– 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.
– Serving a military market niche After leaving Iraq, many service personnel are returning to Fla.; a Realtor can help them with their real estate challenges. Program educates public on foreclosure scams A program backed by the U.S. Congress lists signs of a scam as it encourages owners to...
– NAHB survey: Voters value homeownership 73% of owners and renters believe it’s appropriate and reasonable for the feds to promote homeownership tax incentives. Florida Realtors PAC gets makeover Florida Realtors PAC has a new name, logo and advocacy campaign as it tackles issues impacting Realtors and homeowners.
– HUD to release $110M in assistance grants Program focuses on improving impoverished areas and neighborhoods; under the rules, for-profit developers may apply.
