White House Targets Economic Risks from Climate Change
A new 40-page report takes a broad view on steps being taken to mitigate risks, including possible HUD and VA buyer disclosures on flood and climate-related threats.
U.S. Funding More Multifamily in 2022 – 50% Must be Affordable
The U.S. will increase loan caps for multifamily housing by 11.4% next year, and 50% of the $156B total ($140B this year) must go to “mission-driven affordable housing.”
How Many Offers Did the Typical 2021 Buyer Make? Two
While stories about multiple offers and foregone inspections are pervasive, a study found that most buyers won by their second bid and 88% had a home inspection.
Commercial Real Estate: Opportunities and Challenges Abound
Florida Realtors economist: Real estate’s residential side has been on fire since summer 2020. How has the commercial side fared? It’s hot – and it’s not. It depends on where you look. The delta variant of COVID-19 slowed the office market even as it relit a fire under other commercial sectors.
Mortgage Rates Surpass 3% Again – Hit a 6-Month High
Average mortgage rates continue to hover around 3%, but they’ve slowly ticked higher. This week, the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.05%.
Many Condo Appraisers Will Start Assessing Building Safety
In response to the Surfside condo collapse, Fannie Mae says its condominium loan decisions after Jan. 1 will include a stronger look at the overall condo building. Loan decisions will consider current or planned special assessments and any deferred maintenance issues.
U.S. Land Border Plan: Vaccinated Canadians Can Return in Nov.
Officials say Canadians can start returning in early Nov. if they’re fully vaccinated. One twist: It’s unclear if that includes Canadians who got two different vaccines.
Some Nonbanks Raised Conforming Loan Limits to $625K
Loan limits will likely go up to $625K in 2022, but FHFA hasn’t announced it yet. Still, higher home values have convinced some lenders to boost loan limits now.
What Would Boost the Real Estate Industry? More Babies
The U.S. birth rate is the lowest it’s been in more than 100 years, and pregnant homeowner couples are a top reason buyers decide to upgrade to a large house.
U.S. Foreclosures Soar – But They Also Fall
In 3Q, the number of U.S. foreclosures surged 67% year-to-year as homes exited forbearance and bans ended. But compared to “normal” 3Q 2019, they’re down 60%.