The frothy real estate market is noticably and dramatically softening in a way that is reminiscent of the latter days of the overblown dotcom phenomenon, and opportunity may await those with patience to keep their powder dry pending better opportunities in the next year or two.

A weaker housing market is the final element of a confluence of economic currents which, if left unchecked, may well lead to a financial debacle for America's Middle Class Homeowner. This can be averted only with luck, or by timely action at the State and Federal Legislative and Regulatory levels.

Bankruptcy Reform may be backfiring on those who funded it: banks and credit card issuers, as reduced usage and balance reduction, by those who can manage it is hurting the profit centers, while obstacles to others will, the author submits, lead to calls for revisions to protect consumers.

Certain changes in the bankruptcy laws, which were enacted 'under the radar screen' afford dramatic improvements in the rights of commercial landlords, at just the time when they might come in handiest, due to a slowing economy and softer real estate values.

Creditors, already stuck with bad receivables in bankruptcy cases are doubly outraged when they are then sued for a 'preference,' which is a certain kind of payment made on the eve of bankruptcy. Recent amendments to the Bankruptcy Code have substantially leveled the playing field.