First-time buyers can take as much as $10K out of their retirement fund to buy a home – $20K if a couple is purchasing – provided they follow the rules. Source: Florida Realtors

In a major shift, the court ruled that states can collect sales taxes on all online goods, which will affect commercial retailers and many small businesses. Source: Florida Realtors

Realtors one day may be able to buy NAR-sponsored health insurance policies following U.S. Labor Dept. approval, though a few hurdles still remain Source: Florida Realtors

Call for Action: National flood insurance will lapse again on July 31 – and since Fla. has 35% of all policies, Florida Realtors asks all members to contact lawmakers NOW. Source: Florida Realtors

NAHB’s latest confidence survey finds a 2-point drop. While builders remain optimistic, NAHB says the lumber tariffs add about $9,000 to the cost of a new home. Source: Florida Realtors

Floridians without post-hurricane damage often face a week or more without electricity, and storm preparation should include a plan on how to handle it. Source: Florida Realtors

As expected, the Fed boosted interest rates 0.25 points – which directly impact ARMs – but it also increased expectations to a total of four rate hikes this year. Source: Florida Realtors

Thanks to an active hurricane season, Fla. home prices increased more slowly at 5.8% last year, but that should change in 2018 without any similar stormy weather. Source: Florida Realtors

Americans can exempt $250K from capital gains taxes when selling their home, but rising property values and inflation may push more people above that threshold. Source: Florida Realtors

Many people don’t read an entire email, especially if it’s lengthy. Start with a summary, tell the client what they need to know, and then provide the details. Source: Florida Realtors