Mortgage Rates Fall to Lowest Level Since October

​ News & Media By Alex Veiga WASHINGTON — The average rate on a 30-year U.S. mortgage fell again this week, echoing a decline in long-term U.S. Treasury bond yields ahead of the Federal Reserve’s first rate cut this year. The rate eased to 6.26% from 6.35% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. […]

Inside the World of Smart Home Devices

​ News & Media MIAMI — These interconnected devices may include household appliances, climate control units, various security features, lighting systems, window coverings, radios and televisions, among other things. But how do they work? Smart thermostats Smart thermostats have become a widely embraced upgrade, and they make for a relatively easy transition into the world […]

Insurers Get OK for Citizens’ Policies

​ TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A wave of policies could leave the state’s Citizens Property Insurance Corp. after this year’s hurricane season. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation on Monday issued orders that would allow 10 insurers to take up to 254,811 policies from Citizens in mid-December. That came after earlier approvals for companies to assume […]

NAR: Realtors Embrace AI, Digital Tools

​ News & Media WASHINGTON — Agents who are Realtors® are leaning into artificial intelligence while continuing to rely on digital tools such as eSignature, social media, and drone photography to serve their clients, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2025 Technology Survey. The report surveyed NAR members to better understand how technology is […]

Fed Cut May Slowly Ease Mortgage Costs

​ NEW YORK — The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate Wednesday for the first time in nine months. Since the last cut, progress on inflation has slowed while the labor market has cooled. That means Americans are dealing with both high prices and a challenging job market. The federal funds rate, set by […]

Radon Testing: A Simple Step for a Safer Home

​Radon, an invisible gas and second-leading cause of lung cancer, can enter any home. Regular testing and affordable mitigation protect health and property values. 

How to Reach the Coveted 850 Credit Mark

​Only about 2% of Americans achieve an 850 credit score. With steady habits and smart monitoring, anyone can move closer to top-tier credit and better loan rates. 

Want to Sell Your Home? Start Early

​Many longtime homeowners hold large equity gains, but today’s market calls for early planning and careful pricing to ensure a smooth, profitable sale. 

Drop in Mortgage Rates Sparks Refinances

​Mortgage rates fell to an 11-month low, prompting more refinancing. Experts urge caution if the break-even period to recoup costs is over two years. 

U.S. Housing Affordability Shows Modest Gains

​With mortgage rates easing and home prices slowing, affordability has increased 3.1% YOY across the U.S. However, conditions remain well below pre-pandemic norms. 

Deadlines Looming for Hurricane Claims

​Florida law allows one year to start a storm claim. Helene deadline is Sept. 26, 2025. Milton deadline is Oct. 9, 2025. Supplemental claims get 18 months. 

Builder Confidence Steady, Future Sales Look Up

​Builder sentiment remained unchanged in September. Lower mortgage rates and a possible Fed rate cut lifted future sales expectations, while more builders cut prices.