Mark Handel's Publications

• Effects of the 2010 Election on the Housing Market By Mark Handel, Mark Handel's Blog on Bigsight April, 2011 Now that the Republicans have a significant majority in the House of Representatives, Americans will likely see a number of changes to the housing market in the immediate future. Republicans have already introduced legislation to decrease the role of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac over the next five years, allowing the private market to take control. More than 90 percent of new loans are currently guaranteed by one of the two agencies, since private lenders demand higher rates and maintain strict standards. Closing the two agencies will therefore be difficult, especially since the government needs to retain some regulation in order to ensure that housing loans remain attainable. Certainly, Republicans will push through some legislation that was previously voted down, including laws to raise the minimum down payments on loans and bring the agencies’ obligations to the nation’s balance sheet. Democrats and Republicans will be forced to bridge their ideological differences fairly soon, however, in order to secure the economic future of the United States. Some top Republicans have recently brought the Home Affordable Modification Program into question and advocated for a different solution, but there has been little talk about viable alternatives. A number of consumers have already called for new methods of writing-down loan balances, because the banks have been dragging their feet with foreclosure processing, but Republicans will likely challenge measures that seem like bailouts for the debtor. The Republican gain will thus probably halt refinancing efforts for homeowners, which economists have promoted over the past year. Democrats have recently supported a plan that would allow government-backed loans to be refinanced at today’s low rates. While such a plan may have a positive impact, it forces mortgage investors to take a large hit and is highly unlikely to garner favor among Republicans.

• MWH Development Corporation and Abercrombie Ranch Estates (1/2) , Mark Handel's Blog on Bigsight July, 2011 A picturesque locale known for its fantastic weather, beautiful natural expanses, and flourishing cultural scene, Calabasas, California , has long garnered recognition as an extremely desirable place to live in Los Angeles County. Home to a multiplicity of the most luxurious residences in Southern California, Calabasas boasts a reputation as a community unlike any other on the West Coast. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, Calabasas is situated close to the ocean, with an array of world-class shops and restaurants just minutes away from the ruggedly charming countryside. Discerning homebuyers interested in purchasing a painstakingly crafted, custom-built house in Calabasas may find the residence of their dreams at Abercrombie Ranch Estates, a MWH Development Corporation project 10 years in the making. Constructing custom residences throughout the City of Los Angeles, Encino, and Sherman Oaks, as well as in the San Fernando Valley and a number of other highly regarded neighborhoods, MWH Development Corporation is pleased to maintain a presence in Calabasas as the real estate developer behind Abercrombie Ranch Estates. Collaborating with acclaimed architect Nubar Shahbazian, the President and Chief Executive Officer of MWH Development Corporation Mark Handel has created a unique residential enclave comprised of stunning custom homes, all of which rest on lots 10 acres or more in size. Devoting a considerable amount of time and energy toward acquiring complete coastal commission approval for the Abercrombie Ranch Estates project, Mark Handel and his partners at MWH Development Corporation maintain a firm commitment to working one-on-one with their clients to ensure optimal satisfaction in every respect. Whether you want to build a home from the ground up, or would rather relocate to a fully finished residence outfitted with state-of-the-art amenities, Mark Handel invites you to learn more about Abercrombie Ranch Estates and additional MWH Development Corporation properties. MWH Development Corporation and Abercrombie Ranch Estates (2/2)

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