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
Inflation and high prices remain top concerns, with little change in how consumers view their finances or the overall economy, according to the University of Michigan. ANN ARBOR, Mich. — U.S. consumer sentiment slipped modestly in October, with the University of Michigan’s Surveys of Consumers reporting a 1.5-point decline from September. While younger consumers showed a … Read more
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