Housing starts fell 4.8% as builders struggled to find workers, though the lion’s share of that drop occurred in the multifamily component that dropped 17.1%. Source: Florida Realtors

The Fed will “likely announce next month” the sale of some bonds acquired during the recession – a move that would probably push mortgage rates a tad higher. Source: Florida Realtors

Two institutional investors – businesses that buy multiple single-family homes to rent out – could merge in a $4.3B deal that controls 82,000 U.S. homes. Source: Florida Realtors

Are owners less inclined to sell? The percent who thought it’s a good time hit a record high in Fannie’s June survey – but it dropped a surprising 11% in July. Source: Florida Realtors

The average FRM hit 3.90% this week, down from last week’s 3.93%. The 15-year loan held steady at 3.18%, and the ARM changed little at 3.14%. Source: Florida Realtors

While trouble brewed earlier, the meltdown officially began when a French bank started blocking withdrawals from U.S. mortgage-debt hedge funds. Source: Florida Realtors

For mortgage lenders, it’s about competition. They see rising home prices and more qualified buyers, so they’re easing standards to attract more business. Source: Florida Realtors

What top risk factors threaten real estate? CRE’s annual list of the top 10 also includes technology, generational changes, retail disruption and health care. Source: Florida Realtors

A survey found that 72% of Americans in smart homes want voice control, so Coldwell Banker rolled out a service that offers company news and real estate trends. Source: Florida Realtors

Rates were virtually unchanged, though up a smidgen compared to last week’s 3.92%. For all of last year, the 30-year FRM averaged 3.65%. Source: Florida Realtors