Existing-home sales fell nationally 1.0% in September to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.84 million. In the South, existing-home sales decreased 1.7%.

The increase in new home sales shows they continue to be an appealing option. The average loan size for new homes rose to $402,658 in September.

Florida’s pro-business mindset has encouraged commercial growth, which has led to years of steady growth, one investor said.

Real estate development should prioritize affordable housing and address barriers that have excluded Black developers, panelists said.

If your tree falls during a storm and damages your neighbor’s house, who pays? Let your insurance company handle it.

Before making a move, assess whether a change will benefit your career and clients. Align with those who support long-term growth and ethical practices.

Real estate professionals are building client loyalty and responding to needs among a quickly growing Hispanic demographic. 

Lower rates have encouraged buyers from the sidelines. In Florida, builders are offering incentives that include lot premium waivers and price reductions.

Many forecasts have rates near 6% at the end of this year and falling to about 5.8% next year. The days of 3% and 4% rates appear to be over.

Even with affordability headwinds, builders remain optimistic about the future of the market. The share of builders cutting prices held steady at 32% in October. 

An Okeechobee real estate scam was uncovered after a man attempted to sell land he didn't own. The listing was removed. No arrests have been made.

In any transaction, including real estate, always verify information, be cautious with urgent requests, and confirm authenticity before sharing personal details.

Disaster-response resources are available this week in more than 10 Florida counties to help businesses and residents.

Pending home sales posted their biggest increase since 2021 recently, but some house hunters are starting to pull back, Redfin said.

About 53% of homeowners who hired a contractor went over budget, and 46% faced significant delays.

Massive amounts of sand shifted inland after back-to-back hurricanes. Many residents are now facing costly cleanup.

Builder sentiment and easing monetary policy boosted single-family construction. Multifamily fell 9.4% due to tight financing and rising apartment completions.

Wearing two hats isn’t for everyone – but, for some, dual licensing offers an opportunity to earn extra income and bring more value to your relationship with buyers.

The SBA said disaster survivors should not wait to settle with insurance companies before applying for disaster loans. Also, Milton, Helene insurance claims increased.

Rates on 30-year mortgages rose to 6.44% from 6.32% last week, according to Freddie Mac. Rates on 15-year mortgages rose to 5.63% from 5.41%.