As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the U.S. housing market stands at a critical juncture. The frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate boom has long since cooled, but in its place we’re seeing a market searching for balance. Higher mortgage rates, cautious buyers, and rising home inventory are combinin

Foreclosure headlines are making noise again – and they’re designed to stir up fear to get you to read them. But what the data shows is actually happening in the market tells a very different story than what you might be led to believe. So, before you jump to conclusions, it’s important to look at

Despite a slowdown in national home sales, homeowners in South Florida continue to experience substantial equity gains. Whether you're considering selling, buying, or holding, understanding how these trends affect your property value is essential. At Team Kaplan, we keep a close eye on the market. W

According to Fannie Mae, 90% of buyers don’t actually know what credit score lenders are looking for, or they overestimate the minimum needed. Let that sink in. That means most homebuyers think they need better credit than they actually do – and maybe you’re one of them. And that could make you thi

June 2025 has brought a pivotal shift for the South Florida condo market. Governor Ron DeSantis just signed legislation aimed at easing the financial burden on condominium owners, while also increasing transparency and flexibility for buyers, sellers, and associations. At Team Kaplan, we make it our

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today’s market. But there are resources and programs out there that can help – if you know where to look. And one thing that can make homeownership easier to achieve? An FHA home loan. They’re designed to hel

A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down – maybe even back to the historic-low 3% from a few years ago. But here’s the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment in ti

In today's dynamic real estate market, co-owning a home has emerged as a strategic solution for families and investors alike. Whether it's pooling resources to afford a dream home or investing in a property that serves multiple generations, co-ownership offers flexibility and financial benefits. Th

Why More Renters Are Choosing Amenity-Rich Living in Broward County Let’s talk about something that’s reshaping the way people rent—especially here in South Florida. Renting used to be a temporary step on the way to homeownership. But today? We’re seeing a major shift. Younger renters—particularly

Summer Selling: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to List Your Home (And What Buyers Should Know in This Fast-Moving Market) Thinking of selling your home this summer? You’re not alone—and you’re right on time. Summer is consistently one of the best seasons to sell a home in South Florida, thanks to long

When getting ready to sell a home, most owners naturally want it to look its best. However, not every fix or upgrade is worth the investment—especially when you're preparing to put the property on the market soon. While smart renovations like energy-efficient upgrades or modest kitchen and bathroom

Mortgage rates have seen minimal movement again this week, continuing a trend of relative stability that’s become more consistent over the past couple of months. According to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, this steadiness is starting to create a sense of predictability in an o

Dreaming of a new home but feeling priced out? You’re not alone! According to a recent survey by Bankrate, 78% of aspiring homebuyers cite affordability issues as their primary deterrent.1   According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, home prices have risen around 32% since the pandemic, and ele

South Florida homebuyers are finding themselves in a stronger position as the housing market cools, offering opportunities for negotiation and discounts. Recent data from Redfin shows that homes are selling below asking prices, with longer listing periods, especially in coastal Florida markets like

Home remodeling expenses in the U.S. are projected to soar to $569 billion in 2025, despite a temporary dip in 2024, according to Statista. Whether you’re planning a complete home renovation or focusing on one area, the cost can range from $20,000 to $300,000 depending on factors like home size, pr

Home-Related Tax Deductions Tax season. Just the words can send shivers down your spine. But if you're a homeowner, there's a silver lining: potential savings! You’ve probably heard that you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage — but did you know there are many other ways homeowners can

Having a strong credit score is essential in 2025. Beside securing favorable rates on loans, credit cards, and mortgages even many Florida communities require a strong FICO score now. Below are some expert tips for boosting your credit score. If you'd like an analysis of your credit r

Florida’s new law prohibiting homeowners associations (HOAs) from banning the overnight parking of pickup trucks has sparked significant debate among communities across the state. While the law aims to protect property owners’ rights, some HOAs are claiming exemptions and refusing to comply, citing

The Federal Reserve (Fed) is a critical player in the U.S. economy, making decisions that influence interest rates, inflation, and financial markets. Homebuyers and real estate investors often feel its impact through changes in mortgage rates. Understanding how the Fed operates can help you make sm

The recent implementation of stricter building codes in Florida, as enforced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), marks a significant development in the state's approach to reconstructing homes post-hurricane. This initiative aims to elevate homes and ensure they meet rigorous flood s