The current trend in real estate has been quite positive. For an extended period of time, we have seen pretty consistent growth in sales and home prices. After years of dealing with poor market conditions, we are all breathing a sigh of relief. Nevertheless, the industry must be vigilant in ensuring that nothing is done [...]

Last year, some analysts were speculating the large supply of REOs and shadow inventory would keep the market depressed, but instead, the market is dealing with a lack of inventory available for sale, ProTeck Valuation Services noted in its May Home Value Forecast (HVF). "[I]n reality the shortage of housing inventory has led buyers to bid more competitively against one another leading to significant home price increases and tighter housing conditions," said Tom O'Grady, CEO of Pro Teck.

RCO Legal, P.S., a mortgage default and foreclosure-focused law firm based in Bellevue, Washington, will team up with Atlanta-based Johnson & Freedman, L.L.C., a law firm with a similar practice group.