Make Way for Female Homebuyers — They Are Tackling the Housing Market
New reports reveal another fast-growing group of homebuyers: single women.
June 15, 2020
Top 10 Cities Where Women Are Securing Mortgages
Single women are the homebuying group that won’t slow down; there is no doubt about that. Although one question is, where exactly are these female homeowners?
May 31, 2020
The Rural Broadband Gap Is Exposed as Students Move to Online Courses
As students all over the country acclimate to a virtual classroom, huge broadband gaps in rural areas are exposed.
May 13, 2020
How Will COVID-19 Impact Your Property Taxes?
What will happen to property taxes in your area and nationally when the country returns to business as usual following the coronavirus pandemic?
May 9, 2020
When to Splurge vs When to Save on Home Improvements
While we’re all staying safe inside, why not focus on home improvements? Find out when to splurge and when to save when it comes to DIY projects.
May 1, 2020
If You’re a New Homeowner Don’t Forget to Utilize These Homeowners Tax Credit Programs
What you need to know about homeowners’ tax credit and tax benefits and how you can save you money.
April 20, 2020
7 Secrets to Lower Your Property Tax Bill
With these 7 secrets to cutting down your property taxes, you’ll forget how much you once dreaded Tax Day.
April 17, 2020
Moving Hacks to Make Your Transition Toward Homeownership That Much Easier
After the extensive process of finding the perfect dream home, now you’re finally ready for the big move.
January 6, 2020
Have You Been Dreaming of Becoming a Homeowner?
It’s time to take this dream of homeownership off the backburner and make moves, both figuratively and literally.
December 2, 2019
Take Inventory of Your Belongings Before a Disaster Strikes
Documenting all of your belongings certainly may seem like an intimidating undertaking, but with the right assistance and resources it can be totally manageable.
September 23, 2019
Live Better for Less in Up-and-Coming Cincinnati
Within the past few years, this city has climbed the charts and made its way onto everyone’s radar; both millennials and families are flocking to this bustling city.
September 22, 2019
North Dakota Has Plenty of Hidden Opportunities for Potential Homeowners
Did you know that North Dakota offers programs that assist families in finding an affordable home?
September 12, 2019
Here’s Why Alaska May Be the Next Frontier for Homeowners
Alaska’s dedicated environmentalists are changing the game when it comes to their home state’s future.
September 10, 2019
8 Signs It’s Time to Become a Homeowner
Becoming a homeowner is a big decision, so you want to make sure it’s right for you. If you’re on the fence, we have 8 signs that it may just be time to take the plunge.
August 29, 2019
Is the Lone Star State Is the Perfect New Home Base for You and Your Family?
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July 16, 2019
Arizona Homeowners Receive Little to No Protection from Unregulated HOAs
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June 6, 2019
Kentucky Cities Lead Growth
Over the past couple of years, Kentucky has seen significant economic growth, especially in Louisville, Lexington and Bowling Green.
May 23, 2019
Vote In Our Poll
How do you feel about homeownership? What does it mean to you? Vote in our poll about homeownership.
April 21, 2019
Do’s and Don’ts for First-Time Homebuyers
If it’s time to make the leap and buy a home, take a minute to look over our “Do’s and Don’ts for First-Time Homebuyers.”
April 12, 2019
Supply of Inventory in New York Increases
Days on Market decreased 2.3 percent to 85 days. Months Supply of Inventory was up 3.8 percent to 5.5 months.
April 10, 2019
High Student Loan Debt Restricting First-Time Homebuyers
When you’re overwhelmed with student debt, it may seem like homeownership is unattainable, but that is far from the truth.
March 28, 2019
Mid-Market Miami Home Sales Rise in February
Miami existing condominium sales jumped double digits and single-family luxury $1-million-and-up transactions rose year-over-year in March
March 24, 2019
Brooklynites Consider Homeownership to Avoid Inconsistent Rent Hikes
With the price of public transportation also increasing and the chronic maintenance issues in certain areas, renters in New York City are beginning to reconsider homeownership as opposed to renting.
February 28, 2019
The 2017 “Sixth Penny Tax” Projects in Laramie County
Did you know that state law allows counties, in cooperation with cities and towns, to fund specific projects through a voluntary sales tax? It’s called “The Sixth Penny Tax.”
April 14, 2017
2016 Utah home sales highest on record
Utah’s booming economy, high job growth and low interest rates led the state to a record-breaking year for home sales in 2016. Statewide, Utah Realtors sold 49,399 homes, townhomes and condominiums.
March 31, 2017
Video: What Do First-Time Homebuyers Want?
If you happen to be thinking about selling, first timers may be your largest audience so it makes sense to know what they’re looking for and want in a home.
March 17, 2017
Montana REALTORS Discuss Homeowner Issues With State Legislators
Montana REALTORS work to ensure that homeowners’ legal rights are protected and that they are given a voice in the Capitol.
March 16, 2017
Montana REALTORS Oppose Well Permit Ruling
The Montana Supreme Court recently upheld a water well permit ruling that could have serious consequences for state residents.
March 9, 2017
Generation X Re-enters the Housing Market
The number of Generation X home buyers is increasing thanks to an improving economy, strong job growth and an increase in home values.
March 8, 2017
Quiz: Flood Insurance
Take our quiz and find out how much you know about floods and flood insurance.
March 5, 2017
Heavy Rains in Hawai’i Can Cause Catastrophic Damage to Property
Heavy rains can happen at any time and can result in flash floods. In October 2004, a flash flood in Manoa, a residential neighborhood in Honolulu, caused $85 million in damage.
March 5, 2017
Video: Now is a good time to buy a home
In the latest quarterly HOME survey, respondents were asked about their confidence in the U.S. economy and their housing expectations in 2017.
February 22, 2017
Iowa REALTORS® Fight For Home Savings Accounts
For some time, parents have been able to save money for their children’s education through tax-favorable 529 accounts. Now, the Iowa Association of REALTORS® is fighting to give similar benefits to first time home buyers. “With home prices slowly risin …
February 15, 2017
Video: Can you afford to buy a home?
Affordability, student debt and confusion about down payment requirements prevented many aspiring homeowners from entering the market.
February 10, 2017
The Tiny House Movement Gains Ground With Hawai’i Homeowners
While not for everyone, homeowners who have embraced the trend say they enjoy the time and cost savings a home with a tiny footprint delivers.
January 30, 2017
Median Sales Prices Up in Hawai’i
The median sales price in homes across Hawai’i were up year-over-year in 2016. Single-family homes were up nearly 5% and condominiums were up over 7%.
January 30, 2017
It’s All About the Babies: Williamsburg REALTORS® Help The Area’s Smallest Citizens
Local REALTORS deliver hundreds of boxes of diapers to the Williamsburg House of Mercy.
January 26, 2017
Video: Next Generation Home Ownership
For as long as most of us can recall, the American Dream, the ability of every U.S. citizen to achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, has involved home ownership.
January 18, 2017
Quiz: Homelessness in America
December 31, 2016
4 Important Conversations To Have When Buying A Home
Purchasing a home is a big investment and you should feel at ease asking questions, and discussing the process with your loved ones and your lender.
December 30, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Forge Ahead in November
A big surge in the Northeast and a smaller gain in the South have pushed existing-home sales up in November for the third consecutive month.
December 21, 2016
Finding Solutions For The Homeless in America
In 2007, Florida REALTOR® Sherri Meadows had a discussion with a waiter that ultimately sparked a nationwide effort among her colleagues to address issues of homelessness.
December 8, 2016
UPDATE: REALTORS and Homeowners Work Together To Abolish Unfair Property Taxes in Honolulu
Judge Gary W.B. Chang recently overturned a property tax increase that required property owners to pay $6 for every $1,000 of their home’s appraised value.
December 8, 2016
Policy Impacting America’s Homeless
Video: Homelessness impacts our economy, our communities and our neighborhoods and we need to be sure we do all that we can to resolve it.
December 7, 2016
Pending Home Sales Crawl Forward in October
“Most of the country last month saw at least a small increase in contract signings and more notably, activity in all major regions is up from a year ago,” says NAR’s chief economist.
November 30, 2016
Quiz: The Mortgage Interest Deduction
November 26, 2016
Quiz: The VA home loan program
Test your knowledge about VA home loan program. How much do you know?
November 26, 2016
Quiz: About Home Ownership in the US
Test your knowledge on home ownership in the United States. How much do you know?
November 26, 2016
Time to talk about the hidden property tax in Texas
Property owners in Texas pay some of the highest property taxes in the country — and many Texans are being taxed out of their homes.
November 22, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Jump Again in October
Existing-home sales rose in October for the second straight month and eclipsed June’s cyclical sales peak to become the highest annualized pace in nearly a decade.
November 22, 2016
A New Land Use Initiative To Improve The Housing Market
Hawaii REALTORS believe that the initiative will help to revise outdated land use regulations and improve the island’s housing situation.
November 18, 2016
First-time Buyers, Single Women Gain Traction
NAR’s annual Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers shows that the share of sales to first-time home buyers in the 2016 survey has ticked up to 35 percent.
November 1, 2016
Infographic: First-time Buyers, Single Women Gain Traction
The new Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers shows a rebound from two segments of buyers who have been missing in action recently: first-time buyers and single women.
October 31, 2016
Pending Home Sales Edge Up in September
Pending home sales shifted higher in September following August’s notable dip and are now at their fifth highest level over the past year.
October 27, 2016
First-time Buyers Steer Existing-Home Sales Higher in September
Existing-home sales rebounded strongly in September and were propelled by sales from first-time buyers reaching a 34 percent share, which is a high not seen in over four years.
October 20, 2016
Part 2: Finding Solutions For The Homeless in America
(This is a two-part story. Click here to read Part 1.) HOUSING FOR ALL At an NAR symposium in 2016, homelessness was identified as a serious issue. REALTORS® from Hawaii talked about how working men were living in tents on the beaches of Maui because t …
October 15, 2016
Pending Home Sales Retreat in August; What Home Buyers Need to Know
After bouncing back in July, pending home sales cooled in August for the third time in four months and to their lowest level since January.
September 29, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Soften Further in August
Fast Fact: Hopes of a meaningful sales breakthrough as a result of this summer’s historically low mortgage rates failed to materialize because supply and affordability restrictions continue to keep too many would-be buyers on the sidelines. Existing-ho …
September 22, 2016
Hawai’i Homeowners May Find Themselves Without National Flood Insurance
Hawaiians who rely on the National Flood Insurance Program may soon find themselves without any protection if the state government doesn’t act soon.
September 10, 2016
Pending Home Sales Tick Up in July
Pending home sales expanded in most of the country in July and reached their second highest reading in over a decade. Only the Midwest saw a dip in contract activity last month.
August 30, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Lose Steam in July
Existing-home sales lost momentum in July and decreased year-over-year for the first time since November 2015.
August 25, 2016
Veterans Benefit from Home Loan Guaranty Program
Your tax dollars help support VA loans, an important and well-earned benefit for America’s military, including over 630,000 who bought homes this year alone.
August 22, 2016
Veterans And Homelessness
Video: Around 40,000 veterans across the United States are homeless. This video explains what efforts are underway to address the problem.
August 22, 2016
Arizona REALTOR® fight for fair property tax rates
In the 2016 Arizona Legislative session, Arizona REALTORS® opposed a bill that would give tax breaks to for-profit universities and shift the tax burden to Arizona property owners.
August 22, 2016
America’s Veterans Deserve Homes
Over half of active-duty military home buyers are between the ages of 18 and 35. Only a third of non-military buyers are able to buy a home at this young age today.
August 21, 2016
Helping Our Nation’s Heroes Get the Homes They Deserve
Video: Did you know that VA Loans offer significant benefits beyond conventional or even FHA loans including zero down payment, lower credit scores, and more?
August 21, 2016
Finding Solutions For Hawai’i Homeless
Hawai’i Association of REALTORS® works with the Governor’s office to help the island address homelessness crisis.
August 14, 2016
REALTORS® Survey: Rochester a great place to live and getting better
The results have helped show that, contrary to what some believed, not everyone wants to live in an apartment downtown. Instead, about half want to live downtown or in areas where shops are walkable.
July 26, 2016
Need to consult with a housing counselor in Virginia?
Give it a try, as the service is usually FREE! Virginia has many choices of nonprofits with counselors who help Virginia families with their housing budgets and preparations to move. Check out an office near you, and meet a housing counselor who may he …
July 26, 2016
Pending Home Sales Marginally Rise in June
Pending home sales moved slightly higher as supply and affordability prevented a bigger boost in activity from mortgage rates that lingered near all-time lows through most of the month.
July 26, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Boosted in June by First-Time Homebuyers
Boosted by a greater share of sales to first-time buyers not seen in nearly four years, existing-home sales climbed 1.1% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million in June.
July 21, 2016
NAR-Backed Condo Legislation Passes U.S. Senate, Offers Relief for Homebuyers
The U.S. Senate has passed H.R. 3700, the “Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act,” by unanimous consent.
July 14, 2016
Everything You Need to Know About Saving For a Down Payment…
Saving for a down payment is the number one obstacle preventing First-time home buyers from achieving the dream of homeownership.
July 13, 2016
Infographic: International Activity in Residential Real Estate
This infographic looks at international activity in U.S. residential real estate taken from 2016 Profile of International Home Buying and Selling.
July 8, 2016
NY First Home – REALTORS Push for First-time Homebuyer Savings Plan
One of the New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR) top priorities during the 2016 legislative session was the NY First Home proposal. This legislation, sponsored by Senator Betty Little and Assemblyman Phil Ramos, will help first time homebuyer …
July 6, 2016
REALTORS Place Financial Advocacy Before Trendy Listing Techniques
The trend of the “ugly home” is a growing one, with many listings actually going so far as to advertise the home as the “worst in the neighborhood.”
July 5, 2016
Pending home sales slumped in May amid supply shortage
After steadily increasing for three straight months, pending home sales let up in May and declined year-over-year for the first time in almost two years.
June 30, 2016
Student Debt Is Preventing Graduates From Leaving Home
A recent survey revealed that 4 out of 10 student loan recipients are unable to move out of their family homes after graduating college because of student debt.
June 28, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Grow 1.8% in May
Existing-home sales sprang ahead in May to their highest pace in almost a decade, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
June 27, 2016
Should Your Home Be Tested for Lead or Radon Health Hazards?
It doesn’t matter if you rent or own. People all across across the country have been hurt by invisible dangers like lead and radon.
June 15, 2016
Student Debt Delays Home Ownership
A new study shows that 71% of non-homeowners repaying their student loans on time believe their debt is stymieing their ability to purchase a home.
June 13, 2016
Handling Problems During The Home Loan Process
If you experience problems or discrimination while going through the home loan process it’s important that you know what recourse you have.
June 1, 2016
Pending Home Sales Lift Off in April to Over 10-Year High
Pending home sales rose for the third consecutive month in April and reached their highest level in over a decade
June 1, 2016
Infographic: Existing-Home Sales Rise in April for Second Straight Month
Despite ongoing inventory shortages and faster price growth, existing-home sales in April 2016 sustained their recent momentum and moved higher for the second consecutive month.
May 21, 2016
Madera REALTORS Helping Homeowners To Secure Down Payments
The Madera Association of REALTORS will be awarding $25,000 in grant to prospective Madera homeowners to fund their down payments at this year’s Madera Business Extravaganza and Home Expo.
May 19, 2016
Here’s what you need to know about the Fair Housing Act
Anyone who works hard and qualifies for a mortgage should be able to buy a home where they choose. If they don’t qualify, or prefer not to own, having fair access to lease a home is equally important.
May 8, 2016
REALTORS® Make Good Neighbors
We live in the areas where we work, representing every community in Washington State.
May 6, 2016
4 Steps To Help You Protect Your Home Investment
Whether you plan on staying in your new home for five years or fifty, it’s important to make sure you are protecting your investment.
May 1, 2016
Arizona REALTORS® Oppose Mandatory Demand Charge for Residential Power Customers
The Arizona REALTORS® recently opposed a rate case before the Arizona Corporation Commission which would have set a poor precedence in allowing power companies to charge on the basis of peak usage rather than total consumption during the billing period.
April 29, 2016
REALTORS Believe In The Future of Ferguson
The St. Louis Association of REALTORS® (SLAR) was quick to respond following the 2014 Ferguson riots.
April 29, 2016
Illinois REALTORS Advocate For Homeowners in Washington
Homeowners may not realize this, but REALTORS® are not only helping them to buy and sell, they are also one of their biggest political advocates. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) appoints a Federal Political Coordinator, or FPC, to work with …
April 28, 2016
How Will 2016 Elections Impact Washington Area Home Sales?
In 2015, homeowners in the Washington area enjoyed a steady real estate market. Home prices were stable, and as a result homes sold quickly and the number of homes on the market increased.
April 21, 2016
Austin REALTORS® Help Homeowners Protect Their Community
Homeowners in Austin, Texas were concerned when they learned that a Dallas based developer had controversial plans for the 31 acres they purchased near the downtown area.
April 21, 2016
Existing-Home Sales Spring Ahead in March
Bolstered by big gains in the Northeast and Midwest, existing-home sales bounced back in March and remained slightly up from a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Click on the image to make it larger.
April 20, 2016
Looking to Rent? Five Questions to Ask to Avoid a Scam
It’s tough enough to find an affordable rental in today’s tight market, so when you see that perfect place for an even more perfect price, take a closer look. It could be a scam.
April 19, 2016
Mason City Iowa REALTORS Are Helping Children Find Their Happy Place
The Greater Mason City Board of Realtors has been working closely with My Happy Place for the past two years, and supports the organization on many levels.
April 8, 2016
Infographic: 2016 Spring Home Buying Trends
This infographic looks at consumer trends in home buying and the outlook for market and the economy. It was created using data from the Spring 2016 HOME Survey, which is a report that reflects consumer feelings about the housing market.
March 29, 2016
Millennials Are Leaving City Life Behind
The urban landscape is changing as more millennials are opting to buy their home in the suburbs. In fact, the number of millennials buying in urban or central city areas decreased by 17% this year.
March 29, 2016
Avoiding Pitfalls During The Home Loan Process
Read about some of the common pitfalls homeowners should avoid during the mortgage process.
March 24, 2016
About VHDA’s Down Payment Assistance Grant
Qualified first-time homebuyers may receive a percentage of the purchase price to help with the down payment through this program. Read more for details.
March 24, 2016
Who Are The Millennial Home Buyers?
According to the 2016 NAR Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends study, millennials are the largest group of home buyers for the third year running.
March 21, 2016
It’s Tax Time…Don’t Forget your Home Office Deductions!
You’ve joined the growing ranks of those who work from home, and have enjoyed the personal benefits that come with it (no more 45-minute commute!), but are you missing out on the financial benefits?
March 19, 2016
Student Loan Debt Isn’t Stopping Millennials From Buying Homes
A new NAR study shows that 35 percent of all recent home buyers are millennials. Despite concern over student loan debt, they are actually not the generation that is struggling with the largest balances.
March 10, 2016
End the IVA Tax on Real Estate Services
En Espanol A healthy housing market is critical to our economic recovery. Everyone knows how important it is to own your own home. Home ownership provides stability, financial security, safety and a lifetime of memories. But some people may n …
February 29, 2016
A Derogar El IVU/IVA En Los Bienes Raíces
In English Un mercado de vivienda saludable es fundamental para nuestra recuperación económica. Todos sabemos lo importante que es ser dueño de su propio hogar. Ser propietario de una vivienda ofrece estabilidad emocional, seguridad económica, protecci …
February 29, 2016
Infographic: First-time Homebuyer Affordability
How affordable are homes for first-time buyers? This infographic takes a look at the first-time homebuyer affordability data from the last quarter of 2015.
February 18, 2016
3 Steps To Take Before Closing Your Mortgage
Once you’ve decided to move forward with a lender based on the Loan Estimate, you are ready to shop for the closing agent who gathers all the legal documents, closes the loan, and handles the money involved in your purchase.
February 15, 2016
Infographic: Dogs and Real Estate are a Perfect Fit
NAR provides tips for making a house more dog friendly as well as statistics about Americans and their pets.
February 12, 2016
Las Vegas REALTORS Bet on Smart Growth, Win Big in Sahara/Decatur
Las Vegas REALTORS recently worked with local stakeholders to develop an ambitious three-pronged program based on “smart growth” principles to elevate the livability and economic promise of the Sahara/Decatur area.
February 12, 2016
San Francisco REALTORS Help Mission District Residents Defeat A Crucial Housing Moratorium
The San Francisco REALTOR’s Association was key in the recent defeat of Prop. 1, The Mission Moratorium. The controversial moratorium would have instigated an 18-month pause on both new housing construction and the conversion of light industrial space into living accommodations.
February 12, 2016
Minnesota REALTORS Successfully Protect the State’s Mortgage Interest Deduction For Homeowners
Minnesota REALTORS ran a successful a campaign to protect the mortgage interest deduction and homeownership statewide by educating REALTORS, legislators and homeowners statewide on the negative impacts of eliminating the MID and building a coalition of pro-housing supporters.
February 12, 2016
Hopkinsville REALTORS Introduce Military Families to Housing Opportunities in Their Small Town
Working with the Military Affairs Committee of the local Chamber of Commerce, Hopkinsville REALTORS planned and promoted a picnic for soldiers and their families from Fort Campbell.
February 12, 2016
How Do Changes to the FHA Condo Loan Rules Help You?
Since the real estate bubble burst, more first-time and low- to moderate-income home buyers are using FHA loans, a trend expected to continue for years to come.
February 3, 2016
Infographic: Existing-Home Sales Surge Back in December
Total existing-home sales increased 14.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.46 million in December from 4.76 million in November.
January 22, 2016
Existing Homes Sales
Existing-Home Sales Surge Back in December Existing-home sales snapped back solidly in December as more buyers reached the market before the end of the year, and the delayed closings resulting from the rollout of the Consumer Financial Protection Burea …
January 22, 2016
8 Steps To Take Before Getting A New Mortgage
As a consumer, it’s important to enter the mortgage selection process with a firm grasp on which financial arrangement will work best for your household.
January 15, 2016
REALTORS® Help Millions of Our Nation’s Kids Through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Your local REALTOR® associations help raise funds, do volunteer work and support local programs that help hold communities together.
January 11, 2016
Infographic: Existing Home Sales November 2015
December 27, 2015
Infographic: Desire to Buy Strong Despite Affordability, Economic Concerns
Although only half of surveyed households believe the economy is currently improving, nearly all young renters eventually want to buy a home, and a convincing majority still view homeownership as part of their American Dream, according to a new quarter …
December 17, 2015
Illinois REALTORS® Douse Fire Sprinkler Mandate
Illinois REALTORS® fought off government overreach when it fired up its membership to defeat a costly mandate on fire sprinklers. The Illinois fire marshal launched a campaign to require fire sprinklers in all new construction single-family homes, olde …
December 11, 2015
Local Cesspools Are a Housing Issue in Hawaii
There are about 90,000 cesspools in Hawaii receiving wastewater. The state’s Department of Health wants to shut them down and convert to a public sewer system or septic system, but local REALTORS® oppose the conversion because it will affect housing af …
December 11, 2015
How REALTORS Are Watching Out for You and Future Homeowners
REALTORS raise awareness and educate consumers and members of Congress about critical policy issues that impact state and local communities just like yours.
December 6, 2015
Virginia REALTORS® Are Helping Injured Veterans Move Into Mortgage-Free Housing
Virginia is the home of many of our nation’s veterans. In fact, nearly one in ten state residents are either veterans or active members of our nation’s armed forces. And, a great many of these veterans have returned home with life impacting disabilitie …
November 30, 2015
REALTORS Are Helping To Transform Massachusetts Towns
Participants engaged in placemapping. When Ben Scranton, CEO of the REALTOR® Association of Pioneer Valley (RAPV) in Western Massachusetts, first learned about Placemaking Grants, he was immediately intrigued. Scranton was attending a meeting hosted by …
November 30, 2015
Expansion Creates Controversy In Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
The vacation town of Rehoboth Beach is known as “Delaware’s Most Visited City”, and the seaside community is attracting more visitors every season. But the town’s growth has raised concern with residents, as some worry that the inherent charm and peace …
November 30, 2015
REALTORS Help Millions Navigate Housing Affordability Challenges With Housing Opportunity Progam
Hard-working Americans have a tough time today finding a home they can truly afford. REALTORS can help.
November 10, 2015
Infographic: Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers
November 5, 2015
First-time Buyers Fall Again in Annual Buyer and Seller Survey
A new survey released by the National Association of Realtors® show the share of first-time buyers declining for the third consecutive year.
November 5, 2015
Louisiana REALTORS® Preserve Rights to Choose Closing Partners
Home buyers and sellers will maintain their right to choose their preferred closing representatives, thanks to the Central Louisiana REALTORS® Association. The Louisiana legislature had proposed Senate Bill 426, which would have required real estate se …
October 31, 2015
REALTORS® for Commuter Rail to Southeast Massachusetts
Commuter rail lines are essential to reducing traffic and connecting outlying areas to job opportunities. Because it makes more housing and employment opportunities available, rail service helps increase property values. But while the Greater Boston ar …
October 31, 2015
Delaware REALTORS® Help Inform First-Time Buyers
The Delaware Association of REALTORS® has teamed up with the Delaware State Housing Authority to inform first-time home buyers about the programs available to help them. First-time home buyers in Delaware have various down-payment assistance and closin …
October 31, 2015
Massachusetts REALTORS® Provide Affordable Housing Resources
Finding affordable housing is a major challenge in Massachusetts, but the North Shore Association of REALTORS® is actively working to help lower-income buyers discover housing options. Massachusetts is home to some of the country’s largest and most exp …
October 31, 2015
Pending Home Sales Lose Further Steam in September
Pending home sales cooled in September for the second straight month and to their second lowest index reading in 2015.
October 29, 2015
Realtors Help To Make New Orleans A Safer Place For Homeowners
The New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (NOMAR) recently secured $15,000 to support an innovative public-private program that makes neighborhoods safer in New Orleans with privately funded surveillance cameras.
October 26, 2015
Existing-home Sales Rebounded Strongly in September
Existing-home sales have rebounded following August’s decline and have now increased year-over-year for 12 consecutive months.
October 22, 2015
Brevard County Realtors Help Lead The Way To An Economic Recovery
Florida’s Brevard County REALTORS are determined to see their community thrive despite multiple economic challenges. When the area first began to show signs of struggle during the 2009 economic downturn, county commissioners instituted an impact fee mo …
October 21, 2015
New Vacation Rental Ordinance Could Damage The Florida Rental Market
In the city of Anna Maria, 60% of the property is dedicated to vacation rentals. Florida property owners are concerned following the adoption of a Vacation Rental Ordinance within the city of Anna Maria, FL. Effective January 1, tighter restrictions wi …
October 17, 2015
Infographic: Technology in Real Estate: Then and Now
This infographic shows how technology is affecting the home buying process for different generations of buyers.
October 15, 2015
Americans Think Homeownership is a Sound Investment
Americans believe that buying a home is a solid financial decision, according to a new survey from the National Association of Realtors®. The 2015 National Housing Pulse Survey also found that a preponderance of Americans think that now is a good time …
October 14, 2015
Infographic: Americans Think Homeownership is a Sound Investment
A vast majority of Americans believe that buying a home is a solid financial decision, and most believe they could sell their home for at least its initial purchase price, according to a new survey from the National Association of REALTORS.
October 14, 2015
Infographic: Millennials and the Housing Market
Millennials comprise 68% of first-time home buyers.
October 12, 2015
Illinois Residents Empowered By Property Tax Knowledge
Brookfield, IL homeowners Lindsey and Adam Burghgraef were not pleased when they noticed their new tax bill had increased considerably. They weren’t sure what had caused the increase until a friend mentioned that they should start by looking at their m …
October 6, 2015
“Placemaking” – One Way REALTORS Help Make Your Community a Better Place To Live
Across our nation, homeowners are coming together, taking ownership of their communities in order to make things better for everyone.
October 5, 2015
Prop 1 Gives Texas Residents An Opportunity To Lower Property Taxes
While the phrase, “Everything is bigger in Texas” might be a bit overused, it certainly holds true when it comes to property taxes. The consumer loan website Wallethub.com recently conducted a Census-based property tax study that claims Texas has the f …
October 5, 2015
Stamford Board of REALTORS Awards Young Community Leaders With College Scholarships
The Stamford, Connecticut Board of REALTORS® was proud to have recently honored eight promising high school seniors with Community Service Scholarships at their downtown association headquarters. John Pellegrino, Stamford Board of REALTORS® President e …
October 1, 2015
Homeowners Are Getting A Say In Chicago’s Rogers Park Neighborhood
Homeowners in the Roger’s Park neighborhood of Chicago are thrilled with the installation of a new spray water pool at their local Pottawattomie Park. The water feature is one of many improvements the neighborhood has seen since Alderman Joe Moore laun …
October 1, 2015
Historic Preservation Is A Serious Concern For Virgin Islands Homeowners
Most homeowners in the Virgin Islands feel that living in paradise is worth the occasional dramatic weather and the cleanup that comes with it. However, for owners of some of the area’s historic homes the aftermath comes at a greater cost. Storms like …
September 30, 2015
Pending Home Sales Rise Year-Over-Year For 12 Consecutive Months
Pending home sales retreated in August but remained at a healthy level of activity and have now risen year-over-year for 12 consecutive months.
September 28, 2015
Santa Barbara Housing Shortage Impacting Local Businesses
The lack of available housing in the Santa Barbara area is having an impact on local businesses. The Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS, through its involvement in the Coastal Housing Coalition, has helped produced a new study detailing the developing problem.
September 25, 2015
Puerto Rico Attracting Homeowners From The Mainland
U.S. mainlanders are increasingly packing up and permanently moving to Puerto Rico. Besides the obvious appeal of the beautiful coastal landscape and gorgeous weather, Puerto Rico’s low income taxes are a big part of the appeal. “Puerto Rico is a U.S. …
September 25, 2015
California Cities Lead The U.S. In Low Housing Inventory
Prospective homeowners and home renters in San Francisco and San Diego continue to find it a challenge to find available properties to purchase.
September 21, 2015
Infographic: Urban Populations Are Growing Faster Than Ever
This infographic looks at the reasons for recent population growth in cities in the U.S.
September 10, 2015
How will housing affordability challenges impact you and your family?
Home values have been rising faster than wages in over two-thirds of U.S. real estate markets.
September 1, 2015
Pending Home Sales Inch Forward in July
Pending home sales were mostly unchanged in July, but rose modestly for the sixth time in seven months.
August 27, 2015
REALTORS® Ensure South Carolina Coastal Homeowners Protected
With rising homeowner insurance rates and fewer insurance companies willing to write policies for coastal properties, South Carolina property owners found themselves facing an insurance disaster. Enter the South Carolina Association of REALTORS®: South …
August 26, 2015
REALTORS® Protect Arizona Privacy Rights
Thanks to a new Arizona law co-sponsored by State Representative Michelle Ugenti and State Senator Gail Griffin—both REALTORS®—condominium and townhouse associations can no longer restrict individual unit owners from renting their units based on a criminal background check.
August 26, 2015
How Could Congress Lengthening Property Depreciation Rules Affect Your Wallet?
Depreciation encourages investment in real estate, but that could change if Congress extends the depreciation time periods.
August 3, 2015
Kansas Mortgage Fee Being Phased Out Thanks to REALTORS®
The Kansas mortgage fee is being phased out, thanks to the lobbying efforts of the Kansas Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®.
August 1, 2015
Why the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange Rules are important to the US Economy
What, Exactly, Is the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange? Even if you never use Section 1031 of the Tax Code, it can impact you — in a positive way. It’s often referred to as the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange.
July 5, 2015
Gulf Coast REALTORS® to Sponsor Flood-Insurance Conference
Property owners in Mississippi’s Gulf Coast region have suffered a number of hardships over the last 10 years, and the Gulf Coast Association of REALTORS® has been working to help them deal with issues arising from those hardships.
July 1, 2015
Chicago REALTORS® Help Homeowners Reduce Property Taxes
Chicago homeowners are taking control of their property taxes, thanks to the efforts of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. “We’re doing something a little different to help homeowners with property taxes here in Chicago,” says Brian Bernardoni, the …
July 1, 2015
Connecticut Plan to Tax Home Sales Quashed
It seems like each year Connecticut legislators try to increase taxes on homeowners. Well, every year is close to accurate, at least for the last decade. Every year since 2003, Connecticut lawmakers extended what was supposed to be a temporary conveyan …
July 1, 2015
Charlotte REALTORS® Help Make Building Permit Process More Efficient, Less Costly
With Charlotte, N.C., being one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, the Charlotte Regional REALTOR® Association has been working to ensure the availability of affordable housing in the city and surrounding Mecklenburg County by encourag …
July 1, 2015
Michigan REALTORS® Promote Fairness in Transfer Tax
Real estate transfer taxes make buying and selling a home more expensive. Michigan REALTORS® are working to change a part of their state’s transfer tax law that is unfair to buyers and sellers. Michigan imposes a state tax of 0.75% on the sale of real …
July 1, 2015
Vermont REALTORS® Group Works for a Fair Property Tax System
Vermont REALTORS® is dedicated to making home ownership equitable and affordable in Vermont. One way it helps do this is by working to reform Vermont’s property-tax structure. Currently, Vermont has the third-highest property taxes in the nation. Vermo …
July 1, 2015
Charleston Trident REALTORS® Seek to Increase Quality of Life for Area
The Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS® has more than 4,000 members in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkley counties in South Carolina. In an area composed of suburban, downtown and industrial selling markets, the Association focuses on improving …
July 1, 2015
REALTORS® Alliance Fights Point-Of-Sale Inspection Ordinances
For decades, many local governments in southeastern Pennsylvania have had ordinances requiring point-of-sale inspections for residential real estate. The Suburban REALTORS® Alliance, a subsidiary corporation of the Bucks County Association of REALTORS® …
July 1, 2015
Seattle REALTORS® Protect Homeowners From Mortgage Credit Crunch
Seattle King County REALTORS® ensured that the mayor and city officials understood the negative impacts of the city’s proposed foreclosure relief program on homeowners and the local housing market. Current and prospective homeowners in the Greater Seat …
July 1, 2015
Kanawha Valley Board of REALTORS® Educates the Public About Credit Scores
The Kanawha Valley Board of REALTORS® in West Virginia is an organization that advocates on the local level for many different issues, including property rights, flooding rezoning, and other consumer protections. The Board has also taken the lead in ed …
July 1, 2015
REALTORS® Help Nevada Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure
One way that the Nevada Association of REALTORS® has helped keep these numbers moving in the right direction has been by providing homeowners with access to information about avoiding foreclosure.
July 1, 2015
Kentucky REALTORS® Know Homes Matter
State governments are always looking for ways to raise revenue, especially in today’s economy. The Kentucky Association of REALTORS® is working overtime to make sure those efforts don’t interfere with home ownership. In 2012, Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshea …
July 1, 2015
Maryland REALTORS® Promote Home Savings Accounts
There is no question that buying a home is expensive. Although a monthly mortgage payment may be reasonable, and may be no more than a family might pay to rent a home, buyers have to come up with cash for a down payment and for closing costs. The Maryl …
July 1, 2015
Maine REALTORS® Help Demystify Home Buying
Buying a home can be an intimidating process. A home is the most expensive purchase most people will ever make. The process is complicated, with stacks of papers to read and sign, and rules to follow at every step. To help make the process of buying a …
July 1, 2015
Virginia REALTORS® Promote First-Time Homebuyer Accounts
The first-time homebuyer savings account is a unique way to allow parents, grandparents and other relatives to help family members save for their first home.
July 1, 2015
St. Louis REALTORS® Promote Diversity in Homeownership
The St. Louis Association of REALTORS® is committed to making its city a welcoming and affordable place to live for all people. Home buyers and home sellers benefit from the association’s many programs and resources and dedication to the community. Eve …
July 1, 2015
Long Island REALTORS® Fight Discrimination in Cooperative Housing
The Long Island Board of REALTORS® is working hard to ensure fair housing for all, and to eliminate the last bastion of institutional discrimination: cooperative housing. Federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origi …
July 1, 2015
Montana Realtors® Work to Protect Consumer Privacy
MAR campaigned successfully against language in a bill that would have mandated public disclosure of real estate sales prices for tax appraisals. With data privacy a growing concern for all Americans, the Montana Association of REALTORS® has taken an a …
July 1, 2015
North Dakota REALTORS® Help Defeat Transfer Taxes
The North Dakota Association of REALTORS® recently helped eliminate a real estate “transfer tax” that burdened homebuyers and sellers across the state.
July 1, 2015
REALTORS® Association of the Palm Beaches Fights Tax Hike
Property taxes help fund local governments, but they also drive up the costs of home ownership. The REALTORS® Association of the Palm Beaches is working hard to keep taxes in the Florida communities they serve from spiraling out of control. In the summ …
July 1, 2015
Phoenix REALTORS® Work With City to Improve Neighborhoods
Phoenix REALTORS® worked with the city council to address blight. Blighted and abandoned homes have been costly for the city of Phoenix, Arizona, and some homeowners, which is why the Phoenix Association of REALTORS® has worked with the city government …
July 1, 2015
Minneapolis REALTORS® Fight Mandatory Home Inspections
The Minneapolis Area Association of REALTORS® is working to repeal point-of-sale inspection ordinances enacted in some of the 200 cities in the Minneapolis metropolitan area.
July 1, 2015
Oregon REALTORS® Improve Vets’ Access to Housing
The Oregon Association of REALTORS® is continuing a strong history of supporting affordable housing opportunities in their state.
July 1, 2015
Idaho’s Ada County REALTORS® Train Communities in ‘Placemaking’
The Ada County Association of REALTORS® in Idaho knows that quality of life is key to building a strong community and its real estate market. A good quality of life attracts new residents and incentivizes current residents to stay and contribute to the community.
July 1, 2015
New Mexico REALTORS® Push to Reinstate Seller Financing
Seller financing is an important option for many buyers and sellers in New Mexico. In Albuquerque alone, there are more than 1,500 seller-financed transactions every year.
July 1, 2015
Greater Manchester REALTORS® Reward Community Service
To encourage greater community involvement by REALTORS® and to provide support for community organizations, projects and activities, the Greater Manchester/Nashua County Board of REALTORS® in New Hampshire each year presents the Good Neighbor Award to …
July 1, 2015
Knoxville REALTORS® Focus on Diversity, Urban Agriculture
As the largest REALTORS® association in Tennessee, with approximately 3,400 members in 12 counties, the Knoxville Area Association of REALTORS® is an advocate for the approximately 400,000 households in its area. KAAR’s top priority is to make sure its …
July 1, 2015
Little Rock REALTORS® Fight Burdensome Impact Fees
One of the ways the Little Rock REALTORS® Association is helping to make sure that home buying is affordable is to fight against burdensome fees imposed by local governments. In the Summer of 2013, the City of Little Rock began debating the merits of i …
July 1, 2015
Atlanta REALTORS® Help Veterans Buy Dream Homes
The Atlanta Board of REALTORS® has been helping veterans to own the homes of their dreams by working to remove a common obstacle veterans have faced in the home-buying process. REALTOR® Maura Neill, a member of the ABR, brought the issue to the attenti …
July 1, 2015
Nebraska REALTORS® Work to End Contract Notarization Law
The Nebraska REALTORS® Association is working hard to get rid of unnecessary legal requirements for contracts used for the sale of a home.
July 1, 2015
REALTORS® Fight to Protect L.A. Property Owners From Sidewalk Repairs
In Los Angeles, over 40 percent of the city’s 10,750 miles of sidewalks are in disrepair. It’s a big problem that the city has tried to push off onto property owners.
July 1, 2015
Wildfire Hazards Are a Hot Topic for Colorado REALTORS®
The Colorado Association of REALTORS® is helping to fight destructive wildfires through a new statewide education initiative called Project Wildfire.
July 1, 2015
Indiana REALTORS® Keep Consumers Informed
The Indiana Association of REALTORS®knows it’s not enough to help people buy and sell homes. The Association provides buyers and sellers with the tools necessary to make the most of every real estate transaction. One of the most useful tools to help co …
July 1, 2015
North Central Jersey REALTORS® Volunteer to Fix Homes
The North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS® is dedicated to supporting housing and home ownership in the communities it serves. One way that the Association serves the community is through the REALTORS® Care Day, sponsored jointly by the North Ce …
July 1, 2015
Teton REALTORS® Help Pass Fair Housing Law
During the 2015 legislative session, the Teton Board of REALTORS® joined with other groups to support a Senate bill, SF 132, that proposed creating a Wyoming fair housing act.
July 1, 2015
Providence REALTORS® Train to Help Consumers
The real estate marketplace can be a confusing place, especially for first-time homebuyers. The Greater Providence Board of REALTORS® is helping to ease that confusion by preparing member REALTORS® to work better with the consumers they represent. The …
July 1, 2015
San Antonio REALTORS® Fight Unfair Disclosure Requirements
The San Antonio Board of REALTORS® is working against a disclosure bill in the state Legislature that only masks a problem for homeowners. The bill, HB 1639, would require people who sell property in certain areas to disclose whether the property is in …
July 1, 2015
Omaha REALTORS® Serve Their Community
The Omaha Area Board of REALTORS® is dedicated to the Omaha community. This dedication is demonstrated through its support of programs and projects intended to benefit the citizens of the Omaha area. Every year, the Omaha Area Board of REALTORS’® spons …
July 1, 2015
Sioux Falls REALTORS® Offer Education for Buyers, Sellers
The REALTORS® association has partnered with the Sioux Empire Housing Partnership and Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota to assist first-time home buyers.
July 1, 2015
Infographic: Shadow Inventory
June 28, 2015
Wisconsin REALTORS® Push for Homeowners’ Right to Rent Property
The Wisconsin REALTORS® Association has been working to protect the rights of homeowners to rent out their residences. Recent legislation proposed in the Wisconsin Legislature would bar homeowners from renting out their property for any period less tha …
June 17, 2015
Akron-Cleveland REALTORS® Help Control Rental Rates
Everyone wants to make sure rental properties are well maintained and do not harm property values in the surrounding community. But onerous burdens on landlords can also harm the rental market. Members of the Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS® ar …
June 17, 2015
Alabama Realtors® Fight Eminent Domain Foreclosures
The spike in foreclosures in recent years has left many property owners vulnerable. The Alabama Association of REALTORS® is working hard to protect private property rights in the state, and to protect vulnerable property owners from unfair foreclosures …
June 17, 2015
Milwaukee REALTORS® Keep Consumers Informed About Schools
The Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® is working with local governments to help homebuyers and homeowners get the information they need in order to make informed choices about their local schools. One of the biggest concerns for a family buyin …
June 17, 2015
Rhode Island REALTORS® Successfully Fight Statewide Property Tax
Every property owner in Rhode Island currently pays local level property taxes. New legislation this year would have added an extra, statewide property tax. The Rhode Island Association of REALTORS® is taking a strong stance against this proposal. The …
June 17, 2015
Austin Board of REALTORS® Advocates for New Development Code
The Austin Board of REALTORS® is working with the City of Austin, Texas, to rewrite and revise the city’s Land Development Code, a disorganized set of rules and regulations that has been hard for new developers and property owners to interpret and comp …
June 1, 2015
Wyoming REALTORS® Help Pass State’s First Fair Housing Law
Thanks in large part to efforts by the Wyoming Association of REALTORS®, Wyoming’s first fair housing act will go into effect on July 1, 2015.
June 1, 2015
Birmingham Association of REALTORS® Advocates for Smart Growth
The Birmingham Association of REALTORS® is fighting blight in its community by advocating for “Smart Growth.” Working with local government officials, the Association is promoting a growth and development plan that focuses on coordinated planning acros …
June 1, 2015
Columbus REALTORS® Revive Home-Building Training Program
Nearly 40 years ago, Columbus REALTORS® invested in Columbus, Ohio, neighborhoods by providing seed money for a home-building program in Columbus schools. That program lasted 20 years. Now, Columbus REALTORS® have helped to revive the program, which pr …
June 1, 2015
Houston REALTORS® Use Social Media to Keep in Touch With Consumers
In a housing market driven by a long-standing oil industry and associated manufacturing businesses, Houston, Texas, has experienced its first fall in home sales in at least six months. The Houston Association of REALTORS® sees this normalization of the housing market as an opportunity to advocate for the area’s consumers.
June 1, 2015
Portland REALTORS® Take Direction From Consumers’ Preferences
Portland Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® helped fund and develop a regional consumer preference study on housing. The Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area is growing fast. Its population is expected to increase from its current 1.9 million to 2.9 …
June 1, 2015
What are Capital Gains Exclusions and how do they help homeowners?
Building home equity is how many Americans are able to save up money — thanks to a capital gains exclusion on home sales. Without it, many couldn’t even save for retirement.
May 22, 2015
Alaska REALTORS® Protect Private Property Rights
Ensuring that private property owners’ rights are protected in Alaska, where only 3 percent of land is privately owned, is a constant priority for the Alaska Association of REALTORS®. After a 2005 United States Supreme Court case that expanded the cons …
May 19, 2015
California REALTORS® Promote Tax Relief for Modified Mortgages
Many California homeowners who have had difficulties making mortgage payments in recent years have used loan modifications to try to keep their homes. The modifications, however, often did not end their difficulties due to California tax law. In respon …
May 19, 2015
Fargo-Moorhead REALTORS® Search for Flooding Solutions
When flooding occurs on the Red River of the North, you will find members of the Fargo-Moorhead Area Association of REALTORS® on the front lines.
May 19, 2015
Las Vegas REALTORS® Win Fight Against Proposal That Would Have Hurt Homeowners
When the Greater Las Vegas Association of REALTORS® stepped in to prevent the city of North Las Vegas from adopting a dangerous proposal from a private company, it knew that the outcome would have reverberations across the state.
May 19, 2015
Wyoming REALTORS® Help Pass State’s First Fair-Housing Law
For the first time, Wyoming will have a law prohibiting discrimination in the rental, sale and financing of homes when the state’s new Fair Housing Act goes into effect on July 1, 2015. The new law was enacted thanks in large part to the efforts of the …
May 19, 2015
West Virginia REALTORS® Promote Energy Conservation to Cut Homeowners’ Costs
The West Virginia Association of REALTORS® has been working to promote residential energy conservation by advocating for the effective implementation of the state energy code. In 2012, thanks to the advocacy of REALTORS® and many other groups, the stat …
May 19, 2015
Ohio REALTORS® Work for Better Sewage System Rules
Sewage systems are a disaster when they fail, and very expensive to repair. The state of Ohio now has new rules for the repair and maintenance of sewer systems that keep costs to homeowners under control — thanks in part to the Ohio Association of REAL …
May 19, 2015
Des Moines REALTORS® and Foundation Support Housing Efforts
Members of the Des Moines Area Association of REALTORS® support their communities through a charitable foundation that funds efforts to provide and improve housing opportunities.
May 19, 2015
Albuquerque REALTORS® Advocate for Homeowners on Water Policies
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a desert community with limited water resources. Sound water planning and regulation are vital to the city’s continued economic growth. Water policy has a particularly acute impact on the housing market, as water-related regulations and development decisions dictate the availability, affordability and desirability of housing.
May 11, 2015
Greater Tulsa REALTORS® Make a Difference in Kids’ Lives
The Greater Tulsa Association of REALTORS® is making a difference in the lives of hundreds of children in the metropolitan Tulsa area through its nonprofit GTAR Foundation.
April 27, 2015
Utah REALTORS® Work to Preserve Air Quality, Protect Homeowners
The Utah Association of REALTORS® is working towards preserving clean air in the state while protecting homeowners from undue government regulations.
April 27, 2015
Oklahoma REALTORS® Score Victory With ‘Protect Property Rights Act’
Oklahoma’s new Protect Property Rights Act is the latest victory for the Oklahoma Association of REALTORS® (OAR) and its advocacy on behalf of the state’s private-property owners.
April 27, 2015
Texas Association of REALTORS® Promotes Tax Relief in the Legislature
The Texas Association of REALTORS® has been working diligently with members of the state Legislature to support private property rights in regard to issues such as real estate transfer fees. Its most recent advocacy effort has been involved with the Se …
April 27, 2015
Idaho REALTORS® Fight to Keep State Moving in Right Direction
Idaho’s roads and bridges are in bad shape, and the Idaho Association of REALTORS® is focusing its efforts on advocating for urgently needed maintenance and repairs.
April 27, 2015
Tennessee REALTORS® Work for Sinkhole Disclosure
With Tennessee ranked the fifth-riskiest state for sinkholes, the Tennessee Association of REALTORS® is working to protect homebuyers from the often devastating losses caused by them. Sinkholes are a problem in many parts of the United States. They are …
April 27, 2015
San Diego REALTORS® Help Shape City’s Climate-Change Policy
REALTORS® take a leading role in shaping the city’s comprehensive Climate Action Plan, and in the process help to keep costly point-of-sale mandates out of the plan.
April 27, 2015
Salt Lake REALTORS® Work to Protect Affordable Housing
The Salt Lake Board of REALTORS® believes that housing options should be available to families at all income levels, and it is working to make them a reality.
April 27, 2015
How the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act helps home owners avoid foreclosure
In the early months of the housing crisis, Congress did something that made a huge difference for millions of homeowners. It passed the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007.
April 27, 2015
Florida REALTORS® Make Homelessness a Priority Issue
Leading REALTORS® spent two months traveling the state, meeting with members of Florida REALTORS® and getting their thoughts on homelessness issues.
April 15, 2015
Infographic: Curb Appeal
How your home looks from the outside can have significant influence on potential buyers’ perception of its value.
April 14, 2015
Orange County REALTORS® Help Homeowners Save Money, Resources
Energy and water conservation have become imperative in California. California has suffered from years of drought and periods of rolling power blackouts. Energy and water conservation have become imperative in this environmentally conscious state. Ther …
April 10, 2015
Anchorage REALTORS® Helping Property Owners Stop Govt. Overreach
Homeowners in a secluded rural area near Chugach Park in Anchorage, Alaska, could lose some of the solitude they enjoy if a park-access ordinance proposed by the Municipality of Anchorage is approved. The Anchorage Board of REALTORS® is fighting the pl …
April 10, 2015
Mississippi REALTORS® Seek Disaster Aid for Homeowners
The Mississippi Association of REALTORS® is advocating for legislation that will provide Mississippi homeowners with important information and resources in connection with natural disasters. This proposed legislation is intended to address some of the …
April 10, 2015
New Jersey REALTORS® Help to Limit Property Tax Increases
While property taxes in New Jersey are still far higher than most Garden State homeowners would like, they are now a more predictable expense, thanks in part to lobbying efforts of the New Jersey Association of REALTORS®. The association successfully l …
April 10, 2015
Arizona REALTORS® Save Homeowners $20.2 million
While many industries suffered during the 2015 Arizona legislature’s budget cuts, the Arizona Association of REALTORS® was successful in protecting Arizona homeowners and businesses.
April 10, 2015
Billings REALTORS® Forge Relationship With Local Government
The quality of life in any community is enhanced when all of the stakeholders work together. The Billings Association of REALTORS® works with many groups to advance our common goal: the best interests of Billings-area homeowners and residents.
April 10, 2015
Portland REALTORS® Carry Forward Consumers’ Preferences
Portland Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® helped fund and develop a regional consumer preference study on housing. The Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area is growing fast, with the population expected to increase from its current 1.9 million to 2. …
April 10, 2015
South Dakota REALTORS® and Partners Inform Rural Buyers, Owners
The REALTORS® association has helped to develop an informative publication for rural home owners.
April 10, 2015
Arkansas REALTORS® Make Safety a Priority
We may not like to think about it, but real estate transactions can pose risks for REALTORS®, buyers and sellers. Vacant houses can be tempting targets for trespassers and thieves. Burglars and home invaders have used open houses and home showings to c …
April 9, 2015
Capital Area REALTORS® Work for Improved Transit Options
With easy access to public transit becoming an increasingly important feature for homebuyers in urban areas, the Greater Capital Association of REALTORS® (GCAAR) is working with state and local officials, developers and business leaders to make a rapid …
April 9, 2015
Louisville REALTORS® Help to Rebuild Blighted Neighborhoods
The Greater Louisville Association of REALTORS® is taking bold action to keep neighborhoods in their city strong and alive. With the assistance of a National Association of REALTORS® Smart Growth grant, GLAR is helping Louisville Metro to reduce vacant …
April 9, 2015
Honolulu REALTORS® Advocate for Housing Affordability
Honolulu’s Oahu island location makes it one of the nation’s most desirable and most expensive places to live. Unfortunately, the community currently faces a serious lack of housing inventory and a severe shortage of affordable housing. In response, Ho …
April 9, 2015
MetroTex Association of REALTORS® Seeks Better Dallas Housing
The Dallas area is a large, fast-paced housing market that, like many other metropolitan areas, has a shortage of homes for buyers looking at or below the area’s median price of $140,000. The tight market has raised concerns that lower- and moderate-in …
April 9, 2015
Metropolitan Pittsburgh REALTORS® Push for Property Tax Fairness
Property taxes are a major expense for homeowners, and the REALTORS® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh is working hard to make that expense more predictable and fair for homeowners in the Greater Pittsburgh area. In Pennsylvania, there is no state …
April 9, 2015
Miami REALTORS® Stand Up for Condominium Buyers
“Affordable housing” can mean different things in different markets. In Florida’s Miami-Dade and Broward counties, it usually means condominiums, which now make up about 60% of local housing inventory. For many potential condominium buyers, finding fin …
April 9, 2015
Missouri REALTORS® Play Key Role in Transfer-Tax Ban
Most state and some local governments impose a real estate transfer tax when there is a change in the ownership of a property. The tax is often added into the price of a home, making the buying of a home less affordable. Real estate transfer tax rates …
April 9, 2015
New Hampshire REALTORS® Push for Zoning Notice Law
Zoning ordinances help to preserve the character of a community by allowing only certain types of development in designated areas. One of the biggest issues with zoning ordinances is what happens when they are changed, or about to be changed. While pro …
April 9, 2015
North Carolina REALTORS® Work to Keep Homeowners Insurance Affordable
Virtually all mortgage companies require homebuyers to purchase homeowners insurance. However, that insurance can be expensive. The North Carolina Association of REALTORS® has made affordable homeowners insurance a priority. Through its past and contin …
April 9, 2015
Washington REALTORS® Oppose New Taxes, Protect Economy
The Washington Capitol building. A vibrant real estate market is inextricably intertwined with a healthy economy. It is difficult, if not impossible, to have one without the other. For this reason, the Washington REALTORS® Association has taken on a le …
April 9, 2015
Guess Who Stopped the Squeeze on Oregon Homeowners?
Oregon State Capitol Building. At a time when the number of Oregon homeowners was at one of its all-time lows, state legislators tried to squeeze more revenue out of those homeowners—an average of $2,971 per property, to be precise. That’s how much ave …
March 13, 2015
How Does Homeownership Differ Around the Globe?
Fast Fact: Home ownership isn’t just an American dream. It’s a global one that’s unattainable to millions outside our borders, serving as a reminder we shouldn’t take it for granted. The country a person calls ‘home’ can be a game changer when it comes …
February 27, 2015
Huntington Beach Realtors® Oppose Rent Control
When most people think of Orange County in Southern California, mobile home parks do not immediately come to mind. But in Huntington Beach, a seaside city with nearly 200,000 residents, mobile homes and their renter occupants are the norm. The city wan …
February 19, 2015
Will Congress help or derail America’s commercial real estate recovery?
We all know how much our home values dropped when the real estate bubble burst, but did you know the value of commercial real estate also plummeted?
February 9, 2015
Challenges facing today’s mature adult home owners
Fast Fact: Over 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day, the largest number in history. Because they have the highest home ownership rate of any age group, their home ownership decisions could impact U.S. housing. Home ownership has long been a cornerstone …
January 23, 2015
Will Rising Interest Rates Threaten Your Home Value?
Fast Fact: A 1% increase can cut home buying power by over 10%. Our Economy Impacts Rates… And Vice Versa One of the ways our government keeps the economy on track is by influencing interest rates. Think of interest as the cost to borrow and use money. …
November 9, 2014
Northeast Louisiana REALTORS® See Increased Member Involvement
The Northeast Louisiana Association of REALTORS® is seeing record member involvement and contributions as it implements a new strategic plan emphasizing local advocacy. Covering a 13-parish area, the association advocates for fair housing, affordable h …
November 6, 2014
Louisiana REALTORS® Uphold Public Official Independence
The Northwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS® recently asserted its leadership to uphold the independence of a key regional planning official, in accordance with the law. The new Shreveport/Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) provides plann …
November 6, 2014
Massachusetts REALTORS® Provide Key to Affordable Housing
The REALTOR® Association of Pioneer Valley was awarded the “Ambassador for Cities” award from the National Association of REALTORS® for helping prospective home buyers find affordable housing in Massachusetts. The association is a leader in the public- …
November 6, 2014
How Much More Tax Burden Should Homeowners Bear?
Fast Fact: Local governments count on real estate for almost 75% of all tax revenues. Is your state or local government trying to raise the amount of taxes you pay on your home? Think nothing can can be done about it? You’re wrong. Across America, stat …
October 1, 2014
Are Recent Changes at FHA Threatening Your Home Value and Economic Growth?
Fast Fact: Before 1934, not even 10% of Americans could afford to buy a home. FHA changed that, raising the rate to more than 60%. Now it’s under duress. Before the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) was created in 1934, only folks with lot of cash — …
September 28, 2014
How New Home Construction Impacts You
Fast Fact: Every new home built in the U.S. generates 3 new jobs and over $100,000 in spending and tax revenue. But America’s home construction has stalled, which threatens full recovery. Did you know that for every new home built, three new jobs are c …
July 14, 2014
A Second Chance for Foreclosed Homeowners and Another Boost for the Economy
Fast Fact: More than 5 million households lost their homes to foreclosures and short sales. Today, almost 80% say they’re wiser and ready to own again. And now they can. It’s interesting when you think about it. The housing victims of the Great Recessi …
May 20, 2014
Are Investors Turning Us Into a Nation of Renters?
Fast Fact: Since 2005, the number of renter households has grown 10 times faster than owner households. WHY IT MATTERS Big changes are happening in the home rental market that have the potential to affect your own home’s value and your ability to buy a …
March 19, 2014
The Future of Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac and What It Means for You
Fast Fact: Your home’s value and a healthy housing market depend on availability of home loans. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac back most loans today. But that’s changing — and it could affect you. SEE WHY THE FUTURE OF FANNIE AND FREDDIE MATTERS TO YOU AND …
March 19, 2014
Why is it getting harder to get a mortgage? What does it mean for you?
WHY IT MATTERS We all remember the “liar loans” and fraud uncovered in the mortgage business when the real estate bubble burst. To try to prevent that from happening again, Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010. Now, after much debating and drafti …
March 19, 2014
Getting to Know the Capital Gains Tax Exemption
Meet Bill and Mary. A married couple, they sold their primary residence last year and made a profit. The profit they made on their home sale is subject to a federal capital gains tax. However, the profits Bill and Mary earned on the sale of their home …
January 22, 2014
Do You Know About the Mortgage Interest Deduction?
The home mortgage interest deduction is vital to the housing market. The MID saves the average home owner thousands of dollars every year. It also makes the dream of home ownership a reality for America’s middle class. How does the MID work? In general …
January 22, 2014
How the Mortgage Interest Deduction is Vital to the Housing Market
The home mortgage interest deduction saves the average home owner thousands of dollars at tax time, supports home values at the community level, and helps American home buyers get into their first house. Having a tax deduction for mortgage interest mak …
January 22, 2014
Student Debt & Your Wallet
Fast Fact: Student debt is now growing at a rate of $3,000 per second. If we do not slow this rate down, our home values and our wallets could take some tough hits. STUDENT DEBT IS NOW GROWING AT A RATE OF $3,000 PER SECOND. IF WE DO NOT SLOW THIS RATE …
January 10, 2014
Finding a Home in a Low-Inventory Market
Fast Fact: 58% of all home buyers say low inventory has been their biggest obstacle, with one-third spending more than a year shopping for a home. But that may be about to change. Does it seem like you’re never going to find a home to buy? You’re not a …
October 3, 2013
Robo-Signer and OCC Settlements
Fast Fact: Two of the most highly publicized bank investigations recently culminated in the BIGGEST settlements. But there’s no such thing as easy solutions…even the settlements are fraught with challenges. WHY IT MATTERS Millions were allegedly wronge …
April 22, 2013
Your Insurance Costs and Coverage
Fast Fact: Natural disasters are occurring in more places and causing more damage than ever before. As a result insurance costs have risen almost 40% and companies are finding ways to limit your coverage. We are constantly reminded that disasters can s …
April 18, 2013
Is the Government Doing Enough on Housing?
Almost 70% of voters surveyed recently believe the home mortgage interest tax deduction shouldn’t be repealed as a way to cut the massive federal deficit, according to a national voter survey sponsored by the American Institute of Architects. The surve …
April 1, 2013
Are Credit Report Mistakes Costing You?
Fast Fact: A new report reveals that whopping 1 in 5 credit reports contain mistakes. Fortunately new laws require credit companies to promptly fix them and make it super easy for you to make sure they do! WHY IT MATTERS “These are eye opening numbers …
February 21, 2013
Night of the Living Zombie Foreclosure
WHAT IS A ZOMBIE FORECLOSURE? Zombie Foreclosures happen when a bank files foreclosure, the homeowners move out, and the bank never completes the foreclosure. Years later, the homeowners find out that they are still liable for costs such as taxes and r …
January 25, 2013
Get to Know Federal Housing Administration-Backed Loans
Becoming a home owner is a significant event in most peoples’ lives. Despite this, many are unfamiliar with government programs that can help them become home owners. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is a division of the U.S. Department of Hous …
January 1, 2013
Adverse Possession: Something for Nothing?
Living next door to a foreclosure is hard enough. But what happens to your home’s value when a squatter move in and claims the home as his own? “Squatters” are using Adverse Possession laws to move into vacant homes and live for free – often impacting …
May 10, 2012
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