Black homeowners resort to ‘white-washing’ their homes to avoid appraisal discrimination
Black homeowners in America continue to be discriminated against in more ways than one. Whether it’s being denied mortgages they can easily afford or being shifted away from predominantly white neighborhoods by selling agents, or—as will be detai …
December 20, 2021
Rising home prices fallout: Greater rent burden destroying the dream of homeownership
Much like home prices, rents are also spiking, taking upwards of 53% of family income, causing stress on wallets and crushing homeownership dreams.
December 2, 2021
A secret bias against Blacks exists in mortgage approval algorithms
Closing the wealth gap made is being more difficult by mathematical equations used to determine mortgage eligibility.
November 19, 2021
Weather causing unexpected, unforeseen headaches for homeowners
An influx of severe weather in places not used to such dangerous conditions has wreaked havoc on homeowners when it comes to insurance.
November 19, 2021
Historic infrastructure bill passes, but it will merely be a good first step
American families lose, on average, about $3,300 annually due to failed infrastructure. Did you ever hit a pothole and blow out a tire? That’s failed infrastructure. Did you ever lose power long enough, or does it happen frequently enough, where you ha …
November 4, 2021
Logistical challenges remain for universal access to broadband internet
When most of the country was introduced to high-speed internet and was able to graduate from the old and slow dial up connections, it would have been hard to believe that all these years later there would still be a significant amount of people in Amer …
October 29, 2021
Tight Madison city council vote approves zoning changes; aid housing development
Madison City Council approved zoning changes that will allow for more homes to be built, adding to supply and hopefully stem rising housing prices.
July 30, 2021
‘Good Cause Eviction’ bill: A rent control wolf in sheep’s clothing?
New York’s ‘Good Cause Eviction’ legislation sounds a lot like rent control, and would put serious restraints on housing providers statewide.
July 30, 2021
Long-closed Chicago school to become affordable housing project
Charles Earle Elementary School has been closed for eight years, but soon it will return as a 63-unit housing complex for low-income residents.
June 26, 2021
Old motel in Kalamazoo being converted into affordable housing
The LIFT Foundation has recently purchased an old motel in Kalamazoo and has begun taking the steps necessary to convert it into affordable housing.
May 16, 2021
Millennials still believe in the “American Dream” – even if they don’t call it that
Millennials who are struggling to buy homes in the current marketplace, still strive for the American Dream — they just don’t call it that.
April 16, 2021
Dealing with the most common first-time homebuyer anxieties
Anxiety is quite common among first-time homebuyers, and can be overpowering enough for the buyer to give up on the idea altogether.
April 16, 2021
The traditional look of first-time homebuyers is changing
In 2020, the average age of a homebuyer was 47 years old. This is a number that has been climbing higher and higher in the past 30 years.
April 13, 2021
First-time homebuyers shifting from FHA mortgages to conventional loans
Conventional loans have become more competitive, and are now available through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, with down payments as low as 3%.
March 28, 2021
Harrisburg City Council considering incentive program for developers to create affordable housing
Harrisburg has proposed new legislation that would provide incentives to real estate developers in the city to add affordable rental units to their multifamily building plans.
March 24, 2021
As mortgage interest rates rise, first-time homebuyers get squeezed
With interest rates now on the rise, first-time homebuyers are likely to be the buyers most adversely affected.
March 14, 2021
PHFA creates forgivable loan for down payments, closing costs
In an effort to expand affordable housing opportunities throughout the state, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) recently launched a loan to help with the purchase of a new home.
March 14, 2021
Biden’s first housing move – get HUD back in line with Fair Housing Act
New leadership at HUD, plus executive orders from President Biden may be the right formula to finally meeting the goals of the Fair Housing Act.
February 24, 2021
Most first-time homebuyers rely on family, friends to make a down payment
According to a recent survey, 52% of Americans who bought their first home in 2020 said that family or friends helped them make their down payment.
February 19, 2021
Using tax law to create new housing opportunities is outside-the-box thinking
Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code allows a real estate property, used for business or held as an investment, to be exchanged for another property that is of “like-kind.”
October 27, 2020
Legislature appropriates $10 million for workforce housing in rural Nebraska
The Rural Workforce Housing Act continues to pay dividends in Nebraska as the legislature approved another $10 million to develop new homes in rural areas.
September 29, 2020
Transfer tax hike would stymie housing market in New Paltz
Open space and preservation is important in New Paltz, but should funding for those initiatives be shouldered by real estate transfers?
September 14, 2020
Pflugerville Council abandons tax increase after pressure from residents
After considering a hefty property tax increase to balance its new budget, Pflugerville City Council reversed course amidst pressure from residents.
September 14, 2020
CDC eviction moratorium may cause unintended consequences for economy
The CDC put a halt on evictions through the end of 2020 to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. But might that create a new crisis in 2021?
September 11, 2020
Understanding real estate contract contingencies benefits buyers and sellers
Whether you are buying or selling a home, having a thorough understanding of contract contingencies and their benefits are crucial.
August 30, 2020
PA REALTORS step up for front line workers, impacted families
Using a service grant, PA RELATORS brought meals to housekeeping staffs at five area hospitals while also donating money to a local food bank.
August 20, 2020
Housing market hot in PA since lockdown restrictions lifted
Low interest rates and more remote work has made the housing market scorching hot in Pennsylvania.
August 20, 2020
REALTORS® push helped reopen real estate industry in PA
During the COVID-19 lock down, real estate business wasn’t considered essential in Pennsylvania. Then REALTORS(r) pushed the governor to reconsider.
August 19, 2020
City Council decision infringing upon homeowner property rights
Homeowners in Spring Lake Park currently can not apply for new rental permits. Many view this as an infringement of their property rights.
August 19, 2020
Redlining impact rears its ugly head again thanks to COVID-19
Redlining may have happened generations ago, but its impact are still felt today, especially during a pandemic.
August 18, 2020
Thanks to COVID-19 millennials do an about face and look to suburbs – not cities – for their next home
Millennials are shifting homebuying priorities thanks to COVID-19, taking a page out of the “Boomer” handbook and choosing the ‘burbs over the city
August 4, 2020
Homeowners getting additional help from FHA because of COVID-19
Are you strapped financially due to COVID-19 and is that impacting your ability to pay your mortgage? The FHA’s new “waterfall” could help.
July 31, 2020
Renters having their COVID-19 safety nets removed, face uncertain future
With no additional pandemic relief packages yet announced, renters face a precarious future as boosted unemployment payments end and evictions resume.
July 23, 2020
New Model: Nearly six million more U.S. homes in flood danger
Your home may not be as safe from a flood as you think. A new model found that almost six million more homes are in danger than previously thought.
July 23, 2020
Prop 19 in California: Housing relief, tax savings, school funding and more
A measure will be on the ballot in November in California that would expand the ability of owners to transfer property tax assessments to a new home.
July 15, 2020
University Heights mayor open to conversation about restrictive point of sale policy
The Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS® has taken their message of point of sale (POS) reform to University Heights.
July 14, 2020
New video shows REALTORS how to overcome bias and promote fair housing
The National Association of REALTORS has put together a new training video to help members understand what implicit bias is and how to overcome it.
July 8, 2020
Home sellers itching to put their houses on the market as country re-opens
Now that we’re getting back to a semblance of normalcy, homeowners are ready to put their houses on the market, post haste.
June 25, 2020
Eliminating escrow component may bring more activity to Euclid real estate
Euclid City Council is considering a new ordinance that would eliminate the escrow component for the city’s point of sale policy, making it a little easier on the wallets of potential homeowners.
June 23, 2020
Opportunity zone investment finally buzzing, despite pandemic
Coronavirus or not, investors are starting to take advantage of opportunity zones.
June 23, 2020
California voters could make property tax transfers easier, more plentiful
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June 11, 2020
Small business landlords drowning in the wake of COVID-19 renter protections
Renters have been protected during the pandemic from being evicted, but individual landlords who rent homes as a small business are suffering.
June 11, 2020
New fair housing requirements in New York part of industry reform
New rules in New York are requiring real estate agents and brokers to be more direct and transparent with anti-discrimination laws for their clients.
May 25, 2020
NAR provides fair housing guidance during COVID-19 pandemic
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May 21, 2020
Finding rental assistance during COVID-19
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May 13, 2020
Missoula’s housing situation has reached a critical stage
A new report shows that the amount of available homes in Missoula is at an all-time low, prices are skyrocketing, and most buyers are being priced out.
May 13, 2020
The impact of COVID-19 on real estate in Montana
Deemed an essential service by Gov. Bullock, real estate business is still taking place, albeit at a much slower pace and with a non-traditional look.
May 5, 2020
Working from home could change the look of multifamily spaces
More people are working from home because of COVID-19. Might that be a new normal? Multi-family developers are betting on it.
May 5, 2020
Survey: Sellers not yet lowering prices because of COVID-19
Despite a reduction in real estate transactions because of COVID-19, sellers remain bullish with their sale prices.
May 1, 2020
Could COVID-19 bring a housing boon for New York City suburbs?
With New York the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, sprawling suburban areas might again be desirable as social distancing becomes the new normal.
April 25, 2020
COVID-19 causing greater affordable housing crisis now
The reality is that an economic recession in the near term will only slow the development of more affordable housing moving forward.
April 21, 2020
Buying or Selling a Home During a Pandemic Happening at Different Speeds Across the Country
In some places, homebuying is still happening, albeit with COVID-19 precautions. However, in other places, the market has slowed to a near standstill.
April 14, 2020
short-term rentals banned during coronavirus pandemic
As social distancing and stay-at-home orders are in place, renting your property short-term is also being stopped by local and state governments.
April 10, 2020
HUD grants $40 million for Fair Housing initiatives
HUD has earmarked $40 million in grant money to support local and national fair housing efforts geared to eliminating housing discrimination.
April 4, 2020
Disparity Between White, Black Homeowners as Great Today as 1968
Since the enactment of the Fair Housing Act, the homeownership rate gap between white and black Americans hasn’t significantly changed.
March 31, 2020
Resources for Homeowners and Homebuyers in the Time of COVID-19
A list of links if you are seeking aid or assistance for yourself and your property while waiting for the coronavirus outbreak to subside.
March 31, 2020
Evictions And Foreclosures Temporarily Suspended
Government agencies announce suspension of evictions for renters and homeowners due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
March 31, 2020
Five Tips For Landlords During The COVID-19 Outbreak
Tips for property managers to help you prepare and stay informed during coronavirus pandemic.
March 29, 2020
Opportunity Zone Projects in Duluth Are Having An Impact
There are six active opportunity zone projects in Duluth worth approximately $125 million in investment with another six prospective projects in the pipeline.
March 26, 2020
How Covid-19 could impact the Real Estate Market
The global pandemic is having an impact on global financial markets and likely will impact the U.S. Real Estate market soon.
March 16, 2020
Report: Home Prices Rise in 94% of Metro Areas
Home prices continue to rise faster than wages in a majority of Metropolitan areas, according to a new report.
March 13, 2020
Marijuana is making an impact on property sales
There is a noticeable impact on the demand for commercial property and residential housing in states where marijuana is legal.
March 8, 2020
10 Housing Markets Expected to Outperform
See the top 10 markets positioned for exceptional longer-term performance due to their relative housing affordability and local economic growth.
February 24, 2020
The Value of Land Is Increasing
Developers and smart investors are buying land in anticipation of the growing demand for affordable housing in communities across the country.
February 20, 2020
The 2020 Census is Here. What Does it Mean?
Approximately $1.5 trillion in federal dollars is allocated to states and specific communities each year based purely on Census results.
February 20, 2020
Millennials Lead the Housing Pilgrimage to Colorado Springs
U.S. News and World Report recently named Fort Collins the number one most desirable place to live in the United States.
February 15, 2020
Something’s Brewing in Fort Collins as it Expects to Outperform Housing Projections
The median income of individuals who have recently moved to Fort Collins is $50,000.
February 15, 2020
Queen City Still King
Last year, Charlotte surpassed Indianapolis as the 16th largest city in the United States.
February 15, 2020
Gambling on Las Vegas as a Place to Call Home
Most people who are moving into the Las Vegas market are coming from out of state, making it a true destination location for folks looking to start something new.
February 15, 2020
Ogden No Longer Just A Drive-by Town
The average length of time for people to own a home in Ogden is 10 years, which shows the market has a staying power when it comes to settling down.
February 15, 2020
Triangle Taking a New Shape as Transplants Grow the Market
The Durham-Chapel Hill area is also flush with new job opportunities and housing that is affordable to younger folks looking to buy their first home.
February 15, 2020
Charleston offers opportunity, affordability that is waning elsewhere
A jewel of the southeast, Charleston is poised to have the renaissance that Charlotte has had in the previous decades.
February 15, 2020
First there was America’s Team, now is there America’s Hometown?
Dallas has seen a jobs boost of nearly three percent in the last three years, almost doubling the national average of 1.6 percent.
February 15, 2020
Tampa no longer for snowbirds and retirees
Tampa expected to outperform expectations the next 3-5 years.
February 15, 2020
More than the ‘Old College Try’ – Columbus Housing Market to Flourish
Columbus offers that big city feel but at a much more affordable cost.
February 15, 2020
Homebuying Season Appears to be Starting Sooner Each Year
Home searches have started earlier and earlier in the year for each of the past five years, but 2019 was the first time January really stood out.
February 1, 2020
NFIP Temporarily Extended, but Lawmakers Seek Long-term Answer
Those who rely on the National Flood Insurance Program to cover potential losses from a natural disaster are breathing a sigh of relief, albeit a temporary one.
January 26, 2020
Kansas Tax Law Fight Continues, Voters Support Reform
Because of the way Kansas’ tax laws are written, many Kansas property owners are paying more in taxes due to changes to the federal tax law that President Trump signed in 2017.
January 9, 2020
The Idea of Rent Control Won’t Go Away in California – but Should It?
A Los Angeles-based nonprofit has recently submitted nearly one million signatures to get rent control back on the ballot for November 2020.
January 6, 2020
South Carolina County School District Expands To Address Growing Student Population
Passage of bond referendum marks the first time Beaufort County schools passed a referendum in 11 years, despite overwhelming growth over the past decade.
December 31, 2019
Frustrated Residents Want Transparency, Accuracy in Philadelphia Property Assessment Procedure
The property tax war in Philadelphia is still peaking, and there doesn’t appear to be an end in sight.
December 27, 2019
Ocean City Residents Grapple with Short-Term Rentals
For much of the past five years, full-time Ocean City residents have been at odds with other property owners who want to rent their homes to tourists.
November 24, 2019
Outside the Box Thinking: San Jose Tackles Affordable Housing Crisis
In the past year, the city of San Jose has completely re-written its zoning code to include co-living as a use within the code.
November 20, 2019
Repealing Transfer Tax: A Long-Term Benefit to Delaware Economy
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November 19, 2019
Reforming Tax Structure Could Mean Savings for All in Utah
A proposal to reform taxes in Utah will be presented to the state legislature when it convenes for a special session on Dec. 13.
November 19, 2019
Proposed Restrictions on Driveways in Arkansas Town Fail
Attempts to revise Fayetteville’s Driving and Parking Standards Ordinance fails following opposition from REALTORS®, builders, developers and homeowners.
November 18, 2019
One Stop Shopping – When You Go to the Doctor?
In the past two years, while leases in malls for clothing retailers has declined by 10 percent, medical clinics being placed in malls has increased by 60 percent.
November 10, 2019
A 30-Year FRM is Still the Most Reliable Way to Finance a Home
Most people who take out a loan to buy a home choose the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. It’s considered the gold standard. And yet, some want to see it go away.
November 10, 2019
Clarity About Workforce Housing Could Help with Affordability
Teachers and other public servants who are starting a job for the first time look for a place to live close to their work and find they can’t afford to live there.
October 29, 2019
Appropriate Criminal Background Checks Would Help Property Owners, Community Safety
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October 28, 2019
How Should You Approach Buying a Home For The First Time?
There are a lot of different routes for first-time homebuyers to enter the housing market – and many of those roads are designed to help them traverse the sometimes craggily path toward homeownership.
October 21, 2019
Bi-Partisan Effort Seeks Infrastructure Improvements Near Military Bases
Members of Congress ask for upgrades to schools, transportation, utilities, hospitals and more in areas that are part of or are close to military installations.
October 12, 2019
Peoria Group Offers Free Furnace Checks for Veterans
There are never enough ways to say “thank you” to veterans of the armed services, but the Illinois Valley Fuller Center for Housing is hoping it has found another way.
September 30, 2019
HOMES SALES IN FLORIDA’S BROWARD COUNTY CONTINUE TO RISE
High demand in this Florida county is creating a greater strain on the housing supply and home prices are trending upward.
September 28, 2019
Readers Agree – Document Your Home as a Disaster Precaution
Earlier this month, we suggested it was a good idea to document your belongings as a precaution to any kind of disaster. The response to our story was overwhelmingly positive.
September 26, 2019
Prime Time: How Amazon is Impacting Home Prices in Northern Virginia
Amazon Headquarters may still be a couple of years away from being completed, but that doesn’t mean that its economic impact on the community hasn’t already started.
September 25, 2019
Oregon Takes Steps to Improve Housing Availability
In August, Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed a variety of bills into law that are designed to fix the state’s housing crunch.
September 25, 2019
Rise of the Disaster Investor
Do “disaster investors” help or hinder communities hit by events like hurricanes, tornados, floods or wildfires?
September 18, 2019
Sedona Adjusts to Influx of Short-Term Rental Boom
In 2016, the Arizona legislature passed the “AirBnB Bill,” which has increased the number of investors buying properties in cities like Sedona.
September 18, 2019
Central Ohio a Hot Market for Houses and Condos
In Central Ohio, even though the prices continue to climb at breakneck speed, the demand for homes in the area still exceeds the need.
September 17, 2019
Minnesota Tackles Housing Affordability
Data shows that across the state home prices are on the rise and with wages stagnating, these homes were becoming less and less affordable.
September 17, 2019
New Condo Rules Could Create More Affordable Housing
It’s been a long-time coming, but new loan policies for condominiums are finally coming to fruition which will create more housing affordability for Americans.
September 12, 2019
Opportunity Zones Continue to Hold Key to Economic Growth
Opportunity Zones create an opportunity for real estate development, redevelopment and investment. Potentially creating new jobs and improving the value and attractiveness of these underutilized areas.
September 11, 2019
Home Prices Slip in Some Metro Areas
While home prices are increasing in 91 percent of U.S. Markets, prices are slipping in some of the costliest markets, according to a new report.
August 20, 2019
Property Owners Have Been Big Winners in Texas Legislature This Year
The Texas Legislature passed several property tax reform laws to benefit current and future property owners in the Lone Star State.
August 11, 2019
WeWork Makes Big Investment in the Northwest Arkansas Metropolitan Area
Partnering with a local developer, WeWork will develop a 200,000 square-foot WeWork space Bentonville, Arkansas.
August 11, 2019
Real Estate Industry Vulnerable to Cyberattacks
According to a recent FBI report, “business email compromise attacks” on real estate are on the rise and potential homebuyers and sellers need to be aware.
August 11, 2019
Despite Wide Support, Referendum on Sales Tax Increased in Duval County Delayed
Several schools in Florida’s Duval County are in need of safety and infrastructure improvements or upgrades, and the School Board is recommending a .05-cent sales surtax to rectify the problem.
August 1, 2019
Texas legislature Ends Forced Annexation
This year’s legislative session resulted in several big wins for everyone who buys, sells, owns or leases real estate in Texas.
July 29, 2019
U.S. Supreme Court Restores Property Rights, Prevents Local Governments from Taking Land
A recent Supreme Court decision disallows the government from turning private property into public property without first paying for it.
July 29, 2019
New Executive Order Takes on Housing Affordability Issues
In June, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to create a new White House Council to tackle affordable housing issues across the country.
July 24, 2019
New Sagamore and Bourne Bridges Would Benefit Cape Cod’s Community
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July 1, 2019
Medical Research Drives Commercial Development in Philadelphia
Billions of dollars of venture capital are being spent on developing commercial real estate in the Philadelphia area to meet the growing needs of the medical research industry.
June 29, 2019
New Legislation would Ban Restrictions on Short-term Rentals via Zoning Ordinances
Local governments in Michigan have begun fighting short-term rentals by adopting new regulations that would categorize some rentals as commercial transactions in a residential zone.
June 27, 2019
Home Loans for Veterans No Longer Capped
Veterans who secure loans through the VA’s Home Loan Guaranty Program will no longer have a capped amount on what they can borrow.
June 27, 2019
VA Home Loan Guaranty Program Hits Milestone
The 24 millionth VA loan was recently given to Army Sgt. 1st Class William Kopf, an Active Guard Reserve Soldier.
June 24, 2019
Mortgage Rates Continue to Fall, Leading to More Home Sales
Mortgage rates at the end of May dipped below four percent for the first time in 16 months and have now dropped a full percentage point since November.
June 24, 2019
Jefferson Parish Voters Agree to Raise Property Taxes to Increase Teacher Wages, Improve Schools
Voters overwhelmingly agreed to raise property taxes for public education by $28.8 million over the span of 10 years.
June 11, 2019
Wisconsin Could Help Potential First-Time Homebuyers Save
The Wisconsin is considering a bill that would create a First-Time Homebuyer’s Savings Account – a tax-free savings account for individuals or couples trying to buy their first home.
June 10, 2019
Churches Could be Part of the Solution to Greenville’s Affordable Housing Crisis
JustFaith Greenville has been urging churches in Greenville to give up some of their land to help build affordable housing communities.
June 6, 2019
Suburbia 2.0: Tactics for Making the Suburbs More Urban
For all the attraction of the big cities in our country, the majority of people in these urbanized areas remain in the suburbs.
June 6, 2019
Is Dip in Homeownership Rate A Sign of Things to Come?
Homeownership rates fell for the first time in more than two years, but there is a debate as to whether this is just a temporary blip or the start of a decline.
June 6, 2019
Secondary Markets More Attractive to Commercial Investment
With the economy continuing to flourish, investment in commercial real estate has also spiked as investors look to find a solid return for their dollars.
June 6, 2019
Urbanizing the Suburbs for the Next Generation
As millennials become the most prominent buyers in the real estate market, more and more are interested in having the amenities of the big city atmosphere while still being able to enjoy a more suburban home life.
May 31, 2019
A Proposed New Tax Is Detrimental To Rhode Island’s Housing Market
The city of Newport is petitioning the General Assembly for authorization to levy a steep conveyance tax on home sales to fund infrastructure improvements and new schools.
May 7, 2019
Voters Approve $12 Million Bond to Benefit Cape Girardeau Schools
Funding will now be available to expand, renovate and better equip existing schools, the latest positive step in a long-term educational transformation for this Georgia school district.
May 7, 2019
Strategies For More Workforce Housing Abound
With a unemployment rate, it’s easy to assume the economy is booming, which, in turn, would benefit the housing market.
April 30, 2019
Protecting Tax Deductions Will Make Kansas Feel Like Home Again
Because of changes made by Congress to the Federal tax code, many Kansas taxpayers can no longer take the deductions they have received for decades on their state income taxes.
April 16, 2019
Housing Market Sizzles in Valley of the Sun
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Phoenix ranked No. 5 on the list and was the largest U.S. city to rank in the Top 10.
March 25, 2019
Millennials Taking Over Boston, Making it a Hot Housing Market
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Boston, despite its high home prices, is still trending and ranks No. 10 on the 2019 list.
March 24, 2019
Like Finding Gold in Treasure Valley, Boise Housing Market Booming
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Boise came in at No. 8 on the Top 10 list, giving credence to Idaho being known as the Gem State, because it is a hidden gem among housing markets in the U.S.
March 24, 2019
Going All-In on Buying a Home in Vegas is Proving to be a Good Bet
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Las Vegas ranked No. 7 on the Top 10 list.
March 24, 2019
Bridgeport a Hot Place to Live for Those Trying to Make it There
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Bridgeport, Conn., a city attracting a lot of folks working in New York, ranks No. 6 on the Top 10 list.
March 24, 2019
Pardon Me Pops, is that the Chattanooga You Knew?
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Coming in at No. 4 is Chattanooga, which had remade itself over the past decade or so into a vibrant city.
March 24, 2019
Head Down to Old El Paso Where Buying a Home Ain’t No Hassle
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. El Paso comes in at the No.3 hottest housing market in the U.S.
March 24, 2019
Something is Brewing in the Grand Rapids Housing Market
Realtor.com recently released their hottest markets list for 2019. Ranking second on that list is Grand Rapids, behind only Lakeland, Fla.
March 24, 2019
Colorado Employers May Soon Help Employees Buy Their First Home
Colorado is considering legislation to expand First-time Homebuyers Savings Account in the state to allow employers to contribute to their employees’ accounts.
March 21, 2019
Lakeland Tops List of Hottest Housing Markets in the U.S.
Realtor.com has released their hottest real estate markets list for 2019.
March 15, 2019
Santa Barbara Voters Could Get the Option to Decide Future of ZIRs
Santa Barbara’s Zoning Information Report (ZIR) has been a point of contention for years. Now, there is a groundswell of support to try and get the removal of ZIRs on the ballot.
March 14, 2019
Why Rent Control Is Bad For Illinois
Rent control proponents in the Illinois General Assembly have recently proposed legislation that would open the door for rent control in the Illinois.
March 5, 2019
Everyone Can Now Have Their Own Sweet Home in Alabama
Alabama residents who want to own a home of their own now have a new tool to help them do that.
February 28, 2019
Solving Miami’s Housing Crisis One Container at a Time
Miami-Dade has one of the country’s largest housing gaps between wealthy and lower income individuals and families and container homes could help address the need.
February 28, 2019
Gig Harbor, Washington Ranks High On The List of Best Places To Retire
Gig Harbor, Wash. is one of the best places to retire in the U.S., ranking No. 4 in a recent study.
February 27, 2019
Philadelphia Suburb Named One Of The Best Places To Retire
According to a recent study, Media, PA made its way onto the Top 10 list.
February 27, 2019
Cumming, Georgia Nearly Tops The List of Best Places To Retire
According to a recent study, Cumming, Ga. is No. 2 on a list of 10 best cities to retire in the U.S.
February 27, 2019
Two California Cities Land On List Of Best Places To Retire
Beverly Hills and Westlake Village each rank in a Top 10 list of the best cities to retire in the United States.
February 22, 2019
Despite Obstacles, Dream of Homeownership Still Thrives in California
California has its share of housing challenges. Yet, despite these hurdles, renters in California continue to aspire to become full-fledged homeowners and remain relatively optimistic they will eventually attain that status.
February 21, 2019
Two Michigan Cities Rank High On List Of Best Places To Retire
According to a recent study, a pair of Michigan cities ranked in the Top 10. Farmington placed No. 6 on the list while Grosse Pointe came in at No. 9.
February 21, 2019
Which Cities Are Better For Retirement?
Where is the best place to live in your golden years? When it comes time to retire, seniors have many factors to consider.
February 12, 2019
Broadband Given Green Light for Rural Mississippi
Rural Mississippi is finally going to be able to ditch dial-up. Gov. Phil Bryant recently signed the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act into law.
February 8, 2019
Americans Plan For Homeownership in 2019
Ten Million Americans said last month that their top financial goal for 2019 is to buy a home.
February 8, 2019
New Pavilion a Community Benefit for Those with Two Feet…or Four
With the help of a grant, the Alaskan city of Soldonta now has a covered area on their dog park where dog owners can go if the weather is not ideal.
January 28, 2019
Constitutional Changes in Arizona Protect Homeowners
When Arizona voters passed Prop 126 last November, it was the latest in a history of amendments to the state constitution that either helped or protected homeowners.
January 28, 2019
Action on Salem River Crossing delayed again, sparking frustration
Time is running out on a new bridge in Salem. A third meeting on the issue is slated for January 30 with the city council.
January 18, 2019
How homeowners and buyers are unexpectedly impacted by the shutdown
The partial government shutdown is having a negative impact on the real estate market.
January 10, 2019
Laguna Beach Seniors “Age in Place”
A program in Laguna Beach called Lifelong Laguna provides an ambitious vision of services to help residents age gracefully in their homes.
January 9, 2019
How the New Tax Law Affects Homeowners
While many homeowners, homebuyers and real estate investors will see benefits from this legislation, some markets may still see diminished tax benefits and adverse impacts to the real estate market.
December 31, 2018
Why you should support Home Inspector Licensing in Ohio
Ohio is one a few remaining states that doesn’t regulate home inspectors. They aren’t required to be licensed, or at the very least be registered in the state.
December 4, 2018
Six Texas Counties Reject Forced Annexation
Homeowners in some Texas counties no longer have to worry about their property being incorporated into a neighboring city after voters made a strong statement on Election Day.
November 29, 2018
Salem Residents Consider New Bridge
Mid-Valley residents need a new bridge to reduce traffic congestion and to help ease their commutes for work, school and entertainment.
November 20, 2018
Student Loan Debt Roadblock to Homeownership
The biggest hurdle for first-time homebuyers is saving for a down payment and student loan debt is a significant contributor.
November 17, 2018
Vicksburg Community Leader Goes The Extra Mile
“Brenda is a life saver. She helps anyone and everyone, regardless of their financial situation, be able to find a home they can own.”
November 12, 2018
Maryland Community Celebrates The Fair Housing Act
Maryland REALTORS® have kept the focus on fair housing all year long from student art contests to legislative efforts.
November 8, 2018
Colorado Considers Proposition to improve roadways & bridges
Colorado’s transportation needs have gone unmet for the past quarter century and we now face a $9 billion backlog in unfunded state infrastructure projects.
November 5, 2018
Beaufort County Referendum Seeks Funding For Roads and Walkways
South Carolina’s Beaufort County’s latest tax proposal is a ballot referendum based on common sense and seeks to help rectify traffic-related problems.
October 30, 2018
Ada County Considers Fee Increase to Address Infrastructure
Idaho’s Ada County ballot measure proposes to increase vehicle registration fees to fund infrastructure spending, including improved streets, and more.
October 29, 2018
Chicago Freedom Movement Photographer Comes to Dayton
Dayton REALTORS® co-hosted a fair housing event with the Miami Valley Fair Housing Center this past April featuring Bernard Kleina, who photographed Dr. Martin Luther King in 1966.
October 25, 2018
South Lake Tahoe Tackles Short-Term Rentals
Measure T is an initiative to curb short-term rentals in South Lake Tahoe by revoking the permits of 1,400 vacation rental homes located outside the city’s “tourism core” by 2021.
October 25, 2018
Northwest Indiana community commemorates Fair Housing anniversary
Read the story of a REALTOR® from Northwest Indiana who came face-to-face with sellers who backed out of a contract after learning that the buyers were an African-American couple.
October 19, 2018
Californians to Vote on Local Transfer Tax Issues
Six cities on the East Bay have measures on the November 6 ballot that would increase transfer taxes when properties are sold in an effort to better balance city budgets.
October 11, 2018
Arizonans To Vote On The “Protect Arizona Taxpayers Act”
If approved, Prop 126 will amend the Constitution to protect taxpayers from state and local governments imposing any new sales tax or use tax on services.
October 11, 2018
Oregon’s Ballot Measure 104 Would Close Legislative Loopholes
Ballot Measure 104 would clarify that politicians can’t raise revenue without a supermajority vote.
October 10, 2018
Florida’s Amendment 2 would keep the 10% cap on annual property tax
In order to pass a constitutional amendment in Florida, 60% of the voters need to vote yes.
October 9, 2018
Maui Summit Advances Conversation On Homelessness
Maui REALTORS®, in partnership with the Governor’s Office, Maui County, the Maui Homeless Alliance and others, convened at the Maui County Landlord Summit.
October 2, 2018
Kids Come Together: Sioux City Elementary Students Help Children In Foster Care
REALTORS help students in elementary schools across Iowa use Project Jack grants to help others.
October 2, 2018
Philadelphians Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act
Joseph Rey shares a story of how the Fair Housing Act could well have saved the lives of his family in 1973.
September 28, 2018
Louisville Brings Attention to The Benefits of Fair Housing
Louisville campaign reminds everyone that although there has been a lot of progress in the 50 years since the Fair Housing Act, there is still work to be done.
September 12, 2018
Regulating Short-Term Rentals
When it comes to short-term rental regulations, finding what works for one municipality may not work for another.
September 4, 2018
Are you prepared for a natural disaster?
As part of National Preparedness month, here are a few tips on the best ways to prepare for intense weather and other natural disasters.
August 31, 2018
Building a Better Block in North Carolina
The Fayetteville community created a half-day event to show how simple improvements to the commercial district could help it flourish.
August 15, 2018
Brookings REALTORS Team Up with Habitat For Humanity
In early 2017, the Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity had an idea come up in one of their board meetings – how about partnering with REALTORS?
August 15, 2018
Community Joins In Ottumwa Revitalization Effort
More than 150 people worked together to build a “Better Block” in Ottumwa, Iowa and spark a revitalization.
July 27, 2018
REALTORS “Bowling for Freedom” Events Raises Funds For Veterans
The Edmond Board of REALTORS has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local veterans groups.
July 15, 2018
Cincinnati Fair Housing Month Proclamations
Hamilton County event recognizes April as Fair Housing Month. What they weren’t expecting was a bit of a civics lesson.
July 15, 2018
Who Are the Homeowner Heroes?
As part of Home Ownership month, we are recognizing Homeowner Heroes through history and today.
June 22, 2018
Why We Need to Reform the Home Inspection Process in Park Forest
Tell Village of Park Forest Officials that you support the notion of home inspections as soon as a home is listed for sale, and not waiting until it is under contract.
June 6, 2018
Pittsburgh Community Commemorates Fair Housing Act
Local REALTORS® co-host panel discussion about fair housing at the August Wilson Center in Pittsburgh.
May 30, 2018
Ozaukee REALTORS® Find Continued Success With Fair Housing
Ozaukee County is a small community with a big heart. And that is perpetuated even further with its commitment to fair housing.
May 30, 2018
Freedom Walk in Memphis Links Fair Housing with MLK
Memphis Area REALTORS® organize a Day of Unity to both remember Dr. King as well as commemorate 50 years of the Fair Housing Act.
May 30, 2018
Why Are States Investing In Future Homeowners?
Across the country, states are stepping up to the plate to help future home buyers through programs that help them save the money they need, tax-free, to purchase their first home. It turns out these programs help current homeowners, too.
May 23, 2018
Detroit-area REALTORS Invest in Community Spaces
Detroit-area REALTORS offer “placemaking grants” to help provide some financial support to members and local governments to help plan, design and manage public spaces by capitalizing on the community’s assets, inspiration and potential.
May 10, 2018
New York REALTORS Demonstrate Commitment To Fair Housing Awareness
NYSAR has made a commitment to spreading continued awareness of Fair Housing.
May 3, 2018
Missouri Passes Bill To Create the First-Time Homebuyer’s Savings Plan
The House recently passed a bill to create the First-Time Homebuyer’s Savings Plan that would allow first-time homebuyers, or those re-entering the housing market, to save money, tax free, toward the purchase of a home.
April 30, 2018
A New Way to Save For a Home in Alabama Nearly a Reality
The Alabama House and Senate closed out the month of March with near-unanimous support of the First-Time Homebuyer and Second-Chance Savings Account (FHSA) bill, or HB248.
April 20, 2018
Teacher Turned REALTOR Shares Her Unique Experience with Fair Housing
When Firdaus Rahman arrived with her husband to Mobile, Alabama in the 1980s, she found out relatively quickly she could no longer be an English teacher. So, she decided to go into real estate.
April 18, 2018
Marine Turned Realtor® Still Fighting For All Americans
For a half century, Steve Amos has been a Fair Housing champion in both Nebraska and Iowa
March 19, 2018
Buying your first home in Mississippi is now a whole lot easier
The Mississippi legislature recently passed the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Act, which allows you to save the money you need in a tax-advantaged savings account, to go toward the purchase of a home.
February 23, 2018
Old-Money Suburb Takes On The Fight For Fair Housing
From posters to making it a part of school curriculums; how Grosse Pointe became a leading fair housing advocate.
February 20, 2018
Restrictions on Short-Term Rentals in Sisters, OR Could Hurt Local Economy
The City of Sisters City Council is considering tightening existing vacation rental regulations and further restricting short-term rentals.
February 16, 2018
Report: Millennials and Silent Generation Drive Desire for Walkable Communities
According to a new report from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), both millennials and those from the silent, or greatest generation, agree – walkable communities are the preferred way of living.
December 21, 2017
Tax Reform Has Consequences for New York Homeowners
“We have concerns about the plan and its impact on New York state as a whole, New York taxpayers and New York homeowners – and frankly future homeowners as well.”
December 7, 2017
Study: Middle Class Homeowners Will See A Tax Increase Next Year Under Congressional Plan
The states with the greatest increases include New York, New Jersey, California, Virginia, Minnesota, Utah, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan.
November 16, 2017
Proposed Tax Reform Bill Would Raise Taxes For Millions of Middle-Class Homeowners
Homeowners expecting a big tax cut from the tax reform proposals being considered in Washington may be in for an even bigger surprise.
November 10, 2017
Student Loan Debt Delays Homeownership in Minnesota and Beyond
Student loan debt is an increasing problem in Minnesota and across the United States. It is impacting life decisions for many young adults, millennials and yes, even Americans approaching retirement age.
October 21, 2017
New Option in Iowa to Save for a Down Payment for a Home
Coming up with a hefty down payment will no longer be a huge hurdle for people buying their first home in Iowa.
September 8, 2017
Minnesota Introduces First Time Homebuyers Savings Accounts
The Minnesota legislature recently passed a new law that included the First Time Homebuyers Savings Account Act, which now allows individuals or couples to save the money they need in a tax preferred savings account to go toward the purchase of a home.
August 30, 2017
What You Need To Know About Flood Insurance
Here is all you need to know about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and the proposed legislation to reauthorize the program once it expires at the end of the year.
August 8, 2017
Next Steps for Flood Insurance
The National Flood Insurance Program must be reauthorized by Congress every 5 years in order to continue selling flood insurance. That authority is again due to expire at the end of the year unless Congress acts to extend it.
July 19, 2017
President’s Tax Reform Plan Would Actually Increase Taxes For Most Homeowners
The recently released outline of a tax reform plan is well-intentioned, but leaves too much of the tax burden on the shoulders of homeowners.
June 9, 2017
Maui Students Get a Helping Hand
Wishing Well for Maui Students, a volunteer program created by a local REALTOR, procures essentials and other educational needs for classrooms for the 35 public and charter schools located on Maui.
May 23, 2017
Home Buying By Older Americans Picks Up Steam
Some people are surprised when they learn that a quarter of the home buying market is made up of retirees or those close to retirement age.
April 20, 2017
Solving the Down Payment Problem
Legislatures across the country are considering bills that would create savings accounts for first-time homebuyers.
March 17, 2017
Rent vs. Buy
Affordability is the number one reason non-owners give when asked why they don’t own. A big factor is the on-going confusion about down payment requirements.
February 14, 2017
Home Prices Hit New Highs in 2016
For the final three months of 2016, the sales prices in more than half of the markets tracked since 2005 have equaled or surpassed previous peak levels.
February 10, 2017
The Next Generation of Homebuyers
Millennials are following in the footsteps of gen-Xers and buying single family homes in the suburbs, a far cry from the concept of buying new construction or residing in trendy urban areas.
January 17, 2017
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