Builders’ Confidence Dips Four Months in a Row
The index that measures home builders’ attitudes fell below 80 for the first time since last Sept., largely due to supply issues and interest-rate expectations.
Is the Starter Home Gone for Good?
Thanks to tight inventory and competition from institutional investors, more first-time buyers set their sights on larger homes with lots of backyard space.
As Refi Loans Decline, Equity Lines of Credit Rise
Refinancing has allowed homeowners to tap into built-up equity. If interest rates rise, however, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) may make more sense.
Finding Sellers: Desperate Times, Desperate Measures
One Orlando agent entices past clients with a monthly gift basket so they have “no choice” but to remember her. Another has a sales pitch for all fellow dog walkers.
NAHB to Pres. Biden: End Lumber Tariffs
During a virtual White House “listening session” Monday, builders said Canadian lumber tariffs dramatically affect new-home prices and economic stability.
Referrals: A Good ‘Thank You’ Encourages More
Top producers say 82% of their business comes from referrals, making good, ongoing “thank you’s” perhaps the most effective tool in a marketing arsenal.
Will Ukraine War Impact Fla. Real Estate?
On the one hand, Fla. is the No. 1 state for Russian RE investing – 29% of all U.S. purchases. On the other, Russian buyers make up only 0.8% of all foreign purchases.
Rising Rates Dampen Demand for Second Homes
Rising mortgage rates and home prices have dampened demand for vacation homes. As voluntary purchases, they tend to be more sensitive to market changes.
CBRE Survey: Commercial Investment to Grow 10%
Investors are expected to keep targeting real estate for attractive returns relative to other asset classes – and increasingly as a hedge against inflation.
HUD Gives Fla. $114M to Help the Homeless
The U.S. will spend $2.6B in the next fiscal year to end homelessness, with 328 Fla. agencies receiving anywhere from $10,000 to $3.2 million.