Home Buying

Higher Credit Scores Provide Emotional Comfort

FICO study: While credit scores empower users to secure loans or get better interest rates, some people view them almost like a test, and an “A” grade provides security. SAN JOSE, Calif. – Global analytics software firm FICO released the results of a national survey, Credit Scores Uncovered: Consumer Relationships with their Scores. While credit … Read more

U.S. Consumer Confidence Down a Bit, but Positive

The Consumer Confidence Index rose to 109 in Dec. and dropped a bit to a still-optimistic 107.1 in Jan. as the possible threat of a 2023 recession looms. BOSTON – American consumers are kicking off 2023 a bit less confident than they were at the end of last year as inflation and the possibility of … Read more

Hope to Buy a Canadian Home? Wait Two Years

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TORONTO – On January 1, 2023, the Canadian government’s Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act (the Act) and the associated Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Regulations (the Regulations) came into effect. The Act prohibits “non-Canadians” – which, by virtue of the Regulations, includes entities formed outside of … Read more

RE Pros: 10 Ways to Save When Money Is Tight

For independent contractors, a slowing market might mean less money. But budgeting is always important since commission checks ebb and flow. CHICAGO – You may be watching your cash flow during the market slowdown. Use these smart tips to protect your nest egg. News about economic tumult may be making you feel jittery about your … Read more

Real Estate Trends: What’s the 2023 Fla. Outlook?

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Florida Realtors chief economist: Expect Fla. housing to return to a more “traditional” market like in 2018-2019 “as supply and demand become more balanced.” ORLANDO, Fla. – What should consumers, Realtors® and policymakers expect when it comes to Florida real estate over the next year? After the unexpectedly strong years of 2020 and 2021 despite an … Read more

Top Office Owners Don’t Want Only Offices

The office market is in a state of flux, and future demand relies on factors that have not yet played out. As a result, investors are considering other commercial areas. NEW YORK – Many of the most prominent office developers in the United States are shifting gears, looking to buy or build real estate that is … Read more

How Does a Home Equity Loan Affect Credit Scores?

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SAN JOSE, Calif. – Homeowners with significant equity may be able to tap some of that through a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). Before they do, however, it’s important to consider how taking on an additional loan or line of credit may affect their credit score. According to the myFICO … Read more

Confusion: Kick Out Clause vs. Right of First Refusal

When asked about the Kick Out Clause vs. a Right of First Refusal, most Realtors say, “I know they’re not the same thing – but I can’t tell you how they’re different.” Here’s a rule of thumb: The Right of First Refusal usually stems from something external, such as HOA docs. ORLANDO, Fla. – Do … Read more

Right of First Refusal: Can Sellers Cancel Contracts?

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A condo seller secured a sales contract, but the condo association has Right of First Refusal and opted to buy the condo under the contract’s terms. If the seller doesn’t want to sell to the association, can they cancel the contract altogether? WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Question: Last June, I had intended to sell … Read more