Consumer optimism among Florida residents dipped in February on views about personal finances and expectations over the national economy, UF economists said. GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Following five consecutive monthly increases, consumer sentiment among Floridians dipped 2.1 points in March to 72, down from a revised figure of 74.1 in February. This decline contrasts with the … Read more
A down payment of 20% or more can help lock in better interest rates and lower monthly payments. Buying a home under your budget can help with costs overall. NEW YORK — Conventional wisdom says it’s best to make a 20% down payment when you buy your home. While this can help you in several … Read more
A down payment of 20% or more can help lock in better interest rates and lower monthly payments. Buying a home under your budget can help with costs overall. NEW YORK — Conventional wisdom says it’s best to make a 20% down payment when you buy your home. While this can help you in several … Read more
A listing broker allowed unaccompanied buyers to tour properties without the seller’s authorization. The broker was found in violation of Article 1, but isn’t this also an Article 3 violation? ORLANDO, Fla. – Dear Shannon: I’m a broker with a good size brokerage office and a fair number of sales associates. During our weekly meeting, … Read more
New and updated forms are available in Form Simplicity, a Florida Realtors member benefit. ORLANDO – On March 19, 2024, a new form was released for member use. In addition, several forms were amended: Language was removed from the CRSP Condo Addendum and Cooperative Addendum regarding a deadline by which sellers had to provide certain … Read more
Since bank wires remain the preferred method of closing escrow on a real estate transaction, the best protection is to be overly cautious. MIAMI – Question: I am buying a house and have been warned about the various scams, especially those involving wires. I spoke with the closing agent, and they will not accept a … Read more
An HOA is considering a ban on political speech in a neighborhood, including door knocking and lawn signs. Is this legal? FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: With the upcoming elections, our association is considering banning politicking in our community. They want to stop everything from door knocks to lawn signs, all in an effort to … Read more
Freddie Mac research found that homes with high energy-efficiency ratings sold for 2.7% more on average than unrated homes. Making home updates don’t have to be time-consuming or costly. NEW YORK – Whether you own or rent the place you call home, ensuring that it’s energy efficient can help you save money, increase your comfort … Read more
Borrowing costs on 30-year and 15-year mortgages dipped slightly to 6.79% and 6.11% respectively, giving prospective homebuyers a bit more room in their budgets. LOS ANGELES — The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate fell slightly this week, welcome news for home shoppers facing rising prices and a stubbornly low inventory of properties on the … Read more
Retirees should consider factors that include living closer to family and safety issues when determining if now is the right time to downsize. NEW YORK – Your home is your sanctuary, but it’s also one of your biggest budget items. And after you retire, it may feel like more house than you need. But in … Read more
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