With mortgage rates recently starting to retreat from their highs of close to 8%, homeowners may start to consider refinancing in order to save money on monthly payments or possibly change to a shorter term. But they need to be aware of some important...
Above: Standing (left to right): Peggy Pratt and Michelle Fermin, CENTURY 21 North East. Sitting (left to right): Oralia Herrera, CENTURY 21 T.K. Realty, Inc.; Eva Angelina Romero, CENTURY 21 Capital Properties; Nora Aguirre, CENTURY 21 Americana According to the National Association of Hispanic...
In fact, 44% of Americans think the housing market is at risk of crashing in the next year, according to a new report from LendingTree. LendingTree's new survey of over 2,000 U.S. consumers looked at their opinions surrounding the potential of a housing market...
According to research by realtor.com®, down payments on homes in the U.S. reached a new peak in Q3 2023. The average down payment is 14.7%, and the median down payment amount is $30,000. As the report notes, down payments have increased alongside high mortgage...
To outsiders, a real estate agent's job seems pretty sweet. They're almost always smiling, dressed well, driving nice cars and simply showing houses to people who want to buy one. What's so hard about that? Stacy Cole admits she had that misguided mindset when...
Today, a Washington, D.C., federal appeals court heard oral arguments from lawyers from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) regarding a shuttered antitrust investigation ahead of a decision that could potentially have larger implications than any of the...
If there's one thing Burnett vs. the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) proved over and above the verdict, it's that federal class action lawsuits move at a glacial pace, taking years and years to go from the original filing of a case to the...
Editor's Note: The Mortgage Mix is RISMedia's weekly highlight reel of need-to-know mortgage-industry happenings. Watch for it each Friday. As Freddie Mac notes, mortgage rates have continued to decline for five consecutive weeks. While the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rates sit at 7.22% as of Nov. 30, 2023 (down from ...read more
The January issue of RISMedia's Real Estate magazine is now available, and not to be missed are several exclusive features, including an in-depth look at the five Latina powerhouse agents with Century 21 who are leading the charge for change in the industry. In...
Photo Credit: Daniel Milstein for Sotheby's International Realty Property Highlights: Location: Greenwich, Connecticut Sold For: $138.83 million Features: 13,519-square-foot main house with eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Added Appeal: 75-foot heated pool and spa and pool house, grass tennis court, three-bedroom gatehouse, two-bedroom carriage...
As a broker or sales manager, your entire future sales revenue depends upon creating valuable relationships with each of your sales associates. When your agents rely on you for more than making sure the lights work at the office or that admin tasks are...
The process of going through a divorce is undeniably challenging, with numerous emotional, legal and financial considerations. Amidst the upheaval, whether to buy a home can add another layer of complexity to an already intricate situation. You will see the factors to consider when...
The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index, maintained by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), tracks prices, consumer spending and fluctuations in them month to month. It is also the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation. If you want a sense of what the Fed's...
Above: CoStar Founder and CEO Andy Florance The glass booth, transparent except for looping letters spelling out “Homes.com,” sits at the back of what can best be described as a small settlement. Spread across several thousand square feet of the Anaheim Convention Center, the...
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) decreased for the fifth straight week, from last week's average of 7.29% to an average of 7.22% this week, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac released Thursday. This week's numbers: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage...
Pending home sales dropped 1.5% in October, according to a Nov. 30 report issued by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). The Northeast posted a monthly gain in transactions while the Midwest, South and West all recorded losses. All four U.S. regions noted year-over-year...
Across the U.S., 1.54 million mortgages secured by residential property (1 to 4 units) were issued in Q3 2023, representing a 3% decline from the prior three-month period, according to a new report from ATTOM. That drop-off marked the ninth decline in the last...
RISMedia is excited to announce that Ken Baris, CEO of Jordan Baris Real Estate, will be heading up an industry-leading panel of real estate experts at the 2024 Real Estate's Rocking in the New Year, the company's fourth-annual all-virtual conference to be broadcast live...
Buyer agents in the post-Burnett world must be more precise in their conversations with clients, while also being able to provide updated information on what's happening in the legal realm regarding residential real estate sales. And getting contracts with new buyer clients that spell...
Editor's Note: This is part of a monthly video series from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® to inform and educate members about important aspects of being a real estate professional. Watch for this series each month in RISMedia's Daily Real Estate Advisor. In this...
Moderator: Kymber Lovett-Menkiti, President, Keller Williams Capital Properties, Washington D.C.; Broker Relations Liaison, National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Panelist: Tracy Kasper, Broker/Owner, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Silverhawk Realty; 2024 President, National Association of REALTORS® Kymber Lovett-Menkiti: There is a long tradition of using the November edition of this column to ...read more
In the realm of real estate, we find ourselves navigating through turbulent waters. The news media paints a gloomy picture, with low inventory and higher-than-normal mortgage rates creating an atmosphere of uncertainty. Oh, and the lawsuit too. In this challenging market, it's crucial for...
2024 is nearly upon us, and realtor.com® has published their forecast for what the year has in store for real estate professionals. Is the new year the same as the old year? Not quite, the forecast states. 2024 will not be a massive turnaround...
Gratitude, just as it's been all month, is really in the spotlight this week. I'm grateful for my family, friends and colleagues who have become like family, and I hope we can all take a few moments away from our holiday festivities to appreciate...
Key members of the executive team of Stellar MLS will take center stage this weekend at an international forum in Paris, France focused on the future of MLSs worldwide. Stellar MLS CEO Merri Jo Cowen, COO Shayne Fairley and Vice President of Technology &...
Lisa Halter Founder, Owner and Principal Broker Halter Associates Realty, a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Bearsville, New York https://www.halterassociatesrealty.com Region served: Hudson Valley and Catskill Region Years in real estate: 22 Number of offices: 2 Number of agents: 55 How has your ...read more
Mortgage applications increased for the fourth straight week, with an uptick of 0.3% from one week earlier, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) for the week ending November 24, 2023. This week's results include an adjustment...
This past September, Stellar MLS partnered with the Appraisal Institute to launch its Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisal program (AI PAREA)—an initiative that provides an alternative pathway for aspiring appraisers to gain the experience hours required to become a licensed or certified appraiser,...
Every year the housing market has peak months and peak days for homebuyers to look out for, but these dates can change or be subject to debate. When should homebuyers be paying attention for the best month and day to buy in 2024? A...
CubiCasa, a global real estate software company, has announced its new partnership with OneKey MLS, serving the New York Metropolitan area. The crux of the partnership is digital floor listings; CubiCasa's goal is to make these a “standard feature” of listings and OneKey MLS...
As mortgage rates decrease and inventory increases, 2024 is expected to see a 13% increase in home sales and stable pricing throughout the year. Get prepared for an uptick of both buyers and sellers! Ensure your success in 2024 by staying informed about market...
Encourage your agents to refer a fellow REALTOR® to MVP and they will earn a FREE download of the newly released The AI Apocalypse With Your Relationships webinar, plus a chance to win a $450 Williams Sonoma gift card. This engaging webinar will equip...
In the wake of Burnett vs. NAR, the topic of agent commission is all over the news. Many buyers and sellers, who aren't in-the-know on all the ins and outs of real estate, are just now finding out how agent commission works. A new...
Home prices grew 3.9% year-over-year in September, and 15 of the 20 major metro markets reported month-over-month price increases, according to the latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Home Price Index. September's Case-Shiller Home Price Index found that the 10-City Composite showed an increase of 4.8%, up from a 3% increase ...read more
RISMedia is excited to announce that Candace Adams—president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England, New York and Hudson Valley Properties—will be heading up an industry-leading panel of real estate experts at the company's 2024 Real Estate's Rocking in the New Year virtual...
A lawsuit filed by former Keller Williams CEO John Davis against the company appears to be escalating, as Davis last week added new accusations and named more names as he claims Co-Founder Gary Keller used franchise fees and self-dealing to fraudulently enrich himself at...
Consumer confidence increased from 99.1 in October to 102 in November, breaking a three month streak of decreases, according to the latest data from The Conference Board. “Consumer confidence increased in November, following three consecutive months of decline,” said Dana Peterson, chief economist at The Conference Board. “This improvement ...read more
Above, Erin Turner Erin Turner, a REALTOR® with Richmond, British Columbia-based RE/MAX Crest Realty, has cultivated her career creating a haven for senior happiness. In recognition of her decades-long commitment to service, she has been awarded this year's Seniors Real Estate Specialist ® (SRES®)...
Running a team takes a lot of work to breed success, and a big part of that is the building and expanding your team's roster with a lineup of great agents. Effective recruiting leans heavily on building relationships and trust with other REALTORS® in...
Building a new home is a significant milestone in anyone's life, and the process can be both exhilarating and challenging. Whether considering existing new construction or contemplating creating a custom home, careful planning and informed decision-making are essential for a seamless home-buying experience. This...
With over 20 years of experience as a consultant serving clients at the highest level, it's no surprise that Eric Landry—an agent with Falmouth, Maine-based Portside Real Estate Group—has excelled in his inaugural years as an agent. “The most important thing you can do...
New-home sales fell 5.6% in October, erasing the miraculous 12.3% growth seen in September. Data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau states that sales of newly built, single-family homes were at a rate of 679,000 in...
Consumer sentiment dropped 3.9% in November, according to data from the University of Michigan. “While this marks the fourth consecutive month of declines, November's reading reflects a balance of factors, some of which improved while others worsened. More-favorable current assessments and expectations of personal...
Seeing their fourth week of declines, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 7.29% this week, down from last week's dip to 7.44%, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac released Wednesday, Nov. 22. This week's results include an adjustment...
Choosing a new home is an exciting and significant decision in one's life. One of the many choices you'll encounter when searching for the perfect home is whether to buy a house on a corner lot. Corner lots are unique in many ways, offering...
The world of residential real estate is exciting and full of opportunities, but it also comes with unique safety considerations. Meeting prospective clients, often for the first time, is integral to the job. A recent survey of REALTORS®, members of the National Association of...
Anywhere Real Estate Inc. and RE/MAX both announced on Nov. 20 that the companies have received preliminary court approval of their agreements to settle all claims asserted or which could have been asserted against them in the Burnett, Moehrl and Nosalek antitrust class action...
Last Tuesday, scattered across the smoggy, sunny concrete walkways that loop around the Anaheim Convention Center, REALTORS® soaked up the 78-degree Southern California weather, mostly exuding a business-as-usual attitude—balancing plastic salad bowls on their laps as they scrolled phones with one hand, or gossiping...
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties has announced that The Cutting Edge Team—one of Central Arizona's top selling residential real estate teams—has joined their network. Composed of Jinger Cutting, Henry Reyes and Jessica Oberan, the team has over $20 million in sales volume and 40...
Communities across the country are struggling to meet the demands of affordable housing. This is becoming increasingly relevant in places like Syracuse, New York, Wichita, Kansas, and West Lafayette, Indiana, where thousands of workers are relocating to work at new semiconductor facilities being built...
RISMedia is excited to announce that Bess Freedman, CEO of Brown Harris Stevens, will be heading up an industry-leading panel of real estate experts at the 2024 Real Estate's Rocking in the New Year, the company's fourth-annual all-virtual conference to be broadcast live on...
With Medicare open enrollment now underway (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, 2023) and Major Medical Open Enrollment beginning (Nov. 1 – Jan. 15, 2024),* REALTORS® have a new opportunity to choose an insurance plan that best suits their needs. However, navigating the complex health...
In today's age of digital transformation, the real estate industry has experienced profound growth. In the palm of your hand, you have the single most versatile, streamlined, and innovative companion for a real estate professional—the smartphone. Equipped with the ability to help you market...
Crystal Mills, a real estate consultant with Choose Boston, has leveraged her creative passions into both her real estate career and her flourishing small business. Apart from being a trusted expert for those looking to buy, sell and invest, Mills is the owner of...
Real Estate Webmasters (REW) has announced the launch of its 12 Days of Christmas promo, running until December 23, 2023. The offer provides an opportunity to get expenses in before the year ends, upgrade current tools and boost online presence for 2024, the company...
Realty ONE Group has enrolled nationally in RPR®'s Broker Tools program. This strategic move will allow Realty ONE Group's powerful brand to be featured across RPR®, including its website, mobile application and suite of reports for buyers, sellers and prospects. Help your agents grow...
As brokerages navigate the evolving landscape and move toward their strategic goals, leveraging services offered by the MLS becomes mission critical. For those looking to expand their footprint and grow into new markets, it's important to understand how the MLS fits into the mix—and...
Single-family rent prices increased by 2.6% year over year in September, according to a new report from CoreLogic. This is the 17th straight month of a slowdown in increases. CoreLogic's Single-Family Rent Index for September found that rental costs declined by -0.2% from August...
RISMedia is excited to announce that First Weber, Inc. CEO Shawna Alt will be heading up an industry-leading panel of real estate experts at the company's 2024 Real Estate's Rocking in the New Year virtual event on Thurs., Jan. 11, 2024. Click here to register! Alt's panel, “Communicating ...read more
Existing home sales decreased 4.1% from September to a rate of 3.79 million in October, according to a new report from the National Association of REALTORS®. Year-over-year, sales fell 14.6% (down from 4.44 million in October 2022). NAR's Existing Home Sales report for October...
Being a buyer's agent has always been and still should be a pleasure. Landing a client who wants to buy a home is not unlike making a new friend, albeit with an expected happy ending. It's all smiles and excitement for you and the...
When this past April an Arizona woman received a phone call from Rocket Mortgage offering her mortgage products and services she had not requested or inquired about, she declined, then claims to have requested not to be contacted again. But, she alleges in a...
In the world of real estate, first impressions are crucial. Making a property look its best can mean the difference between a quick sale and a property sitting on the market for months. Virtual home staging is one innovative tool that has emerged to...
Supporting buyers and sellers through the real estate journey and beyond is no easy feat considering the abundance of moving pieces that need to come together to facilitate a successful purchase or sale. For Bennion Deville Homes' Broker/General Manager Chris Anderson, attaching a home...
Finding the right home buyer as the real estate market slows can prove to be challenging for even the best real estate agent. The good news (and luckily, there is some) is that buyers who are looking right now are serious about making a...
Inside Real Estate has announced their fourth annual Give Back Awards, highlighting members of the real estate community who have made a significant impact through service within their communities in 2023. InsideRE stated that the Give Back Awards include three categories: the Helping Hand...
Whether your office actually has a water cooler or not, small talk with fellow agents is an occupational hazard when you're working on a team (at least if you're not all remote, but I digress). If you're busy (as REALTORS® tend to be), then small talk can seem like ...read more
Forbes Global Properties welcomes luxury specialist Mitchell Prime Properties to its ranks. Mitchell Prime Properties will represent the brand in North Carolina communities such as The Triad, Lake Norman, Charlotte, the High Country, the Triangle, and the entire coast of North Carolina. Forbes stated...
While home improvement loans have always been common, in an economy full of challenges and inflation more homeowners have been turning to loans to be able to make any sort of fix or change to their homes. In fact, across the 50 states, an...
Since jumping into real estate, Heather McColaugh has taken the industry by storm. After years of managing her career in pharmaceutical sales and caring for her three adopted children, McColaugh realized that something needed to change. “I had absolutely no control over my day,...
Tracy Kasper was installed as 2024 president of the National Association of REALTORS®, and other leadership was appointed, during the 2023 NAR NXT, The Realtor® Experience in Anaheim, California. With more than 30 years in real estate, Kasper, from Nampa, Idaho, is broker-owner of...
Bright MLS, which covers the Mid-Atlantic region (southern New Jersey to northern Virginia), has released its October 2023 Housing Report – tracking the state of the market in its coverage area. The report shows markets have climbed to about 2022 levels. Dr. Lisa Sturtevant, Bright MLS Chief Economist, noted ...read more
RE/MAX reported a substantial increase in U.S. franchise sales for Q3 2023. The 45 closed sales between July 1 and Sept. 30 represented a 21.6% increase from Q2's 37 sales. The company also recorded 166 franchise sales outside the U.S., including nine in Canada....
Following September's miraculous 7% gain in housing starts, the rise continued in October, according to a new report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) using data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. The lack...
Property Highlights: Location: Miami, Florida Listing Price: $12 – $22 million Features: Luxury condominium penthouse with four bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms. Added Appeal: Luxury amenities including access to private restaurant and speakeasy, spa with ice plunge and sauna, golf simulator, pickleball court, dog park and...
In August, mortgage rates surpassed 7%, hitting a more than two-decade high. At the beginning of 2023, most housing-market watchers expected rates to drop steadily throughout the year, perhaps even falling back down to 6% by year's end. But rates are remaining persistently high...
If you're following along with Thoughts on Leadership this month, you'll know that November is ‘Gratitude Month,' when all posts explore various life-changing, business-building, leadership-enriching aspects of gratitude. In response to last week's post about positive self-talk, I received an email from Micheline Vargas,...
As mortgage rates continue to put pressure on the housing market, homebuilder confidence saw another dip in November, according to new data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) found that builder confidence fell six points...
Planning and zoning are two of the pillars that serve as the basis for all communities. It's vital for real estate professionals to understand the basic components and processes of the planning and zoning phases of real estate transactions. That's why, on September 19,...
Industry experts are projecting that mortgage rates will finally settle down to the 5.5-6% range next year. With that, it is anticipated that there will be a great rush of buyers and sellers who will finally be ready to enter the market. That is...
Real estate brokerage operations carry razor-thin margins. Especially with recent market conditions, brokers are struggling to cut costs. The unfortunate result is that many brokerages are ending up embracing mediocrity. Brokerages are settling for less because they think the bare-bones free (or “freemium”) tech...
Real estate transactions involve many costs and fees, many of which are due at closing. One such expense that often raises questions among buyers and sellers is real estate transfer taxes. Understanding who pays these taxes and how they work is essential for anyone...
On November 14, 2023, Yardi Matrix published its National Multifamily Report for October 2023, assessing the state of rent costs across the USA. Rent costs, particularly for multifamily units, are inextricably linked to homebuyer behavior. If rents are affordable then there's less incentive for...
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 7.44%, down again from last week's average of 7.5%, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac released Thursday. This week's numbers: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 7.44% as of November 16, 2023, down from last week when it averaged 7.5%. ...read more
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services has announced the appointment of Cindy Ariosa as the vice president of strategic development. With more than 30 years of experience as a licensed real estate agent, Ariosa brings a wealth of real estate knowledge, leadership and expertise to...
Century 21 Real Estate LLC is strengthening its presence in Southeastern Massachusetts with the affiliation of a local brokerage, Realty Network Associates, Inc. Based in Taunton, the firm is owned and operated by broker/owner AJ Andrews, who boasts 30 years of industry experience. Andrews...
Guaranteed Rate has launched “Lock it, List it,” a program designed to help real estate agents excel during a challenging home sales market. “Lock it, List it” provides real estate agents the opportunity to offer home sellers a way to secure a discounted mortgage...
The recent ruling in the Burnett vs. NAR trial has sent shockwaves through the real estate industry, however its repercussions reach far beyond the courtroom. While in the public eye the verdict may be celebrated as a victory for home sellers and a step...
Editor's Note: The Playbook is an RISMedia biweekly segment centering on what brokers and agents are doing to ensure they not only survive but thrive in these challenging times. Industry professionals explain the strategies they're employing and unique ideas they've formulated. Tune in every...
Julie Lurie Warren Broker Associate/COO CENTURY 21 Mack Morris Iris Lurie Marlboro, New Jersey https://www.century21.com/real-estate-agent/profile/julie-lurie-warren-P10007032 Region served: Monmouth, Middlesex and Ocean Counties Years in real estate: 30 Number of offices: 1 Number of agents: 80 Motto/work philosophy that you live by: Work hard, be a good person and ...read more
Keller Williams announced that Mark Willis has been named CEO, effective immediately. “We are excited to announce that Mark Willis has joined our leadership team as CEO,” said Gary Keller, co-founder and executive chairman of KW. “With a deep knowledge of our company and our culture, Mark is well-suited ...read more
“Putting your best foot forward” with clients in luxury real estate involves finding the perfect closing gift to commemorate the sale or purchase of a unique property. But it can be difficult to know what is proper and what might be considered “over the...
In the dynamic world of real estate, the success of a brokerage hinges on its ability to recruit and retain talented agents. Strategic planning is essential to ensure your brokerage thrives and achieves its goals. In this article, we'll focus on the critical aspects of budgeting, goal setting, and ...read more
Mortgage applications ticked up this week, increasing 2.8% from last week's increase of 2.5%, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) for the week ending November 10, 2023. This week's numbers: The Market Composite Index, a measure of mortgage loan application ...read more
During its 27th Annual Power Broker Reception & Dinner held in Anaheim, California last night, RISMedia announced its 2023 Real Estate Rookie of the Year winner, Stacy Cole, a REALTORⓇ with Realty Executives Bay Group in Alabama. Designed to honor new-agent success and professionalism,...
Elevated mortgage rates, high home prices and limited housing inventory are making the dream of homeownership difficult for Americans, according to NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. Yun analyzed the current state of the U.S. residential real estate market and shared his 2024 outlook yesterday...
The team at CRS Data, a leading provider of property tax data in the U.S. and Canada, is looking toward the end of the calendar year and thanking its employees and customers for a year of growth and opportunity. Despite 2023's uncertain market conditions,...
As 2023 draws to a close, the residential real estate industry is facing challenges like never before. Elevated mortgage rates, low inventory and stubbornly high home prices in many places within the U.S. are, ironically, lower on the list in some regards, as experienced...
RE/MAX Holdings, Inc.—parent company of RE/MAX—announced they have appointed Erik Carlson as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the RE/MAX Holdings Board of Directors. “I am excited to start this next chapter in my career as CEO of RE/MAX Holdings, and I am...
The median household income for home buyers jumped to $107,000 from $88,000 from 2022 to 2023, underscoring the increasing income required to purchase a home, according to the National Association of REALTORS®' (NAR) 2023 Profile of Homebuyers and Sellers. This annual survey of recent...
A total of 34,472 U.S. properties had foreclosure filings in October, down 6% from September but up 6% from a year ago, according to a new report from ATTOM. ATTOM's Foreclosure Market Report for October found that nationwide, one in every 4,051 housing units...
The NAR Mobile App gives you the edge to grow your business and get ahead of the competition. Download the App and share with your agents! Get Special Discounts on Business-Building Tools November's special deals from NAR's Right Tools, Right Now program include 20%...
Fathom Holdings Founder and CEO Josh Harley is stepping down from his role as well as Board Chair for family reasons, the company has announced. In a plan endorsed by Harley to “support its next chapter of growth,” Fathom's Board of Directors has appointed...
The Internal Revenue Service has announced the annual inflation adjustments for the tax year 2024 for more than 60 tax provisions, including the tax rate schedules and other tax changes. Note tax year 2024 begins Jan. 1, 2024 and these are not the numbers...
Inflation stagnated in October, following a summer of increases. After the recent pause in rate hikes from the Fed, this reading could signal another pause at the next Fed meeting, and an overall end to rate hikes in the near future. The Consumer Price...
At an International Monetary Fund research conference held Nov. 9 in Washington, D.C., Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned that while progress was being made to curb inflation, there was a possibility that more rate hikes could be in the offing—which, of course, would...
Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. (WREA) was identified by Franchise Business Review as one of just 60 franchise brands to be named an award-winning franchise in its “2023 Top Franchises for Veterans” report. WREA has now earned a spot on the list six times...
Above, Maria Quattrone, center, front, and her team of associates. A Philadelphia native, Maria Quattrone embarked on an 11-year career in advertising sales after graduating from Temple University. In 2005, drawn by the lure of controlling her own livelihood, she dipped a toe into real estate. It ...read more
Moving is an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Whether relocating to new cities or just across town, it's essential to be well-prepared to ensure smooth transitions. There are several crucial things to know before moving to make your process as stress-free as possible. We will...
To make their homes stand out and get top dollar, sellers often tackle pre-listing repairs or renovations. While it can be difficult to find the money to cover those projects in addition to a down payment, closing costs and moving expenses, Curbio has solved...
REACH Australia & New Zealand is attending NAR NXT, the largest annual event for the most successful real estate professionals, in Anaheim, California on Nov. 14-16, 2023. Four of their cohorts will be attending the event. REACH Australia & New Zealand is a growth accelerator created by Second Century ...read more
The real estate industry is in a perpetual state of transformation, shaped by the unique perspectives and contributions of each generation of real estate professionals. I've had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of the newest entrants into the real estate workforce—Millennial and...
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago has announced the company has been named the No. 1 Top Workplace in Chicago among large companies for 2023 by The Chicago Tribune. The company has ranked among the top three firms for five consecutive years, holding the No. 1...
From rising interest rates to banking instability, the 2023 housing market continues to feel the impact of economic uncertainty. While brokerage operators navigate these choppy waters, they're also looking ahead to 2024, ready to turn the page and lead their firms to increased levels...
Lone Wolf Technologies, a real estate software company, has announced the launch of an all-new agent marketing center—made to connect the solutions real estate agents use every day. According to a release, the Lone Wolf agent marketing center is a unique, connected platform that brings together the disparate tools ...read more
It appears to have become open season on buyer-broker commissions following the Burnett vs. NAR class action lawsuit in which the defendants were found to have conspired to inflate commissions in violation of federal law, with an award of $1.78 billion to the plaintiffs....
It's the talking point to end all talking points these days in the residential real estate industry. Very few people knew well in advance what the fallout might be from the recent Burnett vs. NAR class action trial, in which the defendants, the National...
In the wake of the landmark Burnett verdict where the National Association of REALTORS® and big real estate companies were found to have violated antitrust laws, one defendant brokerage has decided to significantly bolster its legal team. Keller Williams, the real estate mega-franchisor that...
2023 hasn't been the best market for many real estate agents. Listings are severely limited, high-interest rates are wreaking havoc for homeowners and buyers, and house prices are soaring. As a result, many agents are struggling to secure listings and still find the time...
On a mission to solve the global problem of consumer access and transparency in real estate, Real Estate Webmasters' global MLS project continues to gain momentum, expanding even further with the addition of a new partner in Costa Rica. Market leader and luxury powerhouse...
eXp World Holdings, Inc. has announced that Chief Financial Officer Jeff Whiteside is stepping down from his position and a search process has been initiated to identify his successor. Whiteside will remain with the company through Dec. 1 to support the transition, the company said. The company and its ...read more
Transitioning into civilian life and a new career can be a challenge for veterans, especially in an economy and housing market filled with challenges of their own. When coming out of the military, where can veterans turn to in order to find good homes...
Despite clocking in a $5.5 million net loss in Q3, Fathom executives are choosing to hone in on the positive—large agent growth. The company's revenue came in at $93.5 million, a decrease of 16% from the $111.3 million seen in Q3 last year. Transactions...
-Hallelujah! After almost a full year of rising rates, the 30-year fixed fell more than 25 basis points, according to Freddie Mac. Mortgage applications saw a corresponding bump, with hopes that further rate relief could boost the market through the winter season. -Texas-based mortgage...
The challenge of housing affordability continues to grow to historic levels, according to the latest analysis by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), even as preliminary data from September showed a significant drop in prices, with a median single-family home falling below $400,000 for...
Time flies, especially in a fast-paced career like real estate, where it can seem as though nothing is more important than your current sale or having a steady supply of clients. With 2024 right around the corner, all eyes are on the year ahead,...
Busy agents know it may be impossible to be an expert on every real estate topic. But it's entirely doable to gather the latest insights from thought leaders on a wide range of real estate issues when you dial into the CRD Podcast. Launched in 2017, the award-winning Center ...read more
When choosing a place to call home, one of the most fundamental decisions is whether to reside in the suburbs or the city. Both settings offer distinct lifestyles and advantages, catering to various preferences and needs. To make an informed decision, it's essential to...
The end of 2023 is around the corner, and many real estate professionals are probably eager to see this tumultuous year close. From 8% mortgage rates to a trial verdict upending commission structures, it hasn't been an easy year to sell or shepherd buyers....
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) saw its second week of declines, this week averaging 7.5%, down from 7.76% last week, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) released today by Freddie Mac. This week's numbers: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 7.5% as of November 9, 2023, down from ...read more
In a congressional hearing Nov. 8 examining the effects of Department of Energy (DOE) regulations on America's job creators, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) told lawmakers how burdensome DOE regulations are exacerbating the housing affordability crisis and impeding the ability of builders...
The National Association of REALTORS® has unveiled a state flood disclosure tracker. The association worked with the Legal Research Center to survey existing state disclosure requirements. This tracker aims to educate the public and Congress as it considers the Federal Emergency Management Administration's (FEMA) legislative proposals to reform the ...read more
When leads and listings are plentiful, interest rates low and inventory high, homes usually sell fast. Real estate agents may not have time to dive deep into tax records, sales and mortgage histories, neighborhood comparables, warranty deeds, interactive GIS maps, area demographics and more...
United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) continues to fight against the tide in the third quarter, reporting earnings of $29.7 billion in loan originations and overall strong financials in their recent earnings report. The company saw a large net loss in Q1, coming in at $138.6...
In the immediate aftermath of their victory in the Burnett trial, as recent homesellers won a $1.78 billion verdict against the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and two corporate brokerages, lawyers filed a nearly identical suit against more real estate companies, taking their class-action...
Chime Technologies has announced the company has rebranded as Lofty. The company says the change marks a significant step in its evolution and underscores the organization's commitment to providing practical AI-powered innovations for real estate professionals. A release states: As the real estate space becomes more competitive, AI has ...read more
Lone Wolf Technologies, a real estate software company, has announced it will be releasing a new generation of Lone Wolf solutions, starting in 2024. The solutions have been constructed to run on Lone Wolf Foundation, a connected platform designed to transform the way real...
Troy Reierson CEO Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties, California Properties and Nevada Properties Henderson, Nevada https://www.bhhs.com/arizonapropertiescaliforniapropertiesnevadaproperties-nv301 Region served: Las Vegas, Arizona and Southern California Years in real estate: 20 Number of offices: 25 Number of agents: 2,700 Motto/work philosophy that you live by: Laugh hard at least once ...read more
If you're new to the game of luxury real estate, one thing you'll quickly realize is that referrals from your clients are truly the best reward for a job well done. After all, referrals lead to more business while spreading awareness of your personal...
The United States real estate market is actually the envy of the world. The U.S. boasts the world's most orderly, efficient and equitable housing market—and many other countries are attempting to emulate it. Our system's efficiency is driven in large part by agents and brokers competing aggressively, while also ...read more
The happy times we're celebrating at my friend's wedding remind me that gratitude is important through the good and the bad. Often, it's even more important to find gratitude when challenges occur, causing you to adjust your strategy and find new ways to succeed....
After three weeks of decreases, mortgage applications turned around this week, increasing 2.5% from one week earlier, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) for the week ending November 3, 2023. The bump follows last week's cooling...
REALTORS® from across the country and the world will converge on Anaheim, California, Nov.14-16 for 2023 NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience, NAR's annual conference and expo—the premier global event for real estate professionals. “Own the Moment” is the theme for this year's in-person and...
Making history in a 115-year-old organization isn't easy to do. Yet, Idaho broker Tracy Kasper did just that when she stepped into the role of National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) president months earlier than expected. On August 30, when her tenure as 2024 president...
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has welcomed BoxBrownie.com to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. BoxBrownie.com offers high-quality image editing services, including virtual staging and renovation, floor plan redraws, and...
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has welcomed BoxBrownie.com to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. BoxBrownie.com offers high-quality image editing services, including virtual staging and renovation, floor plan redraws, and...
In the latest RISMedia webinar—”Lessons In Leadership With Dermot Buffini”—Buffini, CEO of Buffini & Company, unpacks the lessons that have guided Walter Schneider, chairman and founder of Waltmar Capital Inc. John Featherston, RISMedia founder and president, moderated the discussion. Buffini & Company is the...
Way back in January, RISMedia asked leading brokers around the country what they saw as the biggest threat to the industry this year. Not a single one mentioned the lawsuits or investigations alleging rampant conspiracy and price-fixing in real estate. This month, nearly every broker and executive surveyed ...read more
Century 21 Real Estate LLC. has has announced it has joined forces with locally owned John Bunn Realty, based in Hamilton, Georgia. The brokerage's namesake is leader John Bunn and most members of Georgia natives who serve the Harris County area. Now doing business...
The Global Business Council of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR) has announced it has received the prestigious 2023 Platinum Global Achievement Award from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This marks the second year in a row that the Council has won...
Home equity saw a decrease in Q3 2023, while underwater mortgage numbers improved, according to a new report from ATTOM. ATTOM's Home Equity & Underwater Report for Q3 2023 found that the amount of equity-ruch homes decreased 49.2% in Q2 to 47.4% in Q3,...
Where do you think brokers and agents said they found the most high-quality leads over the past 12 months, according to a recent survey? It was social media, which beat out their local MLS, brokerage CRM and agent websites. The broker/owners I talk to...
NAR PULSE–Show your agents how to take the lead in lead generation, get seen on social media, build up their credentials, and brush up on skills. Do it all through NAR's REALTOR® Store and fly by the competition! New to RPR®? Take a Guided Tour Guided Tours take ...read more
Single-family home prices increased by 4.5% year-over-year in September, the third month of acceleration and the highest growth since early 2023, according to a new report from CoreLogic. CoreLogic's latest Home Price Index for September found that home prices have now increased annually for...
Ominously for most national residential real estate companies, the end of the Burnett vs. NAR class action trial in late October, with an emphatic victory for the plaintiffs, could be just the beginning of what may be years of new lawsuits, award rulings and...
The Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) continued its 20th-anniversary celebration with the installation of 2024 and 2025 President Jamie Tian and the debut of its 20th anniversary video at its recent National Conference in Chicago. Tian, the 32-year-old CEO and co-founder of...
There continued more ups and downs for national brokerage Compass as it reported third quarter earnings on November 16. The good news, as such, was managing to cut net losses from $154 million in the third quarter of 2022 to $39 million this time...
Editor's Note: Social Skills is a bi-monthly feature in RISMedia's Daily News focused on social media and digital marketing tips, trends and solutions for agents and brokers. Being a REALTOR® means you are running your own business. While in most businesses, there will be...
Editor's Note: Social Skills is a bi-monthly feature in RISMedia's Daily News focused on social media and digital marketing tips, trends and solutions for agents and brokers. Being a REALTOR® means you are running your own business. While in most businesses, there will be...
The American Dream has long been associated with homeownership, and for many, the ultimate expression of that dream is a spacious, luxurious home. However, not all large houses are created equal, and one term that has gained notoriety in recent years is the “McMansion.”...
Community involvement is imperative for success in real estate. Your team should become a pillar of the local community, showcasing dedication to your area so you can build a reputation as hyperlocal experts and the go-tos for real estate needs. As we transition out...
No matter what industry you're in, understanding the brain's plasticity is key to success and growth. The brain isn't fixed or static; it's dynamic and continuously adapts to new experiences and information. I know, “nerd alert”—but stick with me. When it comes to real...
Anywhere Real Estate Inc. has announced a new enterprise agreement with RealScout, a real estate technology company that provides an automated contact nurture platform for agents to better serve their clients during the home buying and selling process. The agreement will allow the company's affiliated agents and franchise owners ...read more
Being a household name only offers a business so much protection during market low points. During first and second quarter reports in 2023, RE/MAX Holdings reported declining revenue year-over-year. The company's third quarter report, released Thurs., Nov. 2, continues this downward trend. RE/MAX reports...
The Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS® (HGAR) named two members as REALTOR® of the Year and Affiliate Member of the Year at their 107th Annual Meeting on Oct. 30. HGAR honored Anthony Domathoti, Broker/Owner of Exit Realty Premium in the Bronx, as 2023's REALTOR® of the Year. A broker/owner ...read more
I was recently perusing some headlines of a previous edition of Real Estate magazine and was impressed (as I always am) with the coverage of technology in our industry. In that issue's Publisher's Letter, John Featherston wrote about “the next frontier” in technology, and...
Home prices remained the same from September and were stable year-over-year as inventory continues to experience challenges for the fourth month in a row, according to a new report from Realtor.com. Realtor.com's Monthly Housing Trends Report for October found that the median listing price saw no change at $425,000, ...read more
ERA® Real Estate has announced the affiliation of Meraki Real Estate ERA Powered, a multi-office brokerage based in Norman and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Founded in 2015, the family-owned firm is led by husband-and-wife duo Zan and Bryan Waldenville. The company specializes in new development,...
When CoStar Group acquired Homes.com in 2021, the goal was bold and ambitious: to earn the coveted No. 1 spot in the portal field by creating the best environment for real estate professionals and consumers. Nearly three years later, Homes.com has gained important ground...
Rocket Companies' revenue exceeded all Q2 predictions, overcoming the mortgage and housing market challenges, as reported in their Q3 2023 earnings report released on Thurs., Nov. 2. After announcing a shift in CEOs in Q2—CEO Bob Walters retiring and Varun Krishna taking over—the company's...
Total nonfarm payroll growth increased by 150,000 in October, and the unemployment rate changed little, increasing 3.9% over last month's 3.8%, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report released Friday. The numbers fell short of economists' expected gains following a...
Editor's Note: The Mortgage Mix is RISMedia's weekly highlight reel of need-to-know mortgage-industry happenings. Watch for it each Friday afternoon. According to the latest report from Freddie Mac, mortgage rates declined slightly after seven weeks of continuous rate increases—still sitting below 8%. The 30-year...
Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of REALTORS®, has announced seven companies selected for its 2024 REACH Canada program, designed to give real estate tech start-ups a hand-up. These firms operate within a diverse range of market segments and...
The Institute's Luxury Market Report is your guide to analyzing the trends and comparative data for the top residential markets throughout the United States and Canada. October's report reviews the current statistics for the luxury market in North America month over month, as well as the 13-month trend. We ...read more
Hitting their third week of declines, mortgage applications decreased another 2.1% from the previous week's slight 0.1% dip, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) for the week ending October 27, 2023. This week's numbers: The Market Composite Index, a measure of ...read more
Global luxury real estate brand Christie's International Real Estate is launching a major expansion in Northern California. The venture will be led by Chris Trapani and Ryan Iwanaga, owners of Silicon Valley-based Christie's International Real Estate Sereno. Trapani, Iwanaga, and Christie's International Real Estate...
Consumer confidence fell for the third month in a row, although at a smaller rate, from 104.3 in September to 102.6 in October, according to the latest data from The Conference Board. “Consumer confidence fell again in October 2023, marking three consecutive months of decline,” said Dana Peterson, chief ...read more
The common perception associated with millennials is that they live in cities and rent rather than put down roots and buy. But how much truth is there to this notion, and how much is stereotype? That's what the latest study from the Harvard Joint...
The November issue of RISMedia's Real Estate magazine is now available, and not to be missed are several exclusive features, including an in-depth look at CoStar's 2 year journey into making Homes.com the No. 2 in the portal field—surpassing 100 million unique monthly visitors...
The stunning verdict in the landmark Burnett class-action case has sent shockwaves through the residential real estate industry. The follow-up news that the attorneys who represented the plaintiffs filed a new, nationwide lawsuit against the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and other major corporate...
Many were predicting it would happen. Almost before the jury in the recently decided Burnett class-action trial left the courtroom, attorneys who represented the plaintiffs in that case filed a new, nationwide lawsuit against the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and other major corporate...
The Burnett vs. NAR trial verdict is in, with the plaintiffs emerging victorious, and the defendants having been found guilty of conspiring to artificially inflate commissions. It's a result that could have serious, historic and long-lasting ramifications for the residential real estate industry. That...
Deals close fast so make sure you have valuable real estate industry facts at your fingertips. The NAR Mobile App gives you full access to everything you need—anytime you want. Download the app today and share with your agents! Don't Miss This MVP Offer!...
Rocket Mortgage has announced continued advancements to its Pathfinder tool, an AI and machine learning-powered search engine used by mortgage bankers, brokers and underwriters to confidently find the answers to complicated qualification or loan processing questions. Pathfinder ensures those who originate and process home loans have all the information ...read more
The latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index, tracking home price data changes in August 2023, shows the same result it has for the last six months: home prices are going up. After steadily declining since early 2022, home prices (and the index) reversed course in...
Editor's Note: Social Skills is a bi-monthly feature in RISMedia's Daily News focused on social media and digital marketing tips, trends and solutions for agents and brokers. Being a REALTOR® means you are running your own business. While in most businesses, there will be...
KANSAS CITY—After four years working its way slowly through the federal judicial system and two weeks of contentious courtroom drama, the landmark Burnett class-action case delivered a massive blow to organized real estate today, with an eight-member jury deliberating for less than three hours...
The rate of homeownership in the Black community hovers around 45%, a stark contrast to nearly 75% for White households. There are lawsuits, including a federal case in Kansas City, that could make this gulf even greater. Strong, dynamic local real estate marketplaces are...
The National Association of REALTORS® announced IRAR Trust Company (IRAR) as a new partner with NAR REALTOR Benefits®. As NAR REALTOR Benefits®' preferred provider for self-directed retirement plans, IRAR provides discounted self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k) accounts to NAR members, their families, and association staff at the national, state ...read more
KANSAS CITY—Closing arguments in the landmark Burnett class action case were presented to an eight-person jury yesterday, with the possibility of a verdict that could rock the industry coming as early as today. The plaintiffs' case hinges on convincing a jury that the major...
Halloween is an interesting holiday—an event where the spooky and fun mood of the day takes over the fall season. You can see it in everything from professional advertising to personal decorating. However, while some may get carried away in the spirit of Halloween,...
When it comes to buying a new home, you'll often hear terms like “spec house,” “spec home,” or “spec housing” alongside “custom home.” These terms refer to distinct real estate and new construction approaches offering unique advantages and considerations. We will examine the differences...
For Steven Fase II, president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate, Northern Indiana Real Estate, Tomie Raines REALTORS® and Executive Realty, real estate has always been a family business. “Our company was founded by my grandpa in 1953 under the name Fase Realty...
The core personal consumption expenditures (CPE) price index, a key measure of inflation used by the Federal Reserve, increased 0.3% as expected last month, according to the latest report from the Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis. Additionally, the report showed that consumer spending...
An ongoing federal class action lawsuit challenging the long-standing practice requiring the brokers representing home sellers to offer compensation to the homebuyers' brokers may upend the U.S. residential estate market as we know it. The plaintiffs in the case allege that the National Association...
In the Burnett case, where recent homesellers have sought to prove that the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and several big brokerages conspired over rules that inflated commissions, it is all coming down to an eight-member jury. The defense is expected to rest its case today, with the jury ...read more
Corcoran Group, LLC announced its continued expansion by welcoming its first Canadian franchise with the launch of Corcoran Horizon Realty. Owned and led by CEO Cliff Rego, the brokerage will serve clients in the greater Toronto area and throughout the entire Ontario province. “Toronto is a dynamic city and ...read more
The appraisal, either from the buyer or seller's standpoint, is a point in a real estate transaction full of pitfalls. Technical complexities, consumer expectations, personal biases and tight timing all combine to potentially sink an otherwise agreeable sale. While there are already plenty of...
With so many buyers only looking for move-in ready homes, those fixer-upper listings just won't move off the market anymore without a little help. Consequently, making updates or at least doing some basic preparation before listing has become a must for every homeowner. Although...
Consumer sentiment dropped 6% in October, according to data from the University of Michigan. “Consumer sentiment confirmed its early-month reading, falling back about 6% this October following two consecutive months of very little change. This decline was driven in large part by higher-income consumers...
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nevada Properties is celebrating the grand opening of its newest Class-A office campus on Thursday, December 7. Located at 1490 Center Crossing Road in Summerlin, the two-story building encompasses over 30,000 square feet of coworking space designed to unify individual teams...
Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. welcomed over 300 Weichert® affiliated brokers, owners, and associates to its national conference, the Weichert Sellebration, earlier this month at Baha Mar in Nassau, The Bahamas. The event, which took place from Oct. 10-12, offered attendees events such as...
As the defense was expected to wrap up its testimony Friday and with closing arguments set to come as early as Monday, real estate's “trial of the century” has had industry professionals glued to their seats to find out how the jury will come...
Editor's Note: The Mortgage Mix is RISMedia's weekly highlight reel of need-to-know mortgage-industry happenings. Watch for it each Friday afternoon. Mortgage rates continued their rise this week, edging closer to 8%, according to Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage...
KANSAS CITY—As plaintiffs in the Burnett trial attempt to prove that rules propagated by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and big corporate brokerages harmed consumers, both sides have gone to the numbers. If these rules—specifically the mandatory nature of buyer agent compensation—were stifling competition, it is likely those ...read more
The inventory challenges besieging many regions throughout the U.S. residential real estate market are not lessening and the latest data indicates they will continue to be a challenge for some time to come. One segment of homebuyers in the single-family home market–institutional buyers–has been...
We've been talking a lot about business planning and scheduling, and how the best way to ensure a strong 2024 is to do those things now. As you've heard me say before, real estate operates on a 90-day cycle; so much of what you...
Chris Pelkola Lee, broker/owner of simpLEE HOME®, leverages her role as national president of the Women's Council of REALTORS® to provide wisdom and guidance to real estate professionals nationwide. Through mentorship, continuous learning and her own community involvement, Lee helps women actualize their potential...
When the residential real estate industry experiences a downturn like it has this year, and with no expectations for sure that things will improve dramatically in 2024, it's vital for brokerages to focus on their agents and do everything possible to keep the ones...
Moderator: Kymber Lovett-Menkiti, President, Keller Williams Capital Properties, Washington, D.C., Broker Relations Liaison for NAR Panelists: Christian Barnes, President and CEO, Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate, Kansas City Homes, Overland Park, Kansas Patrick Bain, President and CEO, The Long & Foster Companies, Chantilly, Virginia Liz Nunan, President and ...read more
Wednesday's most consequential courtroom moments during the ongoing commissions trial took place without the jury present when Judge Stephen R. Bough ruled against a petition for a mistrial—requested by the defense after the plaintiff's played a surprise inflammatory video of a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices...
Tech company Offerpad Solutions Inc. (“Offerpad”) has unveiled a nationwide collaboration with Anywhere Real Estate, Inc. This program, launched on October 24, allows seller requests from areas outside of Offerpad's coverage to be served by certified agents affiliated with the Anywhere Leads Network. “As...
Buying a home is a significant milestone in anyone's life. It often comes with many decisions and complexities. One of the smartest moves you can make as a homebuyer is to enlist the services of a buyer's agent. But what does a buyer agent...
Real gross domestic product (GDP), the most accurate measure of a country's broad economic growth, defied expectations in the third quarter, showing the economy grew at an annualized pace of 4.9%, according to the latest “advance” estimate from the U.S. Commerce Dept.'s Bureau of...
In today's hyper-connected economy, international borders are no barrier to building business at home. The National Association of REALTORS®' (NAR) global team wants its members to benefit from the lucrative international market. NAR global works to expand members' access to global real estate opportunities,...
As a property manager, you understand that time is of the essence when it comes to renting out your properties. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is high-quality photography. With the advent of smartphones and affordable cameras, property managers can now...
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) increased from last week's average of 7.63% to an average of 7.79% this week, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac released Thursday. This week's numbers: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 7.79% as of October...
Pending home sales grew 1.1% in September, according to the latest data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This reverses the 7.1% drop seen in August. NAR's Pending Home Sales Index (PHSI) for September registered at 72.6, reflecting a moderate level of activity...
KANSAS CITY—Judge Stephen R. Bough, presiding over the landmark Burnett class-action lawsuit, yesterday denied a petition by defendant HomeServices of America for a mistrial, saying that alleged misconduct and prejudicial actions by the plaintiffs did not warrant starting over in front of a new...
Editor's Note: This is part of a monthly video series from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® to inform and educate members about important aspects of being a real estate professional. Watch for this series each month in RISMedia's Daily Real Estate Advisor. In this...
A transformational shift is underway in the real estate industry, as the consideration of offering a 0% commission to the selling agent gains traction. This change might seem alarming at first glance, but it opens the door to a new and innovative approach to...
Recruiting season is upon us, and as a real estate broker, there's nothing more critical than retaining agents. Your ability to keep these professionals engaged and motivated directly reflects your leadership style, the culture you've cultivated within your office and the trust your agents...
After a 6.9% decrease last week and hitting a 28-year low, mortgage applications dipped another 1.0% from one week earlier, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) for the week ending October 20, 2023. Here are this...
The latest RISMedia webinar, Seize The Day: How to Stay Proactive, Productive and Competitive in a Challenging Market, offered agents evergreen advice on conducting their business and, in the process, securing listings. The event was moderated by Joe Rand, chief creative officer of Howard...
CoStar Group's star is continuing its meteoric rise. While much of the industry is struggling this year, the Washington, D.C.-based company, a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information and analytics in the property markets, continues to charge forward. In a third quarter...
New-home sales reversed course from their 8.7% dip in August and grew 12.3% in September, according to a new report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). NAHB reported, using data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S....
HomeServices of America, one of the defendants in the landmark Burnett class-action lawsuit that alleges broad antitrust behavior and conspiracies involving commissions, is demanding a mistrial after the plaintiffs showed a surprise video clip yesterday of a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) executive talking about...
KANSAS CITY—After the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) kicked off their defense in the Burnett class-action commission trial yesterday, Mike Ketchmark, lead counsel for the plaintiffs, took his best shots against NAR CEO Bob Goldberg—who gave as good as he got in several combative...
NAR NXT isn't just a conference; it's a connection powerhouse for brokers. Forge meaningful relationships, tap into industry insights and discover the transformative power of being part of a community that's shaping the future of real estate. Engage with the latest trends, technologies, and...
Rents in the 50 largest metros dropped to $1,747 in September, down $29 from the peak seen in July 2022, according to a new report from Realtor.com. Realtor.com's September Rental Report found that rent prices, while still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, dipped on an annual basis for units ...read more
Curbio, Inc., fix now, pay-at-closing home improvement solution for real estate professionals, has announced that it has been named to Inc. Business Media's second annual Power Partner Awards.The Power Partner Awards list recognizes 389 B2B organizations across the globe that have proven track records...
Real estate professionals are some of the hardest workers out there, always grinding for their business and the clients they serve. As they push every day to be the best, those who have demonstrated outstanding service, skill and professionalism in serving buyers deserve to...
Share this super informative podcast with your agents! So far, 2023 has been quite a year for RPR® (Realtors Property Resource®). Guest (and host!) Reggie Nicolay discusses all the new and upgraded features and tools, including Shareable Market Trends, the Market Trends ScriptWriter, free...
Corcoran Group, LLC announced its continued expansion by welcoming its newest franchise with the launch of Corcoran Prestige Realty. Owned and led by Founder and CEO James Krueger, the brokerage will serve clients throughout the Houston, Texas metropolitan area. “Introducing Corcoran Prestige Realty in...
Above: NAR CEO Bob Goldberg KANSAS CITY—Yesterday, the defense in the potentially landmark Burnett trial began to lay out their case, following a week of blistering attacks by the plaintiffs alleging collusion, price fixing and conspiracy between the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and...
It's no surprise that Tennessee-based simpliHŌM Founder and CEO Sean Miku is passionate about simplicity. Embedded into the name of his brand, this value is the driving force behind his mission to make the lives of both his clients and agents easier. “My company's...
Anywhere Real Estate Inc., in its third quarter earnings call Oct. 24, managed a profitability increase in a generally turbulent real estate market, while reporting that revenues decreased by double digits compared with last year. Additionally, the company entered into a nationwide settlement agreement...
KANSAS CITY—HomeServices of America, one of the defendants in the Burnett commission trial, today filed a motion for summary judgment—a ruling in its favor without any further proceedings—just as the plaintiffs are about to rest their case, claiming that no evidence has been presented...
As a real estate broker, the need for growth and new top-line revenue is never-ending. One powerful strategy to achieve these goals is by recruiting new agents who can become an integral part of your team. Not only does this approach help grow company...
Curbio announced that for the third year in a row, it has been named to the Washington Business Journal's annual list of the fastest-growing companies in the Washington, D.C. area. Curbio is a pre-listing home improvement solution that partners exclusively with real estate agents...
Two of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nevada Properties' top teams, The Mullin Group and The Blankfeld Group, have merged to create The Mullin Blankfeld Group. This merged firm will have a total of 42 real estate agents. “Working together as one group combines a vast...
The world of real estate is known for its complexities, paperwork, and intricate processes. Buyers and sellers often rely on professionals to guide them through these intricacies. One such professional is the real estate transaction coordinator. We will explore the role of a transaction...
Today marks the start of the second week of the Burnett trial focused on buyer commission, with plaintiffs expected to wrap up their case in front of a jury today, as the defense brings in their witnesses to counter accusations of price fixing, conspiracy...
OneKey MLS, a multiple listing service covering the southern counties of New York state (from Montauk to Manhattan, north through the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains), has released its latest Regional Home Sales Report that tracks and reports back how home prices have...
It's easy to become overwhelmed when the real estate market is shifting so much. There is a lot to juggle—lead generation, staying on top of market trends, focusing on your financials—and more. Staying organized is key. A stellar customer relationship management (CRM) system helps...
Reliance, a U.S. real estate technology company, has confirmed the promotion of Nick Villanti from senior vice president to Chief Operating Officer (COO) overseeing the company's day-to-day administrative and operational functions effective October 1. “We are so pleased to announce Nick's promotion as our...
Haunted houses might be horror's favorite attraction, but they definitely do not have the same appeal when it comes to the real estate market. Despite the ghosts and ghouls that come with the territory, 52% of Americans would consider purchasing a haunted house, and 29% believe they already live ...read more
The Burnett case targeting buyer agent commissions hasn't even wrapped up its first week of trial in Kansas City yet, but some people haven't waited for the outcome to proactively make changes to so-called “cooperative compensation”—changes that are starting to seem inevitable. The Real...
Is the United States becoming a nation of renters? While the number of people renting, not owning their homes, is on the rise—that doesn't mean the prices of those rentals are going down. In fact, according to Zillow, the median rent price in New...
Motto Mortgage has a new office in Franklin, Massachusetts, and will now be serving all markets throughout The Bay State. Motto Mortgage Executives is a full-service mortgage brokerage established by Chris Arienti, Chuck Joseph and Bill Wright, according to a release. Together, Chris, Joseph...
The Leading Economic Index (LEI) fell 0.7% in August to 104.6, marking a year and a half of consistent declines, according to the latest release from The Conference Board. August's LEI is down 3.4% over the six-month period between March and September 2023—improved from...
KANSAS CITY—Tempers flared among legal teams yesterday as plaintiffs' lead attorney Mike Ketchmark sought to drive home claims of economic conspiracy when he called expert witness Texas A&M professor and economist Dr. Craig Schulman to the stand on day four of the Burnett v....
Last week, I received an email from Eric Webster, general manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices First Realty, in response to the weekly Thoughts on Leadership detailing lessons learned from the NFL. He wrote: “Good morning, Gino. You and I are cheering for the same...
As the Hall of Fame Newsmakers took the stage to accept their honors during RISMedia's annual Real Estate Newsmakers Reception & Dinner at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., at last month's 35th Annual CEO & Leadership Exchange, inductees shared their thoughts about...
RE/MAX has published its latest national housing report for September 2023 – in a nutshell, inventory is up but sales are down. So, why is the market lagging? Mortgage rates probably have something to do with it, but let's spotlight the specifics of RE/MAX's...
Basement bedrooms have become increasingly popular in modern homes. Whether you want to add extra living space or create a cozy guest room, transforming your basement into a bedroom can be fantastic. However, specific basement bedroom requirements must be met to ensure the safety...
To say “everyone's got it” is an overstatement when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI) in the real estate industry. While AI undoubtedly has an incredible potential to transform many industries, there's still a lot of FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt) in AI and...
United® Real Estate has announced a merger between Insight Realty Network, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, and United Real Estate | DFW Properties, based in Grapevine, Texas. The move expands United's presence to 830 agents throughout North Texas and 1,810 statewide. Insight Realty Network...
In September 2023, existing-home sales declined by 2% month-over-month, coming in at about 3.96 million. This data comes courtesy of the National Association of REALTORS®' (NAR) latest monthly report tracking such sales. Existing-home sales make up the majority of housing transactions in the U.S.,...
Even at this very early stage in the trial, with only two days of testimony (and the majority of that pre-taped video), the legal strategy adopted by both the plaintiffs and the defendants is beginning to crystalize in the potentially landmark Burnett class-action lawsuit....
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) increased from last week's average of 7.57% to an average of 7.63% this week, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac released Thursday. This week's numbers: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 7.63%, up from last...
Disclaimer: This article is blunt, but I am neither angry nor bitter. We, the practitioner population have grown weary of the quagmire and bad publicity when all we are trying to do is earn a living and feed our families the best we can....
Real estate is a driving economic force in New York, and politics and policy can have a significant impact on the industry. The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors, Inc. (HGAR) and OneKey® MLS hosted a virtual panel last week featuring experts who surveyed New...
CoStar Group, Inc. has announced a proposal to acquire United Kingdom property portal OnTheMarket, for £1.10 per share in cash or approximately £100 million. OnTheMarket was founded by agents in 2013, the company stated, to provide a competitive alternative to the existing UK property...
Technology is ever-changing and ever-growing, giving us pretty exciting ideas about where our future may lead us. However, while the American city of tomorrow might not yet mean commuting by jetpack and holding hologram phone conversations, some major hubs are making us believe we're...
Typical profit margins on home sales increased to 59% in Q3 2023—up from 56.6% last quarter and the second straight quarterly increase—and the median nationwide home price rose by 2% to a new high of $350,000. ATTOM's U.S. Home Sales Report for Q3 2023...
After a brief bump last week thanks to ARM rates decreasing, home purchase applications decreased 6.9% from one week earlier, according to the latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey from the Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) for the week ending October 13, 2023. This week's numbers...
Real estate software firm CubiCasa has announced that 10 Multiple Listing Services (MLS's) have joined their MLS Partnership Program. Joining CubiCasa's MLS Partnership Program and gaining access to its suite of digital floor plan creation tools are Metro MLS®, Memphis Area Association of REALTORS®,...
Real Estate Webmasters, a leading custom real estate website and digital marketing agency has announced that one of their clients, Rob Thomson, has been honored with a MarCom Award for his soon-to-be-launched website redesign, which will go live in November 2023. The MarCom Awards...
Despite high mortgage rates and other economic challenges, housing starts saw a significant gain in September, according to a new report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) using data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census...
Editor's Note: The commencement of the highly anticipated Burnett vs. the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) class action trial began Monday, Oct. 16. As part of our comprehensive coverage, RISMedia Founder and CEO John Featherston is onsite and provided his thoughts on the first...
KANSAS CITY—Yesterday afternoon, attorneys for the plaintiffs in the Burnett v. National Association of REALTORS (NAR) trial introduced their first three witnesses to the jury via pre-recorded depositions: Keller Williams Founder Gary Keller; HomeServices of America CEO Gino Blefari; and NAR CEO Bob Goldberg....
KANSAS CITY—In a courtroom brimming with what appeared to be representatives of the class action suit, Burnett vs. the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), opening statements got underway this morning, with lead attorneys for both the plaintiffs and the defendants forcefully laying the groundwork...
Renting alone, while often considered unaffordable and unattainable, has actually grown in recent years. Between 2016 and 2021, solo renting grew by about 1 million people, reaching 16.7 million (up 6.7%). RentCafe's latest report looked at trends in the rental market, specifically surrounding solo renters. The report found that ...read more
The Fall 2023 real estate market is in full swing, and it is essential for real estate agents to adapt their marketing strategies to stay ahead of the game. Autumn provides a golden opportunity to connect with your leads and prospects through visually appealing,...
The new Edge Up With NAR weekly newsletter is focused on bringing you more value through a curated mix of tools, trainings, news and more. Leverage customized content to help recruit new agents, demonstrate the value of membership to your current agents and ramp...
The rapid rise in long-term interest rates over the past few months will likely weigh on future economic growth, according to the October 2023 commentary from the Fannie Mae Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group. The ESR Group warns that an acute credit event (a change in a borrower's ...read more
RE/MAX secured the top spot for real estate franchises in the Franchise Times Top 400 list. This achievement marks the 15th consecutive year RE/MAX has been recognized as the top real estate franchise in the comprehensive list. The Franchise Times Top 400 is an...
Marketing tech tools litter the real estate industry. Brokerages invest tens of millions of dollars annually, attempting to supply their agents with every option. But how can a brokerage get their agents to adopt and make the most of the marketing technology solutions they...
As mortgage rates have climbed to a 23-year high, builder confidence has fallen to the lowest reading since January, according to new data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) found that builder confidence fell four...
The real estate industry is all about education. It's a constantly shifting world, and if you don't stay educated, you'll fall behind. That's why it's imperative to keep learning and growing, and keep your finger on the pulse of the market. As a leader,...
Above: the Federal District Court of Western Missouri in Kansas City on Monday, October 16, where the Burnett vs. NAR trial is being presided over by Judge Stephen R. Bough. KANSAS CITY—The commencement of the highly anticipated Burnett vs. the National Association of REALTORS®...
Selling a property is often a complex and time-consuming process involving various legal and logistical aspects. However, what happens when you, as a homeowner, cannot handle these responsibilities personally? This is where a power of attorney (POA) in real estate can come into play....
JPAR® has announced a groundbreaking partnership with CubiCasa, a pioneer in floor plan technology. The partnership, one of CubiCasa's first partnerships with a residential real estate brand, will “execute a vision” to bring a floor plan to every listing. In a survey by the...
ERA Real Estate, a subsidiary of Anywhere Real Estate Inc., has announced the affiliation of Florida brokerage now doing business as Mutter Realty ERA Powered. The brokerage and its nearly 40 affiliated sales professionals serve all of Brevard County, the company stated. This county...
For the past several decades, the MLS has maintained data quality and efficiency rules that benefit all. We are the unseen engine that powers brokers' businesses while ultimately serving the best interests of consumers. Yet, as the industry evolves, it becomes clear that not...
If all the many steps for buying or selling a home were like progressing chapters in a dramatic novel, the appraisal would be among the least engrossing, like a necessary but dull plot development that forwards the tale (transaction). It's a must to include,...
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has announced the addition of Scott Le Roy Marketing (SLM) to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources, SLM provides agent and technology onboarding, as well as ongoing technology support services to brokerages of all sizes....
In the ever-evolving world of real estate technology, the need for a robust backup system has never been more apparent. With the introduction of Real Estate Webmasters' MLS Backup service—a game-changing solution designed to ensure that MLSs and brokerages are never left in the...
Remodeling market sentiment declined three points to 65 in Q3 2023,