Wed.Apr 23, 2025

article thumbnail

Homeowners are struggling with property taxes and how to appeal them

Housing Wire

A majority of U.S. homeowners are feeling the pressure of rising property taxes. But new data reveals that most are not taking advantage of their right to appeal their assessments often because they dont know they can. A national survey conducted by property tax appeal platform Ownwell found that nearly 60% of homeowners were shocked by their most recent property tax bills.

Investor 329
article thumbnail

The ChatGPT prompt every agent needs (but 99% will never use)

Inman

What if the fastest way to break through your biggest blocks was asking AI to call you out? Real's Drew Thompson explains how.

Agents 155
Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

Newlyweds asking for down payment help over wedding gifts

Housing Wire

Nearly half of newly married homeowners in the U.S. who made a down payment asked for money instead of traditional wedding gifts, according to a recent survey. A LendingTree survey of 1,050 American newlyweds found that 48% of those who purchased a home and made a down payment within the past two years requested cash from guests to help fund their home purchase rather than receive items off a wedding registry.

Finance 273
article thumbnail

Give us your 1 big idea on how to improve fair housing: Pulse

Inman

As a Realtor, you've seen it all, so tell us what one thing, from your perspective, would go the furthest in improving fair housing compliance?

Agents 158
article thumbnail

The 2025 Real Estate Roadmap to Success

Don’t just react to changes, plan for them, so you can approach the new year with confidence, direction, and a competitive edge for your business. Having a well-defined business plan helps you chart a clear course, navigate challenges, and set a foundation for growth. This workbook gives you the key steps to outline what matters and will ensure you’re moving ahead.

article thumbnail

How Mr. Cooper plans to power Rocket’s homeownership flywheel

Housing Wire

In their first earnings call since being acquired by Rocket Companies for $9.4 billion, Mr. Cooper executives did not take questions from analysts. But they did provide a glimpse of the opportunities the deal represents for companies in the mortgage space or how it intends to power the Apple of homeownership flywheel. This transaction is about creating a scaled homeownership experience, Mr.

VA loan 307
article thumbnail

In the face of bigotry and apathy, fair housing is even more essential

Inman

As civic rights deteriorate, it's essential for Realtors to hold the line and ensure equitable access to housing for all, Sean Frank writes.

Equity 144

More Trending

article thumbnail

New-home sales beat expectations in March — by a long shot

Inman

The surge in sales was a welcome positive sign during a tenuous period for the U.S. economy. However, high prices and high mortgage rates continue to curb homebuyers, new HUD data shows.

Sales 148
article thumbnail

Cybercrime resulted in record losses in 2024

Housing Wire

Although the FBI s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received fewer complaints in 2024 than in 2023, financial losses were up 33% annually to $16.6 billion, according to its annual report published Wednesday. In total, IC3 received 859,531 complaints in 2024, down from 880,418 complaints in 2023. Of the nearly 860,000 complaints, roughly 256,000 resulted in actual losses.

As-is 221
article thumbnail

Fair housing is not a checkbox. It’s the heart of our industry

Inman

Fair housing is not just about reacting to injustice anymore, LIBOR CEO Doreen Spagnuolo writes. It's about proactively building a better future.

article thumbnail

New Maryland law allows property tax breaks for affordable rental housing allocations

Housing Wire

A bill to expand Maryland s existing Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program which allows property tax abatements in exchange for housing reserved for low-income tenants has been signed into law by Gov. Wes Moore (D), a move lauded by affordable housing advocates. The state’s Affordable Housing Payment In Lieu of Taxes Expansion Act will authorize the owner of rental property to enter into a payment in lieu of taxes agreement for maintaining at least 25% of the rental housing units loca

article thumbnail

Avoiding Lease Accounting Pitfalls in 2025: Lessons Learned from Spreadsheet Errors

Speaker: Abdi Ali, Sr. Lease Accounting Consultant

Join this insightful webinar with industry expert Abdi Ali, who will discuss the challenges that can arise from managing lease accounting with spreadsheets! He will share real-world examples of errors, compliance issues, and risks that may be present within your spreadsheets. Learn how these tools, while useful, can sometimes lead to inefficiencies that affect your time, resources, and peace of mind.

article thumbnail

What’s Your House Worth Now? The Answer May Surprise You

Keeping Current Matters

Lets talk about something you might not check nearly as often as your bank account and thats how much your home is worth.

Banks 221
article thumbnail

Mortgage demand sinks 13% as rates soar

Housing Wire

Mortgage applications decreased 12.7% from a week earlier , according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Associations (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending April 18, 2025. The index decreased 11% on an unadjusted basis compared with the previous week. The refinance index decreased 20% from the previous week, but was still 43% higher than the same week one year ago.

article thumbnail

Turn a ‘no’ into a ‘yes’: Negotiation techniques for experienced agents

Inman

When you lead negotiations with skill and confidence, your clients feel empowered and theyll reward you with loyalty, referrals and long-term success, Mauricio Umansky writes.

Agents 99
article thumbnail

Christina Pappas named president of Illustrated Properties

Housing Wire

Christina Pappas has been appointed as president of Illustrated Properties , marking a new chapter for the South Florida luxury real estate brokerage as it celebrates its 50th year of operations. Pappas steps into the role following the departure of former president Daniel Dennis, who held the position for three years before leaving to pursue a new opportunity.

Brokerage 221
article thumbnail

Tech-Forward Strategies for Scaling Agent Efficiency & Accelerating Growth

As the real estate market evolves, technology has become essential for success. According to NAR, only 26% of agents feel their brokerage provides the necessary tech tools and, as a result, agents seek teams and brokerages who prioritize technology investments! Whether you manage an established team or are forming a new one, this guide outlines key considerations and necessary applications to thrive.

article thumbnail

A Star Agent on the Rise: How REW Platforms and Coaching Fueled Jayda Mclauchlin’s Success

RIS Media

Above: Jayda Mclauchlin Jayda Mclauchlin has quickly emerged as a rising star, earning the prestigious Agent of the Year award from the Carly Carey Real Estate Team. In her first year as a REALTOR, she closed over $10 million in transaction volume in a market with fewer than 100,000 residents. Now, shes on track to… The post A Star Agent on the Rise: How REW Platforms and Coaching Fueled Jayda Mclauchlin’s Success appeared first on RISMedia.

Agents 83
article thumbnail

Renting becomes the new buying: Summer 2025 rental season sees unprecedented competition

Housing Wire

Every year, rental professionals brace for whats become a reliable annual rush: the summer surge. But 2025s rental season may be one of the most competitive yet, as demand accelerates and listings move at record speed. Based on a recent analysis from RentSpree, tenant screening activity in the U.S. spikes 27 percent between May and July compared to other times of the year.

Brokerage 214
article thumbnail

Morality, trust and legal risk: eXp’s CEO on private listings

Real Estate News

As a leader, you have to draw a line, Leo Pareja said of his opposition to the trend, adding that agents who push sellers to list off-MLS could face lawsuits.

MLS 157
article thumbnail

Howard Hanna, Pittsburgh Steelers team up for homebuyer help

Housing Wire

Starting this fall, Pittsburgh Steelers fans could win money toward a home purchase every time the team returns a kickoff or punt for a touchdown, thanks to a new partnership between the Steelers and Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. The real estate company, headquartered in Pittsburgh , will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Take it to the House Sweepstakes.

Design 221
article thumbnail

Accelerating Real Estate Sales Pipelines to Streamline Buyer Journeys

Navigated 360° tours, like YourVRTours, advance pipelines by engaging clients further along the sales funnel. These immersive experiences provide comprehensive property insights, increasing buyer intent and readiness. By embracing navigated tours, agents can optimize property exposure, better qualify leads, and streamline the sales process. Stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate landscape with innovative technology that elevates buyer journeys and progresses pipelines more effectively.

article thumbnail

Landmarks Preservation Commission Kicks Off Celebration of 60th Anniversary

Brownstoner

A year of celebration has begun to mark the 60th anniversary of the New York Landmarks Preservation Commission, and inaugural events include an online forum and the launch of a new story map. It was on April 19, 1965 that Mayor Robert Wagner signed the New York City landmarks law into… Read More > The post Landmarks Preservation Commission Kicks Off Celebration of 60th Anniversary appeared first on Brownstoner.

80
article thumbnail

When Will the Soaring Mortgage Rates Finally Go Down in 2025?

Marco Santarelli

If you're dreaming of buying a home or refinancing your current mortgage, you're probably wondering: when will mortgage rates go down? The short answer, based on current trends and expert predictions, is that a significant drop in mortgage rates in 2025 seems unlikely. While some minor fluctuations are always possible, major relief isn't anticipated this year.

article thumbnail

Which brokerage models are winning over the best agents?

Real Estate News

Traditional firms still dominate, but one brokerage type tends to attract the top producers, while another is highly popular but struggles to retain agents.

Brokerage 150
article thumbnail

Communicate Like It Matters—Because It Does

RIS Media

Some people are just naturally good communicators. For the rest of us mere mortals, communication takes effort, and that’s okay. If you’re in real estate, being a strong communicator isn’t just helpful; it’s critical. One tiny typo or awkward message can cost your client a home or make a potential lead disappear. In today’s fast-moving… The post Communicate Like It MattersBecause It Does appeared first on RISMedia.

article thumbnail

Driving Profit: 4 Pillars for Growing Your Real Estate Brokerage

In the rapidly changing real estate landscape, achieving profitability requires a strategic approach beyond traditional methods. Our guide, "The 4 Pillars to Brokerage Profitability," outlines four essential pillars for scaling your real estate business: a seamless lead-to-close technology ecosystem, tailored integrated solutions for teams and agents, value-added success services and community support, and consumer-centric operations throughout the full homeownership lifecycle.

article thumbnail

New Home Sales Boom Defying Expectations in a Bumpy Economy

Marco Santarelli

Despite some economic uncertainty, new home sales are actually exceeding expectations! In March 2025, we saw a surprising increase in the purchase of newly built homes, showing resilience in the face of wavering consumer confidence. Let's dive into the details and understand why this is happening, and what it means for you, whether you're a buyer, seller, or just curious about the new construction home market.

Sales 52
article thumbnail

How to Sell My House Fast in Doraville: Cash Offer Options

HomeLight

Selling your home in Doraville, Georgia, can feel overwhelming, especially when youre on a tight timeline. If the clock is ticking and you need to sell your house fast, this guide is designed specifically for you. We understand that life can be unpredictable and may require quick decisions. This post will provide practical options to expedite your Doraville home sale, walking you through everything from cash offers to working with top real estate agents.

Sales 52
article thumbnail

States With the Lowest Mortgage Rates Today – April 23, 2025

Marco Santarelli

Looking for the states with the cheapest mortgage rates today? As of April 23, 2025, you'll find the most attractive 30-year fixed mortgage rates in New York, Pennsylvania, and California. These states currently boast some of the lowest averages, but it's crucial to remember that rates are always changing, and your individual circumstances will play a big role.

article thumbnail

New home sales experience ‘surprising’ boost

Real Estate News

Homebuyers embraced lower mortgage rates in March before new tariffs were announced, causing home sales to jump amid persistent economic concerns.

Sales 130
article thumbnail

Maximizing Your Online Presence: Tips for Real Estate Agents on Social Media

Speaker: Sarah Santa Ana, Real Estate Coach, Move4Free Realty

Networking is one of the crucial elements in every real estate organization's success. Both agents and real estate companies need to maintain robust networking links. This is why social media is essential for any real estate professional! Social media enables you to stay in touch with your present clients, maintain connections with your past clients, and engage potential customers and investors.

article thumbnail

Mortgage Demand Plunges 13% as Rates Hit 2-Month High in April 2025

Marco Santarelli

If you're thinking about buying a home, you've probably noticed some unsettling news lately. Weekly mortgage demand plunges are making headlines, and for good reason. Last week alone, total mortgage application volume dropped a significant 12.7%. This sharp decline is a clear sign that something's shifting in the housing market, and it's worth understanding what's driving this change.

article thumbnail

Ditmas Park West Tudor With Cobblestone Mantels, Garage Asks $2.995 Million

Brownstoner

While the rumors of a silent film star living in this grand Ditmas Park dwelling are a bit of Brooklyn folklore, it has more than enough architectural charm of its own to impress. The sprawling Tudor-style dwelling at 1320 Ditmas Avenue in Ditmas Park West boasts period details and some… Read More > The post Ditmas Park West Tudor With Cobblestone Mantels, Garage Asks $2.995 Million appeared first on Brownstoner.

article thumbnail

How to Sell My House Fast in Neosho, MO: Cash Offer Options

HomeLight

If youre a homeowner in Neosho facing a time-sensitive situation, youre not alone. Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, leading you to ask, How can I sell my house fast in Neosho, MO? The good news is that you have options. From considering cash offers to partnering with a top real estate agent, there are effective strategies to sell quickly.

article thumbnail

$45M Modern-Day palace brings Italian opulence to Delray Beach

Fancy Pants Homes

In South Florida, a notable real estate developer is pushing the limits of luxury — in a market where lavish homes with extraordinary features and generous waterfronts are already the name of the game. Aldo Stark of Prestige Design Homes has recently completed another project in Delray Beach’s gated Stone Creek Ranch community: an Italian-inspired contemporary estate dubbed Palazzo di Lago (The Palace on the Lake) that’s now being brought to market for $45 million.

Design 52
article thumbnail

Rise of The Apps: Building Your Dream Tech Stack For Real Estate Success

Speaker: Trey Willard, Realtor/Team Leader at Keller Williams Realty, Inc.

In order to create continued success in today’s real estate market, realtors need to utilize an arsenal of technology that will increase their efficiency and presence on social media. Using technology to manage your prospects and tap into their needs through websites, social media, and other channels is critical for real estate success in 2022 and beyond.