NEW YORK –The best home improvement ideas for 2026 focus on five key themes: energy efficiency, smart technology, wellness-focused spaces, bold design and flexible living. Many of these upgrades are achievable without full-scale renovation, making meaningful transformation accessible across a range of budgets. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, U.S. … Read more
The average 30-year mortgage rate ticked up to 6% from 5.98% last week, while the 15-year rate averaged 5.43%, slightly down from 5.44% last week. WASHINGTON – The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate came off its lowest level in three and a half years this week, as bond yields marched higher following a spike in … Read more
Many Americans are nearing retirement with little saved. Why housing wealth is drawing new attention as a possible financial cushion. CHICAGO — A growing number of Americans are facing a harsh reality: Their retirement savings may not be enough. A new report from the National Institute on Retirement Security finds the average worker, ages 21 … Read more
MIAMI – If you’re approaching retirement and wondering whether refinancing your mortgage still makes sense, you’re far from alone. Millions of homeowners across the country are asking the same question as mortgage rates shift, federal policies change and the financial landscape heading into 2026 looks markedly different from just a few years ago. Here’s a … Read more
Florida’s Hometown Heroes used all 2025-2026 funds in six months, aiding 3,000 buyers. Continued funding remains a Florida Realtors legislative priority. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Hometown Heroes Housing program, the state’s workforce homebuyer initiative, has exhausted its 2025-2026 funding in just six months, helping more than 3,000 families become homeowners, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation … Read more
Florida Realtors’ committees influence advocacy, contracts and programs statewide. Learn how to apply during a Feb. 27 webinar at 1 p.m. ORLANDO, Fla. — From providing strategic direction and shaping public policy to steering the real estate profession’s future, Florida Realtors® committees are where the state’s most driven real estate professionals roll up their sleeves … Read more
Florida hit a new tourism high, driven by U.S. travelers. Strong visitor numbers can buoy local markets, from short-term rentals to retail and housing demand. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — On Friday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced it was another record-breaking year for tourism in the Sunshine State, reporting that Florida welcomed 143.3. million visitors throughout 2025. A … Read more
Real estate licensees can be disciplined in a variety of forums, including criminal courts, administrative hearings, and local real estate boards. In the second of three articles, we’ll focus on proceedings in front of the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC). ORLANDO, Fla. – FREC handles many tasks, like reviewing applications for licensure, reviewing escrow disbursement … Read more
Property managers and contractors working in pre-1978 homes may need EPA certification. Recent guidance clarifies who can be held liable. ORLANDO, Fla. – Federal law requires all renovation, repair and painting firms that work in housing or facilities where children are routinely present built prior to 1978 be certified. In Florida, this law is enforced … Read more
The Spanish-language digital issue will launch in April 2026. Members can join a waitlist for email alerts. The print and online English formats will continue. ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida Realtors® will launch the first Spanish-language digital edition of Florida Realtor magazine in April 2026, expanding its flagship publication to better reflect the state’s diverse membership … Read more
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