CFPB Changes Rule That Would Make Mortgages Harder to Get
Fannie and Freddie would have tightened their loan standards on Jan. 10, mainly for debt-to-income ratios, but CFPB extended that date due to pandemic concerns.
Economy Rebounded 33.1% – but Second Downturn Expected
The U.S. had an amazing rebound in 3Q, but the Commerce Dept. predicts a second economic dip and slower rebound in 2021 if there isn’t another stimulus package.
Landlords Say Felon Fighting Fair Housing Is in It for the Money
Some targeted property owners say a group calling itself the Florida Fair Housing Alliance is suing landlords after only a phone call if the answer to “Do you rent to convicted felons?” is a “no.” Other fair housing groups say that tactic will do more harm than good.
How Many Snowbirds Will Return to Fla.? And When?
Restaurants and real estate rely on the yearly migration, but tourism bureaus rarely track numbers. While fewer Canadians may come, it’s unclear what to expect.
Brisk Weather Making You Think About Patio Heaters? Good Luck
Propane patio heaters are the “new toilet paper.” With the outdoors safer for avoiding the coronavirus, demand from Northerners has already decimated the supply.
Judge Temporarily Stops HUD’s ‘Disparate Impact’ Rule Change
HUD’s disparate-impact rule tries to stop discrimination that occurs in the absence of any overt discriminatory behavior. It’s now trying to walk that rule back a bit.
Fair Housing Groups Sue, Claiming a Business Practice ‘Redlines’
The group claims a “minimum price policy” business practice by Redfin benefits higher-income neighborhoods more than lower-income neighborhoods. Redfin denies the charges for “legitimate business reasons” but says it’s struggled with the issues raised.
RE Q&A: Can HOA Fine Me for Removing ‘Wear Your Mask’ Signs?
A condo owner removed signs that said “Wear Your Mask” from the building’s main doors, and the president now accuses him of vandalism. Can he be fined for this?
Commercial Website Reports Strong Interest in Office Space
The listing site, CommercialCafe, says a rising count of visitors are interested in commercial office space – a number that surpasses even pre-pandemic records.
Some Ultra-Rich Buyers Purchase a Home for Their Boat
The pandemic sparked strong demand for boats, an acceptable social distancing activity. But a dearth of parking spots led some people to buy homes for the dock space.