Why Can’t I Amend a Florida Supreme Court Lease? (But I Can Amend a Florida Realtors/Florida Bar ASIS Contract)

​ ORLANDO, Fla. – Way back in the 1990s (1992 to be exact) the Florida Bar issued an Advisory Opinion. The question at hand was, “Whether it constitutes the unlicensed practice of law for a Florida real estate licensee and/or other nonlawyer to draft a residential lease up to one year in duration for another […]

NAR Adds Flexibility for Sellers

​NAR’s new policy lets MLSs set a delay period before sellers and agents market properties publicly through IDX or syndication. 

New Home Sales Edge Higher in February

​Sales of newly built, single-family homes in February increased 1.8% thanks to slightly lower mortgage rates. Inventory was up 7.5% compared to a year earlier. 

Creating a Peaceful Backyard Retreat

​A relaxing backyard space could include water features, shaded spots and multiple gathering spaces. Backyard retreats may boost home value by 3.1%. 

Hispanic Homeownership Hits Record High

​In 2024, 9.8M Hispanic households owned homes, but the rate fell as household growth outpaced ownership. NAHREP urges action on affordability and supply. 

Bigger Down Payments Continue in Q4 2024

​The typical Q4 down payment was $30,250, slightly below Q3 but $3K higher year-over-year. Higher home prices and rates were keeping down payments elevated. 

Pending Home Sales Advanced 2.0% in February

​Pending home sales in the South rose 6.2% in February, leading regional gains. The South remains a stronger market than other regions. 

Seller’s Guide to Navigating Multiple Offers

​NAR’s latest Consumer Guide provides sellers with insights on evaluating several offers, negotiation strategies and other useful information. 

Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate Falls Slightly

​Rates on 30-year mortgages fell to 6.65% from 6.67% last week, while rates on 15-year mortgages rose to 5.89% from 5.83% last week, Freddie Mac said. 

Staging Your House for a Quick Sale

​Professional staging can arrange furniture, décor and lighting to highlight a home’s features, making it more appealing in listing photos and in-person showings. 

Can’t Pay Your Taxes? Here’s What You Can Do

​If you owe taxes, file your return or request an extension to avoid penalties. The IRS can help with payment plans and extensions. Free tools are available. 

Wetlands Fight Teed Up for Arguments

​A federal appeals court will hear arguments in May about whether the EPA improperly transferred wetlands permitting authority to Florida.