Experts: Lock in Mortgage Rate Now
Rates likely will continue to rise. An Oct. Bankrate survey says that among homeowners who’ve had a mortgage since before the pandemic, 74% have not refinanced.
House-hunting Blues
Many buyers in Fla. and across the U.S. are feeling the impact of a lack of inventory, competition from investors and rising prices during their home search.
Associations Can’t Stop Owners From Taping Meetings
Condo Q&A: While statutes say unit owners have the right to record or videotape meetings with a quorum, the association can adopt reasonable rules about it.
Why Social Media Is Crucial to Real Estate Agents
NAR: Social media is a top source of quality leads, say 47% of real estate firms; and 66% of first-time home buyers are millennials, who widely use social media.
Real Estate Trends to Watch This Spring
Realtor.com: Home sellers may continue to hold the upper hand, but buyers may be more sensitive to price increases; and more inventory could enter the market.
Insufficient Flood Insurance Impacts $4.5B in FHA Loans
HUD: A 2020 audit found at least 31,500 of the loans that year in designated special flood hazard areas didn’t maintain the required flood insurance coverage.
In 1st Full Year of Pandemic, Biggest Metros Lost Residents
The pandemic intensified moves to the South and West, increased population in some micro cities and slowed population growth in the biggest U.S. cities.
Fed Up With so Many Northerners Moving to Fla.?
Survey: Over 73% of Floridians polled say too many people have moved in from out of state, putting pressure on the housing market; 51% are considering leaving Fla.
Attract Buyers With These Home Staging Digital Tools
82% of agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to see the property as a future home, and buyers (46%) say staging the living room is most important.
Accessory Dwellings Get 2nd Look in Tight Housing Market
The units help with housing shortages and are part of a shift toward smaller, more affordable and energy-efficient homes. But municipalities’ rules differ.