Investment buyers picked up as vacation buyers pulled back. Vacation home trends: More took out a mortgage and more planned to use the home for short-term rentals. Source: Florida Realtors

The national flood program might be in better financial shape if more homeowners knew they needed coverage. A recent study found that 56% do not. Source: Florida Realtors

The title association says it has warned buyers about scammers who steal closing money – but it’s not enough. It’s asking the U.S. consumer bureau to help. Source: Florida Realtors

In 34 states, investment homeowners pay lower effective property tax rates than homesteaded owners, according to an ATTOM study. Source: Florida Realtors

Low interest rates, job growth and a dearth of construction combined to create a prolific office market over the past five years, but some predict a slowdown. Source: Florida Realtors

The 99 reading was the highest since March 2002 and second-highest since 2000 following a Feb. dip. All five components that make up the index increased. Source: Florida Realtors

A new trend popping up is “village” communities. Individual owners agree to work together to build healthy families with adoptive or foster children. Source: Florida Realtors

Two weeks ago, the 30-year FRM hit its highest point of the year, but it dropped again this week to 4.14%. Most experts predict little change over the short term. Source: Florida Realtors

Pending home sales rebounded sharply to the highest level in nearly a year and second-highest in over a decade. “The stock market’s continued rise and steady hiring in most markets is spurring significant interest in buying,” says NAR economist Yun. Source: Florida Realtors

If ROI (return on investment) is applied to taxes, a WalletHub study ranks Fla. third in the nation for the value residents get from the state taxes they pay. Source: Florida Realtors