MORTGAGES

Local banks in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, through-out Florida, and the nation are telling investors that they should relax – “We’re fine.” A general fear of bank failures has made consumers wary of all financial institutions, even though most banks have no liquidity problems and very little risk.

HOMEBUYERS

There’s a dilemma for the nation’s lawmakers and millions of Americans priced out of homeownership: any rescue policy to stem foreclosures could artificially prop up home prices and perpetuate affordability problems.

FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC

Key Republicans on Tuesday expressed skepticism about an emergency Treasury Department plan to bolster troubled mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, raising doubts on Wall Street about quick enactment.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE

Mortgage insurers have been tightening their standards throughout the U.S., further squeezing potential home buyers. Borrowers with less than a 20 percent downpayment now find few ways to avoid private mortgage insurance.