Florida Real Estate News
Real Estate Trends, Tips and News
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UPDATE! School Board Approved New Viera Middle School Boundaries for 2024-2025
The boundaries for the new Viera Middle School have been approved for the 2024-2025 school year opening.
Reaching the Right Consumers at the Right Time
Valuable tips to reach your customers. By Erin Ruane, VP of Sales for Homes.com
Range or Stove - What's the Best Fit for Your Kitchen?
Information on how to choose the appliance that's best for your space and needs. ~ By John Voket
Survey Shows Mortgage Rates Moving Higher on Strong Jobs Report
Results from recently released Freddie Macs Primary Mortgage Market Survey.
Save Smarter with This Q&A ~ By John Voket
How much should I keep in emergency savings? Answers to this and other questions when considering your savings options.
Stain Removal Tricks That Work
Home remedies for the most common stains found on furniture, car upholstery and carpet. Additional tips for cleaning fine fabrics that will keep you looking your best while saving you money. ~By Barbara Pronin
Taking a Pulse Check on Your Attitude
Learn how to overcome negative emotions so that you can persevere through lifes challenges.
Selling or Staying: Home Renovation Projects Require Careful Attention
Learn which projects to work on first to get you the best ROI in the long run whether you're selling your home or staying.
Q: How Do You Choose a Good Condo?
A simple answer for buyers interested in purchasing a condo and a list of things to consider before you buy.
New Home Purchase Applications Increase in February
An explanation of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Builder Application Survey data for 2015 regarding February increases and what that means for the market.
Making Your Master Closet Work for You
Home owners require ample storage space especially in the master closet. Here are some tips to upgrade your master closet to fit your needs.
FSBO Listings Can Be a Goldmine
Tips to turn "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO) property into a listing. By Patty McNease, Director of Marketing, Homes.com
Five One-Minute Tricks to Help Get You Organized
Surrounded by Clutter? Get organized quickly with these tips from a panel of professional organizers and interior designers. ~ By Barbara Pronin
Extend the Life of Your Washer and Dryer
Tips for home owners to adequately maintain their washer and dryer and extend their use for years to come.
5 Ways You May be Accidentally Wrecking Your Credit
Finance experts list 5 ways you may be sabatoging your credit.~ By Barbara Pronin
Court Lifts Zillow Group's Restraining Order
With this past Thursday’s court decision, the two entities are now just weeks away from being completely separated from one another. The question remains, however, how will all of this affect the industry and consumers?
Attract Millennial Buyers with These Staging Tips
Here are a few staging tips from agents who frequently work with younger buyers. ~ By Andrew Strauch
10 Landlord Responsibilities You May Have Overlooked
Being a landlord involves a steep learning curve when starting out,. Here are 10 Landlord Responsibilities You May Have Overlooked ~ By Terri Engels
6 Low-Cost Steps to an Organized Kitchen
6 Low-Cost Steps to an Organized Kitchen ~ By Andrea Davis
5 Efficient Bathroom-Storage Solutions
Maximize the space in your bathroom to make it more efficient with these tips. ~ By Stephanie Snay
3 Spring Tips to Boost Curb Appeal
Get working in the yard this spring to improve your homes curb appeal. ~ By Rhonda Duffy
Hiring a Tree Care Professional
A list of things homeowners should look for when searching for qualified tree care companies.
5 Errors That Can Undermine Your New Business
Half of new U.S. companies fail in their first five years, according to Gallup. Expand the timeframe out to 10 years and the failure rate reaches 70 percent.
Fabulous Freebies You Can Get Now
From the money mavens at Kiplinger’s, check out this list of freebies available now.
What Kind of Home Insurance is the best choice for my home?
confused about Home Insurance? Here are some of the facts you need to know before making your decision.
Organizing Finances to Buy a Home
Buying a home is a major life decision. Follow these suggestions from American Consumer Credit Counseling.
Staging Curb Appeal for Web Appeal
Potential homebuyers first look at your home is often online. These tips will help you get the best online curb appeal.
Five Key Tips to a Smooth Bathroom Remodel
Remodeling your bathroom is a big undertaking. Keep your project on budget by avoid these common bathroom remodeling mistakes.
10 Cheap Cities where You Might Want to Retire
Kiplinger has released its annual list of the 10 cheapest places where retirees might want to live. These cities have the best benefits for retirees.
For Your Clients: Lockboxes and Their Role in the Real Estate Process
Keith Loria explains all about lockboxes and whether or not having one can help you sell your home faster?
Give Your Landscaping a No-Maintenance Makeover
According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), low-maintenance landscaping outranks native plantings, water features and food/vegetable gardens among homeowners.
Ask the Expert: What Type of Video Best Attracts Buyers?
There’s a lot of talk regarding video in every industry, including real estate. Why? Because it works. Which formmat is best for you?
How to Choose a Remodeling Contractor
Follow this simple guide for choosing the right contractor for your home remodeling project.
7 Easy Ways to Burglar Proof Your Home
Here’s a startling statistic: a burglary occurs every 15 seconds. You can use these 7 easy tips to burglar proof your home. ~ By James White
Painting or Accenting Your Home? Think 'Shades of Gray'
Most tints and shades of gray are ‘chameleon’ colors that change appearance when the light changes, so they provide enormous visual interest ~ By John Voket
Q: How Do You Clear Up Bad Credit?
A quick answer with some helpful tips to help you get your credit straightened out.
5 Tips to Take the Stress Out of Searching for a Home
To ensure the home buying process is as simple and painless as possible, take the following advice to heart as you search for your new home.~ By Keith Loria
Telltale Signs You're Ready to Move
Moving to a new home can be life-changing. But how do you know you’re really ready to move? Watch for these classic signs.
For Your Clients: What to Look for during a Final Walk-Through
It’s not uncommon for buyers to want to rush closing – they’re steps away from owning a new home! First chek out this list of things to watch for during the final walk-through. ~ By Suzanne De Vita
Make Your New House Feel Like Home
Making your new house feel like home can help alleviate some of this stress and provide some much needed relaxation. Everyone has a different sense of what home is, says Elizabeth Lindmier of The Art Institute of Colorado.
6 Tips for Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Tips from global property website Lamudi will help sellers find the right real estate agent to match their needs - and get their property sold.
Busting First-Time Homebuyer Myths
Without home buying experience, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Get the facts on the most common first-time home buying myths.
Your Budget: Rethink These Modern-Day
Over the decades, more and more conveniences, habits, and gadgets have found their way into our everyday lives. And gradually we’ve accepted them as normal, even necessary.
What Are Some Negotiating Tips?
The listing, or asking, price is what the seller would like to receive for the home, it is not necessarily what the seller will settle for.
High Court Makes It Easier for Borrowers to Walk away from Underwater Homes
U.S. Supreme Court ruled that borrowers looking to rescind their mortgages simply need to notify creditors in writing of their intention to rescind within three years under a key fair lending law.
Chuck Norris's Former Dojo-Like Man Pad Is Back on the Market
The Orange County crib once owned by Walker Texas Ranger himself is currently on the market for $3.5 million.
Have You Prepared Your Power Outage Plan?
Experts at Duke Energy urge homeowners to establish a power outage plan now that can be implemented if disaster strikes.
Holograms: The Next Big Thing in Real Estate Marketing?
Real estate developer Extell tapped holography pioneer Musion to generate holograms showcasing the condo’s interior, amenities and surrounding waterfront neighborhood.
Create Your Own Bathroom Retreat
A bathroom should be an oasis, and the environment that it displays directly correlates with just how relaxing it is.
Note Warning Signs of Home Heating Systems
Half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January and February.
E.T. Drone Home: Everything You Need to Know about Drones for Real Estate Marketing
FAA approves Arizona real estate petition to fly a drone for real estate videography.
Selling Solar: Homebuyers Willing to Pay More for Outfitted Homes
New report shows homebuyers willing to pay more for a property with owned solar photovoltaic systems (PV), regardless of home type or market. As of 2014, more than half a million homes in the U.S. are outfitted with (PV) systems.
More Hot Signs for Housing in 2015
It looks like housing will continue to excel into the new year, due to the rise in job creation and declining mortgage rates.
How to Prepare for Your Tax Preparer
Do you have bills, receipts and other tax documents ‘filed’ haphazardly in a shoebox? Some tax preparers may escalate their fees if you aren’t reasonably prepared.
Women in Business: 5 Tactics to Defy the Impossible
Female CEOs tend to unconsciously start sabotaging their success just as they’re growing into greatness.
Five Steps to Cyber Security
Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America,every minute, 19 identities are stolen.
Recoup the Most Value from These Home Improvements
A comparison betweeen remodeling cost vs. value, report some projects add more value and better recoup their costs than other home projects.
Ask the Expert: What Are the Best Ways to Dominate My Local Market?
Six tactics that brokers and agents can use to connect with consumers and boost their niche marketing.
6 Tips for a Healthy, Tasty January
Follow these tips and begin slimming down without realizing you are on some dreaded ‘diet.’
Afraid to Admit That You Don't Understand Social Media?
Social media is the world’s biggest cocktail party and everyone’s there – including your competitors and your potential customers.
4 Ways to Meet Google's New Mobile-Friendly Standards
It’s not enough to have any old real estate website anymore. Consumer mobile search trends for real estate are climbing and closing the gap on desktop searches. Real estate brokers must ensure their websites are mobile-friendly and optimized to edge out
Tips for a Faster Sale at a Higher Price in 2015
Many homeowners today are wondering how to improve the appearance of their property for a faster sale at the highest possible price...
Keep Your Home in Tip Top Shape with These 12 Simple Tips
If your house is on the market this holiday season, you may notice a slowdown in foot traffic among prospective buyers as holiday parties—and other activities—clutter their calendar.
Mortgage Rates Inch Up Slightly
Freddie Mac recently released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®), showing average fixed mortgage rates slightly up from the last week, but...
Personalizing Your Pad? Forget These Fancy Features
While homeownership is a dream realized for most, it’s no surprise that the desire for wish fulfillment remains long after closing. Castle-in-the-sky features may seem like a priority, but amenities that fall too far outside the norm will cost you.
Three Ways to Help Millennials Enter the Housing Market
There have been so many reports in recent months about both the importance of millennials in contributing to the housing recovery and the uphill battle they face when trying to buy a home...
The Ultimate Team
Single agent or team? This question has been asked by agents, brokers and owners of companies, and depending on whom you ask, you’ll get a different answer.
Invest in Yourself Before Spending Another Dime
In the real estate world, there is often a choice for every decision. For potential buyers, that means anything from home size to style and renovation ideas.
The Learning Curve: Your Company's Only Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Like all business leaders, you know that your organization’s survival and success depend on maintaining a competitive advantage.
Real Estate Transaction Roles Explained
Real estate transactions are complex and, at times, confusing. Clients can better understand this course of action by...
Household Expenses: Do You Have FORO?
A recent National Foundation for Credit Counseling® (NFCC) poll reveals that the overwhelming majority of consumers surveyed (92 percent) have a fear of running out of money, or FORO.
Healthcare Plans: 3 Questions to Ask
Whether dealing with a new plan or a renewal of an existing plan, there are many factors patients should consider before taking action, including deductibles, co-pays and drug costs.
HARP Still Sweet Music to Underwater Mortgage Holders
What would be better than a holiday gift of lower mortgage payments - or the peace of mind of knowing your underwater mortgage comes with more affordable payments?
Four Ways to Reduce Your Water Footprint
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that the average American family uses 300 gallons of water each day for everything from brushing their teeth and washing clothes to running the sprinkler and flushing the toilet.
Everyone You Know Should Know What You Do
As a REALTOR®, you’re constantly looking for ways to connect to new clients.
Energy Efficient Mortgages Offer a Wide Range of Benefits to Homeowners and Buyers Alike
First introduced in five states as a pilot program in 1992, energy efficient mortgages have helped homeowners and buyers save money on utility bills by...
Easiest Home Fixes with the Most ROI
Whether you’re planning to sell your home, or you simply want a more updated look, there are any number of cheap, simple fixes, from new paint to new curtains, that will improve its overall appearance.
Don't Let Pests Come Between You and Your Home Sale
Whether you’re in the process of selling your home or not, pests can be a real nuisance. But when a home sale is on the line, the last thing you want to do is give buyers any reason to scurry.
Add a Touch of Elegance to Help Your Home Stand Out Among the Competition
When preparing your home for sale, attracting the attention of prospective buyers is the key to success.
5 New Year's Resolutions Every Seller Should Add to Their List
As we close in on 2015, you most likely have a running list of resolutions racing around your mind at any given time.
8 Ways to Avoid Debt from Holiday Expenses
Many people are entering the largest shopping season of the year financially ill-prepared...
Holiday Scammers: Signs to Watch For
Scammers love a holiday, and all types of hoaxes tend to increase during the holiday season...
Minor Winter Repairs Equal Major Savings
According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energy Saver Guide, the typical U.S. family spends at least $2,200 per year on home utility bills...
Save Big Bucks This Winter with an Energy Audit
If you are winterizing your home to protect against the headache of frozen pipes and potential water damage...
Landscape Projects, Supplies Come Cheap as Winter Nears
In much of the country, winter is quickly approaching, or already here...
How to Select the Ideal Exterior Color for Your Home
Whether designing new construction or renovating, choosing the right exterior color and complementary accent shades is critical to creating curb appeal.
How to Heat Up Your Fireplace Design
Fireside season is upon us. Its that time of the year when the glow of a fire provides warmth to a room and a cozy backdrop for sharing special moments with friends and family.
The Complete Steps to Flipping a House
For those who are interested in making a profit after buying a property, flipping houses is a common practice that works to improve and update a structure before selling your home for a higher value.
Mortgage Tips for First-Time Buyers
With numerous options to choose from, deciding which mortgage is best for your personal situation can be an overwhelming process...
5 Ways to Improve Your Kitchen Before Listing Your Home
If you’re like most homeowners, you undoubtedly have a wish list full of home renovations in the back of your mind at any given moment...
Top 15 Real Estate Apps to Blaze a Trail in 2015
As 2014 comes to a close, it’s time to nail down our plans for the new year...
Technology's Impact on the Real Estate Industry
Top executives from many of the world’s leading real estate firms joined a panel discussion recently about the impact of new technology on commercial and residential real estate markets.
Large Majority of Homebuyers Believe They Are Better Buyers Because of Technology
Consumers use technology to do just about everything, including looking for and buying a home.
Mortgage Applications Decrease Slightly
Mortgage applications decreased 0.9 percent from one week earlier, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey...
Playing to Win: Strategies for Building Prosperous Agent Teams
Real estate professionals have weathered many storms and adapted accordingly, often by working harder and not necessarily smarter. For some agents, however...
The Risk of Aiding Credit-Challenged Clients
When a legal issue or tax problem arises during a real estate transaction, REALTORS® are required to point their clients in the direction of a lawyer or competent CPA.
How to Choose a Countertop That Best Suits Your Needs
When investing in countertops for your kitchen, you should first consider how much cooking -- and what type of cooking -- you’ll be doing.
Building Permits Inch Higher in October while Housing Starts Dip
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau recently announced the following new residential construction statistics for October 2014.
U.S. Home Flipping at Lowest Level Since 2009
RealtyTrac® recently released its Q3 2014 U.S. Home Flipping Report, which shows that 26,947 single family homes were flipped nationwide in the third quarter of 2014...
Women: 5 Tactics to Defy the Impossible in Business
In terms of growth in business ownership, women have been soaring past men, averaging increases 1.5 times the national average, according to the 2014 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report by American Express Open.
Roofing Issues to Take into Consideration before Listing Your Home
When it comes to looking for that dream home, prospective buyers are pulling out all the stops, questioning any and everything.
Q: When Is the Best Time to Refinance?
A: Many people flock to refinance while mortgage interest rates are low, particularly when rates are about two percentage points below their existing home loans...
Why Replace It When You Can Paint It
I recently became acquainted with Lisa Kaplan Gordon, a builder of luxury homes in McLean, VA. She has published a wonderful guide to help evaluate whether homeowners can refresh certain areas or furnishings with a new coat of paint.
U.S Regulators Ready for Relaxed Mortgage Rules
Later this week, after several years of back-and-forth debate, U.S. regulators are finally set to finalize a more relaxed set of mortgage standards.
Prevent High Winter Utility Bills with Door and Window Maintenance
How much do you spend on utilities? Are you looking for ways to save?
Mobile App Helps Agents Find What They Need Most
Before meeting with clients, you prepare. You find properties that meet their needs, set up alerts in your MLS to let them know when new properties come on the market, you’ve even sent them RPR reports that include photos, neighborhood information, basi
Housing Outlook in Face of Rising Rates
The second quarter GDP figures were highly encouraging, assuring that job creation continues.
Final Mortgage Ruling Nixes 20-percent Down Payment Requirement
As reported by the AP, new rules adopted yesterday by six federal agencies include the removal of a big stumbling block for would-be borrowers: the 20 percent down payment if a lender didn’t hold at least 5 percent of the mortgage securities tied to tho
Existing-Home Sales Rise 2.4 Percent in September
After a modest decline last month, existing-home sales bounced back in September to their highest annual pace of the year, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Don't Let Your Pet Derail Your Home Sale
You love your pet so much that he or she is like part of the family, right? But if you’re trying to sell your home...
Clear Up Cluttered Kitchen Countertops
While homebuyers seek ample kitchen counter space when searching for a home, surface area tends to fill up quickly as homeowners settle in to their new digs.
6 Tips to Keep in Mind as You Prepare for a Home Inspection
Preparing your home for its market debut can seem overwhelming, but making repairs or taking care of anything cosmetic that needs to be fixed is an important piece of the puzzle.
Lot vs. Land - Where Should You Build Your Dream Home?
With all that goes into constructing a new house, building a dream home is not for the faint of heart. Undoubtedly, one of your biggest considerations will be whether to build on a developed or undeveloped plot.
Is Your Front Door a Gateway to Energy Loss?
October is Energy Awareness Month, so I went looking for specific ways homeowners could reduce soaring energy bills.
How to Max Out Cabinet Storage
Current trends in household lifestyles, such as first-time home buying or empty nesting, have left people with smaller spaces.
Mortgage Rates Hit New 2014 Lows
Freddie Mac recently released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®), showing average fixed mortgage rates hitting new lows for the year as 10-year bond yields briefly dipped below 2 percent.
The International Homebuyer: Continued Interest in U.S.
Based on the National Association of REALTORS’® survey for the 12 months ending March 2014, the total volume of residential sales to international clients was estimated at approximately $92.2 billion, a 35 percent increase from the previous period’s
Staying Relevant and Being Useful when It Counts
Today’s consumers—your potential clients—are bombarded with sales messages and requests to like, follow, comment and click across the internet.
Cheap Superfoods to Fuel Your Health and Outlook
People who resolve to eat healthy are sometimes more than a little dismayed at the high price of nutrition. Vitamins and supplements are not cheap, and a pre-made salad can cost more than a candy bar or a bag of chips.
Why Your Garage Door Color Matters
Smiths recent blog at sensationalcolor.com noted that the biggest mistake she sees homeowners making is using color to draw too much attention to their garage doors rather than downplaying them.
What You Need to Know About the VA Loan Program, and How It Can Benefit You
Our military personnel do a great deal for our country, and one of the ways the government thanks them for their service is with the VA loan program...
Trim Moving Costs by Planning Ahead
Whether you plan to pack up and move your belongings on your own or hire a moving company to do all the heavy lifting, one thing’s for certain: moving isn’t cheap.
Tips that Will Immediately Help You Win More Listings and Convert More Buyers
How do you win more listings and convert more buyers?
Tips for a Clean, Guest-Ready Home
(Family Features)—While the season for enjoying backyard BBQs and poolside parties with friends and family is behind us, as we gear of for the holidays...
Stop Chasing Clients: A Five-Day Plan to Bring Them to Your Doorstep
In theory, if you want a new client, all you need to do is make your case and ask for the business...
Search Trends for Buyers
Google Says, ‘the Place to Reach Homebuyers Is on Mobile’ and What You Should Do about It
Q: What Should I Take into Account when Buying a New Home?
When the home is on the outskirts of town, ask the developer about future access to public transit, entertainment venues, shopping centers, churches, and schools...
New Home Purchases Down by 9 Percent
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Builder Application Survey (BAS) data for August 2014 shows mortgage applications for new home purchases decreased by 9 percent...
Multicultural Real Estate Consumers Have a Brand New Resource
With the increasing number of multicultural consumers pursuing homeownership, I was happy to learn how one company is responding to the needs of...
Mortgage Credit Availability Decreases Slightly in August
Mortgage credit availability decreased in August according to the Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI)...
Mortgage Applications Inch Forward
Mortgage applications increased 0.2 percent from one week earlier, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey...
HUD Secretary to Lead U.S Planning for United Nations Housing Conference
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced Secretary Julián Castro will lead a group of...
How to Take Advantage of the Housing Market's Slow Season
The housing market is subject to ebbs and flows on a seasonal basis and one of the slower seasons tends to be fall.
How Agents Can Excel by Giving Back to the Community
As a real estate agent, you already know you have an important place within the community.
Got 5 Minutes? Spruce up Your Home with 10 Quick Fixes
Everyone likes a home that looks neat, clean and orderly—even when there’s just no time for a thorough going over.
Flood Cleanup: What to Do After a Storm
With forecasters predicting a more severe and dramatic storm season in 2014, home and business owners should be prepared for any type of weather.
Financing Options to Bridge the Gap between Selling and Buying
The home-buying and -selling process can sometimes be a precarious thing as most sellers need to sell their house before having the money to buy a new space.
Few Homebuyers Familiar with Affordable Loan Programs
A recent TD bank survey reveals that just one in five homebuyers are familiar with affordable loan programs.
Competing in the Online World of Real Estate
Today’s homebuyers are hungry for information—and they expect to get that information with a few quick taps on their smartphones, tablets or laptops.
2015 Housing Forecast: Recovery Will Continue Gradually
Americans’ attitudes toward the housing market continued to soften in August and suggest that housing activity may resume its modest recovery in 2015 after some pullback this year, according to results from Fannie Mae’s August 2014 National Housing Su
Why Some REALTORS® Make More Money
In mid-May, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) released its latest 2014 Member Profile...
Negotiate Like You Mean it for Win-Win Results: Part 2
To successfully represent and satisfy customers, agents must be effective negotiators...
Negotiate Like You Mean It for Win-Win Results: Part 1
The most recent NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers revealed that 87 percent of buyers identified negotiation skills as an important quality for their real estate agents to possess.
Three Ways to Avoid Getting Outbid on Your New Home
Bidding for a new home can get pretty fierce in todays market, said Gibran Nicholas, Chairman of CMPS Institute, an organization that trains and certifies mortgage bankers and brokers...
Police Tips for Protecting Your Home from Criminals
Homeowners should know that protecting their home from potential thieves and other criminals can be done with enough preparation and planning ahead of time.
Keeping Your Pets Safe while Remodeling
Safe pet remodeling may not be something you think about before the start of a new remodeling project, but if your dog gets out or your cat runs away–it can add a whole lot of stress to the job.
Three Overlooked Features That Drive Curb Appeal
Selling or staying, it makes no difference - everyone wants a home that looks great from the curb.
4 Ways to Redecorate on a Teeny-Tiny Budget
You’ve done the spring cleaning, and you look around your home and suddenly, it looks a bit tired...
For Your Clients: Budgeting Basics for Homeowners
A new home often means making significant adjustments to how you spend your money...
When Do Homeowners Need a Permit?
The summer season is considered the busiest time for home improvement projects, and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is reminding homeowners to understand rules regarding building permits before embarking on common remodeling pro
Price Increases Cool Down in the Summertime
Home prices nationwide, including distressed sales, increased 7.5 percent in June 2014 compared to June 2013 and rose 1 percent over May, setting new highs for 12 states.
Local Economies Continue to Advance
The NAHB/First American Leading Markets Index advanced one point in the second quarter 2014 to .89 from a June level of .88...
Survey: Financial Instability Top Reason Why People Aren't Buying Homes
New survey data takes a look at how consumers are thinking about home buying, whether theyre looking to buy their first property or turnaround their current home...
Delinquency and Foreclosure Rates Decrease in Second Quarter
The delinquency rate for mortgage loans on one-to-four-unit residential properties decreased to a seasonally adjusted rate of 6.04 percent of all loans outstanding at the end of the second quarter of 2014.
Smartphone Technology Makes Homes Smart, Too
Smart home apps link various home devices together to bring peace of mind, control and energy savings to homeowners.
Shortages of Key Building Materials Have Eased in 2014
Unlike recent news that builders continue to face serious difficulties finding lots and labor to build new homes, a survey conducted by NAHB in July shows that shortages of key building materials have actually eased in 2014.
Refinance Applications Edge Up
Mortgage applications increased 1.6 percent from one week earlier, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending August 1, 2014.
New Kitchen Floor Choices: Is One Right for You?
The kitchen floor, besides being practical, has become a major design statement—with a bigger choice of colors, styles and textures available today than ever before.
Hot Property, Athletes Edition: Gold Medal Malibu Estate Sells
Olympic gold medalist Greg Louganis has sold his home in Malibu that features a custom swimming pool with a diving platform for $1.8 million.
6 Things to Consider Buying Used
Tightening your budget belt doesn’t have to mean doing without things you want or need...
The Economic Impact of the Affordable Housing Credit
In addition to ensuring the supply of affordable rental housing, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) supports jobs and provides benefits to the economy...
The Best Home Investment: A Wood Deck
As the seasons turn, more homeowners look for projects that not only make their homes more livable, but also offer great return on investment...
Sell Quickly with Master Suite Upgrades
All signs point to a recovering real estate market. Experts say more inventory will be available and buyers will have an easier time getting mortgages...
Open Houses by the Numbers
Hosting an open house is a top way to sell your listings, meet potential clients and generate buzz for your business...
Money Saving Tricks That Work
Economizing doesn’t have to mean giving up that morning latte (though it helps!)...
Is an Agent Team Right for You? 9 Signs That Point to 'Yes!'
For many real estate professionals, the mere thought of bringing a new team member—or two—on board is all it takes to talk themselves out of even entertaining the idea...
If Your Tree Falls Onto Neighbor's Property, Are You Liable?
If your tree falls onto a neighbors property, it might not make a sound, but you may be liable.
How to Live Green as a Preservationist
Despite the environment being a hot-button topic in global conversation, eco-consciousness has found its way into our everyday lives...
Four Steps for Attacking Garage Organization
Organizing the garage may be one of the most feared tasks in household history...
FHFA Makes Controversial Proposal for Private Mortgage Insurance Companies
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) is seeking input on draft requirements that would apply to private mortgage insurance companies...
Create a Perfect View with the Perfect Patio Door
Its the time of year to get outside, dine on the deck, bask in the backyard or relax on the patio.
FHA Lenders Tighten Standards
A new report from two Federal Reserve economists says lenders have been applying strict underwriting conditions to keep borrowers who can’t afford a large down payment...
Create a Perfect View with the Perfect Patio Door
Its the time of year to get outside, dine on the deck, bask in the backyard or relax on the patio.
Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Energy Efficiency in Multifamily Housing Introduced in Congress
Representatives Jim Himes (D-CT-3), Dennis Ross (R-FL-15), Sean Duffy (R-WI-7), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-5) John Delaney (D-MD-6) and Ann Wagner (R-MO-2) have introduced groundbreaking “Pay-for-Success†legislation to increase energy efficiency...
Ask the Expert: What are the Top Online Real Estate Marketing Tools?
Todays “Ask the Expert†column features Vik Raghavan, CEO of GrayRoost.
67 Percent of Consumers Plan Home Improvements in the Next Six Months: Survey
Nationally, 67 percent of consumers plan home renovations within the next six months, according to the latest realtor.com® Home Improvement Survey...
10 Summer Home Maintenance Tips
Now that summer is in full swing, and youve already had your Fourth of July fix, its time to pay attention to another important aspect of summer: your home.
5 Tips for Protecting Yourself against ID Theft during a Move
Even when a move goes off without a hitch, it still can be one of life’s most stressful events. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard by a case of identity theft...
5 Dishwasher Must-Haves
One of the smartest investments you can make when remodeling your kitchen is to replace outdated appliances.
4 Ways to Keep Homes Energy Efficient While on Vacation
Summer months are a popular time for many families to take a vacation. If you plan on spending time away from your home this summer, remember to prepare it for your absence.
4 Painless Ways to Pay Down Your Mortgage
Paying off a mortgage is a long-term commitment—30 years in most cases...
Mortgage-Interest Cap Plan Would Be Unfair to High-end Markets
Mortgage-Interest Cap Plan Would Be Unfair to High-end Markets
Monday Morning Mobile: Consumer Change Brings Beneficial Ad Opportunities for Agents
Monday Morning Mobile: Consumer Change Brings Beneficial Ad Opportunities for Agents
Move Over Kitchen: The Backyard is the New Heart of the Home
Move Over Kitchen: The Backyard is the New Heart of the Home
First Quarter 2014: Housing Share of the Economy at 15.5 percent
First Quarter 2014: Housing Share of the Economy at 15.5 percent
8 Ways to Update Your Living Room without Spending a Lot of Cash
8 Ways to Update Your Living Room without Spending a Lot of Cash
Lighting, Mix Use of Cabinetry, Wine Storage Top Kitchen Trends in 2014
Lighting, Mix Use of Cabinetry, Wine Storage Top Kitchen Trends in 2014
Finance in Focus: Top 10 Ways People Go Broke
Finance in Focus: Top 10 Ways People Go Broke
What's The Buzz? Your Backyard Beehive, of Course!
Whats The Buzz? Your Backyard Beehive, of Course!
14 Things Your Employees Are Dying to Hear from You
14 Things Your Employees Are Dying to Hear from You
The Thrifty Traveler: Certain Travel Luxuries Are Worth the Splurge
The Thrifty Traveler: Certain Travel Luxuries Are Worth the Splurge
Are Your Questions Sabotaging Your Relationships?
Are Your Questions Sabotaging Your Relationships?
5 Rules for Becoming a Maverick
No matter how well our lives may be going, many of us seem to be at our wit’s end when it comes to attaining that next level of success, but there is a solution to this challenge
5 Innovative Ways to Thank a Teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week
5 Innovative Ways to Thank a Teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week
The Most Popular Features to Improve the Performance of Your Home
The Most Popular Features to Improve the Performance of Your Home
In Most of U.S., Buying Beats Renting After Only Two Years
In Most of U.S., Buying Beats Renting After Only Two Years
How to Talk to Your Sellers about a Price Adjustment
How to Talk to Your Sellers about a Price Adjustment
Forging Connections with Men and Women Key to Finding Real Estate Success
Forging Connections with Men and Women Key to Finding Real Estate Success
Fannie Mae Releases Results of Economic Stress Test
Fannie Mae Releases Results of Economic Stress Test
Don't Move!...without Following This Important Advice from BBB
Dont Move!...without Following This Important Advice from BBB
Agents, Don't Do It All Yourself Lean on Your Affiliate Service Providers for Content
Agents, Dont Do It All Yourself Lean on Your Affiliate Service Providers for Content
A Family Affair: Getting Children Involved in the Home-selling Process
A Family Affair: Getting Children Involved in the Home-selling Process
5 Tips to Keep Your Home from Languishing on the Market
5 Tips to Keep Your Home from Languishing on the Market
Feng Shui Tips that May (Or May Not) Change Your Life
Feng Shui Tips that May (Or May Not) Change Your Life
Turn Your 'Extra Room' into an Office for Good ROI
Turn Your 'Extra Room' into an Office for Good ROI
Three Unconventional Advertising Strategies for Real Estate Professionals
Three Unconventional Advertising Strategies for Real Estate Professionals
Q: What Are Some of the Legal Considerations Relative to Remodeling?
Q: What Are Some of the Legal Considerations Relative to Remodeling?
Protecting Your "A" Factor: 16 Accountability Killers to Avoid
Protecting Your "A" Factor: 16 Accountability Killers to Avoid
Perfect the Art of Grilling Juicy, Tender Pork Chops
Perfect the Art of Grilling Juicy, Tender Pork Chops
HUD Seeks Input on Section 8 Guide, Reveals Policy Priorities
HUD Seeks Input on Section 8 Guide, Reveals Policy Priorities
How to Buy a House with Less than 20 Percent Down
How to Buy a House with Less than 20 Percent Down
ASHRAE Joins NAHB and ICC to Develop New National Green Building Standard
ASHRAE Joins NAHB and ICC to Develop New National Green Building Standard
Why Invest in Insulation during a Renovation?
Why Invest in Insulation during a Renovation?
Wow Factor: These Accents Deliver Portable Ambiance
Wow Factor: These Accents Deliver Portable Ambiance
Top Five Technology Resolutions
Top Five Technology Resolutions for Real Estate Agents in 2014
Why Taxes Are Your Biggest Expense
Why Taxes Are Your Biggest Expense and How to Get Them under Control
Dealing with Flood-Damaged Vehicles
How to Handle the Aftermath of a Storm Damaged Vehicle
Q & A Government Assistance
Q: Does the Government offer Assistance with Home Improvements?
RMI: Climbs Five Points
Remodeling Market Index Climbs Five Points, Returns to 2005 Levels
Home Purchases in Recovery
MBA Data Suggest Mortgage Demand for Home Purchase Is in Early Stages of Recovery
Home Prices Road to Recovery
Home Price Appreciation Helps Housing Move Forward on Road to Recovery
Q&A Home Improvement Project
Q: What can I do to minimize chaos, danger and stress once a home improvement project has begun?
Record Low Mortgage Rates
Mortgage Rates near Record Lows as Home Construction Builds up Steam
First Time Home Purchasing
Don't Let the Excitement of Purchasing Your First Home Keep You From Getting the Best Deal
Homeowners Association
What You Need to Know Before You Say 'Yes' to a Homeowners Association
Mortgage Backed Securities
Freddie Mac Announces 17th Multifamily Securities Offering This Year
Housing and Urban Development
HUD Announces Results of Note Sales Under Stabilization Program
Short Sales
Short Sales Offer a Unique Competitive Advantage in Today's Real Estate Environment
Fiscal Cliff Key Risk Factor
Fannie Mae: Fiscal Cliff Remains Key Risk Factor to Near-Term Growth
Three Reasons Why Housing Inventory is So Low
Three Reasons Why Housing Inventory is So Low
Restore Flow of Credit to Housing
Home Builders Applaud Bill to Restore Flow of Credit to Housing, Spur Job Growth
Communities Seeking CDBG-DR Funding
HUD Releases Model Programs for Use by Communities Seeking CDBG-DR Funding
Real Estate Marketing Strategies
Real Estate Marketing Strategies: From Procrastination to Productivity
One Point in the HMI Eventually Means 37,000 Jobs
One Point in the HMI Eventually Means 37,000 Jobs
Home Prices and Mortgage Rates
Americans Expect Home Prices and Mortgage Rates to Increase
Preparing for a Home Inspection
What Should Home Sellers Do to Prepare for a Home Inspection?
FHA Reform and Affordable Home Loans
FHA Reform Efforts Must Ensure Borrowers Have Access to Affordable Home Loans
Home Prices Uptrend
March Existing-Home Sales Slip Due to Limited Inventory, Prices Maintain Uptrend
Tips to Prepare Your Florida Home for Sale
5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale
Green Your Summertime Soiree
Hosting a Green Environment Friendly Summertime Party at Home
April Residential Construction Activity Reports
HUD and Census Bureau Announce New Construction Activity in April
Home Prices Increase, So Do Extended Warranties
Extended Warranties Gain Momentum as Home Prices Increase
Easy Exterior and Interior Painting Tips
Easy Exterior and Interior Painting Tips for Painting your home in Florida
Mortgage Rates Continue Upward Trend
Mortgage Rates Keep on Climbing, Melbourne, FL Feels Increase
Top Five Summer Home Maintenance Tips
Home Maintenance Tips and Tricks For Your House in the Summer
How to Make Your House Marketable
Marketing Your Home to Buyers In The Current Housing Market
Landscaping Can Impact Home Values
How Your Landscaping Can Impact the Value and Return On Your Home
55+ Housing Markets Growing
Builder Confidence in the 55+ Housing Market Shows Strong Growth in First Quarter in Brevard County
Housing Contributes to Economic Growth
Buying and Selling Homes Helps Build the Nation's GDP
FHFA Limiting Loan Purchases to 'Qualified Mortgages'
FHFA Limiting Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Loan Purchases to 'Qualified Mortgages'
Q: How Can I Finance Work Needed on a Fixer-upper?
Need to finance work on your home, let us tell you how!
5 Tips for Higher Sales Price
5 Tips For Getting a Higher Sales Price on Your Florida Home
Mid-Year Outlook for 2013 in Florida
Mid-Year Outlook for 2013, Economic Growth Reaching "Normal"
5 Great Books for Buying or Selling Your Home
5 Great Books to Aid the Process of Buying or Selling Your Home in Florida
Florida Home Maintenance Safety Checklist
What Should Be on Your Home Maintenance Safety Checklist
Mortgage Rate Slightly Lower
Market Survey Showing Mortgage Rates Moving Slightly Lower In Florida
Yardless Gardening in Florida
No Need for a Backyard, Helpful Tips for Yardless Gardening.
Time to Lock in Your Rates
Now is the Time to Lock in to the Lowest Interest Rate in Florida
Q: Can Homes Be Sold for Less Than Their Mortgage?
Can a Home in Florida Be Sold for Less Than Its Mortgage?
Q: Should I Buy a New Home or Add to Existing
Q: How Do You Decide Whether to Add on to an Existing Home or Purchase a New One?
Q: What Are My Options If Faced with Foreclosure?
Q: What Are My Options While Living in Florida If Faced with Foreclosure?
Veterans Should Work With a Housing Counselor
Four Reasons Veterans Should Work With a Housing Counselor When Pursuing Homeownership
Recovery to Continue in 2014
Recovery to Continue in 2014, Says NAR; Rates and Home Prices Predicted to Rise
Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval
Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: What You Need to Know before the House Hunt Begins
Soaring Flood Insurance Premium Rates
Home Builders Seek Legislative Fix for Soaring Flood Insurance Premium Rates
Higher Property Values, Increased Transactions and Leveling of Foreclosures
Report Shows: Higher Property Values, Increased Transactions and Leveling of Foreclosures
Two-Thirds of Consumers Still Value Homeownership
Two-Thirds of Consumers Still Value Homeownership
The Changing Dynamics of Real Estate Investment
The Changing Dynamics of Real Estate Investment
Simple Tips to Protect Homes
Simple Tips to Protect Homes and Homeowners as Temperatures Begin to Drop
3 Things Every Patient Should Know
3 Things Every Patient Should Know when Dealing with the Health-Care System
American Home Shield Win-Win Promotion
American Home Shield Win-Win Promotion Targets Spanish-speaking Segment
Ask the Experts: What Style Should I Shoot My Video In?
Ask the Experts: What Style Should I Shoot My Video In?
Be Ready for Emergencies with These Preparedness Tips
Be Ready for Emergencies with These Preparedness Tips
Era of Real Estate
Brian Buffini Shares What It Takes to Succeed in the New Era of Real Estate
Homes.com Launches New Responsive Website Platform
Homes.com Launches New Responsive Website Platform for Agents & Brokers to Maximize Mobile Experience
How Your Car's Computers Can Improve Your Gas Mileage
How Your Car's Computers Can Improve Your Gas Mileage
Marketing Tactics to Integrate in 2014, Part III: Social Marketing
Marketing Tactics to Integrate in 2014, Part III: Social Marketing
New Report Shows Lack of Equality in Housing Market
New Report Shows Lack of Equality in Housing Market
Building Your New Home: Now Is Better than Later
Florida Real Estate - Why buying, building, or remodeling now is better than later
Simple Tips to Protect Your Lawn
Learn how to keep your lawn protected from the Florida summer heat and droughts
Freedom from Debt an Achievable Goal for Every Family
Living the Florida dream free of debt
NAHB Notes Remodeling Marketing Index Adjusts Downward from Recent High
Florida remodelers optimistic about future
30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Averages a Record-Breaking 3.49 Percent in Florida
Fixed mortgages rates continuing their streak of record-breaking lows
Florida Housing Remains Bright despite Overall Slowdown
The housing market continues to show positive signs!
Top 5 Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Payment in Florida
Help lower your Mortgage in five easy steps
Power Outage Protection Tips
Portect your home, family and electronics from Florida Lightning
Green a Home for a Faster, Higher Sale
Affordable ways to make your Florida home more efficient
Simple Switches to Spruce Up Any Home
Liven up your Florida Home to the Sun Shine State standards
Ways to Prep for a Florida Hurricane
Having a emergency plan for a Hurricane is always smart
Fannie Mae Announces Foreclosure Prevention Program
Florida homeowners now have a foreclosure option
Green Home Labels Add Significant Value
Strengthen your Florida Home value by adding green products
Authority to Approve More Short Sales
Freddie Mac Expands its Streamlines Servicer Authority
What to Know When Buying a Home with Propane
Things you should know about propane powered homes
55+ Housing Market is Increasing
Builder Confidence in the 55+ Florida Housing Market Shows Significant Improvement in the First Quarter
Increase Your Florida Home's Value by "Hardscaping"
Your Lawn May Look Good, but How's Your 'Hardscaping?'
Things to Watch Out for When Purchasing a New Home
Common Red Flags to Watch Out for When Searching for Your Florida Dream Home
Plant Some Flowers! It may help you sell your Florida home faster!
Increase Your Home's Curb Appeal by Adding Flowers to the Mix
It's a Great Time to Buy Your Home!
Americans' Expectations Align to Encourage Home Buying - Florida Housing Market
First Time Buyer? How to get started in buying your new home
5 Basic Steps to Make a House Your Home - Buying Your First Florida Home
Selling your Florida Home. What are you taking or leaving in the home?
Keep Miscommunication at Bay: Establish What Stays and What Goes from the Get-Go
Listing Your Home
Understanding Listings - Which One Is Right for You? - Selling Your Florida Home
Florida Housing Market is on the Rise
Housing Outlook Continues to Brighten, Say Economists
Having Trouble Selling Your Home?
The Reasons Your Florida House Isn't Selling and What You Can Do about It (Part 1)
Keep Your Home Smelling Good - It May Sell Faster
Florida Spring Selling Season: Keep Your Inside Air Fresh
Preparing Your Florida Home for the Hurricane Season
Simple Tips to Prepare Your Home and Windows for Hurricane Season
Be Honest About Your Home's Condition When Selling
Selling Your Florida Home: What is Silent Fraud?
Florida Mortgage Rates are Still Falling!
Average 15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Breaks Barrier, Falls To 2.97 Percent
Is Your Home Near a Wildlife Refuge? It May Be Worth More!..
Florida Home Values Higher Near National Wildlife Refuges, New Study Finds
New All-Time Low for Florida Fixed Mortage Rates!
Fixed Mortgage Rates Fall to New All-Time Record Lows
Brevard Zoo Among the Top Ten Zoos of America!
Walk on the Wild Side with America's Top 10 Zoos
Selling Tip - Keep Pests Out of Your Home
Make Your Florida Home and Landscape Less Susceptible to Pests
Homeowners Safety Tips - Fire Prevention
Fire Prevention Tips to Keep in Mind as the Florida Summer Season Heats Up
Safety Tips - Prevent Injury While Gardening Around Your Florida Home
Pull Weeds, Not Muscles, When Gardening This Summer
Going "Cheap" Isn't Always Good...
10 Things Worth Paying More For - A Nice Florida Neighborhood is Worth It.
Thinking of Buying a Florida Home With a Friend? Read this..
What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Home with a Friend
Money Saving Tips - Homeowner's Insurance
Are You Paying Too Much for Florida Homeowners Insurance? Keep More Money In Your Wallet with the Following Tips
Home Prices Still on the Rise
May Florida Home Price Index Shows Third Consecutive Monthly Increase
Florida Home Buying Tips
Going Once, Going Twice...Sold! Put Together an Offer the Seller Won't Refuse
Lockboxes Provide Unique Advantage in Today's Competitive Market
Advantages of using a lockbox when selling your Florida home
