Four Ways to Drum Up More Inventory
Sometimes a homeowner who generally wants to sell can be offered a reason to do so now. Other times, it helps to contact people likely to sell, such as divorcing couples.
Fla. Leading the Way in Minority Homeownership
The homeownership rate for Black and Latino families lags white households, but Fla. ranks third nationwide for its efforts and a homeownership rate for both at 68.1%.
Demand for Vacation Homes Falls: First Time in a Year
It’s too soon to call it a trend, but the pandemic-driven push for vacation homes appears to be slowing as an increasing number of buyers search for year-round homes.
CoreLogic: Mortgage Delinquency Rate at Lowest Level in a Year
More homeowners have started paying their mortgage: Only 4.9% were behind in April 2021. Early-stage delinquencies dropped to 1%, but serious delinquencies rose to 3.3%.
Buyer Myth: Saying ‘I Do’ Doesn’t Marry Your Credit Scores
What happens to credit scores after you get married? They don’t merge, but joint purchases, such as a house, can help or harm one spouse. After a divorce? That’s tricky.
Words to Sell Houses Changed During Pandemic
Most listing descriptions once started with things like “granite countertops” and “wood floors” – but words like “large” and “spacious” became common this past year.
Judge Blocks Roofing-Contractor Part of Property Insurance Law
A law passed this year attempts to ease Fla.’s rising property insurance premiums by limiting roofing companies’ abilities to help homeowners get a “free” insurance-paid roof replacement. But a judge issued an injunction and said the Constitution protects roofers’ free speech rights.
Rental Reimbursements: Many Lack Needed Computer Skills
To help residents apply for federal past-due rent money, Seminole County opened a computer lab. It offers needed tech equipment and helps with applications.
The Economics of Home Offers: Above or Below List Price?
Florida Realtors economist: In today’s market, prepare buyers to consider paying at least asking price – over half of successful Fla. transactions do. But it’s not a simple question, and the pressure varies by property type and asking price.
Are Homes Near Public Transit Still Worth More?
Pre-pandemic, home values increased if close to public transit; but as many people escaped cities, home values rose more in car-dependent communities.