South Florida Real Estate

It’s a Tough Market for Buyers – Many Don’t Care

Survey: Most would-be buyers (55%) know it’s a really tough market right now, but a majority (54%) still plan to maintain current goals or speed up the buying process. CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Many hopeful homebuyers – especially those in their 40s and younger – are forging ahead with plans to buy homes despite believing the … Read more

RE Q&A: Neighbor’s Property Is an Eyesore

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There are “nuisance property” remedies, along with disagreements on what constitutes a nuisance. If an HOA applies, start there. If not, talk to the city. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: Over the last three years, our neighbor’s property has been getting more run down. He does not live in the house; it needs maintenance, and … Read more

FHFA Rescinds Plan for DTI Mortgage Fees

FHFA cancels loan fees slated to become effective in August. Based on feedback, it says implementation is “challenging.” NAR calls it a good decision. WASHINGTON – The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) says it has rescinded the upfront fees once slated to go into effect in August. The fees – based on borrowers’ DTI ratios … Read more

Bonds Backed by Apartments Under Stress

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Collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) offer easier terms for apartment building buyers, but their shorter terms and floating interest rates may be creating problems. NEW YORK – Defaults are rising for collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), which are mortgages packaged into bonds and sold to investors. These types of mortgages helped fuel rising housing costs across Sunbelt … Read more

NAR 1Q Sales Report: 7 in 10 Metros Posted Price Gains

Home prices continue to rise in most (70%) of the U.S., and are up notably year-to-year in the 7% of markets that saw double-digit gains. WASHINGTON – Nearly seven out of 10 metro markets registered home price gains in the first quarter, according to the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) first-quarter report. In 7% of … Read more

What Social Media Apps Do Luxury Brokers Use?

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While most social media apps work at all price levels, a Chicago agent says Real Messenger, 1060 and Ri.la have properties that appeal to luxury clients. CHICAGO – Chicago-area real estate agent Anne Ewasko recommends that luxury brokers take advantage of three social media apps to foster and manage relationships with new and current customers: … Read more

More S. Fla. Homeowners Gaining Home Equity

The market slowed a bit nationally, but not in S. Fla., which is seeing slower, yet positive home value gains. About 2 out of 3 homeowners (65.3%) are “equity rich.” MIAMI – Homeowners across South Florida are seeing equity gains in their homes, despite the national housing market slowing down. About 65.3% of residential properties … Read more

Fannie’s Housing Confidence Index Hits 1-Year High

Attitudes rise and fall, but Fannie Mae’s April index saw a rise in all six sub-components. Overall, however, attitudes still fall into pessimism territory. WASHINGTON – Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) in April increased to its highest level since May 2022, jumping 5.5 points to 66.8. All six components that make up the … Read more

RE Issues: Debt Ceiling, Institutional Investors

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Buyers would be hurt financially if the U.S. defaults on its debt June 1 – and institutional investors are a “tremendous threat” to the American dream. WASHINGTON – The Realtors® Legislative Meetings kicked off Sunday morning in Washington, D.C., with a discussion on the debt limit, an issue currently enveloping Washington that could have a … Read more

Want a Real Estate Career? Avoid Common Pitfalls

Start by picking the right real estate school, then learn as you go and study for exams. Once licensed, pick a brokerage with a culture that fits your personality. NEW YORK – How do you get started in the real estate industry? Prospective agents should be aware of some licensing mistakes made by others before … Read more