Gov’t Releasing $5B to Make Communities More Resilient
FEMA’s three “funding opportunities” give money to state and local governments that apply. The “pre-disaster funding” generally goes to disaster mitigation efforts.
Buyer Shock: Identity Theft Discovered in Mortgage Review
The 14.4M Americans suffering from identity theft usually discover it happened when they apply for credit, including first-time buyers trying to secure a mortgage.
FREC Considering Some Additions to Advertising Rules
At the Fla. Real Estate Commission’s July 22 meeting, commissioners discussed some possible changes to 61J-10.025 and plan to follow-up at a meeting on Sept. 22.
Lenders Can Now Consider Rent History for Fannie Mae Loans
Renters with thin credit histories may still qualify for a home loan under a Fannie Mae program that allows lenders to consider consistent, on-time rental payments when making lending decisions. Neither buyers nor lenders pay extra to use the new tool.
Short vs. Long-Term Inflation? Housing Poses Greatest Risk
Inflation in airline fares, car production and lumber prices should flatten soon. Inflation’s highest long-term risk comes from escalating home prices and rental rates.
Build a 3D Home? Fla. a Prime Market to Click ‘Print’
3D builders see Fla. as a prime market, and a home is currently under construction in Tallahassee. But the state’s building code doesn’t include 3D techniques yet.
Federal Judge Cites ‘Gamesmanship’ in CDC Eviction Ban
The judge who first ruled against CDC eviction bans said the latest order is “almost identical” to earlier bans ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Top 2020 Trend so Far? Single-Family Rentals and Build-to-Rent
These markets aren’t new, but there’s increased demand and a change in buyer preferences. As a result, investor competition for space is “fierce and getting fiercer.”
App Deters Crime by Tracking Realtors in the Field
You can’t put a price on personal safety – but if you could, it would be free for Florida Realtors’ members. SafeShowings, a phone app and member benefit, discourages problems because it logs client photos and automatically calls for help if you don’t respond within 45 minutes.
Sellers Want Realtors to Suggest Renovation Projects
What updates will make buyers swoon and perhaps offer more money? What updates waste money because buyers don’t really care? Sellers view Realtors as the experts.