Headlines 06.26.2012

When multiple bids push a house price thousands of dollars above what the seller is asking — not unusual in neighborhoods where demand is particularly robust — are appraisers still coming in with values below the agreed-upon contract number?

Yes. Growing numbers of loan officers and real-estate agents say appraiser reluctance to report local appreciation is becoming a significant complication in sales transactions.  ~ Seattle Times

Appraisers have yet to get with the appreciation program ~ Seattle Times

Signs Of Strength In Latest Housing Data ~ NPR

One American dream that is still showing signs of life ~ MyNorthwest

US new-home sales rose at fastest pace in 2 years ~ AP

Home-building permits at highest level since ’08 ~ CNN Money