Smart Ways to Protect Your Financial Data
Scams are growing more sophisticated, but experts say steps like limiting data sharing, freezing credit and using two-factor authentication can help.
Birds, Bats and Bug Spray: Keep Mosquitoes Away
Attracting mosquito-eating birds and bats to your yard is one way to boost your defenses against mosquitos. Don’t forget to remove standing water.
Single-Family Starts Weaken in June
Single-family starts hit their lowest since July 2024, down 4.6%. Overall starts rose 4.6% thanks to a 30% surge in multifamily building.
Builder Confidence Edges Up in July
Builders remained cautious as elevated interest rates and affordability challenges continued in July. Buyer traffic fell to its lowest level since 2022.
Inflation, Fed Outlook Lift Rates
Mortgage rates rose this week, but steady inflation data suggests a more stable outlook. Buyers may benefit from clearer signals in the months ahead.
NAR Lauds Passage of VA Home Loan Reform Act
The bill that makes permanent the VA’s temporary policy letting veterans pay their real estate agents directly is headed to the president’s desk.
Consumer Sentiment Inches Up
Consumer sentiment rose slightly to its highest point in five months. Despite easing inflation expectations, economic concerns remain elevated.
Florida Realtors Names Sr VP of Public Policy
With 37 years’ experience as legislative counsel, Trey Goldman now will oversee Florida Realtors’ legislative and regulatory advocacy-related efforts in Tallahassee.
Mortgage Rates Rise for Second Straight Week
Rates on 30-year mortgages rate ticked up to 6.75% from 6.72% last week while rates on 15-year mortgages increased to 5.92% from 5.86%.
Insurer OK’d to Take Citizens Policies
Florida Peninsula Insurance Co. is expected to assume up to 40,000 policies from Citizens in late October as part of the depopulation program.