Rates on 30-year mortgages ticked up to 6.24% from 6.22% last week, while 15-year rates averaged 5.49%, down from 5.5% last week, Freddie Mac said. WASHINGTON — The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage edged higher for the second week in a row, though it remains near its low point so far this year. … Read more
Experts say the best home staging starts with a focal point, showcases light and room flow, and helps buyers picture living in the space day to day. WASHINGTON — For prospective home buyers, a well-staged home can stand out immediately in photos and in person. The best staged homes will prevent potential buyers from scrolling … Read more
More than 600 agents described how the federal shutdown has delayed loans, halted flood insurance renewals and stalled home sales nationwide. WASHINGTON — On Oct. 22, a few weeks into the federal government shutdown, the National Association of Realtors® issued a Call For Information to its full membership to take the pulse on the ramifications for … Read more
Careful planning, clear communication and realistic expectations can help homeowners avoid stress, safety issues and costly surprises during a remodel. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: We finally saved up enough money to remodel our kitchen. But after seeing some homes get remodeled for our friends, we’re a little concerned about the process. Do you have … Read more
Agents are embracing “digital door knocking,” using genuine online conversations, comments, messages and polls to build trust and attract new clients. NEW YORK — Real estate professionals are shifting away from one-sided social media marketing toward a more interactive approach, known as digital door knocking. Instead of relying solely on posts about listings or market … Read more
The longest full government shutdown in U.S. history is delaying sales and could lead to catastrophic risk for homeowners and businesses in flood zones, NAR said. WASHINGTON — With the full government shutdown now stretching beyond 30 days, the nation finds itself in unprecedented territory. The effects extend far beyond Washington. Local economies are beginning … Read more
State Farm and other insurers cite Florida’s stabilizing market and lower litigation costs as auto insurance rate cuts continue. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — State Farm is getting in on Florida’s auto insurance rate-cutting action. In a news release on Thursday, State Farm said its latest rate cut would bring down premiums for its customers by an … Read more
The rate on 30-year mortgages dropped to 6.17% from 6.19% last week, while the rate on 15-year mortgages fell to 5.41% from 5.44%, Freddie Mac said. The rate on 30-year mortgages dropped to 6.17% from 6.19% last week, while the rate on 15-year mortgages fell to 5.41% from 5.44%, Freddie Mac said. WASHINGTON — The … Read more
NEW YORK — If you’re watching the headlines, it’s tempting to assume business credit card fraud is only a big-company problem. In reality, it’s also a growing threat for startups, small businesses and even everyday consumers. Scammers increasingly target smaller companies because these businesses often lack the fraud prevention resources that larger enterprises can afford. … Read more
Small, meaningful pop-by gifts help agents stay connected with past customers, show appreciation and encourage referrals without feeling overly promotional. SARASOTA, Fla. — Real-estate professionals who use pop-by gifts during informal check-in visits with customers and contacts say the method helps maintain relationships and steady communication and demonstrates appreciation. Not all meetings should be formal, … Read more
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