South Florida Real Estate

Milton, Helene Insurance Claims Increase

The back-to-back hurricanes that swept across parts of Florida have caused billions in damages, according to the latest insurance estimates. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused billions of dollars in damages across the state with the Tampa Bay and Sarasota-Bradenton areas taking the biggest hits. Links to /tools-research/hurricane-resources/helene-recovery-assistance-realtors-resources We have gathered resources for … Read more

FEMA, Business Aid Available for Milton, Helene

ORLANDO, Fla. –  Homeowners and renters in 34 Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton can now apply for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Links to /tools-research/hurricane-resources/helene-recovery-assistance-realtors-resources We have gathered resources for Realtors in Florida to help you recover and rebuild. President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for Florida in the wake … Read more

Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate Increases

Rates on 30-year mortgages ticked up to 6.32% on Thursday (Oct. 10)  from 6.12% the previous week. Borrowing costs on 15-year mortgages rose to 5.41%. WASHINGTON – The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. surged to 6.32% this week, adding pressure on home buyers facing sky-high prices and a limited supply of … Read more

NAR Consumer Guide: Fair Housing

The Fair Housing Consumer Guide doesn’t constitute any change in NAR policy. It covers the Realtor’s role in promoting housing equity as well as other matters. WASHINGTON – The newest National Association of Realtors®’ Consumer Guide covers fair housing: Why it’s important, how the laws apply to buyers and sellers and why Realtors® are integral … Read more

Hurricanes Milton, Helene: Resources Available Now

Realtors and residents affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene can apply for financial assistance and programs that offer aid for damaged homes and offices. ORLANDO, Fla. – Applications are being accepted for grant funding through the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) Realtors Relief Foundation and the Florida Realtors®’ Disaster Relief Fund assistance programs for victims of Hurricanes … Read more

Credit Scores Matter | Florida Realtors

Unless you’re a cash buyer, credit scores are the most important factor lenders consider in a mortgage application. It shows the ability to repay, NEW YORK – Strictly speaking, you don’t need a credit score to buy a house. If you’re paying cash, for example, no one necessarily cares whether you have good credit. However, … Read more

Florida Realtors CEO Named Smith Society Honoree

Margy Grant was inducted into NAR’s Dr. Almon R. (Bud) Smith, RCE, AE Leadership Society for her outstanding leadership and a willingness to help others. CHICAGO – Florida Realtors CEO Margy Grant was among the three National Association of Realtors® association executives nationwide inducted into the Dr. Almon R. (Bud) Smith, RCE, AE Leadership Society … Read more

Hurricane Milton Resources Available | Florida Realtors

Information is available that will help Realtors protect their businesses and customers including infographics that address immediate needs. ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida Realtors® created shareable social-media infographics with useful storm- and recovery-related information to help Realtors protect themselves and their businesses as Hurricane Milton barrels towards the state. Tech Helpline infographic: Provides details about the Tech … Read more

Hurricane Milton Reaches Cat 5, Nears Florida

The storm is expected to weaken before it makes landfall, likely in the Tampa area on Wednesday. It could grow in size before moving across the state. ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s on track for a one-two punch from the 2024 hurricane season as Hurricane Milton moves across the Gulf of Mexico, marking the second major … Read more

Consider Using a Realtor When Selling Your Home

Home sellers who don’t use an agent are twice as likely as agent-assisted sellers to be unhappy with the results of their sale, says a study from Clever Real Estate. CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. – Home sellers who choose to work without a real estate agent are twice as likely as agent-assisted sellers to be unhappy … Read more