Private-equity firm buys defaulted mortgage debt at half-price and then seizes the Lembi apartments, in the latest distressed-commercial-property maneuvering.

Real-estate stocks took investors on a wild ride in 2009 and ended the year with strong gains. Don't count on so much excitement in 2010.

Despite a weak economy, cities and states continue to throw millions of dollars in tax credits and upfront cash to attract companies to relocate.

The government's move to ease the limits on the securities holdings of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has ignited a debate among analysts about what the companies will do with their longer leash.

Lenders for the Icon Brickell in Miami face a dilemma on whether to sell whole buildings or large blocks of condos to big investors, often at steep discounts, or one by one to individuals.

Paul George is among the mortgage company's five highest-paid officers, with annual pay of up to $2.7 million.

Two prime residential sites were sold at auction for a lower-than-expected $1.34 billion, in a sign that one of the world's hottest property markets is cooling off.

The guys here at The FlipBoard just want to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and financially prosperous New Year! 

We are going to make 2010 the best year ever! We believe that. And you should too!

 

-Richard and Staff

http://www.TheFlipBoard.com

In an indicator of how the Bay Area continues to suffer from the recession, San Francisco's office vacancies have surged to their highest levels in five years.

Redwood Capital won an auction for the assets of senior-community developer Erickson with a $365 million bid, beating a KKR-led group.