– Wetlands 101: A property-buyers guide If a dream property has wetlands, buyers must work with state regulators and their local water management district.
– Kitchens and baths still top remodeling jobs NAHB: In 2011, 50% of builders saw an increase in the number of homeowners who chose to remodel instead of move. Regulator postpones qualified mortgage rule A federal “qualified mortgage” (QM) rule that could slow buyers’ approvals won’t be released until...
– Apartments becoming more urban Builders now focusing on projects near public transportation hubs, as Millennials want to spend less time commuting. $30M investment to boost Fla. housing market Miami first of four Fla. cities to launch Wells Fargo program that includes up to $15K in downpayment assistance.
– Pending home sales down in April but up strongly from a year ago NAR: Pending sales index at 95.5, down 5.5% from March but up 14.4% from year ago and housing recovery remains on track. UF: Consumer confidence in Florida jumps three points in May UF: While national...
– Struggling homeowners worry about mortgage relief help Survey: Some struggling owners don’t seek help because they’re scared of scams and afraid aid will cost them money.
– Hurricane season: One week to go The good news: Only 1 to 3 major storms expected. The bad news: It only takes one. Be prepared.
– NAR: Increase in commercial transactions, income NAR: 2011 commercial member profile finds return to profitability; median income up about $10K per member over 2010. Foreclosed owners could get free review Some foreclosed owners from 2009-2010 may qualify for money. A new video from Fed explains why and offers...
– 10% of bank settlement not going to homeowners Fla. A.G. Bondi hasn’t announced plans for 90% of $334M bank foreclosure money, but 10% will help run state government. Government: First house price increase since 2007 Fed index that looks at same-home resales finds 0.6% increase in 1Q 2012...
– NAR: April existing-home sales up, prices rise again Fla.’s housing market continues positive signs in April 2012 Single-family prices rose 10.2%, condos 16.1%; pending sales higher. NAR: Sales up 3.4% over March; 10% over year ago. Realtors support workforce housing solutions Realtors with an effective EAH program (employer...
– Future of U.S. housing market? Echo boomers Where should you focus marketing efforts? On adults 17-31, say experts on NAR panel discussing “shifting demographics.” Lack of capital hinders commercial market NAR: Modest growth and hopeful signs seen, with faster improvement restrained mainly by tight lending standards.
