Wednesday, September 24, 2008

I hoped 09 might be better for sales than 08. I get the feeling of, "not so fast" thanks to the last month on Wall Street. Was September a good sales month for anyone out there?

I'm holding my breath 'till after the election. One of the great parts of the Harrison Group's presentation to the ULI Recreation Development Councils a year ago was the focus on discretionary income of a family as the driver for the purchase of resort real estate vs. household income.

So, I assume that if Obama is elected that two of the key drivers for discretionary income, dividends and capital gains, will have their tax rates increased from the current 15%. Not good for our sales.

However, I used to assume that if McCain were elected that these rates would be kept at present levels. I'm not so sure now. He may be forced to increase them due to all the current economic dynamics he'll have to live with. Not good for our sales.

This does not take into account the marginal rates being increased for all those 'rich' people, via Obama, making over $200k, which is a gross number. Forget the discretionary part that's left. Not good for our sales

2010 here we come - I hope. Does all this put a spotlight on fractional sales? I think so.

Did you know that on Vegas' South Strip there's a hotel with 1200 horse stalls underneath? Don't volunteer for the maintenance crew!