South Florida Real Estate

RE Q&A: Can HOA Make Me Remove Holiday Decor?

HOAs can restrict holiday decorations if its rules allow. Review governing documents, ask for clarification and work with neighbors to seek changes. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: I live in a homeowners’ association, and I decorated my house and yard for the holidays. They made me take it down under threat of a fine. Are … Read more

Finding the Right Contractor for Renovations

Homeowners should rely on referrals, compare written estimates, hire local when possible and confirm insurance coverage before selecting a contractor. NEW YORK — Home renovations are significant undertakings. A finished product tends to offer more appeal when the project is overseen and undertaken by a professional contractor. Finding the right contractor for a given job … Read more

Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Fair Credit Reporting Act outlines how credit data is collected, who can access it and what rights consumers have to dispute errors and protect their information. NEW YORK — Your credit report is one of the most important factors influencing your financial life. Lenders, landlords, insurance companies and even employers rely on your credit … Read more

Report Shows Florida’s Rental Crunch

A UF statewide study finds Florida’s rental demand outpacing supply, with rising costs, shrinking affordability and growing pressure on low-income households. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida’s rental market continues to tighten as population growth, higher rents and limited affordable options put pressure on households across the state, according to the 2025 Statewide Rental Market Study released … Read more

Winning the Listings Long Game

As markets normalize, agents can win more listings by leaning on local data, clearer pricing expectations and 90-day plans that build steady pipeline activity. NEW YORK – As the market shifts and normalizes, agents should move away from quick-hit “turn-and-burn” tactics and lean into a longer-term listing strategy built on data, qualifying and relationship, broker-owner … Read more

2025 Florida Market Cools, Early Rebound Emerging

Florida’s housing market slowed in 2025, but easing mortgage rates, steady migration and improving international activity point to early momentum. ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s housing market slowed through much of 2025 as high mortgage rates and affordability pressures weighed on buyer demand, but early signs suggest activity is beginning to rebound as rates ease, according … Read more

Preventing Delistings in Today’s Market

Delistings are rising in some markets as pricing gaps widen. Agents can keep sellers committed by setting realistic prices and staying proactive. CHICAGO – Home sellers are increasingly second-guessing the For Sale sign and stepping back if their homes don’t attract the offers they expect, according to a new report from Realtor.com. It highlights a … Read more

Mortgage Rates Remain Near Yearly Low

The average rate on 30-year mortgages slipped to 6.21% from 6.22% last week. Rates on 15-year mortgages averaged 5.47%, down from 5.54% last week. WASHINGTON – The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage edged lower this week, staying relatively close to its low for the year. The decline brings the average long-term mortgage rate … Read more

AI Tools Aim to Speed Agent-Buyer Connections

Emerging tech is helping agents spot buyer intent sooner, prompting timely outreach that turns interest into real conversations as 2026 approaches. NEW YORK — Real estate tech leaders are outlining the tools they believe will give agents an edge in 2026, with AI-driven platforms changing how professionals search, nurture and convert business. Inside Real Estate … Read more

What to Watch for Before Refinancing a Mortgage

Lower rates are tempting, but experts say aggressive pitches, upfront fees and “too good to be true” promises should raise concern. NEW YORK — The Federal Reserve continues to lower interest rates to perhaps pump some more energy into an economy with weak spots. That means things like mortgage rates could come down as well, … Read more