Wealthy buyers snap up neighboring properties to build private compounds
Luxury buyers are combining homes and vacant lots for more privacy, security and space, driving up demand – and premiums – for adjoining properties.
Southern states see a more buyer-friendly market
New construction is giving homebuyers more choices and negotiating power across the South, including Florida, according to HomeServices of America’s 2026 Mid-Year National Housing Outlook. The shift increases competition for sellers and makes accurate pricing and local market guidance more important.
Fed signals borrowing costs may stay high
The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate steady for a fifth consecutive meeting, but three officials favored an increase as persistent inflation and a potentially higher neutral rate cloud the outlook for borrowing costs. The shift suggests mortgage rates and other consumer loan rates could remain elevated longer than many borrowers expect.
FHA proposes simpler partial claim process
FHA is considering a new way to manage partial claims that could reduce paperwork and help prevent delays when homeowners sell, refinance or transfer a property.
Helping buyers look beyond the price
Real estate agents can help buyers make more informed decisions by focusing on the full monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and association fees, rather than the listing price alone. Discussing those costs early can prevent surprises, narrow the home search and demonstrate the value of an agent’s market knowledge.
Help buyers look beyond market headlines
First-time buyers can make a clearer buy-or-wait decision by weighing their finances, local market conditions, housing costs and future plans.
Florida leads nation in empty lots for sale
Florida has 42,601 empty lots listed for sale, the most in the nation. Zillow estimates that building one home on each listed U.S. lot could reduce the housing shortage by 6.3%.
Mortgage rates rise for fourth week running
The 30-year fixed rate reaches 6.66% as bond yields respond to Iran conflict. That’s still slightly below the average of 6.72% a year ago.
AI creating uneven real estate demand
New research finds AI is strengthening demand in some commercial markets while reducing space needs in others, depending on local jobs and industries.
Florida home construction cools, but growth pockets emerge
Florida recorded 51,444 new-home permits through the second quarter, down 7% from a year earlier, though Northwest Florida and several counties posted growth.