AI Scams Get Smarter: How to Protect Yourself
AI-driven social engineering is rising, using deepfakes and hyper-personalized attacks. Stay alert and verify requests to avoid being scammed.
Stronger Credit Scores Mean Lower Mortgage Costs
Boosting credit scores helps borrowers secure better mortgage rates, with payment history and low credit utilization key to long-term savings.
Adding Porch Pop and Lawn Wow to a Home
Boost your home’s first impression, aka curb appeal, with simple updates like fresh paint, stone pathways and colorful plants to create a welcoming, stylish yard.
Hometown Heroes Housing Program Reopens
Eligible first-time buyers can receive up to $35K for down payments and closing costs through the Hometown Heroes Housing program, a Florida Realtors’ priority.
July New Home Mortgage Applications Increase
Mortgage applications jumped by 6.8% YoY in July and 7% from June, driven by slightly lower mortgage rates and more newly built inventory.
Single-Family Starts Edge Slightly Higher
Housing starts increased 5.2% in July but affordability remains a challenge. Combined single- and multifamily starts fell 2.4% in the South YTD.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Making a Comeback
About 10% of mortgage applications are now for adjustable-rate mortgages, above 2010s levels, with longer intro rates and tighter borrower screening.
Great Gifts For New Homeowners
Agents can strengthen customer connections after closing with thoughtful gifts that include kitchen gadgets, cozy decor and practical household items.
Florida Home Insurer Wants Steep Rate Decreases
Florida Peninsula is seeking its largest-ever rate cuts: 8.4% for homeowner policies and 12% for condo policies, possibly starting Oct. 31 if regulators approve.
Mortgage Rates Fall: Is It Enough for Buyers?
With rates declining last week and mortgage applications for home purchases up, there’s hope on the horizon for slow markets, NAR said.