Florida’s Booming Job Market Hits 11.1M Workers

​Florida’s economy added 430,800 jobs in early 2025, and the state’s private sector job growth outpaced the national rate, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics said. 

Helping Agents Lead in the Spring Market

​Brokers can equip agents with insights and direction to guide customers and help sellers make informed decisions in the coming months. 

Existing-Home Sales Accelerated 4.2% in February

​The median home price rose 3.8% to $398,400. Southern sales climbed 4.4% in February but dropped 4% year-over-year, according to NAR. 

Average 30-year Mortgage Rate Rises Slightly

​The rate on 30-year mortgages rose to 6.67% from 6.65% last week. Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages rose to 5.83% from 5.8%. 

Fla.’s Housing: Inventory Up, Median Prices Ease

​Florida Realtors Chief Economist: Fla.’s single-family inventory is at a 5.3-months’ supply, suggesting it has moved out of a seller’s market into relative balance. 

Popular Trends in Home Exteriors

​Popular home exterior trends include natural wood elements, painted brick, hardscaping with outdoor living spaces and ambient outdoor lighting. 

Study Shows Ideal Ages for Life Milestones

​A Pew Research survey of 3,600 U.S. adults revealed the ideal ages for life milestones: marriage (26.5), first child (27.3), home purchase (28.8) and retirement (61.8). 

Speaking the Language of Staging

​Home staging boosts appeal and value, with 81% of agents saying it helps buyers visualize a home. Effective staging may help sell homes faster and at higher prices. 

RE Q&A: Should We Buy a Starter Home?

​Unmarried couples can successfully buy a home together with proper planning. A co-ownership agreement clarifies responsibilities and protects both parties. 

New Guide Helps Buyers Navigate HOAs

​NAR’s new Consumer Guide explains homeowners associations (HOAs), covering fees, rules and other important information, helping buyers make informed decisions. 

Five Florida Finalists Named to NAR’s 30-Under-30

​NAR announced the names of the 50 finalists vying for its 2025 30-Under-30 class, and five are from Florida. Voting for a Web Choice Winner opens April 2. 

Builder Confidence Down, Optimism Remains

​Builders continue to face elevated building material costs and other supply side challenges, the NAHB said. However, they are seeing regulatory relief.