Southern states see a more buyer-friendly market

New construction is giving homebuyers more choices and negotiating power across the South, including Florida, according to HomeServices of America’s 2026 Mid-Year National Housing Outlook. The shift increases competition for sellers and makes accurate pricing and local market guidance more important
Read MoreFHA proposes simpler partial claim process

FHA is considering a new way to manage partial claims that could reduce paperwork and help prevent delays when homeowners sell, refinance or transfer a property.
Read MoreFed signals borrowing costs may stay high

The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate steady for a fifth consecutive meeting, but three officials favored an increase as persistent inflation and a potentially higher neutral rate cloud the outlook for borrowing costs. The shift suggests mortgage rates and other consumer loan rates could remai
Read MoreHelping buyers look beyond the price

Real estate agents can help buyers make more informed decisions by focusing on the full monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and association fees, rather than the listing price alone. Discussing those costs early can prevent surprises, narrow the home search and demonstrate the value of an ag
Read MoreHelp buyers look beyond market headlines

First-time buyers can make a clearer buy-or-wait decision by weighing their finances, local market conditions, housing costs and future plans.
Read MoreFlorida leads nation in empty lots for sale

Florida has 42,601 empty lots listed for sale, the most in the nation. Zillow estimates that building one home on each listed U.S. lot could reduce the housing shortage by 6.3%.
Read MoreMortgage rates rise for fourth week running

The 30-year fixed rate reaches 6.66% as bond yields respond to Iran conflict. That's still slightly below the average of 6.72% a year ago.
Read MoreFlorida home construction cools, but growth pockets emerge

Florida recorded 51,444 new-home permits through the second quarter, down 7% from a year earlier, though Northwest Florida and several counties posted growth.
Read MoreAI creating uneven real estate demand

New research finds AI is strengthening demand in some commercial markets while reducing space needs in others, depending on local jobs and industries.
Read MoreFederal Reserve votes 9-3 to leave key rate unchanged

The Fed held rates steady as inflation and energy prices remain high, though growing expectations of a September hike could keep borrowing costs elevated.
Read MoreCurb appeal can shape buyer interest before a showing

New research found that 77% of buyers consider curb appeal at least moderately important, giving real estate professionals another way to evaluate new-home communities, prepare listings and better understand what draws buyers through the door.
Read MoreMillennials are putting down roots in Florida

Florida metros posted some of the nation’s strongest growth in millennial homeowner and renter households from 2018 to 2023, according to a RentCafe analysis. North Port led the country in millennial homeownership growth, while Orlando topped the list for renter growth.
Read MoreHelping Renters Avoid a Costly Coverage Gap

Renters can protect their belongings, finances and temporary living costs by understanding what their policy covers and where gaps may remain.
Read MoreHow Landlord-Tenant Laws Are Reshaping Real Estate Markets

From security deposit limits to new compliance rules, changing landlord-tenant regulations are influencing investor behavior, housing supply and pricing trends. Here’s what real estate professionals need to understand to better guide clients and anticipate market shifts.
Read MoreAddendum H Adds Flood Insurance Peace of Mind

Addendum H allows buyers to set maximum premiums for homeowner’s and flood insurance and cancel the contract without penalty if they cannot secure coverage at a price they can afford.
Read MoreThe CRSP Contract — Flying Under the Radar

The CRSP may be one of the lesser-used forms in the Florida Realtors contract toolkit, but it is a hidden gem. With clear deadlines for offers and counteroffers, streamlined time-counting rules and a built-in path for resolving disputes, it offers practical provisions that can bring greater clarity
Read MoreDisclose Any Fees Received From Recommending Real Estate Products or Services

A Realtor advertised real estate-related products and services on her website through links to the websites of “Preferred Providers.” The Realtor received a fee each time a visitor clicked one of those links. However, the Realtor did not disclose that they were receiving these fees, claiming that th
Read MoreAI Adds New Risks to Florida Deed Fraud

Florida property owners can take steps to guard against increasingly sophisticated deed fraud involving forged documents, deepfakes and voice cloning. Experts recommend monitoring property records, enrolling in county alert programs and considering owner’s title insurance.
Read MoreBreaking into luxury real estate without a luxury network

Luxury real estate agents can build business without inherited connections by demonstrating expertise, discretion and strong market knowledge. Public records, thoughtful analysis and relationships with trusted advisers can help agents identify opportunities, earn affluent customers’ confidence and g
Read MoreFed weighs rate hike amid mixed signals

Federal Reserve policymakers face a divided decision today as easing inflation supports holding rates steady while persistent price pressures strengthen the case for an increase that could influence mortgage rates and homebuyers’ purchasing power.
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