FHFA’s 2022 ‘Goals’ Expand Lending to Low-Income Americans
The proposed goals expand the number of Fannie and Freddie loans that would go to low- and moderate-income families, minorities, rural areas and underserved populations.
Property Insurance Costs Too Much? 7 Ways to Reduce It
When is the lowest-cost insurer not the lowest-cost insurer? When another company actually charges less because you bundled or installed security or did something else.
New-Home Material Costs Rose Almost 20% in One Year
Lumber costs – down 30% in July but 72% higher than in Jan. – suggest prices are going down. But they aren’t. Year-to-year steel costs are up 109% and gypsum is up 16%.
Lawmakers Want FTC to Investigate Zillow Over Antitrust
Members of House and Senate antitrust subcommittees asked the Federal Trade Commission to see if Zillow’s acquisition of ShowingTime could violate U.S. antitrust laws.
New-Home Construction Slumps 7% in July
Strong housing demand will keep pushing builders to build, and the number of new permits issued – a sign of future activity – rose 2.6%. But high material costs, fewer workers and land limitations hold back growth. July home starts rose only in the South, the area that includes Fla.
Fewer Bidding Wars May Open Door for More Buyers
Buyer competition has shown some signs of easing, however two Fla. metro areas – Tampa and Orlando – remain two of the top 15 U.S. metros for bidding wars.
Homeowners’ Do-It-Yourself Frenzy May Be Waning
Home Depot’s sales are still up, but not as “up” as they were only a few months ago. One expert says lots of homeowners remodeled during lockdowns – but not as many now.
Loans Based on Rent-Payment History? Some Fear New Problems
Some worry that it waters down approvals and could lead to a future foreclosure crisis. Others say it will help the 17% of buyers who were already just shy of approval.
Builder Confidence Hits 13-Month Low as Demand Drops
Homebuilder confidence hit its lowest level since July 2020. While labor shortages and supply challenges played a role, buyer “sticker shock” is the new concern.
Realtor.com Launches Microsite With Fair Housing Resources
The real estate ad site says it built “Realtor.com for Everyone” to provide fair housing information and “demonstrate our commitment … to housing equality.”