FHA policy changes could give some buyers more flexibility on repairs, appraisals and financing, while keeping property condition, repair costs and lender timelines central to the transaction.
As some agents step back, those who sharpen their skills, communicate clearly and offer steady guidance have a chance to build trust and gain ground, Inman said.
HUD’s new guidance narrows how the agency will handle emotional support animal complaints under the Fair Housing Act, but NAR says housing providers should be careful before changing policies. Courts, state agencies and local fair housing laws may still treat the issue differently.
Homes that linger on the market for 18 weeks close 1.3 percentage points below asking, compared to 1.8 points above for those sold near week four, according to a Realtor.com analysis of national listing performance.
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.49% from 6.47% this week, while 15-year rates climbed to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Rates remain below year-ago levels as easing oil prices help cool bond market pressure.
Investment activity is not surging, but it remains strong enough to shape attention around certain homes, especially lower-priced properties and homes with rental potential.
Harvard found Florida had the nation’s highest renter cost-burden rate in 2024, while Census data shows nearly 1.7 million renter households here spent at least 30% of income on gross rent.
A broad housing bill passed by Congress will impact Florida conversations about new construction, financing, manufactured housing and entry-level competition. The White House previously signaled support for the measure, but the president canceled a planned Wednesday signing, leaving the bill’s final path unclear.
Real estate professionals say unprepared homes captured in listing photos can drive buyers to competing properties. Clutter, lighting and staging remain within sellers' control before a shoot.
NAR data highlighted during the association’s recent Legislative Meetings points to several groups who may be closer to buying or selling than they realize, including longtime owners, younger sellers with equity, renters, pet owners and first-time buyers with questions about financing.
