NAR's latest consumer guide demystifies home financing, including different loan types, down payment options, and strategies to reduce buyers' cost burden. Get English and Spanish versions of more than a dozen resources in the "Consumer Guide" series at facts.realtor.

A California broker recommends several points throughout the transaction when you can reinforce your value.

Despite supply challenges, there are ways real estate pros can help local municipalities cut down on red tape when exploring inventory solutions.

While training and education was top of mind this year amid industry changes, company leaders look to reengage agents as part of their community in 2025.

Lydia Fenet, an auctioneer, shares her strategy for ensuring successful negotiations by emphasizing the importance of immediate follow-up. Fenet advises finalizing deal points before leaving the meeting and sending a recap email to all parties involved, an approach that prevents second-guessing and ensures the deal discussed is the one that gets signed.

Holiday decor trends change quickly, but timeless decorations can save money and reduce waste. Interior designers suggest using family heirlooms, white candles, greenery, velvet bows, floral centerpieces, nutcrackers, plaid accents and metallics to create a classic holiday atmosphere that remains stylish year after year.

There was a significant increase in commercial and multifamily mortgage originations in the third quarter of 2024, with a 59% year-over-year surge and a 44% rise from the previous quarter, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Health care and hospitality sectors saw substantial growth in lending, while office properties continued to face challenges, with a 3% decline in originations.

Apple is reportedly planning to launch a wall-mounted display to strengthen its position in the smart home market. The smart display, rumored to be code-named J490, could debut as soon as March, featuring Apple Intelligence and capabilities similar to Amazon Echo Hub and Google Nest Hub.

Increased longevity is reshaping careers, allowing individuals to work well into their 70s and beyond. This extended lifespan offers opportunities for career changes and personal growth. "The 100-year life gives lots of opportunities for younger people," says Ciara Spillane, a lecturer at University College Dublin and founder of Positive Prospects. "Knowing that we are likely to be working for more than 50 years, it allows more time to change careers, pivot to completely new areas and retrain later in life."

The Orlando City Council has approved converting a Best Western hotel into 110 affordable studio apartments. The project, led by Aaron Spahr's SL CAP, aims to provide low-income housing by repurposing existing structures, a cost-effective alternative to new construction.

The economy is "in a good place," and the Federal Reserve is ready to respond no matter where it goes from here, says Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin. Barkin outlined two potential paths for the economy and what they would mean for inflation and employment risks. "The Fed is in position to respond appropriately regardless of how the economy evolves," Barkin says.