Car ownership costs now rival mortgage payments in determining true housing affordability, with transit-accessible homes commanding a price premium nationally, according to new data.

The VA updated appraisal requirements for VA-backed purchases and launched a new partial-claim option for veterans in default, giving real estate professionals timely information to share with VA buyers and homeowners who may need to contact their lender, servicer or VA.

he average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate fell to 6.43% from 6.49% last week, while the average 15-year rate dropped to 5.79% from 5.84%, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said.

A new survey found 47% of U.S. consumers were targeted by fraud last quarter, most through phishing, smishing or voice cloning, as AI lowers the cost of mortgage fraud schemes.

A proposed HUD rule would change how the permanent chassis requirement applies to multistory manufactured homes, potentially lowering costs and making upper floors more practical. The issue is especially relevant in Florida, which has the nation’s largest manufactured/mobile home inventory.

A new homebuyer survey found consumers favor buying over renting for the first time since 2023, with 53% saying buying is the better choice. Prices and mortgage rates remain the top barriers, but the findings give agents a reason to reconnect with renters, past leads and homeowners who paused their

Self-employed investors are buying more single-family homes, often using alternative loans that focus on rental income rather than traditional paychecks. The trend is especially relevant in Florida, where investor activity can shape both buyer competition and rental supply.

Buyers who spot maintenance issues, odors, water damage or questionable DIY work during showings may respond with lower offers, added contingencies or harder negotiations.

Agents who chase new leads while neglecting follow-up are leaving business behind, according to real estate trainer Darryl Davis. He recommends auditing activities by what produces real conversations versus what only feels productive.

Florida consumers grew more cautious as inflation concerns, household budget pressure and softer job conditions continued to shape expectations for the economy and major financial decisions.

A fresh state budget and two new Florida housing laws take effect July 1, advancing Florida Realtors legislative priorities tied to housing supply, affordability and local housing options. The changes inject new money into popular housing programs, make funds available for home hardening programs an

A July 16 legal summit in Orlando will give Realtors a practical look at legal issues showing up in daily business, including AI, contracts, disclosures, FREC, lawsuits and complex transactions. The event offers 5 CE credits and is presented by Real Producers in partnership with Florida Realtors.

Young adults living with parents are not out of the housing market – they are delayed by affordability. Realtors can help them compare rent, starter-home options, down payment programs and realistic timelines for buying.

As tools evolve, communication, consistency and curiosity still help guide customers through complex and emotional decisions.

Borrowers with fair credit scores pay up to $192 more per month than those with excellent credit, a difference that compounds to $69,120 over the life of a 30-year loan.

A Tenant-occupied listing can still move smoothly if Realtors plan ahead. Learn key AS IS contract deadlines, including lease disclosure and tenant estoppel letter requirements.  

A dispute over a late escrow deposit centered on one missing contract detail: the seller never named the escrow agent. This case shows how leaving an escrow agent listed as “TBD” can turn a simple deadline issue into years of litigation and attorney fees.

HUD’s new guidance narrows how the agency will handle emotional support animal complaints under the Fair Housing Act, but NAR says housing providers should be careful before changing policies. Courts, state agencies and local fair housing laws may still treat the issue differently.

FHA policy changes could give some buyers more flexibility on repairs, appraisals and financing, while keeping property condition, repair costs and lender timelines central to the transaction.

What happened this year at NAR’s Realtors Legislative Meetings (RLM) in D.C. in June?  Any changes to professional standards? What if you see something that could be better as it relates to professional standards? Is there anything we can do?