A lot of buyers are stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking, I’ll buy once they hit the 5s. Because who doesn’t want a better rate? But here’s the thing: that 5.99% number might not save you as much as you think. Affordability is still a ch

Hispanic Homebuyers Are Powering America’s Real Estate Market in 2025 Across the country, and especially here in South Florida, one group is quietly shaping the future of homeownership: Hispanic buyers.According to the National Association of Realtors, Hispanic households now represent more than one

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

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 thin

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

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 help

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. The

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 elev

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 sma

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 sa

In September 2024, mortgage applications for new home purchases increased by 10.8% compared to the same month last year, reflecting the ongoing appeal of newly built homes despite fluctuations in market conditions. The Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Builder Application Survey (BAS) shows that

When preparing to buy a home, checking your credit report is a key step to ensuring smooth financing. Reviewing your report at least once a year helps keep your credit profile accurate and boosts your chances of qualifying for a mortgage with favorable terms. Understanding Your Credit Report Your cr

When it comes to retirement, Florida continues to be a top choice. WalletHub recently ranked four Florida cities—Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa—among the nation’s best places to retire, thanks to low taxes and high-quality healthcare. Why Florida Ranks So High for Retirees Florida attrac

Florida Condo Associations Face New Reporting Requirements by December 31, 2024 As the December 31, 2024, deadline approaches, many Florida condo associations are required to complete two key inspection reports that could significantly impact condo buyers, sellers, and current owners. These reports

The flood disclosure will include: Whether the seller has ever filed a claim with their insurance for flood damage on the property. Whether the property has received any federal assistance related to flood damage. For the purposes of this law, “flooding” is defined as a temporary or general conditio

As the year progresses, positive trends have emerged in the real estate market, particularly with interest rates hitting their lowest levels in over a year. This has sparked increased activity among homebuyers and homeowners looking to refinance their loans. Interest Rate Drops Fuel Mortgage Applica

One key development is the introduction of the Florida Optional Reinsurance Assistance (FORA) program, designed to help insurance companies purchase reinsurance at more favorable rates. This initiative aims to stabilize the cost of homeowners' insurance, with 12 companies already filing for rate dec

1. Establish Your Budget and Understand the Full Costs Before starting your home search, it’s crucial to set a clear budget. While your mortgage payment is the largest monthly cost, it’s important to account for other expenses like property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance, utilities, and po