THE OVER-HOUSED ECONOMY In a recent analysis summary Torto Wheaton Research concluded that a major factor in the housing markets and how soon they would return to more normal markets is the number of vacant homes in the United States.  This inventory of 18 million vacant homes (including seasonal homes) represents 14% of the total housing stock. New foreclosures that are taken back by lenders add to the supply and houses sold and occupied by owners or tenants reduce the supply.  New homes finished by home builders, of course, add […]

SENIOR HOUSING DEMANDS A recent article in “Commercial Property News” reports that by 2010 there will be 100 million people in the U.S. over 50 and that seniors are more active than earlier generations and are demanding different kinds of retirement housing than in the past. The senior’s housing industry is changing from a need-driven market to a choice-driven model according to the article.  Today’s seniors expect more choices and are looking for larger living units with more amenities including spa/wellness centers, media rooms and theaters, libraries, off site transportation […]