The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate steady for a fifth consecutive meeting, but three officials favored an increase as persistent inflation and a potentially higher neutral rate cloud the outlook for borrowing costs. The shift suggests mortgage rates and other consumer loan rates could remain elevated longer than many borrowers expect.
New construction is giving homebuyers more choices and negotiating power across the South, including Florida, according to HomeServices of America’s 2026 Mid-Year National Housing Outlook. The shift increases competition for sellers and makes accurate pricing and local market guidance more important.
Real estate agents can help buyers make more informed decisions by focusing on the full monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and association fees, rather than the listing price alone. Discussing those costs early can prevent surprises, narrow the home search and demonstrate the value of an agent’s market knowledge.
New research finds AI is strengthening demand in some commercial markets while reducing space needs in others, depending on local jobs and industries.
The 30-year fixed rate reaches 6.66% as bond yields respond to Iran conflict. That's still slightly below the average of 6.72% a year ago.
Florida recorded 51,444 new-home permits through the second quarter, down 7% from a year earlier, though Northwest Florida and several counties posted growth.
Renters can protect their belongings, finances and temporary living costs by understanding what their policy covers and where gaps may remain.
Federal Reserve policymakers face a divided decision today as easing inflation supports holding rates steady while persistent price pressures strengthen the case for an increase that could influence mortgage rates and homebuyers’ purchasing power.
New research found that 77% of buyers consider curb appeal at least moderately important, giving real estate professionals another way to evaluate new-home communities, prepare listings and better understand what draws buyers through the door.
Florida metros posted some of the nation’s strongest growth in millennial homeowner and renter households from 2018 to 2023, according to a RentCafe analysis. North Port led the country in millennial homeownership growth, while Orlando topped the list for renter growth.
