News

Saudi Arabia’s new foreign property ownership system gives non-Saudi buyers and companies a clearer path to own real estate through designated areas and an online portal. The shift is worth noting in Florida, where international buyers are part of the real estate market.

Closed sales, pending sales and median prices increased in both property categories in June. Florida Realtors researchers said a weak June 2025 comparison contributed to the size of the gains. Sales are now tracking closer to 2023 levels.

Well-placed, well-maintained mature trees create an emotional response in buyers and can meaningfully increase a home's resale value, according to a Next Brokerage agent.

The average 30-year mortgage rate rose to 6.55% this week, Freddie Mac said. The increase is adding to borrowing costs and reducing purchasing power as inflation concerns push bond yields higher.

Most Americans consider sidewalks, nearby amenities and other walkability features important when choosing where to live — and nearly two-thirds say they would pay more for them.

The state's $1.8 trillion economy is now the world’s 14th largest after surpassing Australia and Mexico, according to the Florida Chamber Foundation. The foundation said Florida’s economy grew 6.3% over the past year, moving the state closer to its goal of ranking among the world’s 10 largest economies by 2030.

Pew Research found rising home prices, higher mortgage rates and bigger upfront costs have made homeownership harder for adults under 40. In several Florida metros, median home prices are now four to five times the median income for younger households.

Zonda Home's 2025 remodeling report ranks garage doors, steel doors, stone veneer, fiber-cement siding and kitchen updates as top return-on-investment projects, with backup generators debuting at number seven.

The bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act has been enacted after a nearly two-year advocacy effort led by the National Association of Realtors. The package includes nearly 50 measures aimed at increasing housing supply, improving affordability, expanding homeownership opportunities and supporting veterans.

The July 2026 Mortgage Monitor found most major Florida metros have more inventory than before the pandemic, though levels have eased from last year’s highs. Lakeland and Orlando had the largest surpluses, while Miami was the only major Florida market tracked below pre-pandemic norms.