NAR: Short sale approval, valuation issues continue to impact housing market

Short sales make up 9% of the market but can be frustrating. New Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac policies should improve the process and help valuations. Read The Full Article

April's new listings rose 3.12%, but more buyers began a search

The bad news: The number of potential homebuyers rose even more, keeping inventory tight in many areas, according to data compiled from realtor.com. Read The Full Article

Loans on Main St. could be impacted by fed choices

Possible regulatory changes can be confusing, but experts at NAR convention say a few upcoming decisions could help - or harm - homebuyers. Read The Full Article

Freddie Mac's streamlined modification debuts early

Most borrowers 90 to 720 days late on a Freddie Mac-owned loan can get an easy mortgage modification. Pay on time for three months and it's permanent. Read The Full Article

Realtors pounding pavement in Washington this week

NAR's Midyear Meetings take place in the U.S. capital through Saturday. More than 9,000 Realtors will meet lawmakers and promote a pro-homeownership agenda. Read The Full Article

Hurricane season kicks in before flood insurance

With a few exceptions, a new applicant for flood insurance won't receive coverage for 30 days, and Florida's hurricane season starts in 19 days - June 1. Read The Full Article

Land trusts band together for liability insurance

Land trusts in 46 states, including Florida, insure members against litigation. Nearly 60% of conservation land trusts are one person or volunteer operations. Read The Full Article

IRA money can be used to fund an investment home

Under Section 408 of the IRS Code, you can invest a tax-sheltered IRA in a future retirement home if you follow specific rules. But don't try this alone. Read The Full Article