try to catch a falling knife.
Nothing is permanent, except for change.
By the time the masses have turned their real estate investment and speculation dollars to unappreciated geographical markets, smart money will already be moving back to our balmy coastal climes proving once again that nothing can take the place of location, location, location.
2016 Note: There are few short sales, foreclosures or bouncing mortgages in San Diego these days. However, any we can find are listed below. If you have any questions, please feel free to call Roberta or Scott Murphy at either 760-942-9100 or 760-613-6190 or email scott@sandiegopreviews.com
Short Sale Tri-level home in a gated community. Amenities are granite kitchen countertops, cabinets, and hardwood flooring. Master suite may need new carpet.
SHORT SALE, BUYER TO VEFIFY ALL INFORMATION, GREAT FOR INVESTORS AND RENTAL PROPERTY WITH BUILT-IN TENANTS. AS-IS, LOTS OF POTENTIALS, NEEDS SOME WORK.
This Single Family Residence property is a Very Large home that sits on A Reasonably sized lot. This may be an opportunity that may possibly be within your grasp! This property situated at 24695 Handley Dr is located in the city of Carmel. within the great state of CA. According to tax records this property was built in 1965, offering 4 beds, 3 bath, with 2232 square feet. This is a bank owned property to be sold as-is. Buyer and agent to verify all.
Great opportunity for investors or first time buyers. Corner lot house sits on 7,500 Sq Ft of space. Property currently being rented for $ 875.00 tenants may want to stay with new owner. Short Sale. Still need bank approval. Submit your offers. Detached garage was converted to studio. It is unknown if conversation was permitted or registered with the city. Neighborhoods: Tulare Other Fees: 0 Topography: LL
Great opportunity for savvy investors. This property is located in the Arlington Heights area in the Mid City neighborhood of Los Angeles. It is close to shopping, schools and transportation, Centrally located it is accessible to most venues in the City from Downtown LA, Hollywood, Inglewood and the beach cities. Zoned R3 and located in a Transit Priority Area( TOC Tier 3) and not a HPOZ this property is perfect to be redeveloped into a premier property with plenty of potential for you. REO property will be delivered tenant occupied in AS IS condition, No repairs, no termite report. Buyers to conduct their own due diligence. NO PROPERTY ACCESS,DO NOT DISTURB OCCUPANT, CASH OFFERS ONLY!
BANK OWNED! Calling all investors. Two bedroom house with a huge lot that may allow you to build a larger home and/or ADU. Nicely located near freeway access and several shopping centers.
Have you always dreamed about having a home out of the hustle and bustle, yet not far from the water and freeways? This multi-story residence is nestled away and is waiting for you. Relax in tranquility at home or venture out a short distance to many outdoor recreational activities, Clear Lake, a vast array of cuisines, shopping, and entertainment. Excellent opportunity to put your finishing touches on this gem and make it your own. Don’t let this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise get away from you! All potential buyers are asked to check with city and tax records to determine actual bedroom, bathroom counts and all details. This is a REO Property.
Perfect opportunity for Development in the middle of Burbank . The property has been completely Gutted out . This is a short sale and it is subject to Lenders approval . “The sale of the property contingent on the mortgage holders and the mortgage insurer's if applicable, agreement to the sale. The seller's obligation to perform on this contract is subject to the rights of the mortgage insurer (if any) and the mortgage holder relating to the conveyance of the property.
home needs a little TLC to make it perfect for a family with everything driving distance you have the 605 freeway …10 freeway and 210 freeway minutes away …you also have Kaiser Permanante Hospital and Tracey Elementary school district near by plus A few shopping centers and restaurants walking distance come see this beautiful home short sale bank request on purchase
