South Florida Real Estate

Rising Rates Haven’t Slowed Pending Sales

Pending home sales posted their biggest increase since 2021 recently, but some house hunters are starting to pull back, Redfin said. SEATTLE – Pending U.S. home sales rose 3.2% year over year during the four weeks ending October 13, the biggest increase in three years, according to a new report from the real estate brokerage … Read more

In-Person Hurricane Recovery Support Available

ORLANDO, Fla. — Home and business owners who need in-person help navigating hurricane-recovery resources can visit Florida Small Business Development Center Network’s mobile assistance center and  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Centers this week. The Florida SBDC, in partnership with state and federal agencies, has been on the ground in impacted communities to … Read more

SBA Encourages Disaster Loan Applications

The SBA said disaster survivors should not wait to settle with insurance companies before applying for disaster loans. Also, Milton, Helene insurance claims increased. ORLANDO, Fla. — The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is urging business owners, homeowners and renters impacted by the recent hurricanes to apply for its Disaster Loan Program funding even … Read more

New Hurricane Aid Available for Repairs

Operation Blue Roof, which provides free tarps for damaged homes, opened for applications, and HUD announced a 90-day foreclosure moratorium on FHA-insured mortgages. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – New aid initiatives launched to support Florida residents as they continue their recovery from Hurricanes Milton and Helene, with a focus on services that will help homeowners, renters and … Read more

Milton, Helene Insurance Claims Increase

The back-to-back hurricanes that swept across parts of Florida have caused billions in damages, according to the latest insurance estimates. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused billions of dollars in damages across the state with the Tampa Bay and Sarasota-Bradenton areas taking the biggest hits. Links to /tools-research/hurricane-resources/helene-recovery-assistance-realtors-resources We have gathered resources for … Read more

FEMA, Business Aid Available for Milton, Helene

ORLANDO, Fla. –  Homeowners and renters in 34 Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton can now apply for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Links to /tools-research/hurricane-resources/helene-recovery-assistance-realtors-resources We have gathered resources for Realtors in Florida to help you recover and rebuild. President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for Florida in the wake … Read more

Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate Increases

Rates on 30-year mortgages ticked up to 6.32% on Thursday (Oct. 10)  from 6.12% the previous week. Borrowing costs on 15-year mortgages rose to 5.41%. WASHINGTON – The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. surged to 6.32% this week, adding pressure on home buyers facing sky-high prices and a limited supply of … Read more

NAR Consumer Guide: Fair Housing

The Fair Housing Consumer Guide doesn’t constitute any change in NAR policy. It covers the Realtor’s role in promoting housing equity as well as other matters. WASHINGTON – The newest National Association of Realtors®’ Consumer Guide covers fair housing: Why it’s important, how the laws apply to buyers and sellers and why Realtors® are integral … Read more

Hurricanes Milton, Helene: Resources Available Now

Realtors and residents affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene can apply for financial assistance and programs that offer aid for damaged homes and offices. ORLANDO, Fla. – Applications are being accepted for grant funding through the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) Realtors Relief Foundation and the Florida Realtors®’ Disaster Relief Fund assistance programs for victims of Hurricanes … Read more

Credit Scores Matter | Florida Realtors

Unless you’re a cash buyer, credit scores are the most important factor lenders consider in a mortgage application. It shows the ability to repay, NEW YORK – Strictly speaking, you don’t need a credit score to buy a house. If you’re paying cash, for example, no one necessarily cares whether you have good credit. However, … Read more