Employers added more jobs than expected in May, a sign of labor market strength that could keep mortgage rates in focus for buyers and sellers. Stronger-than-expected hiring in May points to a resilient labor market, but it could also keep mortgage affordability in focus if the Federal Reserve sees less reason to cut interest rates … Read more
International buyers remained highly focused on Florida in the first quarter of 2026, with Miami, Orlando and Tampa ranking among the nation’s most-viewed housing markets by overseas shoppers. Canadian demand is also rising across several Florida metros, particularly in Cape Coral, Naples and North Port. Florida continues to stand out as a top destination for … Read more
Florida lawmakers begin a special session today to consider Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposal to expand the homestead exemption and establish a path toward eliminating property taxes on primary residences. If approved by lawmakers, the constitutional amendment would go before voters for consideration. Florida lawmakers begin a special session today to consider Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposal … Read more
A proposed federal rule could reshape how independent contractors are classified under labor law, a change real estate leaders say would provide more clarity and consistency for brokers and agents. WASHINGTON — The National Association of Realtors® is backing a proposed U.S. Department of Labor rule that could reshape how independent contractors are classified under … Read more
Florida House and Senate leaders reached a final agreement on a nearly $115 billion state budget late Sunday, clearing the way for lawmakers to hold a final vote Friday after an extended special session. The plan includes funding for Florida Realtors legislative priorities – Hometown Heroes, SHIP and SAIL affordable housing programs. Florida lawmakers are … Read more
As competition grows and larger brokerages invest heavily in retention and technology, more agents are combining direct mail, email, digital content and relationship-based outreach into coordinated campaigns designed to create long-term visibility and steady business momentum. As larger real estate companies build more connected systems and spend heavily on retention and marketing, individual agents need … Read more
Florida’s luxury housing market gained momentum in early 2026, with multimillion-dollar home and condo sales rising sharply statewide, led by strong growth in the ultra-high-end market. Florida’s luxury housing market surged in early 2026, with multimillion-dollar home and condo sales posting some of the strongest gains in the state despite elevated mortgage rates and broader … Read more
Mortgage rates could remain near 6.3% through much of 2026, a forecast that could continue shaping affordability, inventory and buyer demand. Local market conditions and negotiating trends remain critical as inventory slowly improves. Higher mortgage rates are expected to stick around longer than previously forecast, a development that could continue shaping buyer demand, affordability and … Read more
House and Senate negotiators remain aligned on $50 million for Hometown Heroes and full SHIP and SAIL appropriations as budget talks continue. Florida lawmakers appear to be keeping several key housing and real estate priorities intact as negotiations continue during the state’s 2026 Budget Special Session. Both the House and Senate are currently aligned on … Read more
Litigation drops, insurers cut rates and more companies enter Florida, easing insurance costs and improving affordability and market stability. Florida’s recent legal reforms tied to property insurance are showing measurable results, with litigation dropping sharply and insurance costs easing for homeowners and renters, according to new research from the American Property Casualty Insurance Association. The … Read more
© 2026 Galleria International Realty
