Replies to post #130032 on Zeev's Turnips Patch-No Politics (ZEEV)

[Newly2b]

I don't think rising interest rates is what will kill the housing boom -- I think rising unemployment will do that! Rising interest rates will kill the refi boom, putting an abrupt end to home equity as a major source of ready cash for the cash-strapped, debt-ridden (and perhaps soon to be unemployed) consumer.

Newly

[Newly2b]

OT OT: Alternative Energy

As to alternative energy, the government should have learned their lesson during the oil crunch back in the '70's. They didn't, so we're once again at the critical point. Perhaps they will this time. We MUST decrease our dependence on foreign oil, IMO, absolutely must!

As to water consumption, water being an imported item for the most part here in California, I can only see that cost rising as well, particularly as bordering states (like Nevada, which is one of the fastest growing states population-wise, and where they are building countless new housing developments as we speak) increase their populations and therefore their need for water, and begin battling California over the waters of the Colorado River that borders these states. I believe the first skirmishes in that conflict have already begun.

By the way, for those outside of California, we already have legislation mandating installation of low-flow toilets and low-flow showerheads, at least here in LA County, indicating there is concern at the governmental level regarding our ability to maintain adequate water supply in future.

Newly