News

Why construction “visibility” matters more than you think A recent HousingWire commentary from a military veteran-turned-built-environment professional highlights something many homeowners and buyers sense—but can’t always name: construction often lacks consistent accountability and real-time visibility. On a jobsite, dozens of moving parts must align: materials, permits, inspections, subcontractors, weather windows, and financing milestones. When roles … Read more

What’s happening in New Jersey—and why it matters A New Jersey bill is gaining attention because it aims to clarify how reverse mortgages are treated under state law. The National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) has publicly backed the proposal, arguing that the current statute doesn’t match how reverse mortgages are actually structured or used … Read more

Why “the first agent you talk to” often wins A recent HousingWire report highlights a simple reality in today’s housing market: most buyers hire the first real estate agent they speak with. Even though people have more tools than ever—search portals, reviews, social media, neighborhood data—many buyers still commit quickly once they make initial contact. … Read more

The “mortgage rate lockdown” story is changing For the last couple of years, a common explanation for low housing inventory has been the “mortgage rate lockdown” theory: homeowners with ultra-low rates (think 2–3%) won’t sell because moving would mean trading their cheap mortgage for a much higher one. That idea made sense—until now. New homeowner … Read more

What HUD Changed—and Why It Matters If you’re buying a home with an FHA loan (or selling to someone who is), the appraisal is one of the most important checkpoints in the process. HUD recently announced tighter rules for the FHA appraiser roster, strengthening the link between an appraiser’s state licensing status and their ability … Read more

A calmer housing market may be on the horizon If the last few years have felt like a roller coaster—tight inventory, bidding wars, rate shocks—you’re not alone. According to HousingWire’s coverage of Logan Mohtashami’s 2026 housing forecast, the market could look meaningfully more “normal” by 2026. Two takeaways stand out: inventory is back to normal … Read more

As we head toward 2026, Redfin’s “2025 Year in Review” points to something many homeowners and home shoppers have been waiting to hear: the housing market didn’t just cool off—it rebalanced. After years of seller-friendly conditions, 2025 was a watershed year where leverage began shifting back toward buyers in many parts of the country. That … Read more

Why vacant lots are surging after the L.A. fires A year after the January fires, many properties in Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Malibu are still in transition. According to Redfin, vacant lots are piling up—often because the homes that once stood there were destroyed. What’s drawing attention now is who’s buying: investors are purchasing roughly … Read more

AI is a powerful renovation tool — but it’s not the whole plan If you’ve ever wondered whether you should remodel your kitchen before listing, replace the roof, or simply paint and stage, you’re not alone. New AI tools can now generate renovation ideas, estimate costs, suggest materials and even predict which upgrades might boost … Read more

Why title insurance companies are investing in tech right now If you’re shopping for a home, selling one, or considering a refinance, you’ve probably heard the phrase “title work” and wondered why it takes time (and why it matters so much). A recent industry update highlights that major title insurance underwriters are doubling down on … Read more