Where We Are Now: March 17, 2020

Work From Home — Day 2 — 6AM

Good Morning,

Market futures are predicting some stability today, albeit in a world without stability. Around 5AM PT today, CNBC referred to futures index as a “fraud.” This is mainly because any and every announcement has whip-saw potential in our volatile state.

In Northern CA, we are very focused on County Recorder offices and where we are hoping offices may be open even in a “virtual” manner. Counties like Napa and Sonoma have not yet called for shelter “lock down.” Will the banking industry, where mortgages fit in, be considered an “essential service”? Updates to follow throughout the day.

In Southern CA we have marginally better conditions. In our Sunset Strip office yesterday, Fran was managing multiple offer situations. Chartwell Escrow has developed deep contingency planning to, if required, consolidate 13 locations into 4 hubs. Vince purchased 17 laptops, one for each escrow officer, to support you and our clients on a remote, WFH, basis.

Every day will bring new challenges and new opportunities. Needless to say, we are all hyper focused on family and loved ones first and our business interests second.

Be safe! Be smart! Updates to follow as they develop.


Thanks!
Mark

Mark A McLaughlin