we’re celebrating Jackie Robinson Day. All across major league baseball check out your team as I am sure some players, if not ALL will be donning #42 out of respect and honor of Jackie R. Robinson.

Being a Dodger fan (plus, we’re playing the Giants), I will be wearing my vintage Jackie Robinson jersey as I look forward to seeing the entire team wearing #42. As traditional as baseball is, each year, in particular with the Dodgers, players are allowed to wear that  special jersey. If you’ve never seen it……what a sight as ALL PLAYERS THAT DAY ARE NUMBER 42. Thanks to Ken Griffey, in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Robinson entry in major league baseball, he received permission to wear #42.  Throughout the last 2 years the notion of wearing that special jersey has caught on.  This year Commissioner Selig is requesting ALL teams wear #42.  I applaud this gesture because while Jackie Robinson is an American hero, history is learned by various methods of interpretations, so for those who are not familar, surely some will ask “hey why is everyone wearing #42?????  Who was that guy?

What does this have to do with Real Estate or anything for that matter????????

People say sports transcend society, and baseball as the unique sport it is, has helped people from all walks of life come together. While Jackie Robinson is used as the symbol, there is no doubt his entering baseball in 1947 will go down in the history books as one of those legacy types of events in America which helped our society grow.
Most of you know the story but for those who don’t, I would encourage you to explore how Jackie Robinson through baseball made tolerance more important to all people even as we are living in 2009 and look to the future.

Some, give Branch Rickey credit for bucking the system in bringing Robinson up to the national stage, but that’s just part of the story. Rickey was known for his business acumen, and the facts are documented major league baseball in the mid-40′s was suffering a decline as a business proposition. Attendance was down and something needed to happen to create interest.

Sound familar to our business today?????

Anyway, despite the major leagues suffering a decline, the Negro Leagues (yes there were two league for a reason as segregation was the custom or way of life), so “whites” had their league and “blacks” [Negroes] had theirs. The Negro Leagues were more successful as a business because they operated on a different scale but more important, it was a keen tradition in the black community to support the various teams. Their league was more “entertaining” than the major leagues, thus many like Rickey paid attention to its popularity from the business perspective. Robinson was part of the Kansas City Monarch and was considered an above average talent, although not great as some have assumed he was the best player in the league.  Nevertheless, he was the best pick for the “experiment.”
So while the history books will note Rickey was providing some benevolent gesture by entertaining bringing a few “Negroes” into the league, what is not highlighted is he knew society as well as the major league fans would be intriqued by seeing someone like Jackie Robinson play right before their eyes and attendance, perhaps would increase. Finally, they did not have to sneek to Negro League games to see players like Jackie Robinson, Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, just to name a few.

The rest is history!!!!!

I could go on and on but I will spare you………Surely, today is Uncle Sam’s day (at least for those who haven’t filed your taxes or owe him something), but I would encourage you to check out your local team or read more on Jackie Robinson and how his presence allowed our society to become more tolerant with one another. As for me, God willing, my wife and I will be at Dodger Stadium as they always have a great pre-game presentation honoring his contribution to America’s pastime.

Thanks for reading and feel free to chime in.

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Vice President, Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.

Dr. M.L.K., Jr.

the day Dr. King was assassinated.

Real Estate is my chosen profession and one of my passions but one of my key interest is History, and those who follow our Blogs understand why we take pride in interpreting our perspective while sharing historic topics from time to time.

For some April 4, 1968 seemed like yesterday, while for others it never happened, but for most they only know what someone else told them or they read.   As a nation, we take pride in celebrating births and on rare occasions deaths become just as celebrated. Today 41 years ago marks the Assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Not only in America but around the globe people are paying respect to the ideals Dr. King stood for.

I was 16 at the time of Dr. King’s death.  Like many as each year passed I gained a keen appreciation of his life and the symbol he represented.  I remember in 1983 when his birthday became a federal holiday, my wife and I were in San Francisco and had to hustle back to Los Angeles so we can see the first parade. Anyway, among celebrations throughout the years, we were extremely blessed last year to attend the 40th commemorative celebration last year in Memphis, TN. It was an event I never will forget.

A small tidbit for other history buffs is two of Dr. King’s grown children (Marty King, III & Rev. Bernice King) had never made the trek to the infamous Lorraine Motel so last year was the FIRST TIME THEY visited the site where he was assassinated as well as review the room he stayed. Losing my father in the 70′s, I could only be emphatic of  how they felt as they showed tremendous inspiration and spoke to the thousands in attendance.

Lorraine Motel Circa 2008

1968 Dr. King moments before assassination

Dr. King was an inspiration for America and the World. I know some may dispute that sentiment but they are welcome to pin their own blog. His message was love and hope and specifically for America wanted a place where all people could share in the resources that provide a reason for us to live a productive life.

Obviously, Dr. King is not here today as a physical person – but few can dispute his spirit abounds humanity. During my trek to Memphis, I had the opportunity to speak with Judge Joe Brown, who was the judge for the trial in determining how Dr. King was murdered and the rifle that was used. Some have no reason to want to explore who assassinated Dr. King. The current record list James Earl Ray, so for most that is the history they accept. After talking to the Judge, I am convinced James Earl Ray is not the absolute assassin. I bring this up……..not to stir the pot or add to your anxiety, but simply to suggest you think with a rationale mind. As prior to going to Memphis, I accepted the pinned version but luckily I ran into Judge Brown and there was no motivation on his part…..that I could tell, why he would fabricate any of his comments. All I’m saying is take time to understand the legacy of Dr. King and if you’re really interested do a little digging and reach your own conclusion on whether the assassin was James Earl Ray……..or someone else.

Judge Joe Brown and Judith circa 2008

In the meantime, I will be paying homage to the day Dr. King became an immortal soul.

Many tributes will be on television and cable channels throughout the weekend.  I would strongly recommend catching the piece Soledad O’Brien of CNN did last year which will be aired Saturday and Sunday.

Thanks for taking time to read. And of course in the spirit of Dr. King feel free to offer your comments.

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.

Happy April Fools Day 2009

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Vice President, Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.

The Big 3 in their Private Jet

For the little bit I know (through the media), Rick Wagoner appears to be a hard working executive. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on your persepctive yesterday “he took one for the team.” Obviously his leadership wasn’t producing the results fast enough so in effect, he was asked to step aside. The Bloggerphere has been lit up the last couple of days regarding this topic, as some has indicated “it’s about time” and others have commented “it’s none of the government’s business!!!!!!

The Bailout premise has in fact made us taxpayers investors to those who have received funds. So……I agree with the being involved issue. Anyway, here’s today’s Poll and Issue. We thank you in advance for taking the poll and of course indicating any comments you feel are necessary.

Have a productive Tuesday.

Should “The Government” Have Fired the GM President – Rick Wagoner??
( online surveys)

This Weeks Hot Properties – Week of March 27, 2009 Featured Article Quick Links FIND PROPERTY VALUES THE HOUSING RECOVERY PLAN Our Blogs Omega Capital Financial, Inc. 100 N. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91203 e-mail 213-841-7175 OMEGA eReport Omega Loan Modification Blog Active Rain Omega Capital eReport “Hot Properties“ 3.27.2009 ****Hot Property Link**** LOS ANGELES COUNTY HERO PROGRAM STILL AVAILABLE - SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS   This weeks Hot Properties are just a sampling of properties in the general Los Angeles area. For all of you who have wanted to own units……With decent credit, about 10K (can come from 1 or 1000 sources as long as verifiable) and income of at least $2,500 per month……The Triplex at 2701 S. LaSalle is still available. Factoring rents you would receive your bottom-line monthly payment would be under $500. The property will need a little work but the key is this market is to get in at the lowest point. The property is listed at $265,000 and the seller wants a cash offer which translates you better have cash or the ability to close a mortgage very quickly. Despite the tough economy and even going back several years ago people of all types were/are purchasing property. The trick is, while most would like to own property, the simple notion of credit or down payment puts the brakes on any thought of completing the deal. Instead, others with similar or less credit, or with similar or less money grab deal after deal – right before your eyes. Here’s the trick – COMBINE YOUR RESOUCES. Even you can’t go solo……get 1, get 2, get 3 or whoever many are necessary to complete the transaction WITH you. There is no law that each property must only have one applicant. CREDIT – DOWN PAYMENT – COMMITMENT For Those who want to purchase a property the 3 biggest hurdles are: Credit – You do not need perfect credit, but you can’t have bad credit either. Bottom line you need to show a history of paying the majority of your bills on time. While some promote your credit is not being of a deal, UNLESS THE OWNER IS CARRYING BACK THE NOTE, you will need a minimum FICO score of 580. Down Payment – While there are many programs available, your best bet is to prepare yourself for a minimum of 3.5% towards your down payment, unless you are able to go VA where No Money Down is needed. Commitment – Assuming you have decent credit and the down payment, it all boils down to are you prepared to make a commitment and go through the process. Fredy (Fred Thomas, III) & Team Omega Capital Financial, Inc. DRE DISCLAIMER DRE LICENSE 01839322 PLEASE DISREGARD THIS BULLETIN IS YOU ARE CURRENTLY UNDER CONTRACT WITH ANOTHER DRE LICENSEE   OUR BUSINESS IS BUILT ON REPEAT CLIENTS AND REFERRALS EARN SOME EXTRA CASH WHILE HELPING SOMEONE. IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS IN NEED OF A PROFESSIONAL BROKERAGE WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOU REFERRING THEM TO US. UPON CLOSE OF THEIR TRANSACTION YOU WILL EARN A REFERRAL FEE Omega Cap eReport Hotlist (c) 2009

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Vice President, Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.

As Real Estate professionals we earn our living representing clients who complete various transactions. Like any business or activity, Positioning or Timing is a critical component in achieving whatever success we have defined.

At what point will it be announced “the market has turned around?” or “Buyers/Sellers are back in the market” – IT’S TIME TO GO GET ‘EM??? For some the market or business has never been better however for the majority (at least on what has been Blogged during the past year in AR) the market or business has never been as challenging!

If you’re waiting on a Big Boom to announce the market is back – MOST WILL AGREE, that is not going to happen. In our world small indicators which multiply into larger indicators are the sign business is moving in the right direction. Our nation has seen lots of movement during March. Specifically on the housing front or issues more important to us I would encourage you to gauge these indicators and whether your light is GREEN, YELLOW or RED one thing is certain Winter is no longer here and just like the plants are starting to bloom…………….

CREDIT: Since most transaction rely on mortgages to finance the sale – Credit is the key driver to encourage buyers to Buy and sellers to Sale. We all have seen the negative affect from the lack of Credit…….whether personal or our clients. While it is no miracle cure, yesterday’s announcement to rid banks and other financial institutions of their “toxic instruments” so they could be in a better position to provide credit to businesses and families is a huge positive indicator (I thought that’s what the first Bailout last September was supposed to accomplish?????? – don’t get me started)

THE STORY

INVENTORY: The Mortgage meltdown which started in 2003 and became apparant to all communities in 2007 has resulted in a huge Inventory of properties. As good as that fact is…………as we have been experiencing, it doesn’t mean a thing if you do not have the credit to purchase. Lately we have seen a growing, although silent indicator that sales is increasing. Some mince hairs over this issue by trying to quantify the type of sale (Foreclosure, Developer or Resale), the facts are it doesn’t matter. Most like me consider A Sale….A Sale. One could expect and accept the majority of Sales activities would come from the Foreclosure stock. After all isn’t everyone looking for “A Deal?” Home sales are up 5%+!!!!!!!

THE STORY

INTEREST RATES: You could have great credit and the right inventory but it’s the Interest Rate component which speaks to the core of making the product “Affordable.” How high is high or how low is low????? The facts are, Mortgage Meltdown are not, Interest Rates have been very attractive for YEARS!!!!!!!!! Nevertheless, in reality as low as interest rates are, demand oftentimes made a good deal out of reach because affordability is based on how much you can afford. For the most part, Interest rates has beel hovering between 4.500% and 5.000% for the past 6 months. Indicators are it could get lower (although not inching down on a daily basis – OVERALL IT WILL BE GOING UP/DOWN on a daily basis) so the trick is to achieve the position that makes sense for your clients. We have seen similar environments where people are so smart, they allow affordable rates to slip past them because their greed assumed they would go lower. Anyway, in addition to various programs being adjusted to fit the current environment, Interest Rates have never been more attractive.

THE STORY

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THE BOTTOM-LINE. Indicators are right in front of you. You are looking at YOUR stoplight. If you’ve been waiting for the market to start moving……you may have missed the Green light, as based on the indicators as listed above you may push Go or Step on the Accelerator. Good luck!!!!

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Vice President, Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.

President Obama is a brillant strategist, however he isn’t the only one who has business acumen or the ability to make decisions.  As much as we support his Presidency, we feel he pulled a blunder early on during the Geither nomination by stating or implying “that only Geithner could do the job.”  Maybe he is correct but we feel once that type of statement is made one is bound by their decision as they have eliminated the need to be flexible or consider options.  Anyway, not picking on President Obama or Geithner but this past week has showcased regardless of how much Geithner has on his plate, he simply doesn’t invoke confidence, despite the smoke and mirror that President Obama is communicate.  I know I, like you would be pretty nervous if you were the Treasury Secretary and something specifically relating to your knowledge went astray and your boss kept communicating “your job is not in jeopardy” uhhhh must savvy people would see beyond the hype and start making amends or packing.  Granted this isn’t a personality contest but you want a leader.

Anyway, now that you’ve heard or read the AIG debacle, we would appreciate you participating in the poll below which specifically ask who is responsible and who should resign?

Chris Dodd

Tim Geithner

Barney Frank

President Obama

Paulson, Bush, Bernanke

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Fred Thomas, III VP, CB

Vice President, Chief Bloggeroligist

Omega Capital Financial, Inc.