Securing pre-approval before starting a home search is essential. It strengthens offers, shows seriousness and helps with a smoother buying process. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As this fall market is picking up, we are seeing a lot of first time homebuyers and folks who have not purchased in many years. The first question these buyers get … Read more
U.S. job growth slowed in August and unemployment rose to 4.3%, boosting expectations of a Fed rate cut that may ease mortgage rates for homebuyers. WASHINGTON – U.S. job growth weakened sharply in August while the unemployment rate increased to nearly a four-year high of 4.3%, confirming that labor market conditions were softening and sealing … Read more
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage fell to 6.5% from 6.56%, while borrowing costs on 15-year mortgages slipped to 5.6% from 5.69%. WASHINGTON — The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage fell again this week, extending a recent trend that should give prospective homebuyers more purchasing power. The long-term rate eased to 6.5% … Read more
RE Q&A: Owners are required to pay special assessments. Boards may allow payment plans, while options such as reverse mortgages or selling may help manage costs. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Question: Our condo board just passed a huge special assessment to fix the roof. I live on a fixed income and cannot afford to pay … Read more
By investing in a clear and consistent brand identity, small businesses can enhance their competitive edge and establish a lasting presence in the market. NEW YORK – Branding is traditionally associated with large corporations that invest heavily in marketing and visual identity. However, in today’s increasingly competitive and interconnected markets, branding is equally essential for … Read more
TAMPA, Fla.— As the scenario of a higher-than-average hurricane season is again upon us, the property insurance scenarios for homeowners and business owners in Florida are definitely getting better, insurance experts say. Some even say the industry has recovered. If so, that’s saying quite a lot. This follows several years of devastating storms making various … Read more
Rates on 30-year mortgages dipped to 6.85% from 6.89% last week, while 15-year mortgage rates fell to 5.99% from 6.03% last week. WASHINGTON — The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. fell this week for the first time in a month, but borrowing costs for homebuyers remain elevated. The long-term rate dipped … Read more
The nonpartisan Florida Taxwatch group said Florida’s economic growth pattern should match or surpass the national economic growth pattern for the next five years. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A report released Tuesday says Florida’s population could grow by 1.4 million people by 2030 and cautions that inflation’s effects could linger into 2027. The quarterly economic performance … Read more
The laws speed up commercial squatter evictions and are a 2025 Florida Realtors’ priority. SB 322 was championed by Realtor caucus member Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez. SARASOTA, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference Monday to sign two bills aimed at limiting squatters’ rights in Florida. Held at The Westin Sarasota, DeSantis addressed … Read more
Rather than waiting for rates to drop, buyers should be looking at all monthly costs to get a picture of what they can afford, says NAR’s deputy chief economist. CHICAGO — Home buyers may need to brace for a new reality: Mortgage rates in the upper 6% or even 7% range –at least for the … Read more
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