Fed Maintains Interest Rates, Downplays Rising Pandemic Risk
The Federal Reserve didn’t change interest rates, largely downplayed inflation fears, and said each successive wave of pandemic resurgence has had less economic impact.
Pandemic Boat Buys Boost Demand for Homes with Docks
Boating’s appeal skyrocketed during pandemic-era social distancing, and the water-lovers who pushed boat sales 12% higher now need a place to park it.
Mortgage Rates Move a Little Bit Higher This Week
While average mortgage rates have generally declined over the past few weeks, the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rose from last week’s 2.78% to 2.80%.
Pool Homes Commanding Higher Prices Across U.S.
While pools are unique in many U.S. areas, they’re more common in Fla. In some South Fla. metros, 3 out of 4 homes offer a swimming pool in the backyard.
SBA Simplifies Paycheck Protection (PPP) Loan Forgiveness
Small businesses that borrowed $150K or less can soon apply for loan forgiveness directly through the Small Business Administration rather than their lender.
NAR: June’s Pending Home Sales Fall 1.9%
The number of homes that went under contract “has seesawed since Jan.,” says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, but higher home prices have taken a toll. In areas where housing is more affordable, local pending sales rose because buyer demand remains strong.
Large Single-Family Investors Ramping Up Inventory
Single-family investing is a profitable niche. Big companies continue to expand their inventory, but it’s unclear how much they can grow before there’s a public backlash.
Defend Your Commission: Reasons Why You’re Worth It
It isn’t hard to find buyers right now, but sellers need you to fill out contracts, negotiate multiple-bid offers and screen buyers to verify that they’re qualified.
NAR: 2 of 5 ‘Volunteering Works’ Winners Are from Fla.
NAR and the Good Neighbor Society named the five volunteers who will receive seed money and mentoring – a list that includes Realtors from Seminole and Jacksonville.
Consumer Confidence Relatively Unchanged in July
U.S. consumers remain optimistic: July’s confidence index is about the same as June’s, after gains in each of the prior 5 months – and the highest since Feb. 2020.