Job gains and hope are “igniting consumer confidence across the country,” per NAR’s latest HOME survey, but fewer renters think it’s a good time to buy. Source: Florida Realtors

A WalletHub study finds Fla. 10th best for total state and local taxes paid, 25th for real estate taxes, and eighth best for the cost of sales and excise taxes. Source: Florida Realtors

More non-bank lenders are now offering FHA loans, and the past-due payment rate rose slightly. Experts disagree on whether that’s good or bad. Source: Florida Realtors

The Fed is expected to raise interest rates next week, nudging the 30-year FRM higher. Most experts (70%) polled this week predict rate increases will continue. Source: Florida Realtors

The U.S. House introduced a healthcare bill this week that changes the current system. NAR is studying the issue to see where it might help or hurt Realtors. Source: Florida Realtors

Be ready for some major demographic housing shifts: Demand will be higher overall, but buyers in their 20s will drop as the number in their 30s and 40s grows. Source: Florida Realtors

Some people complain more than others, but is there a point where criticism turns into harassment? With boards and unit owners, the answer is complicated. Source: Florida Realtors

FRM rates fell again this week, but with the Fed threatening an interest rate hike soon, 70% of experts predict they’ll go higher and none anticipate a decline. Source: Florida Realtors

Naples has the cleanest air in U.S.; Ocala ranks No. 3. Realtor.com study credits Fla.’s ocean breeze and limited industry for an overall lack of air pollution. Source: Florida Realtors

SandP/Case-Shiller: Year-to-year, U.S. home prices rose 5.6%, the fastest pace in 11 months, as homebuyers bid against each other for a limited supply of listings. Source: Florida Realtors