Case-Shiller: Home Price Increases Picking Up Speed
Prices rose 6.6% year-to-year in Sept., the biggest increase since April 2018, thanks to still-strong buyer demand and record-low interest rates.
U.S. Borders with Canada, Mexico Remain Closed Through Dec. 21
Don’t get hopes up for cross-border holiday travel. With the pandemic apparently escalating, the borders aren’t expected to open anytime soon.
FHFA Conforming Loan Limits Rise Almost $38K in 2021
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will accept loans up to $548,250 next year – an increase from $510,400 in 2020. According to the seasonally adjusted FHFA Home Price Index, third-quarter housing prices rose 7.42% year-to-year, so loan limits will do the same.
Consumers Less Optimistic as Pandemic, Economy Take Toll
While Americans’ view of present conditions changed little, a slowing economy and growing pandemic fears seem to be giving them a bit less hope for early 2021.
The Latest Must-Have Buyer Demand? Friendly Neighbors
The pandemic forced a lot of people to appreciate the benefits of a good neighborhood, and more are penciling that in as a shopping list must-have.
Many Still Think Flood Loss Is Covered by Property Insurance
If a lender doesn’t require flood insurance, many homeowners assume they don’t need it. But in S. Fla., Tropical Storm Eta’s visit shows it’s still worth consideration.
Global Biz: ‘Realtor’ Is Your Brand More than Your Brokerage
NAR speakers said that NAR’s bilateral agreements give Realtors a gateway into global business and a symbol of trust. Under the agreements, member organizations agree to abide by NAR’s Code of Ethics, which gives each group a deeper level of confidence.
Legal Q&A: Can a Board Reject Modifications That Don’t Fit In?
A member of an HOA’s Architectural Review Committee says some legit requests for home expansions “would look very different.” Is that reason enough to deny them?
The Two Minute Summary of the CDC’s Eviction Moratorium
As it currently stands, the CDC’s eviction moratorium ends on Dec. 31, 2020. The order, which may or may not be extended, is limited in scope.
Build Business on Data, Not Your Charm
According to Leigh Brown, most agents aren’t asking one game-changer question: “Hey, friend, what are the three things you’re looking for in the agent you hire?”