Few Russians Purchase in U.S., Even Fewer Expected Now
Sunny Isles, Fla. – “Little Moscow” – has been hot for Russian investors buying luxury homes. But sanctions send a message that investments may not be safeguarded.
Economic Standoff? Low Rates vs. Home Prices
Florida Realtors economist: Low interest rates made monthly mortgage payments cheaper, but home price appreciation may be washing out the impact of low rates.
What Makes a Good First Impression? Everything
Customers form an impression based on everything they see: clothes, jewelry, office décor. A UF study found laptop stickers enough to form an accurate impression.
Oregon Judge Says Love-Letter Ban too Restrictive
While NAR says “love letters” from buyers to sellers may violate the Fair Housing Act, judge says an actual ban violates the U.S. Constitution’s free speech rights.
Fla. Couple Sentenced for Rental Scams, More
A Hialeah couple was convicted for a $1.8M house-flipping scam, but detectives also found at least 19 rental-fraud victims from their fake social media ads.
Competition Pushes Buyers to All-Cash Companies
It’s a tight market for buyers and many sellers prefer cash offers. As a result, companies that help buyers present an all-cash offer are thriving.
Gated Community Guards Don’t Guarantee Security
While “gated community” sounds safe, it doesn’t guarantee homeowners’ security, especially if there are fence holes or easy-access golf courses.
Confusing Statistics: Are Rentals Up 35% or 24.3%?
It’s confusing for buyers and renters, but the key is understanding what’s being measured – and whether it’s the median or mean cost being used.
More Victims in S. Fla. Realtor-Rental Scam
At least a dozen people paid rental deposits on the same house before the three scammers – one posing as a Realtor – took the money and left town.
Great Recession Buyers Have Tons of Equity
Buyers who took a chance on a foreclosure or short sale around 2012 have seen values double or quadruple. But if they want to sell, where do they move?