– Bad credit scores can triple home insurance costs In Florida, a homeowner with bad credit pays, on average, 25% more for property insurance than an owner with good credit. In some states, it’s much more though. Study: Renters' biggest hurdle is the downpayment In most markets, it’s cheaper...
– 30-year mortgage rate edges down to 4.02% The 30-year FRM declined marginally since last week – down by .01% – but it still hovers a bit above the 4% mark. More owners gain equity but a few metros still at risk ATTOM’s chief economist says the number of...
– Legislature OKs bill that oversees condo boards Fla. lawmakers passed a bill that imposes criminal penalties for some condo board violations, such as election fraud, conflicts of interest and misappropriation. Many metro areas stuck in a recession time warp The U.S. housing market is going strong, but the...
– Court: Miami can sue big banks for predatory lending The U.S. Supreme Court said Miami may sue large U.S. lenders over allegations that their Fair Housing Act violations played a role in the housing meltdown. BofA exec: Millennials shifting on home market How do lenders see the current...
– College debt no longer a buyer deal breaker Parents can now tap into home equity to pay off student loans, and it will be easier for millennial buyers to qualify. But it’s not for everyone. House hunting, millennial style In Florida, 13% of buyers are age 25 to...
– Average 30-year mortgage rate rises to 4.03% Long-term mortgage rates rose for the first time in five weeks, and the 30-year FRM pushed above the key threshold of 4 percent. NAR: Trump tax plan 'well-intentioned' but 'non-starter' While backing major tax reforms, NAR fears that a proposal to...
– Property tax cap heads to 2018 ballot A Florida Realtors’ top legislative priority passed the Florida Legislature: In 2018, voters will have the power to make the 10% non-homestead property permanent. Senior housing still waiting for pick-up in demand Developers with an eye on the future are building...
– NAR: Vacation home sales plummet in 2016 Investment buyers picked up as vacation buyers pulled back. Vacation home trends: More took out a mortgage and more planned to use the home for short-term rentals. Court: Fair housing protects LGBT people A federal court ruled for the first time...
– Most consumers think their insurance covers flooding The national flood program might be in better financial shape if more homeowners knew they needed coverage. A recent study found that 56% do not. Congress may regulate PACE green-energy companies The PACE program allows homeowners to attach the cost of...
– Title companies want federal help to fight wire fraud The title association says it has warned buyers about scammers who steal closing money – but it’s not enough. It’s asking the U.S. consumer bureau to help. Scam warning: Fake emails offer $5 Zillow leads A Fla. Realtor who...
