– Will an uptick in REO and short sales re-emerge? A Clear Capital report says “distressed sales continue to be a critical market indicator,” and global and stock market unease could lead to a REO increase. Miami can pursue fair housing case against lenders Federal appeals court ruling: The...
– High luxury market seeks ‘opportunity gateways’ Sotheby’s study: The world has 200K-plus individuals with a net worth over $30M, and they tend to buy a property that helps them safely diversify investments. What is proper etiquette for mobile phone use? Is it worth offending a potential buyer by...
– Some other storm-related insurance issues to consider Did you know you might not be covered if your swimming pool floods your house? That’s why it’s smart to drain your pool half a foot before a major storm. Then and now: Living arrangements in American households Census: The majority...
– Floridians feel slightly more optimistic – maybe UF’s consumer sentiment index increased less than 1 point in August. Meanwhile, expectations rose for U.S. economic conditions in the future. Gov. Scott declares state of emergency in Fla. Officials urge residents to prepare as forecasters say Tropical Storm Erika could...
– NAR: Pending home sales inch forward in July Up slightly from June, the Pending Home Sales Index rose 7.4% over the July 2014 level. It has increased year-over-year for 11 months in a row. Homebuyers to make comeback in next decade A new MBA report estimates that as...
– Citizens CEO suspects water damage claim fraud Citizens, the Fla.-owned insurer of last resort, requested an average 3.2% premium increase, citing a “disturbing” spike in water damage claims out of S. Fla. Safety threat causes broker to cancel open houses An Iowa Realtor received a call saying a...
– Economic slowdown in China could impact Fla. market China’s recent economic woes could be good news or bad news for Fla. real estate. It could slow int’l sales – or it could make U.S. property more appealing. FHA will allow lending on homes with PACE loans HUD announced...
– Credit unions gaining ground with buyers A TransUnion study found that more and more buyers are turning their backs on traditional banks and opting to get a mortgage from their credit union. Buyers who want new construction need patience Census Bureau: Buyers who want a new home have...
– Fannie, Freddie to fund more affordable homes The federal agency that sets affordable housing goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac wants 24% of homes for low-income buyers – 6% for very-low income buyers. Mortgage delays: The two top causes One: A buyer who fudges financial details often...
– Florida Realtors honors 2015 award winners The association honored its own today: Sherri Meadows, 2014 president, is 2015 Realtor of the Year, and Judy Ramella is Associate Realtor of the Year. NAR: Total existing home sales up 2% despite stubbornly low inventory Fla.’s single-family home sales rose 21.8%...
