Large companies are linking search, financing and closing into closed ecosystems to capture buyer leads early, a shift industry observers say makes local Realtor relationships and early customer outreach more critical. Mortgage companies and real estate firms are competing more aggressively to reach buyers earlier, a shift that could make Realtor® relationships and local guidance … Read more
Outdoor space is playing a larger role in buyer decisions, but sellers may get the most value from simple, low-maintenance curb appeal rather than costly garden upgrades. Outdoor space is becoming a bigger part of buyer conversations, but Realtors® can help clients separate lifestyle appeal from resale value. According to a 2023 National Association of … Read more
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.52% this week, just below its 2026 peak, while the 15-year fixed rate rose to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Both rates remain below year-ago levels of 6.84% and 5.97%, respectively. The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate ticked up this week to just below its high for the year, … Read more
A LendingTree study found Florida buyers could save an estimated $170 a month by comparing mortgage offers, adding another affordability step before the home search. Borrowers who compare mortgage offers can save thousands of dollars, a reminder that affordability is not only about home prices and mortgage rates. A new LendingTree analysis found borrowers nationwide could … Read more
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
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