South Florida Real Estate

U.S. Consumer Sentiment Dips Slightly

Year-ahead inflation expectations increased from 2.8% last month to 3.3% this month, according to the Consumer Sentiment Index by the University of Michigan. ANN ARBOR, Mich. — U.S consumer sentiment was essentially unchanged in January, inching down less than one index point from December, well within the margin of error, according to the University of … Read more

Shielding Your Business from Cyber Threats

NEW YORK — As hacking attempts become increasingly sophisticated, experts stress the importance of adopting robust security measures to safeguard personal devices. Cybersecurity breaches have skyrocketed, with financial losses from cyber incidents quadrupling since 2017, according to the International Monetary Fund. While most losses hover around a half million, severe attacks can cost companies as … Read more

Boost Marketing with AI Video Tools for Agents

NEW YORK — Do you use video as part of your marketing tool kit? If not, research says you should. More than 80% of U.S. adults use YouTube, and more than 50% of all consumers use video to help make a purchasing decision. Yet, only about one in three agents use YouTube for marketing. One … Read more

Consumer Guide: Homeowners Insurance Explained

NAR’s newest Consumer Guide simplifies homeowners insurance with key insights on costs, coverage and claims to help buyers make informed choices. ORLANDO, Fla. — Homeowners insurance can be confusing for anyone, especially new buyers. How much will it cost? What does it cover? How much will the insurer pay if I make a claim? The … Read more

January Mortgage Outlook: Rates Trending Lower

Mortgage rates in January could fluctuate due to Fed policies and economic uncertainty, with rates ending the month lower, according to NerdWallet. NEW YORK — Mortgage rates might ride up and down in January and finish lower than where they started, like a road trip that begins in the mountains and ends at the beach. … Read more

Finding a Dream Home in the New Year

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

Rising Demand for Private Marinas in Luxury Markets

As boating grows in popularity, luxury homebuyers are seeking private marinas for convenience and safety. Developers are meeting the demand. MIAMI — As boating increases in popularity, a growing number of buyers are seeking private marinas at their luxury homes for convenience and safety. Private marinas provide flexibility for homeowners for unplanned outings and add … Read more

Boomers Plan to Pass $17T in Equity to Children

Freddie Mac reports 75% of boomer homeowners plan to leave their home or its sale proceeds to family, with home equity totaling $17 trillion nationwide. MCLEAN, Va. — Three quarters of homeowners born before 1964 are likely to leave much of their $17 trillion in home equity to their children, according to Freddie Mac’s latest … Read more

Essential Real Estate News to Start 2025

Mortgage rates rising, new SBA loan funding, updated condo rules and approaching deadlines for businesses highlight the start of 2025. ORLANDO, Fla. – The past two weeks have brought some changes to the state and national real estate market, setting the stage for a pivotal start to 2025. Key developments include fluctuating mortgage rates and … Read more

Rate Cuts to Slow in New Year

NEW YORK — The Federal Reserve’s third interest rate cut of the year will likely have consequences for debt, savings, auto loans, mortgages and other forms of borrowing by consumers and businesses. But with inflation pressures still elevated, the Fed indicated in mid-December that it’s likely to cut rates more gradually in 2025 than it … Read more