With mortgage rates hovering in the 6% to 7% range, many new buyers are looking for creative ways to save money. Temporary buydowns may be the answer.

Don’t jeopardize your chances of getting your dream home after getting preapproved for a mortgage by taking out new lines of credit or other missteps.

If inflation continues, long-anticipated interest rate cuts may not happen this year, the Federal Reserve chair said. Interest rates influence mortgage rates.

One economist said gas prices likely contributed to the decline. Most expect consumer spending to remain healthy as long as the job market holds steady. 

A U.S. District Court judge ruled against Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection’s attempt to retain authority over wetland permitting

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac issued guidance regarding allowable interested-party contributions in light of the proposed Sitzer-Burnett verdict settlement agreement.  

New home construction starts fell 14.7% in March and overall permits are down by 4.3%. Headwinds will likely persist through April, analysts said.

Homebuyers are increasingly using gift cards as a substitute for credit cards or cash, including when saving for a down payment.

Data from Niche shows counties in northern Florida and the Panhandle lead the state in affordability related to cost of living.

Creating a ‘know-like-trust’ relationship with clients takes effort but allows them to move forward with confidence, real estate pro Jimmy Burgess said.

A cut in the state’s commercial lease sales tax, from 4.5% to 2.0%, will begin on June 1, weeks earlier than originally expected.

Potential flippers should understand the process of home flipping before jumping in. Some of the common unknowns include the tax benefits.

The Florida Department of Agriculture’s finalized rules regarding foreign-buyer registration for agricultural property ownership took effect April 4.

Today’s average rate on a 30-year home loan is just under 7%, not far from the historical average. Still, some homebuyers say they’re waiting for rates to drop.

A national survey showed 39% of consumers plan to move, and Florida is among the top destinations. About 13% prefer ranch-style homes.

The April NAHB/Wells Fargo HMI survey showed that 22% of builders cut home prices in April, down from 24% in March and 36% in December 2023.

Many new homeowners don’t realize the monthly payments on fixed-rate mortgages can go up and down depending on PITI – principal, interest, taxes and insurance.

Clint Strauch, president of Florida Peninsula Insurance, says the 2% average rate decrease shows the property insurance market is stabilizing.

Read a special digital supplement of Realtor Magazine with important content that dispels misinformation and myths about the proposed settlement.

All businesses – big and small – should have a flood plan as part of their financial plan. Preparation is one way to ensure your company will survive.