Reminder: Daily Show, tonight

By: PAUL JACKSON
July 21, 2008 2:36 PM CST

For those interested to know, our very own Richard Bitner will be on The Daily Show tonight, talking about his new book and the housing mess. This is a very big deal, at least for me a publisher, as I don’t think any other real estate publication — trade or otherwise — has seen one of its key people interviewed on national television about the housing mess yet; and it really underscores why Housing Wire began 18 months ago. Most interviewees are so-called “real estate experts” that haven’t spent a day running a banking operation or working at a servicer in their life.

This industry has needed a knowledgeable, credible, and independent voice. Someone with experience who can tell it like it is; which is precisely what I think we’ve been able to establish a strong track record for doing since the HW brand first got going. There needed to be an independent, but industry-supported, counterpoint to the MBA; someone without lobbying goals and membership dues to protect.

We’ve been that voice online for 18 months, and in the past week or so — thanks to Richard — have taken the a step towards broadcast media exposure. We’re also launching a new magazine this September that I think will change how you think about a trade publication.

I’m honored to call Richard a colleague, and his participation with HW is part of what helps sets us apart from the rest of the pack: we’re a trade pub, yes, but one that understands the rest of the nation is watching, that mortgages are part of the national economic fabric.

As HW readers know well, we don’t shy away from taking the industry to task where needed, or defending perceptions of common industry practices where needed as well. We’re not as flashy as some of the agenda-driven sites out there, but I like to think we provide far more in the way of substance. And I’ve always believed that over time, providing strong content is what matters most.

Seeing a guy like Richard get major press exposure, and the subscription interest we’re now seeing in HOUSINGWIRE Magazine, suggests to me that we’re on the right path.

You can purchase Confessions of a Subprime Lender by clicking here.