Would anyone have suggestions on an efficient way to analyze the census tracts where we have not originated loans?

I did this prior to 2012 and recall the process was quite labor intensive. (Take a census tract map then locate on a Google or Bing map and drill down to the census tract and identify possible "anomalies" within the area - cemeteries, lakes, housing projects, train depots, colleges, parks, etc.).

With the changes in census tracts for 2012 lending data (2010 census) I am starting from scratch and cannot rely on the work completed in 2011 and prior since the tracts have changed.

There has to be an easier way!!

Mapping software, your own or via a third party, can place most of those on a map with tracts.

From the FFIEC data you can tell bytract population below poverty level, numberof rental properties (so residents won't be requesting mortgages, etc.)

Thanks Kathleen,

I use mapping software but it often does not identify such things as a quarry, housing authority complex, recreation complex/center, manufacturing facility, assisted living facility, amusement parks, etc. which can/may affect lending in the census tract.

Those very specific things can be tough. I would think you need to overlay a tract map on a Google type map, with those "items".

You should be able to sort out low population tracts, low housing, high poverty, etc. using the FFIEC demographic data.

Thanks Kathleen,

I know I haven't utilized the mapping software to its fullest potential --- now here is my opportunity.

You should be able to start with the FFIEC demographic data. Compare the population to dwelling units to owner occupied units. This will tell you a lot about the census tract without having to look at the maps.
1) Is the population small, or none? Then you simply don't have borrowers in the C/T to request loans.
2) Are there many, or any, owner occupied units to request mortgage loans?
3) If there is a large population and few, or no, dwelling units, then there is some type of large facility in the C/T like a prison, hospital, military base, school, etc. This population will most likely have a limited number of qualified borrowers, if any, depending upon the type of facility.

Computer is having issues today...OK, maybe it is me

Rie A, it is not you. But I am glad you mentioned FFIEC because in my post when I mentioned low population, etc. I meant FFIEC if the mapping software does not have that info.

As you say, you can tell from the FFIEC website if there is a low population tract, high poverty, high rental rates, etc