– NAR’s Confidence Index shows upswing Each month, Realtors’ market outlook improves, says NAR. In Dec., the index was 31.6 compared to 24.5 one year earlier. St. Joe Company has new real estate strategy It will cut back on current developments, including amenities, and possibly sell inventory at lower...
– NAR’s Confidence Index shows upswing Each month, Realtors’ market outlook improves, says NAR. In Dec., the index was 31.6 compared to 24.5 one year earlier. St. Joe Company has new real estate strategy It will cut back on current developments, including amenities, and possibly sell inventory at lower...
– Fla. No. 5 nationally as ‘best for business’ Tax Foundation: State ranks high for its business-friendly low tax burden in annual study based on dozens of provisions. 2011’s foreclosures lowest in four years RealtyTrac: Fla. seventh in number of owners facing foreclosure – 1 in 49 homes; process...
– Pending home sales decline in Dec.; above year ago Slight 3.5% monthly decline follows two strongest months of contract signings since the homebuyer tax credit expired. High downpayments: More harm than good? UNC study: A QRM rule that mandates a 20% downpayment would push 61% of creditworthy borrowers...
– Real estate agents opting for mobile office In today’s fast-pace world, consumers want fast responses, and agents need mobile offices to retain and attract clients.
– Casting call for HGTV’ ‘House Hunters’ Want 15 minutes of fame and national marketing? HGTV show auditions require three-minute videos and willing buyers. FHA to limit seller help at closing Tighter rules were announced for FHA lenders; new rules that lower the amount sellers can pay at closing...
– Florida Legislature advances Realtor issues Committees approved septic tank inspection changes, competitive property insurance rules and new homestead exemptions. NAR: Dec. existing home sales show uptrend Florida’s housing sales activity higher as 2011 ends Home sales rose 8%, condos 15% in 2011. Fla. home, condo Dec. median price...
– Single-family housing starts up 4.4% in Dec. Single-family starts have risen for three consecutive months, though drop in multi-family caused overall 4.1% decline.
– Builder confidence rises fourth consecutive time in January Index at its highest level in four-and-a-half years; latest uptick seen in every component and region of the country. Appraisal Institute: Don’t shoot the messenger New effort, materials attempt to counter a belief that appraisers did something wrong if appraised...
– Avoid foreclosure with help from HUD-approved agencies Owners at risk of foreclosure can tap into HUD’s nationwide network of counselors for a free evaluation and counseling.
