Florida Realtors News
Make outdoor space easy for buyers to love
Outdoor space is playing a larger role in buyer decisions, but sellers may get the most value from simple, low-maintenance curb appeal rather than costly garden upgrades.
May inflation jumped, but economists say the details offer buyers a steadier picture
Economists say higher energy costs pushed inflation up, but underlying price pressures were more contained – a key distinction for buyers watching mortgage rates.
Realtors press housing priorities in D.C.
Realtors will meet with lawmakers on federal issues tied to everyday customer challenges, including tight inventory, seller tax concerns and buyer access.
Mortgage rates climb toward 2026 highs as inflation pressure persists
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.52% this week, just below its 2026 peak, while the 15-year fixed rate rose to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Both rates remain below year-ago levels of 6.84% and 5.97%, respectively.
Stabilizing home prices giving buyers a clearer path to purchase
The median home price has stabilized, and mortgage rates have eased enough that monthly payments are more manageable than they've been in years. Realtors can use that shift to restart conversations with buyers who went quiet and help them find negotiating leverage on listings that have been sitting.
The retention strategy most brokers overlook
Broker-owners can use personal contact, open communication and shared community work to make agents feel valued before competitors try to recruit them away.
Florida, others Sun Belt markets adjust after pandemic demand
Markets that saw strong pandemic-era demand now have longer sales timelines, more price reductions and higher inventory, giving Realtors current data to guide pricing and negotiation conversations.
Affluent women shape high-end homebuying
Women with high net worth are buying luxury homes with privacy, lifestyle function and investment strategy in mind, changing how brokers market and sell high-end properties.
Mortgage fears shape buyer decisions
A growing number of buyers are approaching mortgages through the lens of financial stress, past housing downturns and generational attitudes toward debt. The trend highlights the importance of understanding how financing fears may shape affordability conversations, refinancing decisions and long-term ownership expectations.
Market myths keep buyers and sellers on hold
Misconceptions about inventory, mortgage rates and market timing are keeping some buyers and sellers from making decisions, even when local data tells a different story. Clear, fact-based conversations can help customers move past worst-case thinking and toward choices that fit their goals.
Mortgage shopping can lower buyer costs
A LendingTree study found Florida buyers could save an estimated $170 a month by comparing mortgage offers, adding another affordability step before the home search.
Homebuying basics are tripping up new buyers
A new survey found first-time buyers feel prepared but struggle with basic questions about costs and next steps. Use early consults to set expectations before showings.
U.S. News ranks dozens of Florida cities among best places to live
U.S. News & World Report ranked 22 Florida cities among the nation’s best places to live, with communities across South Florida, Central Florida, the Gulf Coast and North Florida making the list.
Guiding families through complex home sales after a loss
Homes tied to estates or inheritances often involve probate proceedings, legal paperwork, title questions and multiple decision-makers before a property can be listed for sale. Industry professionals say early coordination and clear communication can help keep these transactions moving forward.