Joel Kan Mortgage Bankers Association, Economist   The Mortgage Bankers Association projects that home purchase originations will increase further in 2017, building on an estimated 10 percent increase in 2016. Strong household formation coupled with further job growth, rising wages, and continuing home price appreciation will drive strong growth in purchase originations in the coming… Read more

Dr. Sybil Francis Executive Director, Center for the Future of Arizona   When the Center for the Future of Arizona (CFA) was established in 2002, it was a time of dynamic change in Arizona. We knew that in order for Arizona to remain prosperous and a welcoming community, there would be a need for local… Read more

Debra Rudd Manager, Real Estate Appraisal Division Arizona Department of Financial Institutions   We live in a time of immediate results. If we are unable to obtain the answers to questions instantaneously, we work on ways to speed up the process. An example of this pertains to real estate appraisals and the recent attempt from… Read more

Jason Francis Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer, Tiny Heirlooms   Luxury has always been a coveted desire for most people. For years, it’s been about acquiring treasures, riches, massive estates and attaining a prestigious status defined by these “things.” The belief has been that this type of luxury provides freedom and happiness; for some it does. Yet,… Read more

Mary Wolf-Francis Chair, Market Leadership Advisory Committee U.S. Green Building Council Arizona Community Outreach Liaison for DIRTT Environmental Solutions   A symbol of excellence in green buildings, LEED or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), provides building owners and operators with a framework for identifying and implementing… Read more