​Homebuyers are gaining leverage as sellers cut prices, offer concessions and listings linger, though affordability challenges keep sales near historic lows. 

​A Fed rate cut is expected Sept. 17, but mortgage rates, shaped by investor demand and Treasury yields, could rise, steady or drop. 

​Wealthy buyers are opting for homes that balance convenience, style, and investment value rather than size and can be purchased in cash. 

​U.S. housing starts fell 8.5% as affordability slowed single-family construction, but lower interest rates may boost future building. 

​At the Florida Realtors Convention, Chief Economist Brad O’Connor said home sales remain slightly below last year’s while prices stay well above pre-pandemic levels. 

​Realtor.com’s report shows the U.S. market peaks Oct. 12–18 for buyers, while Florida’s best deals arrive late Oct.–Dec. with more listings and lower prices. 

​The Federal Reserve cut its key rate to 4.1% and projected two more cuts this year as job growth slows and unemployment ticks higher. 

​Rates on 30-year mortgage rate eased to 6.35% from 6.5% last week, while 15-year rates slipped to 5.5% from 5.6%. 

​U.S. homeowners’ median monthly costs rose 3.8% to $2,035 in 2024, with mortgage holders spending 21.4% of income as rents climbed 2.7% to $1,487. 

​To determine if a home is in an HOA community, check the deed and closing documents. If recorded, the annual fee is required; if not, it’s optional. 

​Florida’s jobless claims fell 1.7% to 5,624 last week, while U.S. filings surged 11% to 263,000, which was the highest weekly total since 2021. 

​AccuWeather trimmed its hurricane outlook to 13–16 storms and 6–9 hurricanes, citing dry air, dust and wind shear, though Gulf waters remain very warm.