IRS Backtracks: Won’t Ask for Your Photo
To avoid fraud, the IRS said it would require photos for tax confirmation – but privacy advocates and some lawmakers fear online storage of biometric info.
Broadband Goes from ‘Perk’ to Must-Have’
Rural homes – often a top pick for remote workers – may not have fast internet capabilities, which can ding the sales value. But buyers still have options.
Mortgage Rates Hit Two-Year High: 3.69%
After three fairly calm weeks, the average rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rose to 3.69% from last week’s 3.55%.
Jan. Foreclosures: Up Dramatically, Low Historically
ATTOM’s Jan. report finds foreclosures up 29% month-to-month and 139% year-to-year. But the eviction ban skewed numbers, and “normal” is expected in late 2022.
Can HOA Director’s Firm Be Awarded Contracts?
Q&A: A company owned by a director participated in a condo’s landscape bidding process. He abstained from voting and got the contract. Is that legal?
Some Realtors’ Marketing Technique: Brutal Honesty
In videos for out-of-state buyers, some Realtors point out flaws upfront. They say it sets realistic expectations, lowers buyer’s remorse and creates customer trust.
Fla. Has $740.4M in Emergency Rental Assistance
The state received new federal recovery money to help struggling Fla. renters. DCF, which oversees the program, says it has disbursed $858M so far.
NAR Unveils New ‘That’s Who We R’ ads
The campaign distinguishes Realtors’ professionalism compared to “all the others.” The four new ads verify your expertise, ethics and neighborhood knowledge.
Fewer New Condos Built Despite Housing Crisis
The share of new condo units built over the last year was less than 5.4% – almost the lowest level in half a century, according to an Urban Institute report.
Zillow-Owned Homes Challenge Realtors and Buyers
Zillow’s shutdown of “Zillow Offers” quickly added some new listings to the market but buyers’ agents say they’re frustrated by slow response times and other issues.