HUD Keeping FHA Premiums High at Least a Little Longer
An FHA report finds stability and suggests premiums – money paid by borrowers to offset future loan troubles – should be lowered. But HUD wants a “cautionary approach.”
Leave a Lasting Impression: A Guide to Closing Gifts
A closing gift isn’t just a gift – it’s a “remember me the next time you want to buy or sell a house.” The best ones show that you understand a buyer’s wants and needs.
NAR’s Board Approves New Guidance for MLS Listings
According to NAR, the changes create greater transparency for consumers and “more explicitly state’ the spirit and intent of the NAR Code of Ethics and policies regarding information about commissions and broker participation in the marketplace.” Policies take effect Jan. 1.
NAR Economist Yun: Housing Market May Normalize in 2022
Forecasts always include caveats that may upend predictions, but NAR’s Lawrence Yun says the market is hot right now – and he sees more of the same in 2022. While next year’s sales may not surpass 2021 numbers, he expects a banner year compared to those before the pandemic.
Do Phone Apps Organize Your Business? What If You Die?
Currently, Apple permits iPhone users’ survivors to delete data without reading, but a new “Legacy Contact” feature will allow them to designate data inheritors.
Is a Flipped Home Better than ‘As Is’? Maybe, Maybe Not
Buyers may find a newly flipped home more appealing because much of it feels new –, but not all flips are the same. An inspection is highly recommended.
NAR Files Court Response to DOJ Agreement Dispute
In Sept., NAR filed a petition asking the Dept. of Justice to change or drop its opposition to an agreement announced earlier. On Fri., it reacted to DOJ’s response.
Commercial: Expect More Mixed-Space Development
Even commercial sectors hit hardest by COVID-19 are showing signs of life. Given tight residential markets, though, office-to-housing conversions are a hot topic.
First Time Ever: Inflation Soars as Mortgage Rates Plunge
The last time inflation rose as mortgage rates fell? Never. But the world is awash with cash, and that holds down mortgage rates, says Wells Fargo senior economist.
Veterans Day Legislation Targets GI Bill Racial Inequities
After WWII, white veterans got homebuying aid through the GI Bill, yet many Black veterans did not. A group of senators now want to offer that benefit to descendants.