Wealth Today

With reports such as this one at Bloomberg, shed some alarming light into the dark world of the U.S. real estate economy. Some of the highlights include a 16 percent decrease in the average price of a home in Tampa while San Diego is the third worst in the nation, with a 21 percent plummet in value. Sacramento’s value dropped the most at 28%.

Watching this happen, I kind of believe it’s just beginning. I don’t know exactly how long it will continue, but I’m sure it’s not over, and I know things will turn around again. I feel that we’ll be experiencing more factors over the coming months that will be pulling down the value of home prices even more. We’re also seeing an increase in the unemployment filings, and as those increase we will likely expect to a corresponding increase in foreclosures which will affect the overall value of homes. Interestingly enough, the decrease in value will also affect tax revenue related to price of homes which has a negative impact on civic infrastructure.

Yesterday, the IRS released their schedule information for the dispersement of the 2007 economic stimulus rebate check.

To get it quickest:

• File your return electronically before April 15th
• Have a low ordinal value for the last two digits of your social security number
• Opt for direct deposit for your 2007 refund

Those who owe, like me, will likely receive a paper check.

You must file by October 15th to receive a check this year.