New-Home Builders Doing Great Despite Challenges
The Oct. builder sentiment index rose 4 points higher to 80. Any 50-plus score indicates optimism, so today’s hot market still overshadows supply-chain worries.
Real Estate Analytics: Unlocking Value in Commercial Real Estate
Commercial brokers have always crunched data to make sure an investment makes financial sense. But high-tech analytics can take that analysis to a new level.
NAR Research: Student Loan Debt Makes Home Buying Difficult
How much does student-loan debt impact buyers? A three-year NAR study calls for reform, noting that millennials are “drowning in student loan debt.”
Fannie Mae Changes Homeowner Education Requirements
Starting in 2022, homeowners with an affordable loan backed by Fannie Mae can fulfill the education requirement using a qualified third-party vendor.
Another Reason to Move to Fla.? Home Heating Prices
The usual move-to-Fla. reasons – sun, beaches and no income tax – omit one item: home-heating costs. A harsh NE winter this year could push natural gas prices 50% higher.
Report: Fla. Closing Costs Are 2.32% of Home Price
In the U.S., closing costs, including taxes, were up 10.5% year-to-year, and almost $7K for an average price home. In Fla. it’s a bit higher: $8.5K for the average home.
Fla.-Owned Insurer’s CEO Cites ‘Sea of Red Ink’
The head of Citizens Property Insurance calls losses among all state insurers “absolutely staggering.” He blames the marketplace itself, saying it impacts every company.
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.