Dear reader,

Whenever you talk to financing experts these days, you are likely to be told one thing above all: “It’s a difficult environment.” Or alternatively: “… we’re playing it by ear.”

Well, perhaps the time has come at long last to be honest with ourselves. There have been a number of mark-downs for property asset holders lately. Have we reached the end of the road? Certainly not. And what do things look like in the development sector? Not much better, and with even bleaker prospects.

“Plain Sailing is Easy when You Got Good Wind”

So, what does that mean? The party is definitely over, which makes it all the more important to set yourself apart from the competition through actual competence. After all, plain sailing is easy when you have got good wind. So, let me turn things around for you: Anyone who used to be committed to their trade with body, mind and spirit will be likely to say: What do you know, the tedious core business seems to be very much back in demand. Which is just as well. You proba-bly remember the song line: “It’s hip to be square!”

With this in mind: Let us celebrate yet another trend reversal, as people embrace hands-on con-servatism, and exploit the opportunities that are emerging for traditionalists like us. I’m toying with the idea of having pins or badges made for the occasion. I’ll be sure to keep you posted.