Can we afford buy-to-rent? - 2004-01-15
My two friends and I are interested in purchasing a property to rent but are not sure if we are financially capable. We have an average income of £19,000 each. What do you think? M. Essex

Ray Boulger at mortgage brokers Charcol says:Lending decisions on buy-to-let properties are based on the potential rental yield*, not the applicants' salary, although some lenders require a minimum salary, typically £20,000. So your earnings may not be an issue.
Read the full story at This Is Money

County housing sizzled in '03 - 2004-01-15
San Diego County housing prices surged 17.3 percent in 2003, finishing the year with a median above $400,000 for the first time.

Sales last year totaled 59,526 homes, the most since the boom year of 1988, and 8.4 percent ahead of last year.

UCSD economist Ross Starr said the relatively strong local economy, limited supply of housing and the lowest mortgage interest rates in memory combined last year to make many buyers out of renters.
Read the full story at SignOn San Diego