While U.S. tax law supports the current definition of an “independent contractor,” recent changes to U.S. labor law call it into question, and that could potentially impact Realtors.

A listing broker didn’t tell their seller they received a finder’s fee from the buyer – but the fee didn’t impact the Realtor’s honest and ethical advice. Why is it an issue under the Code of Ethics if the finder’s fee was negotiated before taking the listing?

Before leaving a real estate brokerage firm, associates should thoroughly review their independent contractor agreement to find out what portion of commission, if any, the associate will be entitled to after leaving.

Your exhausted seller received five offers in one day. Four are over asking price, but the last one offers $50,000 less, possibly making it a waste of time for an already overwhelmed seller. Must you still present it? Perhaps not – but only under very specific conditions.

A property appraisal is needed when mortgage financing is used to buy residential real estate. It acts as a market value reference point for buyers and current owners.

Consumer spending, which grew at a 3% annual pace during the quarter, fueled the upswing. The nation’s economic growth has topped 2% for six consecutive quarters.

It’s the fifth month in a row Florida residents’ optimism has resulted in a rise in consumer sentiment, to 74.1 in Feb., up 1.5 points from Jan.

Recent reports note Fla.’s condo market faces rising costs. But an influx of high demand during the pandemic may also be a factor influencing current conditions.

The $23M project will be for “high-need families” and also offer coordinated support services. Rents will be based on the area median income limits.

Using personas or profiles for potential clients, like retirees looking to downsize, can help Realtors target marketing efforts and increase engagement.

Attom: 46.1% of mortgaged residential properties were equity-rich in 4Q. Miami was among the biggest metros with the most equity-rich mortgaged properties (61.8%).

A recent Jones Lang LaSalle report found that most private employers now operate under a hybrid policy of office attendance and remote work.

Americans are showing growing fears over a potential recession: The Consumer Confidence Index fell 4.2 points from Jan., marking the 1st drop in three months.

That’s the total as of last week and due to “depopulation,” it’s about the same as the 1.166 million policies the state’s insurer of last resort had in late Jan.

To stand out, showcase yourself as a local expert: Offer tips and education about local homebuying and selling trends, create online content and support local businesses.

KB Homes CEO: New home orders rose in the first weeks of 1Q 2024 as mortgage rates eased off late-Oct. highs – a positive sign for a strong spring for the industry.

Analysts are revising their forecasts for this year, saying the economy likely will grow 2.2% after adjusting for inflation, up from a previous estimate of 1.3%.

Homebuyers say energy-efficient features are home “must-haves” because they save money, improve resale value and help people lead healthier lives.

Among states, Florida had the highest percentage of decline (9.21%) in rent prices year-over-year in 2023, but monthly rent remains higher than the nation’s average.

Gov. DeSantis: $5.3M through the Rural Infrastructure Fund will strengthen public infrastructure; $1M through the Florida Disaster Fund will help with home repair.