JournalGazette.net - "Feds crack global ID-theft ring that raided home equity" (11-29-08)

"Federal authorities this week announced a series of arrests and convictions in connection with a global identity theft ring that stole millions of dollars by hijacking home-equity lines of credit issued to thousands of consumers. On Monday, state and federal law enforcement officials arrested four men who were part of a group that allegedly combined high-tech equipment with old-fashioned con-artistry to drain home-equity lines."

Orange County Register - "29% less big construction projects in O.C." (11-30-08)

"The Construction Industry Research Board reports that the estimated value of building permits for non-residential projects — commercial development, industrial sites and schools — totaled nearly $1.3 billion this year so far."

Orange County Register - "Home-selling methods obsolete, Insider Q&A told" (11-29-08)

"It is estimated that approximately 15% of all property for sale in the US is FSBO. There is no question that falling prices, slow sales, and a credit crunch have made the FSBO option more attractive than ever. I am a licensed broker Realtor, and I can read the writing on the wall. Online real estate in 2008 is like travel in 1998. Traditional methods of finding, buying, marketing, and selling real estate are becoming obsolete. Consumers are clicking to sites that better serve their needs."

Orange County Register - "O.C. house prices seen rising in 2013" (11-29-08)

"I think we are a good solid five years before you see any modest appreciation. We have to use up this glut of homes. I live in Ladera Ranch. There a lot of homes in foreclosure and open lots and unsold new homes around me. There are vacant lots that were never sold"