Bianca Lemmons, Cowlitz County Title Manager

Hello and Happy New Year to all!

January has always been a favorite month of mine because it provides me with an opportunity to look back at my accomplishments, but more so, an opportunity to get re-organized and geared up for the new year...and of course set new goals! And although some of those goals may still be the same goals from previous years, I still continue to set them, knowing that goals provide me with vision and direction in my personal and business life.

So on a personal note, one of my ongoing goal for 2014 is to strive towards taking better care of myself health wise, so that I can be a positive influence on my family, friends and colleagues.

2013 brought Cowlitz County Title a reason to believe that our industry is climbing out of this recession, and will continue to do so. And although it may not be as quick as many of us hoped, the steadiness of it is a positive sign that 2014 will bring us yet another productive and prosperous year. But of course, each of you plays a big part in our success and reaching our goals!

Much of what brought success to Cowlitz County Title in 2013 was the refinance market within the first quarter of the year, and then the boost in home sales was of course a wonderful thing! I was so ecstatic to see the NWMLS numbers for those months during the summer and into October. Although I predict much of the refinance market will have disappeared due to the gentle rise in rates, I predict we will have yet another good spring and summer of home sales, with a slight increase overall. And although inventory has been low, I believe this might cause a slight inflation in home values, which in turn might create more of an opportunity for seller's to sell, knowing that they have the equity to do so. I think with the rates slowly continuing to increase, it may create a "hurry up" effect on buyer's to ensure they can still purchase within their approved price range.   And although the foreclosure market is still there, it gradually continues to decrease, but I foresee it still being around for a while longer.

So whether my predictions are spot on, or way off, all of us look forward to a successful year for our Realtor and lender customers. We ask that your new resolution is to choose Cowlitz County Title for all of your purchase and sale transactions, and our promise to you is to strive to provide you with the best possible title and escrow service!

Thank you for a wonderful 2013 and we look forward to serving you and your clients in the New Year!

Bianca Lemmons