Today’s News August 16, 2019
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- It’s a Challenging World – But You Can Make It Better
As one of the most powerful advocacy organizations in the state, Florida Realtors can affect change. Pick any hot topic– algae, flood insurance, iBuyers, service animals – the annual convention is a once-per-year chance to change talk into action.
- Housing Markets Aren’t Usually Hurt During a Recession
Excluding the Great Recession, a study of 1,039 state-level recessions since 1997 found that home values appreciated at the same rate they did in other times.
- For Some Buyers, HUD Homes Might be a Bargain
HUD homes – often FHA foreclosures – don’t usually appear in the MLS. They may have problems, but they’re also usually priced cheaper than other listings.
- 20M Owners Could Lower Mortgage Payments with a Refi
Homeowners with a credit score of at least 720 and 20% equity in their property could save nearly $270 per month by taking advantage of today’s lower rates.
- Q&A: Contractor Skipped Town Without Finishing Job
A homeowner put money down for a major renovation and the contractor simply disappeared. Can they hire someone else? What about the money already paid?
- July Home Starts Down 4% – but Single-Family Up 1.3%
Apartment starts plunged 17.2% in July, and while single-family starts rose a bit, it still wasn’t enough to satisfy strong buyer demand for new homes.
