In a significant step toward stronger consumer protection, the Senate passed the bipartisan Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, with the House passing a companion bill. The legislation seeks to restrict the widespread and often abusive practice of selling mortgage credit "trigger leads." If signed into law, the act would prevent home buyers from being inundated with unsolicited calls, texts and emails from competing lenders offering loans.

Improving a home's energy efficiency doesn't have to be costly or complicated. NAR's new consumer guide outlines practical steps that may help reduce utility bills, increase comfort and add value when selling. Help your clients understand where to start, what to prioritize and how to find incentives. This guide, along with others, is available in both English and Spanish at facts.realtor.

Rising home prices in the U.S. are prompting consumers to prioritize quality and adaptability in furniture purchases, with demand increasing for modular sofas, extendable tables and multifunctional storage. This trend is particularly prevalent among renters and those frequently relocating, who value furniture that adapts to changing spaces.

Suburbs across the U.S. are experiencing a significant increase in renters as homeownership becomes more unattainable, according to a Point2Homes report. The report notes that 203 suburbs are now majority renters, with Dallas suburbs leading the trend. The shift is driven by high home prices.

Smart-home technology is becoming more accessible and practical, with devices such as virtual assistants, smart lighting, video doorbells, smart locks, thermostats and plugs. A strong Wi-Fi connection is essential for optimal performance, and many smart devices can be retrofitted into existing homes. Smart lighting is energy-efficient, video doorbells enhance security by allowing real-time communication with visitors, and smart locks offer keyless entry with advanced encryption.

The trend of "boomerang employees" -- those who return to work for a previous employer -- is on the rise, making up 35% of new hires in March, up from 31% a year earlier, according to ADP. This resurgence reflects changes in the workforce, including a reduced willingness to relocate, a cooling housing market, and a cautious labor environment that makes returning to a former employer more appealing.

Real estate brokers do more than oversee transactions—they protect agents from liability, maintain the brokerage's reputation, and foster professional growth. Learn how to effectively communicate your value to agents.

AU Associates is leveraging the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to build affordable housing in Kentucky, including Kearney Ridge in Lexington. AU Associates President Johan Graham says the goal is to create communities that are on par with market-rate properties. However, Kentucky Tenants Executive Director Adrian Williams notes that many low-income renters remain cost burdened and unable to access these homes, despite efforts to increase availability.

The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard says the housing affordability crisis in the U.S. is unlikely to improve soon because of high home prices, mortgage rates, insurance premiums and taxes. The report notes home prices are 60% higher than in 2019, and the homeownership rate dropped to 65.1% this year.

U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell told the House Financial Services Committee that the central bank is in position "to wait to learn more about the likely course of the economy before considering any adjustments to our policy stance." U.S. President Donald Trump has called for cuts, but Powell noted that many economists still expect tariffs to create inflationary pressure.