Federal Reserve Meets – Interest Rates Unchanged
Chairman Powell said the U.S. is “a long way from full recovery,” and the Fed will keep pursuing low-interest rate policies until an economic rebound is well under way.
How Would the Proposed $15K First-Time Buyer Tax Credit Work?
Pres. Biden campaigned on a new $15K credit to help first-time buyers. It doesn’t exist yet, but lawmakers will probably consider it eventually. If passed, it would likely work like the credit from 2008-2010, with a heavy spike in demand followed by a drop-off after the program ends.
Homeowners Complaining About ‘Ugly’ 5G Boxes in Yards
A nationwide 5G network will create super-fast internet connections, but to deliver it, companies install boxes the size of a chest freezer in front of some homes.
Fastest Down Payment Plan? Move in with Mom and Dad
Study: Assuming 5% down, adults in two Fla. metros could save enough in one year to buy a house if they A) move back home, and B) save all the unneeded rent money.
HUD May Allow Private Flood Insurance for FHA Loans
The comment period has ended for a proposal that would allow FHA to accept private flood insurance. NAR strongly backed the change and urges immediate adoption.
Florida Realtors Seeks Student Scholarship Winners
Fla. students may now apply for 2021-22 Education Foundation scholarships. To date, Florida Realtors has awarded $1,739,400 in scholarships to 1,189 students.
President Signs Executive Order on Fair Housing Issues
Biden summarizes the history of U.S. housing discrimination, promises a focus on solving problems, and asks HUD to study two recent regulations that may be repealed.
Citizens Rate Recommendation: Charge New Owners Full Price
The Fla.-owned property insurer’s board approved an average 7.2% rate increase – but it also wants to charge new policyholders a full actuarial rate. It’s unclear if Fla. officials will approve Citizens’ proposal, but any new-policyholder increase could affect some property sales.
Grow Leaders: Create an Agent Leadership Council
Training and promoting leaders can lead to brokerage and team success – and even real estate industry success. An Agent Leadership Council may be a good way to start.
Condo Q&A: What Happens If Reserve Funds Aren’t Enough?
A condo complex reserves funds every year to repaint buildings every seven – but it’s time to paint and the money falls short. Can they use other money for painting?