2024

Real estate professionals are on the frontlines when it comes to advocating for fair housing and the future of our industry. As we commemorate Fair Housing Month in April, we asked some of our 2024 Real Estate Newsmakers who have a reputation for community activism the following question: “How are you promoting the principles of… The post Ask The Newsmakers: Making Fair Housing a Reality for All...

After a promising start to the year, existing-home sales declined 4.3% in March, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.19 million, according to the latest report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This represents a 3.7% decline year-over-year (in March 2023, home sales were 4.35 million).  After dropping to the lowest level in… The post Existing-Home Sales Decline in March appeared...

Septic tank inspections are crucial for any homeowner considering the purchase of a house with a septic system. I will cover the inspection process, identify who should perform it and explain its importance. A septic system handles a home’s wastewater, making its condition vital for property value and health standards. Inspections can prevent future expenses… The post Understanding the Importance of...

BuilderBooks, the publishing arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recently released the fourth edition of “What Homebuyers Really Want.” “Based on a comprehensive nationwide survey of recent and prospective homebuyers, “What Homebuyers Really Want” offers unparalleled insights into the pulse of today’s housing demands,” said Carl Harris, chairman of the National...

Marking a third straight week of increases and moving over 7% for the first time this year, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 7.10% this week, up from last week’s increase to 6.88%, according to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) from Freddie Mac, released Thursday. The numbers:  The 30-year FRM averaged 7.10 percent… The post Mortgage Rates Exceed 7% for First Time This...

In a case that could have broader implications for nearly every large real estate company, a federal judge ruled earlier this week that Keller Williams as a franchisor can be held responsible for the actions of individual agents who made sales calls to individuals on “Do Not Call” registries.  The ruling stems from a long-running… The post Keller Williams Liable for Agents’ Illegal Spam Calls,...

The Buyer-Agent Playbook is a new iteration of RISMedia’s biweekly Playbook segment, specifically centering on buyer agency and how agents are navigating the changes and trends in a post-NAR-settlement environment. The series will provide brokers and agents with insights and information to ensure they not only survive but thrive in these challenging times. Industry professionals… The post The...

LaMarcus Thurman, vice president of community lending at Howard Hanna and co-founder of company division United Purpose Mortgage, makes an impact as both a professional and an activist. A member of numerous non-profit boards, Thurman’s efforts at expanding homeownership earned him his first RISMedia Newsmakers award in 2024 as a Crusader. For the latest entry… The post Newsmaker Spotlight: LaMarcus...

As REcolorado commemorates its 40th anniversary, Justin Knoll’s illustrious career in Colorado’s real estate landscape takes on added significance. With a diverse background, Knoll’s recent venture into proptech development provides a renewed perspective on the industry’s trajectory. Through its four-decade journey, REcolorado has continually set the standard for MLS excellence—driving progress...

Change, with its inherent unpredictability, can rattle even the most composed teams. The true essence of leadership lies in metamorphosing this uncertainty into a beacon of opportunity, transforming fear into courage, and translating confusion into lucid clarity. Our reaction to change can either be the wind in our sails or the anchor dragging us down.… The post Thoughts on Leadership: Navigating Through...