Mortgage options ease burdens 'Reverse mortgages' still new enough for misunderstandings - 2004-01-13
FOR MARALYN KILPATRICK, the financial pressure placed on her was almost unbearable. The 69-year-old had a $30,000 credit card debt and $106,000 left to be paid on her home. What they found was the reverse mortgage, and it changed their lives.

A reverse mortgage is a unique loan that enables senior homeowners to convert part of the equity in their homes into income without having to sell the home, give up the title or take on monthly mortgage payments.
Read the full story at Oakland Tribune

Realties merging, expanding in valley - 2004-01-13
Real estate companies continue to merge and grow in the Northern San Joaquin Valley. Lewis said that's beneficial for real estate agents -- and consumers -- because it creates economies of scale and marketing strength.

"It provides more and more resources to agents so they can do more for their clients," Lewis said. He said that includes access to one-stop services, such as mortgages and title insurance, and access to sophisticated Internet sites.
Read the full story at Modesto Bee