Aug 05 2008
Hope persists for Va. housing markets | newsleader.com | The News Leader
This article is what’s scary about allowing users to comment unedited on your stories. Hope persists for Va. housing markets
Check out this comment:
I continue to be confused as to whether Ms. Watson is a journalist who just steadfastly refuse to address reality or a Realtor hired by the News Leader on a freelance basis to shamelessly pump the housing market. Which ever she is, readers would be well advised to think twice before giving any credence to her statement that “it just might be the best of times for qualified buyers.” She’s been writing versions of the same argument from the peak of the market on down to where we are today.
May 7, 2006: “While there are clear indications that the housing market is starting to cool, many industry experts say there’s no reason to panic. That falling sky theory is bunk, they say. There are still plenty of blue-sky days ahead, just maybe a bit overcast.”
Aug. 20, 2006: “It’s a great time to buy a house. If you’ve been thinking about taking the plunge, now’s a great time to do it. In fact, you’ve picked a fabulous time to be a homebuyer. Shucks, I wish I could join you.”
Nov. 5, 2006: “Good prices aren’t the only reason to jump into the market now.”
March 18, 2007: “…the local market has nowhere to go but up.”
March 25, 2007: “…the local market has nowhere to go but up.:
It’s completely irresponsible for the News Leader editors to continue to encourage and provide a forum for this sort of sham journalism that’s designed to make a key advertiser base for the paper feel good, while providing shoddy financial advice to the bulk of its readers. Why not hire a used car salesman to write about how now is the best time to buy a Hummer while you’re at it?
I manage to avoid people unpleasantly pointing out dumb things I do and say by not having any readers.