Rising costs and economic uncertainty weighed on households in early March. The survey offers clues about buyer confidence as the spring homebuying season ramps up. ANN ARBOR, Mich. — U.S. consumer sentiment slipped in early March as rising gasoline prices and economic uncertainty weighed on households, according to preliminary results released Friday by the University … Read more
Despite delayed state budget, Florida Realtors secures policy wins and protects RE industry from unintended consequences during 2026 legislative session. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida lawmakers adjourned the 2026 legislative session Friday without approving a state budget, setting the stage for a special session to finalize spending for the upcoming fiscal year. Despite the unresolved budget, … Read more
NEW YORK — Every spring, thousands of homeowners list with the same goal: Sell quickly and walk away with the highest possible price. But in the busiest season of the year, strong demand alone doesn’t decide the outcome. The difference between a good sale and a great one often comes down to a handful of … Read more
Experts say budgeting for maintenance, energy upgrades and taxes can help homeowners manage rising housing costs. NEW YORK — For many homeowners, the house represents both a place of comfort and the largest line item in the family budget. But as maintenance expenses, insurance premiums, and property taxes continue to rise, financial stability increasingly depends … Read more
NEW YORK –The best home improvement ideas for 2026 focus on five key themes: energy efficiency, smart technology, wellness-focused spaces, bold design and flexible living. Many of these upgrades are achievable without full-scale renovation, making meaningful transformation accessible across a range of budgets. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, U.S. … Read more
The average 30-year mortgage rate ticked up to 6% from 5.98% last week, while the 15-year rate averaged 5.43%, slightly down from 5.44% last week. WASHINGTON – The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate came off its lowest level in three and a half years this week, as bond yields marched higher following a spike in … Read more
Many Americans are nearing retirement with little saved. Why housing wealth is drawing new attention as a possible financial cushion. CHICAGO — A growing number of Americans are facing a harsh reality: Their retirement savings may not be enough. A new report from the National Institute on Retirement Security finds the average worker, ages 21 … Read more
MIAMI – If you’re approaching retirement and wondering whether refinancing your mortgage still makes sense, you’re far from alone. Millions of homeowners across the country are asking the same question as mortgage rates shift, federal policies change and the financial landscape heading into 2026 looks markedly different from just a few years ago. Here’s a … Read more
Florida’s Hometown Heroes used all 2025-2026 funds in six months, aiding 3,000 buyers. Continued funding remains a Florida Realtors legislative priority. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Hometown Heroes Housing program, the state’s workforce homebuyer initiative, has exhausted its 2025-2026 funding in just six months, helping more than 3,000 families become homeowners, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation … Read more
Florida Realtors’ committees influence advocacy, contracts and programs statewide. Learn how to apply during a Feb. 27 webinar at 1 p.m. ORLANDO, Fla. — From providing strategic direction and shaping public policy to steering the real estate profession’s future, Florida Realtors® committees are where the state’s most driven real estate professionals roll up their sleeves … Read more
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