NAR: Realtors Critical to Opportunity Zones’ Affordable Housing
Opportunity zone laws create an ideal way to maximize profit when building affordable housing, but Realtors need to take the initiative and make it happen.
NAR Adds 2 New Global Partners for a Total of 107
NAR’s global network extends to 87 countries. New to the list: The Association of Estate Agents in Nigeria and Association of Real Estate Agents of Trinidad and Tobago.
Homes Usually Sell for Less in Dec. – but Not This Year
The pandemic tossed traditional “best time of year to buy a home” advice out the window. This year, low inventory and strong demand continue to drive the market.
A Vacation Home for Escape? Online Searches Hit 5-Year High
Cabin fever has led more Americans to look for … well, a cabin. An online listing site says interest doubled since 2019, and Google searches are up as much as 235%.
Homebuyers’ Down Payments Rise as Home Prices Climb
Buyers saving money each month for a down payment may find the goalposts have moved. If home prices rise 5%, the amount of money they need to put down does too.
Fed Keeps Interest Rates Near Zero – Willing to Do More
The Federal Reserve didn’t change rates this week, but it pledged to use its “full range of tools” to support the U.S. economy as the pandemic continues to grow.
Homeownership Creates Wealth Even If That’s Not the Goal
Homeowners who spent a lifetime working, raising families and paying mortgages have a greater net worth later in life. Among U.S. families who own rather than rent, a primary residence accounts for 90% of total wealth – and 99% for the bottom 20% of low-income owners.
Amendment 5 and Tax Benefits: What It Means for Fla. Sellers
Floridians passed Realtor-supported Amendment 5, giving sellers up to three years – an increase from two – to transfer (port) accrued property tax benefits to a new home.
Homeowners’ Priorities Shift from Countertops to More Space
Since the pandemic, buyers focus now on more space and outdoor features. Square footage, living space, floor design and outdoor spaces, like pools, are top priorities.
Can Landlord Demand Rent if Tenant Can’t Stay Due to Disaster?
The situation isn’t clear: Roads damaged by a disaster mean a tenant is blocked from her apartment and must temporarily rent elsewhere. What does the lease allow?