Florida consumer sentiment falls again

Households are showing more caution as inflation, energy costs and borrowing costs pressure budgets, a shift that can slow buyer decisions and put more focus on affordability.
Read MoreSellers face higher costs, delays on pre-listing renovations

Industry professionals said highly personalized upgrades and DIY projects often fail to deliver the resale boost sellers expect and may delay a home from reaching the market.
Read MoreFlorida metros rank among top U.S. markets for international buyers

International buyers remained highly focused on Florida in the first quarter of 2026, with Miami, Orlando and Tampa ranking among the nation’s most-viewed housing markets by overseas shoppers. Canadian demand is also rising across several Florida metros, particularly in Cape Coral, Naples and North
Read MoreAI tools need repeated instructions to stay on brand, experts say

Businesses using AI can get better results by relying on structured workflows, repeatable prompts and clear formatting rules to keep marketing, branding and communication more consistent over time.
Read MoreConsistent habits may drive stronger long-term business growth

Small, repeatable habits may be more effective for long-term growth in the real estate business than major resets or constant strategy changes.
Read MoreLawmakers to begin special session on property taxes

Florida lawmakers begin a special session today to consider Gov. Ron DeSantis' proposal to expand the homestead exemption and establish a path toward eliminating property taxes on primary residences. If approved by lawmakers, the constitutional amendment would go before voters for consideration.
Read MoreTax planning can play a bigger role in long-term wealth building than many realize

Tax planning is often treated as an annual, or quarterly, task tied to filing deadlines, but financial experts say it can have a much larger influence on long-term wealth building if it’s approached as an ongoing financial strategy rather than a last-minute exercise.
Read MoreNAR Backs Contractor Classification Changes

A proposed federal rule could reshape how independent contractors are classified under labor law, a change real estate leaders say would provide more clarity and consistency for brokers and agents.
Read MoreMortgage rates rise to highest level in nine months

The average 30-year fixed rate rose to 6.53% this week from 6.51%, while the 15-year fixed rate increased to 5.66% from 5.65%, according to Freddie Mac. Rising borrowing costs continue putting pressure on affordability and monthly payment calculations for buyers heading into summer.
Read MoreOnline listings shape buyer first impressions

A strong digital presentation will help sellers attract more attention before buyers decide whether to schedule an in-person showing.
Read MoreFlorida’s office market isn’t just one story

Several Florida office markets are outperforming broader national trends, according to a new CommercialCafe report. Miami posted the nation’s lowest vacancy rate among major office markets at 12.5%, while Tampa remained below the national average and Orlando stood out for comparatively affordable of
Read MoreReal Estate Q&A: Can HOA Regulate Street Parking?

Whether an HOA can regulate street parking often depends on who owns the road. Associations generally have more authority on private streets than public roads.
Read MoreTwo Forms Can Protect Backup Offers

In a strong seller’s market, addenda W and X can help sellers accept a top offer while protecting their next option if the deal falls through.
Read MoreNew Appraisal Standards Could Change Transactions

A nationwide overhaul of appraisal reporting is underway, bringing more detailed property data and standardized reporting requirements.
Read MoreNo Contemplated Interest When Appraised

When Realtors prepare a value or price opinion, other than in pursuit of a listing or to assist a potential buyer in formulating a purchase offer, the opinion must include any present or contemplated interest, including the possibility of representing the seller or buyers.
Read MoreSurvey finds lifestyle buyers remain active, but more cautious

Buyers interested in lifestyle-focused, master-planned communities continue to show strong interest in relocation markets, particularly in warm-weather states. They're financially secure, expect to pay cash for their next home and are more deliberately researching their choices.
Read MoreConsumers cut back spending, but housing interest holds up

Consumers grew more cautious about spending in May as inflation remained elevated, but interest in existing-home purchases held up better than broader consumer sentiment.
Read MoreMany buyers misunderstand home insurance coverage

A new survey found many Americans misunderstand what standard homeowners and auto insurance policies actually cover, including flood damage, rebuilding costs and common exclusions. For Realtors, the findings underscore why insurance literacy should be part of affordability and homeownership conversa
Read MoreFlorida budget heads to vote with housing funds included

Florida House and Senate leaders reached a final agreement on a nearly $115 billion state budget late Sunday, clearing the way for lawmakers to hold a final vote Friday after an extended special session. The plan includes funding for Florida Realtors legislative priorities – Hometown Heroes, SHIP an
Read MoreFlorida beaches top national rankings – here's how to use it

Two national beach rankings placed several Florida beaches among the nation’s best, giving real estate professionals a timely way to discuss lifestyle demand, tourism visibility and the factors shaping coastal housing markets.
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