Sentiments towards homeownership remain positive as Americans identify it as a life goal. Many think it’s important to build long-term wealth. SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The American Dream is alive and thriving, according to a new survey from Realtor.com, which found nearly two out of three Americans (64%) identify homeownership as one of their life … Read more
When looking for a new home, focus on the characteristics of the location you want rather than requiring a specific town or community. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: After several years of renting, we plan to purchase our first home in the new year. Do you have any advice on how we can find our … Read more
One in four buyers with kids received family cash for down payments, compared to 12% of those without, highlighting higher housing costs for families. SEATTLE — One-quarter (25%) of recent homebuyers who have kids living at home received a cash gift from family to help fund their down payment, more than double the 12% of … Read more
The Code of Ethics has evolved with the industry for 100+ years. Here’s what’s new for 2025. Dear Shannon: I’m our board’s Professional Standards Administrator. I know the Code of Ethics has been around for over 100 years, the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual (Manual) changes along with the industry and, if there are … Read more
The Hometown Heroes Housing Program helps Floridians achieve homeownership with zero-interest loans for down payments and closing costs. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Affordable housing remains a top concern nationwide, especially in Florida, where high interest rates, limited inventory and rising home prices have made the dream of homeownership a challenge for many. Recognizing this, Florida Realtors®, … Read more
The Fed chair said inflation is coming in higher than predicted. For those who can buy, house shopping while others are holiday shopping could be a smart move. NEW YORK — Mortgage interest rates managed to string together two consecutive weeks of decreases for the first time since September. The week ending Dec. 5, the … Read more
Floridians are optimistic about their personal finances over the next year, and the national economy over the next year and five years, a UF study found. GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Consumer sentiment among Floridians surged in November to 81.1, its highest level in more than three years, rising 3.7 points from a revised figure of 77.4 … Read more
Beginning in 2025, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can acquire loans of up to $806,500 for single-family homes, a 5.2% increase from its 2024 level. WASHINGTON – The Federal Housing Finance Agency is increasing the size of home loans that the government can guarantee against default as it takes into account rising housing prices. Beginning … Read more
NEW YORK – The holidays bring happy times — but also financial burdens. And more than ever this past season. While inflation is easing, prices for just about everything are still considerably higher than they were pre-pandemic. In fact, Bankrate’s 2024 Holiday Shopping Survey found that 28% of holiday shoppers say they are stressed about … Read more
A survey shows 29% of Americans said real estate was their top pick for investing money they won’t need for at least 10 years. NEW YORK — Investors look for various opportunities they hope will help them grow their wealth. Some invest in the stock market directly by buying stocks and bonds, while others choose … Read more
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