Consumer Mood Improves More Than Expected

Consumer Mood Improves More Than Expected

Consumer sentiment climbed higher than first reported in early January, reflecting broad gains, though confidence remains well below last year amid inflation pressures. ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Revised data released by the University of Michigan on Friday showed consumer...
New Homes May Offer Unexpected Value in 2026

New Homes May Offer Unexpected Value in 2026

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey Builder incentives and smaller homes are bringing new-home prices closer to resales, creating a rare buying window in some markets. WASHINGTON – For the first time in years, the price gap between newly built homes and existing homes is...
EPA Tightens Lead Paint Enforcement

EPA Tightens Lead Paint Enforcement

By Carol Weinrich Helsel Property managers who fail to comply with updated lead paint rules risk lawsuits, project shutdowns, insurance denial and fines up to $40,000 per violation. WASHINGTON – “Caveat emptor.” Buyer beware. Property managers who hire contractors and...
RE Q&A: Can I Claim a Home I Helped Pay For?

RE Q&A: Can I Claim a Home I Helped Pay For?

By Gary M. Singer Paying the mortgage and repairs on a home in your partner’s name may still give you legal rights, even if your name isn’t on the deed. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: I purchased a house with my girlfriend, but because she had better credit, we put...
Strong Turnout Marks Great American Realtor Days

Strong Turnout Marks Great American Realtor Days

By Amy Connolly Nearly 1,000 Florida Realtors members met with lawmakers for GARD, hearing policy updates and advocating for the profession’s 2026 legislative priorities. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Nearly 1,000 Realtors® filled the halls and offices of the state Capitol last...
Mortgage Rates Inch Higher, Still Near 3-Year Low

Mortgage Rates Inch Higher, Still Near 3-Year Low

By Alex Veiga Rates on 30-year mortgages rose to 6.09% from 6.06% last week while borrowing costs on 15-year mortgages edged up to 5.44%, up from 5.38%. WASHINGTON — The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate ticked higher this week but remains near its lowest level in...