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RealtorsŪ Report Positive Trends in Commercial Market with Increases in Income, Transactions
WASHINGTON (May 23, 2013) – Realtors® who practice commercial real estate have reported an increase in annual gross income for the third year in a row, signaling the market is on the road to recovery. According to the National Association of Realtors® 2013 Commercial Member Profile, transactions and sales volume have also increased since last year.
The study shows median annual gross income for 2012 was $90,200, an increase from $86,000 in 2011 and is at its highest level since 2008.... Read More
April Existing-Home Sales Up but Constrained
WASHINGTON (May 22, 2013) – Existing-home sales rose in April but remain below underlying demand because of limited inventory and tight credit, according to the National Association of Realtors®. All regions are showing strong price gains from a year ago.
Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-... Read More
Opportunities Abound in Housing Market but Challenges Remain
WASHINGTON (May 17, 2013) – The shape of homeownership and housing markets has changed dramatically over time and will continue to change in the face of new housing opportunities and challenges. That’s according to panelists at the “Challenges and Opportunities in Housing and Homeownership” session today during the Realtors® 2013 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here.
During the session, academics from DePaul University, George Mason University, University of North Carolina and the University of Maryland presented various research and data... Read More
RealtorsŪ Can Increase Their Value by Better Leveraging Technology, Says realtor.comŪ
WASHINGTON (May 16, 2013) – Technology plays a vital role in today’s society and is transforming the way Realtors® do business. That’s according to Curt Beardsley, vice president of product marketing for realtor.com®, who shared his perspective on the growing mobile technology environment at the “Industry, Technology and Vision” forum during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo.
According to data from the 2012 National Association of... Read More Realtors® who specialize in commercial real estate expressed optimism and confidence in the market during a forum at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Despite a slow turning economy, commercial practitioners believe the market is not only better off than it was a year ago, but also will continue to improve. National Association of Realtors® chief economist Lawrence Yun joined several Realtor® commercial practitioners on a panel to... Read More WASHINGTON (May 16, 2013) – Changes are coming to the critically important National Flood Insurance Program that could impact real estate transactions and property owners across the country. That’s according to experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which manages the government’s flood insurance program, who spoke to Realtors® at today’s Flood Insurance 101 session during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Kristin Robinson,... Read More Growth in home sales and prices is contributing to a broader improvement in the overall economy, aided in part by current homeownership tax treatment, according to presentations at a residential real estate forum during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a multiyear housing recovery is likely. “Steady job creation and household formation have been helping to unleash a pent-up demand in the housing market... Read More WASHINGTON (May 15, 2013) – As the real estate market continues to show signs of improvement and consumers grow more optimistic, a young class of Realtors® is ready to embark on a new era of real estate. This year’s Realtor® Magazine “30 Under 30” honorees have not been deterred by a challenging and competitive market. Instead they have developed innovative and groundbreaking skills to create their own pathways to success. “This new generation of Realtors® represents the future of the... Read More WASHINGTON (May 15, 2013) – Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have implemented policies to expedite the short sales process, including new resources to help determine property values, according to panelists at a property valuation forum during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here. Short sales continue to represent a significant portion of the real estate market. According to the National Association of Realtors®, short sales accounted for 9 percent of transactions during... Read More New regulations and future reforms to financial markets will have broad implications for housing, mortgage markets and homeownership. That’s according to industry insiders at the “Regulatory Issues Forum –Will Federal Regulators Shape the Future of Mortgage Finance?” session today during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Jason Gold, senior fellow at Progressive Policy Institute, moderated the session and shared his insights into the current regulatory environment, future reforms... Read More Experts applauded Realtors® for their commitment to keeping housing a top priority for the nation and staying engaged in the debate over future housing policies at today’s Legislative and Political Forum during the Realtors® 2013 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. During the session, Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-Texas) revealed that members of Congress could roll out new housing reform legislation within the next month and that fixing the housing market and economy is extremely important to all Americans, who... Read More WASHINGTON (May 13, 2013) – Realtors® from across the nation will be meeting with regulators, lawmakers and industry leaders in Washington this week to address critical real estate issues affecting individuals, communities, and the nation as the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo begins. More than 9,000 Realtors® and guests are expected to attend the meetings, which will run here through May 18. “Realtors® are leading advocates... Read More WASHINGTON (May 13, 2013) – The business activity and income of Realtors® are up for the second year in a row following nine years of decline, according to the 2013 National Association of Realtors® Member Profile. The study’s results are representative of the nation’s Realtors®; Realtors® are members of NAR and account for about half of the approximately 2 million active real estate licensees in the U.S.* Many non-member licensees are inactive or part time.... Read More WASHINGTON (May 9, 2013) – Metropolitan area median home prices continued to rise in the first quarter, with the national gain showing the best year-over-year performance in over seven years, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. A companion breakout of income requirements to purchase a median-priced home on a metro basis shows the typical buyer earns roughly double the income needed to buy a home in his or her area.... Read More WASHINGTON (May 1, 2013) – The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Gary Thomas: “The National Association of Realtors® commends the Administration on its nomination of Representative Melvin Watt for the position of Federal Housing Finance Agency Director. “The extended conservatorship of government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is one of the most pressing issues facing the housing sector. NAR appreciates the Administration’s recognition that a permanent director is required for the... Read More WASHINGTON (April 29, 2013) - Pending home sales increased in March and remain above year-ago levels, but contract activity in recent months shows only modest movement, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 1.5 percent to 105.7 in March from a downwardly revised 104.1 in February, and is 7.0 percent above March 2012 when it was 98.8. Pending sales have been above year-ago levels for the... Read More WASHINGTON (April 25, 2013) – As Congress pursues comprehensive tax reform it should focus on doing no harm to housing and America’s 75 million homeowners by maintaining current tax laws for homeownership and real estate investment, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today. NAR President Gary Thomas testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee concerning Federal tax provisions that affect residential real estate. Thomas said that homeownership has had long-standing support in the country because of its many benefits to individuals and... Read More WASHINGTON (April 23, 2013) – REALTOR® Magazine and the Good Neighbor Society have announced the recipients of the fifth annual Volunteering Works program, which matches Realtors® who work on small-scale charitable efforts with mentors and awards them grant money. The five winning Realtors® will receive a $1,000 grant and a year of one-on-one mentoring from a member of the Good Neighbor Society, whose members are past recipients of the annual REALTOR® Magazine ... Read More WASHINGTON (April 16, 2013) – Flowers, trees, shrubbery, oh my! Spring is underway and for many it’s time to get outdoors and reconnect with nature. Gardening enthusiasts who want to deepen the shade of their green thumb can find helpful information and how-tos just a click away at the Landscaping and Gardening section of HouseLogic.com, the award-winning, comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of... Read More WASHINGTON (April 22, 2013) - Existing-home sales eased in March from inventory constraints, which continued to pressure home prices, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 0.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.92 million in March from a downwardly revised... Read More WASHINGTON (April 19, 2013)—Despite the digital age, open houses have remained one of the top resources for buyers when it comes to their home search process. This weekend buyers can get a jump on the spring buying season by visiting open houses in their area during Realtor® Nationwide Open House Weekend, organized by state and local Realtor® associations across the country. This Saturday and Sunday, April 20–21, Realtors® will host thousands of open houses, helping to successfully bring together home buyers and sellers. ... Read More WASHINGTON (April 10, 2013) – While the Federal Housing Administration still faces challenges ahead, the agency has already taken a number of significant steps to mitigate risk and increase the solvency and strength of the mortgage-insurance fund. That’s according to National Association of Realtors® President Gary Thomas, who testified today before the U.S. House Financial Services Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity about the future of the FHA. “... Read More WASHINGTON (April 9, 2013) – REach™ today named Treater as the seventh company to join its charter class. REach™ is an Accelerator program developed by Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors® to introduce innovative technology companies to the real estate marketplace. Treater joins BombBomb, Lumentus, Planwise, Reach150, Updater, and Workface, who were named to REach™ last month... Read More WASHINGTON (April 2, 2013) – Vacation home sales improved in 2012, while investment purchases remained elevated for a second consecutive year, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR’s 2013 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey,* covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2012, shows vacation-home sales rose 10.1 percent to 553,000 from 502,000 in 2011. Investment-home sales declined 2.1 percent to 1.21 million from 1.23 million in 2011, but those... Read More WASHINGTON (April 1, 2013) – Technology has transformed the way Realtors® do business, and the National Association of Realtors® is helping members keep up with the latest trends that can enhance business and client relations. NAR Tech Edge, a one-day technology conference hosted by NAR, will give attendees the chance to learn about cutting-edge technologies that are changing the real estate industry. “Technology continues to change the way that Realtors® and the real estate business operate,” said NAR President... Read More WASHINGTON (March 27, 2013) - February pending home sales flattened with limited buyer choices, but remained at the second highest level in nearly three years, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, slipped 0.4 percent to 104.8 in February from a downwardly revised 105.2 in January, but is 8.4 percent higher than February 2012 when it was 96.6. Contract activity has been above year-ago levels... Read More 2013 class will receive mentoring and market advantages from alignment with strategic venture arm of the National Association of Realtors® WASHINGTON (March 26, 2013) – REach™, an accelerator program developed by Second Century Ventures (SCV) , the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors® to introduce innovative technology companies to the real estate marketplace, today named six companies to join its 2013... Read More WASHINGTON (March 21, 2013) - Location, location, location near public transportation may be the new real-estate mantra according to a new study released today by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). Data in the study reveals that during the last recession, residential property values performed 42 percent better on average if they were located near public transportation with high-frequency service. “When homes are located near public transportation, it is the equivalent of creating housing... Read More WASHINGTON (March 21, 2013) - February existing-home sales and prices affirm a healthy recovery is underway in the housing sector, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Sales have been above year-ago levels for 20 consecutive months, while prices show 12 consecutive months of year-over-year price increases. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes,... Read More Purchasing a home is an important life decision, and many factors can influence the home choices buyers make. The National Association of Realtors® 2013 Profile of Buyers’ Home Feature Preferences examines the features buyers prefer when it comes to purchasing a home, as well as the differences in preferences when it comes to factors such as region, demographics and household composition. The survey captures buyers who purchased a home between 2010 and 2012. “Deciding where to live comes with a lot of options, but... Read More Tax season is underway, and homeowners gearing up to meet the April 15 filing deadline can find the tax tips and insights they need at HouseLogic.com, the award-winning comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®. HouseLogic’s “Homeowner’s Guide to Taxes” can help filers take advantage of the tax benefits that come with homeownership while avoiding common home-related tax mistakes. ... Read More Realtors® are leaders in their communities. They help people achieve the dream of homeownership, while also volunteering their time and support to improve the lives of those less fortunate. The National Association of Realtors® recognizes Realtors® who dedicate themselves to volunteer service through REALTOR® Magazine’s Good Neighbor Awards, which is currently accepting applications. This year marks the 14th annual Good Neighbor Awards. Five winners will be announced in the... Read More Since the private mortgage market collapsed, the Federal Housing Administration has played a critical role by helping make mortgage insurance available to millions of qualified home buyers. That is exactly the way Congress designed the mortgage insurance fund to operate when it was established 80 years ago, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today. NAR President Gary Thomas testified before the Senate... Read More Today marks the one-year anniversary of Realtor® University’s Master of Real Estate degree program. The National Association of Realtors® created Realtor® University to help Realtors® bring value to home buyers, sellers and investors. With 50 active students, the program is now one of the largest graduate real estate programs in the world. Students come from 26 states and Canada and range in age from 25 to 70. “The Master of Real Estate degree program has gone a long way toward raising professionalism in real estate and creating the highest... Read More WASHINGTON (February 27, 2013) - Pending home sales rose in January, and have been above year-ago levels for the past 21 months, according to the National Association of Realtors®. There were healthy monthly gains in all regions but the West, which is constrained by limited inventory but was slightly improved. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, increased 4.5 percent to 105.9 in January from a downwardly revised 101.3 in December and is 9.5 percent... Read More WASHINGTON (February 25, 2013) - Major commercial real estate sectors continue to improve, albeit slowly, with gradual economic improvement and job creation driving absorption of space, according to the National Association of Realtors® quarterly commercial real estate forecast. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said rental housing demand has been exceptionally strong. "Rent increases have been higher in multifamily housing where supply is not matching... Read More WASHINGTON (February 21, 2013) - Existing-home sales edged up in January, while a seller's market is developing and home prices continue to rise steadily above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Sales rose in every region but the West, which is the region most constrained by limited inventory. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed... Read More WASHINGTON (February 12, 2013) – It’s hard to get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day when the stuff of everyday home life – like clutter, the need to make minor repairs – surrounds you. But take heart; whether you’re planning a romantic evening at home or simply want your home to be a peaceful retreat throughout the year, HouseLogic.com, the award-winning, comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®, can help you renew and revitalize your home-owner relationship. ... Read More WASHINGTON (February 11, 2013) - A growing number of metropolitan areas had higher median home prices in the fourth quarter, with the national price showing the strongest year-over-year increase in seven years, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. A companion report shows record high housing affordability conditions for metro areas in 2012. The... Read More CHICAGO - Frustrated by continued uncertainty, a sluggish recovery, and a challenging investment environment, investors generally appear eager to put the past behind them and adjust to the new normal, as outlined in Expectations & Market Realities in Real Estate 2013—Turn the Page, a new annual report published jointly by Real Estate Research Corporation (RERC), Deloitte, and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). According to the report, investors appear to realize that this environment will... Read More WASHINGTON (January 29, 2013) – Homeowners looking for the most return on their investment when it comes to remodeling should consider exterior replacement projects. According to the 2013 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, Realtors® rated exterior projects among the most valuable home improvement projects. “Realtors® know that curb appeal projects offer great bang for your... Read More WASHINGTON (January 28, 2013) - Pending home sales declined in December but have stayed above year-ago levels for 20 consecutive months, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, fell 4.3 percent to 101.7 in December from 106.3 in November but is 6.9 percent higher than December 2011 when it was 95.1. The data reflect... Read More WASHINGTON (January 22, 2013) - Existing-home sales eased in December but are well above a year ago, while limited inventory maintained the upward momentum in home prices, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total sales in 2012 were the highest in five years, while the annual price rose the most since 2005. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes,... Read More WASHINGTON (January 16, 2013) – The National Association of Realtors®’ venture capital fund Second Century Ventures has become a strategic investor in Symform, a revolutionary, distributed cloud backup service. “Second Century Ventures was created to help develop and deliver real estate industry technologies to Realtors® so they can best serve their clients and customers,” said Dale Stinton,... Read More CHICAGO (January 15, 2013) – The National Association of Realtors®, along with Second Century Ventures today announced BombBomb, a video email marketing platform, as the first company selected for its REach™ accelerator program. BombBomb’s patented technology is platform independent, meaning that video recorded on any platform can be sent and viewed in any platform. Video has exploded in the online world and been shown to have a positive impact on lead... Read More “The National Association of Realtors® applauds the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for creating a broadly defined Qualified Mortgage rule that establishes strong consumer protections while ensuring continued access to safe, affordable mortgage credit. “NAR forged a coalition of partners that urged regulators to honor Congressional intent by crafting a broad QM and we are pleased that the rule encompasses the vast majority of the safe, high quality lending being done today. We will continue to work closely with the CFPB to ensure that the cap on fees... Read More WASHINGTON (January 9, 2013) - Realtors® work hard to improve communities, often sacrificing their own time and energy for those who are less fortunate. For the past five years, Realtor® Magazine's Good Neighbor Society has helped Realtors® grow and develop their charitable efforts through the Volunteering Works Program. The program, which matches Realtors® who want to expand their community service outreach with a mentor, is now seeking entries. "Realtors® value service and will go the... Read More WASHINGTON (January 9, 2013) - With 11 months of data reported, 2012 will clearly go down as a record year for favorable housing affordability conditions, and a great year for buyers who could get a mortgage, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR's national Housing Affordability Index stood at 198.2 in November, based on the relationship between median home price, median family income and average mortgage... Read More WASHINGTON (January 7, 2013) – Real estate-related searches on Google.com have grown 253 percent over the past four years, according to a joint study from the National Association of Realtors® and Google. “These results parallel the trends shown in NAR’s economic research reports,” said NAR President Gary Thomas, broker-owner of Evergreen Realty in Villa Park, Calif. “As home sales and prices continue to trend up, more people are regaining... Read More WASHINGTON (December 28, 2012) - Pending home sales increased in November for the third straight month and reached the highest level in two-and-a-half years, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 1.7 percent to 106.4 in November from a downwardly revised 104.6 in October and is 9.8 percent above November 2011 when it... Read More WASHINGTON (December 20, 2012) - Existing-home sales continued to improve in November with low inventory supply pressuring home prices, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 5.9 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.04 million in November from a downwardly... Read More WASHINGTON (December 7, 2012) – With the 2012 holiday season in full swing, HouseLogic, the award-winning, comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®, wants to inspire holiday celebrations with a chance to win a $500 gift card in HouseLogic’s “Pin the Season Giveaway” on Pinterest. Now through December 17, HouseLogic visitors can create a seasonal Pinterest pinboard to help ensure a... Read More WASHINGTON (November 29, 2012) - Pending home sales rose strongly in October with mixed regional results, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, increased 5.2 percent to 104.8 in October from an upwardly revised 99.6 in September and is 13.2 percent above October 2011 when it was 92.6. The data reflect contracts but not closings. Lawrence Yun , NAR... Read More WASHINGTON (November 26, 2012) - Most of the major commercial real estate sectors show gradually improving fundamentals and are easily absorbing the relatively small amount of new space that is coming online, with a full recovery already in the multifamily market, according to the National Association of Realtors® quarterly commercial real estate forecast. Lawrence Yun , NAR chief economist, said the market has been slowly building momentum. "Job creation... Read More WASHINGTON (November 20, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® has been recognized with a gold Best in Biz award for its forward looking business practices. The independent business awards program honors companies and executives for their business success and is judged by industry analysts and members of the press. The award for NAR came to Chief Executive Officer Dale Stinton, who was named Executive of the Year in the award’s large organizations category. Over 400 award submissions were received in this year's awards program, from a wide array of public... Read More WASHINGTON (November 19, 2012) - Sales of existing homes increased in October, even with some regional impact from Hurricane Sandy, while home prices continued to rise due to lower levels of inventory supply, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-... Read More ORLANDO (November 12, 2012) – Gary Thomas, a Realtor® in Orange County, Calif., was installed today as 2013 president of the National Association of Realtors® at the association’s Board of Directors meeting during the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo. In 2012, Thomas was NAR president-elect, and he was NAR first vice president in 2011. Thomas has been in the business for more than 35 years, and is broker/owner of Evergreen Realty in Villa... Read More WASHINGTON (November 12, 2012) – Bruce Aydt, a Realtor® from the St. Louis, Mo., area, has received the National Association of Realtors® 2012 Distinguished Service Award. Out of 1 million Realtors®, no more than two are recognized with this award each year. The recipients were announced in Orlando today during NAR’s annual Realtors® Conference and Expo. NAR established the DSA in 1979 to honor Realtors® who have made outstanding contributions to the real estate industry and are recognized as leaders in... Read More WASHINGTON (November 12, 2012) – Paula Savard, a Realtor® from Sterling, Mass., has received the National Association of Realtors® 2012 Distinguished Service Award. Out of 1 million Realtors®, no more than two are recognized with this award each year. The recipients were announced in Orlando during NAR’s annual Realtors® Conference and Expo. NAR established the DSA in 1979 to honor Realtors® who have made outstanding contributions to the real estate industry and are recognized as... Read More ORLANDO (November 11, 2012) – In honor of Veteran’s Day, the National Association of Realtors® thanks and recognizes America’s veterans and active duty military for all that they do to serve and protect our nation’s freedom. Today Realtors® gathered at an educational session during the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo to learn about valuable tools and resources to assist active duty military and veterans with their housing transitions and help them achieve and sustain homeownership. “Realtors® build communities and are proud to... Read More ORLANDO (November 11, 2012) – 2013 will mark the 100th year members of the National Association of Realtors® have subscribed to a strict Code of Ethics. Though the real estate industry itself has evolved over the past century, NAR’s core values and commitment to excellence have remained constant. As members of an association that’s more than a century old, Realtors® bring a wealth of resources to consumers so that they can give their clients the best possible representation during the transaction process. NAR members have access to advanced educational... Read More ORLANDO (November 10, 2012) – All-cash buyers have surged since the housing downturn while the typical amount of time it takes to sell a home is shrinking, revealing the changing dynamics of today’s home buyers and sellers. Academic experts took a closer look at cash buyers and how time-on-market impacts home sales during the “Changing Dynamics of Recent Home Buyers and Sellers” session today at the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo. Funding for the research was provided by the REALTOR® University Center for Real Estate... Read More ORLANDO (November 10, 2012) – As more home buyers, sellers and investors rely on social media and online resources for real estate information, Realtors® understand the importance of engaging in this space. To that end, Realtors® at today’s Raise your Social Media Marketing to the Next Level session at the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo learned strategies to enhance their social business and digital engagement and methods to incorporate new outlets into their marketing mix. “Technology has... Read More ORLANDO (November 10, 2012) – Realtors® know that homeownership matters to individuals, families and communities. That’s one of the reasons they are devoted to keeping the dream of homeownership alive for all Americans. Five Realtors® that demonstrate these qualities and represent the good works of Realtors® everywhere are being recognized as “Realtor® Heroes” at this week’s 2012 Realtor® Conference and Expo in Orlando.... Read More ORLANDO (November 10, 2012) – Dual income households are comprising a greater portion of the housing market and helping sales recover, according to an annual study released today. The 2012 National Association of Realtors® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers continues a long-running series of large national NAR surveys evaluating the demographics, preferences, motivations, plans and experiences of recent home buyers and sellers. The responses are heavily representative of owner-occupants and do not include most investors.... Read More ORLANDO (November 9, 2012) – Despite the residential real estate market showing signs of progress and the economy steadily improving, the commercial market continues to recover at a sluggish pace. However, a positive outlook endures as commercial real estate remains a solid investment, according to National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun at the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo. “The commercial real estate market was an innocent bystander of the housing crisis, and the broad credit tightening has made it much longer for the market to... Read More ORLANDO (November 9, 2012) – What a difference four years makes. The last time Realtors® were in Orlando for the Realtors® Conference and Expo in 2008, foreclosure filings had increased 81 percent over the previous year, home sales had decreased nearly 42 percent from a record high in 2005, and big banking conglomerates were still trying to enter into real estate brokerage and property management. Today, foreclosures are trending down, home sales are trending up, and... Read More ORLANDO (November 9, 2012) – Government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac continue to play a crucial role in the secondary mortgage market and remain focused on supporting the ongoing housing market recovery while laying the groundwork for a better future housing finance system. Realtors® and attendees at the Regulatory Issues Forum – Housing Finance Today and Tomorrow session today during the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo gained insights into today’s secondary mortgage market and the future of housing... Read More ORLANDO (November 9, 2012) - The next few years will be pivotal for the future of homeownership in this country, according to 2013 National Association of Realtors® President Gary Thomas in a news conference today during the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo. "For most of this nation's history, homeownership has been an investment in our collective futures," said Thomas, broker-owner of Evergreen Realty in Villa Park, Calif. "Realtors® know our country faces some... Read More ORLANDO (November 9, 2012) - The housing market recovery should continue through the coming years, assuming there are no further limitations on the availability of mortgage credit or a "fiscal cliff," according to forecast presentations at a residential forum here at the 2012 Realtors® Conference and Expo. Lawrence Yun , chief economist of the National Association of Realtors®, said the housing market clearly turned around in 2012. "Existing-home sales, new-home sales and... Read More ORLANDO (November 8, 2012) – Florida is not only the host state for this year’s Realtors® Conference & Expo; it’s also the fastest growing destination of choice for international buyers, accounting for 26 percent of foreign purchases last year, according to the National Association of Realtors® 2012 Profile of International Home Buying Activity. It’s no surprise, then, that this year’s conference... Read More ORLANDO (November 8, 2012) – Real estate is facing a transformation in the coming years, given the nation’s economic concerns, demographic trends and shifting socio-economic landscape. As Realtors® gather this week for NAR’s annual Realtors® Conference and Expo, they are working to shape that future through the REThink Initiative. “NAR takes its role as a leader in the real estate industry very seriously,” said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc., in... Read More CHICAGO (November 8, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® is announcing REach™, a new type of Accelerator program developed to introduce innovative technology companies to the real estate marketplace. REach™ is being developed through NAR’s strategic venture arm, Second Century Ventures. Companies across the U.S. and internationally can apply online beginning today through January 10, 2013. REach™ accepts companies at... Read More ORLANDO (November 7, 2012) - As leading advocates for homeownership, Realtors® encourage communities that support responsible, sustainable housing. That is why today Realtors® dedicated their time and labor to help construct townhomes for low-income families in Habitat of Greater Orlando Area's multifamily community Stag Horn Villas. Approximately 100 Realtors® volunteered alongside future Habitat Greater Orlando homeowners at the Stag Horn Villas in Orlando to help construct a four-unit building. Volunteers finished the interior framing and siding, and helped build... Read More WASHINGTON (November 7, 2012) - Growth in metropolitan area median home prices increased in the third quarter, and more areas are showing gains, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. The median existing single-family home price rose in 120 out of 149 metropolitan statistical areas1 (MSAs) based on closings in the third quarter compared with same quarter in 2011, while 29 areas had price... Read More WASHINGTON (November 1, 2012) – Today the National Association of Realtors® launched its Realtors Property Resource® application nationwide. All Realtors® will have access to RPR, regardless of multiple listing service status with the site. Members whose MLSs and associations have partnered with RPR will have the benefit of additional functionality with the RPR tools and features, as the addition of local market data provided by their MLS will... Read More WASHINGTON (October 25, 2012) - Pending home sales were little changed in September but remain well above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, edged up 0.3 percent to 99.5 in September from 99.2 in August and is 14.5 percent above September 2011 when it was 86.9. The data reflect contracts but not closings. Lawrence Yun , NAR chief economist,... Read More WASHINGTON (October 23, 2012) – Realtors® work tirelessly to strengthen the communities in which they live and work, as well as improve the lives of their neighbors. For the past 13 years the Good Neighbor Awards program has recognized Realtors® who do just that. The five individuals named as this year’s REALTOR® Magazine Good Neighbor Award winners value service above self and are committed to helping those in need. The 2012 Good Neighbor Awards winners are... Read More WASHINGTON (October 22, 2012) – HouseLogic.com, the award-winning, comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®, is pleased to unveil an original video series chronicling a $20,000 backyard makeover for Allison and Aaron Smith in Santa Maria, Calif. The Smiths were named the winners of the website’s... Read More WASHINGTON (October 19, 2012) - September existing-home sales declined modestly, but inventory continued to tighten and the national median home price recorded its seventh back-to-back monthly increase from a year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes,... Read More All released at 10:00 a.m. ET. This schedule is also available in .pdf format. January 22 December Existing-Home Sales January 28 December Pending Home Sales Index WASHINGTON (October 10, 2012) – As leading advocates for housing issues, Realtors® work hard to address the shortage of affordable housing for public and private sector workers in communities across the country. To raise awareness of this critical issue, the National Association of Realtors® will host a national forum today in Chicago focusing on the housing needs of working families. Bring Workers Home, a daylong forum addressing workforce housing, will bring together federal and local government officials, Realtors®, business leaders, financial... Read More WASHINGTON (October 10, 2012) – The real estate market is recovering but still faces hurdles, notably from tight mortgage credit, but problems with a sizeable share of real estate appraisals also are holding back home sales, according to survey findings by the National Association of Realtors®. Most appraisers are competent and provide good valuations that are compliant with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. However, appraisals generally lag market conditions... Read More WASHINGTON (October 5, 2012) – When working with a real estate professional, home buyers and sellers count on their agent to be accessible and easy to reach any time of day. The National Association of Realtors® is making this even easier for its members through a new collaboration with Sprint through the REALTOR Benefits® Program, which provides members with significant savings on wireless phone service plans. Through the new Sprint discount program, NAR members save 18 percent on select wireless monthly service plans and 20 percent on select accessories for use with... Read More WASHINGTON (September 27, 2012) - After reaching a two-year peak, pending home sales fell in August but are at elevated levels compared with a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, declined 2.6 percent to 99.2 in August from an upwardly revised 101.9 in July but is 10.7 percent above August 2011 when it was 89.6. The data reflect contracts... Read More Thirty-year mortgage rates recently fell below 4 percent for the first time in history. But that’s not the only good news for home buyers. Monthly mortgage payments are also at record lows. A home buyer purchasing a typical American home at current average rates would have a mortgage payment of just $698 a month, similar to payments buyers would have faced 30 years ago. Home prices were considerably lower in 1981, but mortgage rates were a staggering 18 percent. Today’s prices are higher, but... Read More WASHINGTON (September 24, 2012) – HouseLogic.com, a comprehensive website about all aspects of homeownership from the National Association of Realtors®, has won Content Marketing Institute’s (CMI) 2012 Content Marketing Orange Award for the Content Marketing “Program of the Year” in the online channel. The Orange Awards are presented to the best examples of content marketing projects, content marketing professionals and content marketing agency innovation. “We are honored to receive such a prestigious distinction... Read More WASHINGTON (September 19, 2012) - Existing-home sales continued to improve in August and the national median price rose on a year-over-year basis for the sixth straight month, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales 1 , which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 7.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.82 million in August from 4.47 million in July, and are... Read More WASHINGTON (September 17, 2012) – New survey findings, combined with an analysis of historic credit scores and loan performance, show home sales could be notably higher by returning to reasonably safe and sound lending standards, which also would create new jobs, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said there would be enormous benefits to the U.S. economy if mortgage lending conditions return to normal. “Sensible... Read More WASHINGTON (September 11, 2012) – American businesses rely upon the availability and affordability of terrorism risk insurance and it’s a vital component of most commercial real estate transactions, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today. NAR’s 2012 Commercial Committee Vice Chair Linda St. Peter spoke before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity on the 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks about the future of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. TRIA is a federal terrorism... Read More WASHINGTON (September 5, 2012) – A new measure shows the typical amount of time it takes to sell a home is shrinking, and for traditional sellers is now in the range of historic norms for a balanced market, well below the cyclical peak reached in 2009, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The median time a home was listed for sale on the market1 was 69 days in July, down 29.6 percent from 98 days in July 2011. The median reflects a wide spectrum; one-third of homes purchased in July were on the market for... Read More WASHINGTON (August 31, 2012) - It’s that time of year again! The dog days of summer are drawing to a close with fall just around the corner. Many families are turning their attention towards one of the most important parts of their entire year, sending their kids back to school. For many families, school and home are inextricably connected. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors® 2011 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers Survey, the quality of the school district and convenience to schools was an important... Read More WASHINGTON (August 29, 2012) – Realtors® are the backbone of their communities, often supporting local causes large and small, and volunteering their time to help improve the communities in which they live. The National Association of Realtors® recognized 10 such Realtors® today as finalists for REALTOR® Magazine’s 2012 Good Neighbor Awards. This year marks the 13th year the Good Neighbor Awards program has recognized Realtors® who improve the quality of life in their communities through volunteer work. The Realtors® acknowledged by this... Read More WASHINGTON (August 29, 2012) - Pending home sales rose in July to the highest level in over two years and remain well above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 2.4 percent to 101.7 in July from 99.3 in June and is 12.4 percent above July 2011 when it was 90.5. The data reflect contracts but not closings.... Read More WASHINGTON (August 28, 2012) – Realtors® help people achieve the dream of homeownership, but are often also homeowners themselves. A new offer through the REALTOR Benefits® Program will help members of the National Association of Realtors® who own homes prolong the life of their air conditioning and heating systems. American Home Shield, a long-time participant in NAR’s REALTOR Benefits® Program, is offering Realtors® a $30 discount on the purchase of an AHS® Heating and Air Conditioning Preventative Maintenance... Read More WASHINGTON (August 27, 2012) – Positive underlying fundamentals continue to support all of the major commercial real estate sectors, but a slowdown in job creation and ongoing tight loan availability has tempered growth in some areas, according to the National Association of Realtors® quarterly commercial real estate forecast. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said there are mixed results among the commercial sectors. “Job creation in the second quarter was... Read More WASHINGTON (August 21, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® applauds the Federal Housing Finance Agency for working with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to issue new guidelines that expand eligibility criteria and streamline the short sale process. The new guidelines would offer a more streamlined short sale approach for homeowners most in need, as well as enable lenders to quickly and easily qualify certain homeowners for a short sale who are current on their mortgage payments, yet suffer from specific hardships such as job relocation, increase in housing expenses,... Read More WASHINGTON (August 22, 2012) – Sales of existing homes rose in July even with constraints of affordable inventory, and the national median price is showing five consecutive months of year-over-year increases, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Monthly sales rose in every region but the West, where inventory is very tight. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed... Read More WASHINGTON (August 9, 2012) – Median existing single-family home prices are rising in more metropolitan areas, but a lack of inventory – notably in lower price ranges – is limiting buyer choices in an increasing number of markets around the country, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. The median existing single-family home price rose in 110 out of 147 metropolitan statistical... Read More WASHINGTON (August 6, 2012) – On August 1, Realtors® Federal Credit Union merged with Northwest Federal Credit Union to better serve its members. Members of the Realtors® Federal Credit Union, now a division of Northwest Federal Credit Union, have greater access to service centers, financial loans, banking services and much more. “As the fastest growing credit union in the country last year, the Credit Union proved to be a crucial business advantage for Realtors®,” said Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi... Read More WASHINGTON (July 31, 2012) – HouseLogic.com, the award-winning, comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®, is pleased to announce the six finalists in the website’s “Boost Your Roost” contest. Boost Your Roost gives homeowners a chance to win a $20,000 home renovation and star in original web videos this fall,... Read More WASHINGTON (July 26, 2012) – Pending home sales declined in June but marked 14 consecutive months of year-over-year gains, according to the National Association of Realtors® The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, slipped 1.4 percent to 99.3 in June from a downwardly revised 100.7 in May but is 9.5 percent higher than June 2011 when it was 90.7. The data... Read More WASHINGTON (July 19, 2012) - A proposed bill may soon help speed up the approval process for homeowners selling their home through short sale by requiring subordinate lien holders to review and respond to short sale requests within 45 days. "As the leading advocate for homeownership, Realtors® know that issues and delays with secondary lien holder... Read More WASHINGTON (July 19, 2012) - Existing-home prices continued to show gains but sales fell in June with tight supplies of affordable homes limiting first-time buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 5.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted... Read More WASHINGTON (July 11, 2012) - The National Association of Realtors® today urged Congress and the Administration to develop a broadly defined Qualified Mortgage (QM) regulation. The QM regulation is designed to ensure that lenders only make loans to borrowers who have the ability to repay the loan. If the QM regulation is too narrowly defined it could threaten the burgeoning housing and economic recovery by denying creditworthy borrowers access to safe, quality loan products, said NAR's 2012 Vice President and Liaison to Government Affairs Scott... Read More WASHINGTON (July 6, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® applauds Congress for passing a five-year reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 was passed late last week as part of a transportation funding bill and signed into law by the president today. The legislation extends NFIP authority through September 30, 2017. “As the nation’s leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, we are pleased that Congress has approved a long-term... Read More WASHINGTON (June 29, 2012) - As Florida residents clean up in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, many more Americans can anticipate flooding and damage during this year's hurricane season. HouseLogic.com, the award-winning comprehensive website for home owners from the National Association of Realtors®, offers valuable resources and information to help residents clean up after floods. WASHINGTON (June 28, 2012) – Developing and reporting property values more accurately is critical to improving market performance, reducing risk and strengthening the housing finance system, according to the National Association of Realtors®. That was the message delivered today by Frank Gregoire, immediate past chair of NAR’s Real Property Valuation Committee, in testimony before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community... Read More WASHINGTON (June 27, 2012) - As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day next week, thousands of them will flock to places like Mount Vernon, Monticello and Peacefield to learn and understand more about our country's history and the men and women who shaped its future. The homes of founding fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were more than shelter; they were places of respite, reflection and inspiration. "Homeownership is an investment in our future, but it's also a gateway to our past," said NAR President... Read More WASHINGTON (June 27, 2012) – Pending home sales bounced back in May, matching the highest level in the past two years, and are well above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Both monthly and annual gains were seen in every region. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 5.9 percent to 101.1 in May from 95.5 in April and is 13.3 percent above May 2011 when it was 89.2. The data reflect contracts but... Read More WASHINGTON (June 22, 2012) - HouseLogic.com, the award-winning comprehensive website for home owners from the National Association of Realtors®, is conducting a contest offering a chance to win a home renovation valued at $20,000 to make home sweet home that much sweeter. Today through July 16, homeowners are invited to submit renovation project ideas to the "Boost Your Roost" contest to be considered for the... Read More WASHINGTON (June 21, 2012) - Limited supplies of housing inventory held back existing-home sales in May, but sales maintained a strong lead over year-ago levels and home prices are on a sustained uptrend in all regions, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 1.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.... Read More WASHINGTON (June 19, 2012) – Yesterday the National Association of Realtors® was recognized with two gold Stevie Awards at the 10th Annual American Business Awards. The Home Ownership Matters Campaign won for Communications or PR Campaign of the Year in the Public Affairs category, and NAR’s Chief Executive Officer Dale Stinton won for Executive of the Year in the Real Estate category. “Receiving these awards underscores everything NAR does to support our Realtor® members and ensure opportunities for homeownership and real... Read More WASHINGTON (June 12, 2012) - Home buyers, sellers and investors may soon find it easier to locate trusted and valued real estate information, resources and services online. The National Association of Realtors®, through its wholly owned subsidiary, the Realtors® Information Network (RIN), has applied for the branded .Realtor top-level domain (TLD) as an alternative to the familiar and commonly used .com or .org. Applications have also been submitted for .realestate and .home. "As the leading advocate for America's home... Read More WASHINGTON (June 11, 2012) – Due to low prices and the relative weakness of the dollar, international buyers continue to identify the U.S. as a desirable place to own property and make a profitable investment. According to the National Association of Realtors® 2012 Profile of International Home Buying Activity, total residential international sales in the U.S. for the past year ending March 2012 equaled $82.5 billion, up from $66.4 billion in 2011. Total international sales were evenly... Read More WASHINGTON (May 30, 2012) - Pending home sales retrenched in April following three consecutive monthly gains, but are notably higher than a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, declined 5.5 percent to 95.5 from a downwardly revised 101.1 in March but is 14.4 percent above April 2011 when it was 83.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings.... Read More WASHINGTON (May 29, 2012) - Realtors® build communities in part by dedicating their time and resources to improving the lives of their neighbors as well as others across the country. Volunteering Works, an annual program that matches Realtors® who work on small-scale charitable efforts with mentors and awards them seed money, helps Realtors® expand their reach within their communities. The program recently announced this year's recipients. Each of the five winning Realtors® will receive a $1,000 grant and a year of one-on-one mentoring from a member of the Good... Read More WASHINGTON (May 29, 2012) - Technology has transformed the way Realtors® do business, and the National Association of Realtors® is helping members keep up with the latest trends that can enhance business and client relations. NAR Tech Edge, a new one-day technology conference hosted by NAR, will give attendees the chance to learn about cutting edge technologies that are changing the real estate industry. "Technology is increasingly important for Realtors® and their business," said NAR... Read More WASHINGTON (May 24, 2012) - A proposed bill to streamline and align the refinance processes of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may soon make it easier for homeowners who are current on their mortgage payments but who have been previously unable to refinance to finally take advantage of record low interest rates. NAR President Moe Veissi testified today before the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee in support of the "The Responsible Homeowner Refinancing Act of 2012," introduced in... Read More WASHINGTON (May 24, 2012) - Shaking off a prolonged impact from the recession, fundamentals are gradually improving in all of the major commercial real estate sectors, according to the National Association of Realtors® quarterly commercial real estate forecast. The apartment rental sector has fully recovered and is growing. The findings also are confirmed in NAR's recent quarterly Commercial Real Estate Market Survey, which... Read More WASHINGTON (May 23, 2012) - Realtors® specializing in commercial real estate reported an increase in transactions in 2011, as well as a rise in their median gross annual income, according to the 2012 National Association of Realtors® Commercial Member Profile. WASHINGTON (May 22, 2012) – Existing-home sales rose in April and remain above a year ago, while home prices continued to rise, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The improvements in sales and prices were broad based across all regions. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased 3.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted... Read More WASHINGTON (May 21, 2012) – HouseLogic.com, the award-winning comprehensive website for homeowners from the National Association of Realtors®, launches its next online sweepstakes Monday, May 21, and site visitors could win a $100 Visa gift card. Readers who comment on a special blog series, the “Drafty House Rehab,” will have a chance to win one of four available gift cards. The giveaway,... Read More WASHINGTON (May 21, 2012) - Realtors® Federal Credit Union members now have access to expanded financial and banking resources as a result of a merger with Northwest Federal Credit Union. "The National Association of Realtors® is a Realtor's® business advantage," said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc., in Miami. "This credit union merger helps us continue to provide products and services that meet the specific needs of... Read More WASHINGTON (May 18, 2012) - The next two decades in housing markets depends largely on the Echo Boomers. That's according to panelists at the "Shifting Demographics and Housing Choice: A Whole New World?" session today during the Realtors® 2012 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here. There are approximately 62 million echo boomers in the U.S. Also called "millennials," echo boomers are currently ages 17-31. According to the 2011 National Association of Realtors® Profile of Home Buyers and... Read More WASHINGTON (May 18, 2012) – A panel of Realtors® provided keen insight into what it takes to launch successful workforce housing initiatives during the Housing Opportunities Forum – Ideas in Action at the Realtor® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C. “Realtors® build communities, and they understand the needs of those who live and work in those communities,” said National Association of Realtors® President... Read More WASHINGTON (May 17, 2012) - National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun presented a modest and hopeful outlook for the commercial real estate market during the Economic Issues and Commercial Business Trends Forum at the Realtor® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C. today. “The commercial market has displayed modest growth lately,” said Yun. “Commercial real estate is the basis for much of the growth in the American economy, however... Read More WASHINGTON (May 17, 2012) - Positive underlying economic factors are helping relieve a pent-up housing demand, according to a presentation at a residential real estate forum at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here. National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said there are many improving factors that are helping home sales. "Historically high housing affordability conditions, ongoing job creation, a solid stock market recovery, rising rents, a larger pool of qualified renters, a pent-up... Read More WASHINGTON (May 17, 2012) - An estimated 15,000 Realtors® converged on the grounds of the Washington Monument today to make their voices heard on behalf of homeowners, real estate investors, and those who aspire to homeownership. At the Rally to Protect the American Dream, Realtors® from every state in the country joined invited members of Congress to demonstrate their commitment to preserving access to homeownership and robust real estate investment. "Realtors® know that homeownership is an investment in... Read More WASHINGTON (May 16, 2012) - Today's real estate market is challenging and competitive, but this year's REALTOR® Magazine "30 Under 30" honorees haven't let that deter them. The 2012 class is following in the strong entrepreneurial tradition of real estate, creating their own pathways to success. "I am always astonished to see the "30 Under 30" professionals every year and all that they have achieved in such a short amount of time," said National Association of Realtors... Read More WASHINGTON (May 16, 2012) – The future of housing finance in the U.S. will be a key issue facing the winner of the upcoming presidential election. That’s what a panel of industry experts told several thousand Realtors® gathered at a symposium, Housing Policy in 2013: Challenges, Opportunities and Solutions, during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. The National Association of Realtors® supports a comprehensive reform strategy for the secondary mortgage market to help maintain a... Read More WASHINGTON (May 15, 2012) - Housing and the economic recovery will play a large part in deciding the outcome of the 2012 presidential election, according to public policy experts at today's Legislative and Political Forum during the Realtors® 2012 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele, leading Democratic strategist Celinda Lake, and National Economic Council Director Gene Sperling provided their unique insights into issues affecting the long-term direction of the... Read More WASHINGTON (May 15, 2012) - A sustainable housing recovery requires that policymakers move forward with the difficult decisions regarding the future of the mortgage market. That's according to Federal Reserve Board Governor Elizabeth Duke, who spoke to Realtors® at a joint Real Estate Services and Regulatory Issues Forum—Prescriptions for Housing Recovery session today during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. Governor Duke said that it will not be easy to decide what to do about the... Read More WASHINGTON (May 15, 2012) – Housing affordability conditions for all buyers reached a milestone in the first quarter, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR's composite quarterly Housing Affordability Index* rose to a record high of 205.9 in first quarter, based on the relationship between median home price, median family income and average mortgage interest rate. The higher the index, the greater the household purchasing power. This is the first time the quarterly... Read More WASHINGTON (May 14, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® announced today a strategic alliance with Xceligent, Inc., a leading commercial real estate information services provider. Xceligent recently acquired ePropertyData from NAR’s strategic investment fund, Second Century Ventures, to create a competitive national alternative in commercial real estate information. As part of the REALTOR Benefits® Program, Xceligent will be the exclusive provider of commercial real estate information services, including Xceligent’s flagship Premium Research... Read More WASHINGTON (May 14, 2012) - Realtors® from across the country are meeting with legislators, public policy makers and industry leaders this week to address pressing concerns and issues that affect homeowners, aspiring homeowners and real estate investors everywhere as the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo begins. "As leading advocates for homeownership, housing issues and private property rights, Realtors® come to Washington this week ready to engage on a number of pressing issues," said National Association of Realtors® President Moe... Read More WASHINGTON (May 14, 2012) – The income and business of Realtors® is growing after many years of decline, according to the 2012 National Association of Realtors® Member Profile. The study’s results are representative of the nation’s Realtors®, who are members of NAR. Realtors® account for about half of the 2 million active real estate licensees in the U.S.* Realtor® members go beyond state licensing requirements by subscribing to NAR’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, commit to continuing education and... Read More WASHINGTON (May 10, 2012) - Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®, has sold ePropertyData (ePD) to Xceligent to create a competitive national alternative in commercial real estate information. Xceligent will leverage ePD’s commercial information exchange (CIE) solution to help expand its existing coverage of fully researched commercial real estate information into the largest U.S. markets. ePD provides commercial... Read More WASHINGTON (May 10, 2012) – Realtor® Magazine, an online and print publication of the National Association of Realtors®, has received three awards for Media Innovation from the Association Media & Publishing EXCEL Awards. The EXCEL Awards honor the best and brightest in association media and publishing. “NAR is Realtors®’ business advantage, and Realtor® Magazine is just one example of the myriad resources and information NAR provides for its members,” said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner... Read More WASHINGTON (May 9, 2012) - A long-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) before the current temporary extension expires on May 31, is critical to provide certainty and avoid further disruptions in real estate markets. That was the message delivered today by National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi before the Senate Banking Subcommittee on Economic Policy about the need for long-term NFIP reauthorization and reform. “As the leading advocate for housing issues, NAR knows that long-term reauthorization... Read More WASHINGTON (May 9, 2012) – Median existing single-family home prices are firming in many metropolitan areas, while improving sales and declining inventory are creating more balanced conditions, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. The median existing single-family home price rose in 74 out of 146 metropolitan statistical areas1 (MSAs) based on closings in the first quarter from the same quarter in 2011, while 72 areas had price declines. In... Read More WASHINGTON (May 3, 2012) - Although commercial real estate markets showed signs of recovery in 2011, commercial lending standards have tightened in the past year for small businesses and scuttled a major portion of contracted transactions for smaller properties, according to the National Association of Realtors® annual Commercial Real Estate 2012 Lending Survey. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said there is a significant split in commercial lending depending on value. "This is very much a tale of two markets. There have been notable improvements in capital for large... Read More WASHINGTON (May 1, 2012) - The National Association of Realtors® has awarded grants totaling more than $60,000 to 19 state and local Realtor® associations through the Housing Opportunity Program. The HOP grants program is a national effort designed to promote and expand affordable housing opportunities in communities across the nation. “Realtors® are leaders in creating housing opportunities and these grants further our actions toward making housing affordable for all who are willing and able to become homeowners,”... Read More WASHINGTON (April 27, 2012) – Six teams of middle school students participating in the annual School of the Future Design Competition were in Washington, D.C., this week displaying their plans to design environmentally responsive schools that enhance learning and engage the surrounding community. The competition encourages students from all over the world to work in teams to plan and design a school that will improve the learning environment and the facility’s energy efficiency, as well as be sensitive to the environment. This year’s winners were announced last night... Read More WASHINGTON (April 26, 2012) – Pending home sales increased in March and are well above a year ago, another signal the housing market is recovering, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 4.1 percent to 101.4 in March from an upwardly revised 97.4 in February and is 12.8 percent above March 2011 when it was 89.9. The data reflects contracts but not closings. The index is now at... Read More WASHINGTON (April 23, 2012) - Spring is the season of fresh starts, and for many homeowners that means it's time to clear the clutter and clean up, inside and out of the home. To help people get into the spring cleaning spirit, HouseLogic is launching a "Spring Cleaning Pinaway" sweepstakes and giveaway on Pinterest, giving entrants a chance to win one of two iPod Touches™. Registered users of HouseLogic, the award-winning site from the... Read More WASHINGTON (April 23, 2012) - The National Association of Realtors® is joining forces once again with the U.S. Department of the Treasury to offer aid to homeowners who are struggling to keep their homes and avoid foreclosure and to help Realtors® better assist clients through the short sale process. At a Making Home Affordable "Help for Homeowners" outreach event today in Chicago, Realtors® and homeowners will gain valuable insights and information about short sales and have the opportunity to meet directly with... Read More WASHINGTON (April 19, 2012) – Existing-home sales were down in March but continue to outpace year-ago levels, while inventory tightened and home prices are showing further signs of stabilizing, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 2.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of... Read More WASHINGTON (April 18, 2012) – The National Association of Realtors® applauds the Federal Housing Finance Agency for issuing new guidance requiring servicers of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans to speed responses to short sale requests. The guidelines would require servicers to acknowledge receipt of short sale purchase offers within three business days; respond to short sale requests within 30 days (with a possible 30-day extension); and make a final decision within 60 days of receiving purchase offers. “As the leading advocate for housing and homeownership,... Read More WASHINGTON (April 16, 2012) - A narrow definition of the impending Ability to Repay regulation could harm consumers and the housing market recovery, according to the National Association of Realtors®. In a letter sent today to Richard Cordray, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, NAR joined a broad coalition of lenders, investors, housing professionals, consumer advocates and civil rights groups to urge for a broadly defined Qualified Mortgage (QM) that covers a wide range of... Read More WASHINGTON (April 10, 2012) –With the April 17 tax deadline one week away, many individuals and families still have time to take advantage of the valuable tax benefits homeownership affords. The National Association of Realtors® consumer website, HouseLogic.com, can help. “Our government encourages homeownership because it benefits families, communities, and our nation’s economy; homeownership is an investment in our collective futures,” said NAR President... Read More
WASHINGTON (April 2, 2012) – As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, the National Association of Realtors® will join the nation in honoring Fair Housing Month this April.
This year marks the 44th anniversary of the 1968 landmark Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap. NAR also supports equal opportunity on the basis of sexual orientation, incorporating that support into the Realtor® Code of Ethics. ... Read More WASHINGTON (March 29, 2012) – Sales of investment and vacation homes* jumped in 2011, with the combined market share rising to the highest level since 2005, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR’s 2012 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2011, shows investment-home sales surged an extraordinary 64.5 percent to 1.23 million last year from 749,000 in 2010. Vacation-home sales rose 7.0 percent to 502,000 in 2011 from 469,000 in 2010. Owner-occupied purchases fell 15.5 percent to 2.78 million.... Read More WASHINGTON (March 29, 2012) – Sales of investment and vacation homes* jumped in 2011, with the combined market share rising to the highest level since 2005, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR’s 2012 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2011, shows investment-home sales surged an extraordinary 64.5 percent to 1.23 million last year from 749,000 in 2010. Vacation-home sales rose 7.0 percent to 502,000 in 2011 from 469,000 in 2010. Owner-occupied purchases fell 15.5 percent to 2.78 million.... Read More WASHINGTON (March 29, 2012) - Pending home sales were down slightly in February but remain notably above the pattern in the first half of last year, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, eased 0.5 percent to 96.5 in February from 97.0 in January but is 9.2 percent above February 2011 when it was 88.4. The data reflects contracts but not closings. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said we’re... Read More WASHINGTON (May 29, 2012) - Investment home purchases represented nearly one-third of all existing-home sales last year, according to a National Association of Realtors® report on second homes released today. This robust investment activity underscores the importance of limiting the government’s use of real estate owned (REO) bulk sales, as NAR recommended in a letter sent to regulators this week. The... Read More WASHINGTON (March 21, 2012) - February existing-home sales declined from an upwardly revised January pace but are well above a year ago, while the median price posted a slight gain, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Sales were up in the Midwest and South, offset by declines in the Northeast and West. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, slipped 0.9 percent to a... Read More WASHINGTON (March 16, 2012) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi: “As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, NAR applauds the Federal Housing Finance Agency for issuing a final rule to restrict Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks from investing in mortgages encumbered by private transfer fee covenants. “NAR has long been vocal in its opposition to private transfer fees since there is virtually no oversight on where or how fee proceeds can be spent, on how long a... Read More WASHINGTON (March 13, 2012) - Aging baby boomers and their echo boomer children will significantly impact trends in the nation’s housing market over the next 20 years. In a new report released by the Bipartisan Policy Center, “Demographic Challenges and Opportunities for U.S. Housing Markets,” researchers at the National Association of Realtors®, The Urban Institute, and the University of Southern California analyze key demographic trends and... Read More WASHINGTON (March 8, 2012) - The National Association of Realtors® has won a challenge to the use of its trademark Realtor® in a domain name operated by a former member. NAR rules allow members to use its trademark Realtor® in domain names according to specific requirements and rules. After extensive but unsuccessful efforts by NAR to persuade the operator of the website GayRealtor.com to comply with those rules, NAR challenged the use of that domain name in an administrative proceeding before the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the body that... Read More WASHINGTON (March 6, 2012) - Housing affordability conditions have reached the highest level since recordkeeping began in 1970, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR’s Housing Affordability Index rose to a record high 206.1 in January, based on the relationship between median home price, median family income and average mortgage interest rate. The higher the index, the greater the household purchasing power. An index of 100 is defined as the point where a median-income household has exactly enough income to qualify for the purchase of a median-... Read More WASHINGTON (March 1, 2012) - Housing markets are complex and varied, and a government pilot program to turn bank-owned properties into rentals could be disruptive and counterproductive in some markets, according to the National Association of Realtors®. NAR urges the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to proceed cautiously with its Real Estate-Owned (REO) Initiative pilot program to sell homes repossessed by government agencies to private investors to convert into rental units. “As the nation’s leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, Realtors... Read More WASHINGTON (February 28, 2012) - Realtors® work hard to help people buy and sell homes, while also dedicating their time and efforts to improve the quality of life in communities across the country. The National Association of Realtors® recognizes these Realtors® who devote themselves to volunteer service through REALTOR® Magazine’s Good Neighbor Awards, which is currently accepting applications. Five winners will be announced in the November/December issue of REALTOR® Magazine. Each winner will be recognized at the 2012 REALTORS... Read More WASHINGTON (February 27, 2012) - Pending home sales are on an upward trend, which has been uneven but meaningful since reaching a cyclical low last April, and are well above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 2.0 percent to 97.0 in January from a downwardly revised 95.1 in December and is 8.0 percent higher than January 2011 when it was 89.8. The data reflects contracts but not closings. The January index is the... Read More WASHINGTON (February 24, 2012) - According to the National Association of Realtors® quarterly commercial real estate forecast, all of the major commercial real estate sectors are seeing improved fundamentals, but multifamily housing is becoming a landlord’s market commanding bigger rent increases. These trends also are confirmed in NAR’s recent quarterly Commercial Real Estate Market Survey. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said vacancy rates are improving in... Read More WASHINGTON (February 22, 2012) - A new National Association of Realtors® collaboration with the U.S. Department of the Treasury will help Realtors® better assist homeowners who are struggling to sell their homes in a short sale. Realtors® who attend upcoming Making Home Affordable “Help for Homeowners” outreach events, sponsored by the Treasury Department, will learn insights to help them navigate the short sale process and have the opportunity to meet directly with loan servicers on their clients’ behalf for assistance with difficult transactions.... Read More WASHINGTON (February 22, 2012) - Existing-home sales rose in January, marking three gains in the past four months, while inventories continued to improve, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased 4.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.57 million in January from a downwardly revised 4.38 million-unit pace in December and... Read More WASHINGTON (February 13, 2012) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi: “As the leading advocate for housing and homeownership, NAR is strongly opposed to elements of President Obama’s budget proposal that would limit itemized deductions, including the mortgage interest deduction, for thousands of families. “NAR firmly believes that the mortgage interest deduction is vital to the stability of the American housing market and economy. We urge the president and Congress to do no harm. ... Read More WASHINGTON (February 9, 2012) - Housing affordability conditions improved in most metropolitan areas from softer existing-home prices and record-low mortgage interest rates in the fourth quarter, with rising sales and lower inventory creating more balanced conditions, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®. Introduced with this release is a new annual metro-level housing affordability index, with historically favorable conditions dominating across the country. The median... Read More CHICAGO (February 8, 2012) - REALTOR® University now offers a Master of Real Estate degree for real estate professionals who are interested in expanding their education to advance their career and improve their business. Recently granted operating and degree authority by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, REALTOR® University was established by the National Association of Realtors®. “The Master of Real Estate Degree program will go a long way toward raising professionalism in real estate and creating the highest standard of competency in the industry,... Read More
WASHINGTON (February 2, 2012) – The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi:
“NAR appreciates remarks made by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke in support of homeowners and the struggling housing market in testimony today before the House Budget Committee.
“We fully support Chairman Bernanke’s comments that the lack of available and affordable mortgage financing, low home values and high foreclosure inventories are inhibiting a meaningful housing market recovery. His remarks coupled with... Read More WASHINGTON (February 1, 2012) - The National Association of Realtors® commends President Obama for pledging to assist homeowners and the struggling housing market, because restoring the health of the housing market is critical for the nation’s economic recovery. “As the nation’s leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, NAR knows that stabilizing the housing market is key to the health of our economy and communities across the country,” said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc... Read More WASHINGTON (January 25, 2012) - After reaching a 19-month high, pending home sales eased in December but stayed above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, declined 3.5 percent to 96.6 in December from 100.1 in November but is 5.6 percent above December 2010 when it was 91.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the trend line remains... Read More WASHINGTON (January 4, 2012) - The following is a statement by NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® President Moe Veissi: “The National Association of Realtors® commends President Obama for his remarks in support of homeowners and the struggling housing market during tonight’s State of the Union address. As leading advocates for homeownership, REALTORS® know that restoring the health of the housing market is the only way to achieve a broader economic recovery. “REALTORS® stand ready to help Congress and the administration implement Obama... Read More WASHINGTON (January 23, 2012) - HouseLogic.com, a comprehensive website about all aspects of homeownership from the National Association of Realtors®, has launched a new online sweepstakes. Readers who leave comments on a blog featured at the site will have a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card. The sweepstakes is part of a special do-it-yourself blog series, “Water-Wise Bathroom Redo.... Read More WASHINGTON (January 20, 2012) - Existing-home sales continued on an uptrend in December, rising for three consecutive months and remaining above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The latest monthly data shows total existing-home sales1 rose 5.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.61 million in December from a downwardly revised 4.39 million in November, and are 3.6 percent higher than the 4.45 million-unit level in December 2010. The... Read More WASHINGTON (January 17, 2012) - Since it opened in May 2009, the REALTORS® Federal Credit Union has become a significant benefit among National Association of Realtor® members, offering a diverse portfolio of services and products. Since then, REALTORS® FCU has experienced unprecedented growth in membership. Most recently, REALTORS® FCU was rated as the fastest growing credit union in the country by Callahan & Associates, a leading credit union information source. REALTORS® FCU ranked number one in organic membership growth which neared 25 percent... Read More What: The National Association of REALTORS®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1 million members, including NAR’s institutes, societies and councils, involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. Who: Our membership is composed of residential and commercial REALTORS®, who are brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors and others engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry. Members belong to one or... Read More WASHINGTON (January 10, 2012) - “The Volunteering Works program is just one example of how Realtors® contribute their time and resources toward improving communities,” said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates, Inc., in Miami. “Mentors collaborate with Volunteering Works recipients to help these Realtors® become effective agents of community change as they grow and develop their existing charitable efforts.” This marks the fourth year the Good Neighbor Society will award five applicants a year of one-on-one mentoring... Read More WASHINGTON (January 9, 2012) - To provide its members with the tools and expertise to build their business and better serve clients, the National Association of Realtors® and The CE Shop, Inc., have entered into a partnership to provide continuing education for Realtors® taking online designation and certification courses at REALTOR® University’s School of Professional Development & Continuing... Read More WASHINGTON (January 5, 2012) - Stabilizing and restoring the health of the housing market is critical to a broader economic recovery, according to a white paper released yesterday by the Federal Reserve Board. Many of the issues and recommendations outlined in the paper support key principles established by the National Association of Realtors® to help revitalize the housing industry and economy. The white paper, The U.S. Housing Market: Current Conditions and Policy Considerations, calls for increased lending to creditworthy home buyers and more loan modifications... Read More WASHINGTON (December 29, 2011) - Pending home sales continued to gain in November and reached the highest level in 19 months, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, increased 7.3 percent to 100.1 in November from an upwardly revised 93.3 in October and is 5.9 percent above November 2010 when it stood at 94.5. The October upward revision resulted in a 10.4 percent monthly gain. The last time the index was higher was in April 2010... Read More WASHINGTON (December 21, 2011) - Existing-home sales rose again in November and remain above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Also released today were periodic benchmark revisions with downward adjustments to sales and inventory data since 2007, led by a decline in for-sale-by-owners. Although rebenchmarking resulted in lower adjustments to several years of home sales data, the month-to-month characterization of market conditions did not change. There are no changes to home prices or month’s supply. The latest monthly data shows total... Read More WASHINGTON (December 16, 2011) - When it comes to remodeling, exterior replacement projects have routinely rewarded homeowners with more bang for their buck. This year is no different, as Realtors® recently rated many exterior improvements as among the most valuable home investment projects as part of the 2011-12 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report. “This year’s Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report shows the value of putting your home’s best façade forward, so to speak,” said National Association of Realtors® President Moe... Read More WASHINGTON (December 9, 2011) - A recent survey by Houselogic.com, the consumer website from the National Association of Realtors®, finds that jobs and the housing market will be two of the most important issues for voters in the 2012 election. Nearly one-third of respondents said housing will be the top issue on their mind when they head to the polls next November. “We need to keep housing first on the nation’s public policy agenda, because housing and home ownership issues affect all Americans,”... Read More WASHINGTON (December 8, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® supports legislation introduced today that provides sensible reform of the secondary mortgage market and protects the interest of taxpayers. Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) introduced the legislation, “The Mortgage Finance Act of 2011,” in the U.S. Senate. The bill creates a limited-term, government-chartered secondary mortgage market mechanism, the Mortgage Finance Agency, that would focus on the securitization of loans meeting the “qualified residential mortgage” (QRM) standard crafted by... Read More View contact information based on subject of interest. NAR Policies WASHINGTON (December 7, 2011) - Reforming the secondary mortgage market is essential to ensuring a reliable source of mortgage lending for consumers in all types of markets and is integral to the nation’s economic and housing recovery, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today. NAR’s 2012 Director of Realtor® Party Activities Tom Salomone spoke before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Capital Markets and Government-Sponsored Enterprises regarding proposed legislation by Rep. Scott Garrett (R-N.J.) to bring private capital back into... Read More WASHINGTON (December 1, 2011) - Public and private sector workers in the northwestern U.S. have limited access for affordable housing. In response, the National Association of Realtors®, in partnership with the National Housing Conference, will host a forum today in Portland, Ore., to address this crisis and encourage efforts to make housing more affordable to working class families. Bring Workers Home, the daylong forum, is part of a series of three regional forums hosted by NAR and NHC to develop solutions to the country’s workforce housing shortage. The... Read More WASHINGTON (December 1, 2011) - The Federal Housing Administration mortgage insurance program plays an important and vital role in the nation’s housing financing system and has shown tremendous leadership and strength during the economic crisis, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today. NAR President Moe Veissi testified before the House Financial Services Committee regarding the health of the FHA single-family insurance fund. “As the leading... Read More WASHINGTON (November 30, 2011) - Pending home sales rose strongly in October and remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, surged 10.4 percent to 93.3 in October from 84.5 in September and is 9.2 percent above October 2010 when it stood at 85.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said improved contract activity is a hopeful sign... Read More WASHINGTON (November 28, 2011) - Commercial real estate markets have been relatively flat this year, but improving fundamentals mean a more positive trend is expected in 2012, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said there is little change in most of the commercial market sectors. “Vacancy rates are flat, leasing is soft and concessions continue to make it a tenant’s market,” he said. “However, with modest economic growth and job creation, the fundamentals for commercial... Read More WASHINGTON (November 22, 2011) - The Housing Opportunity Program Grants, a National Association of Realtors® grant program, has presented $62,500 to 19 local and state Realtor® associations. Those associations will use the funds to promote and expand affordable housing opportunities in their communities. “Realtors® work hard to help raise awareness and identify and promote solutions that address affordable housing opportunities,” said NAR President Moe Veissi, broker-owner... Read More WASHINGTON (November 21, 2011) - Existing-home sales improved in October while the number of homes on the market continued to decline, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales1, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 1.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.97 million in October from a downwardly revised 4.90 million in September, and are 13.5 percent above the 4.38 million... Read More WASHINGTON (November 18, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® commends Congress for reinstating the loan limit formula and maximum cap for Federal Housing Administration-insured loans for two years. “As the nation’s leading advocate for homeownership, we applaud members of Congress for restoring FHA’s previous loan limits, which will help reduce consumer cost burdens, stabilize local housing markets and allow qualified, creditworthy borrowers to access affordable mortgage financing,” said NAR President ... Read More ANAHEIM (November 14, 2011) - Maurice “Moe” Veissi, a Realtor® from Miami, was installed today as 2012 president of the National Association of Realtors® at the association’s Board of Directors meeting during the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo. In 2011, Veissi was NAR president-elect, and he was NAR first vice president in 2010. A Realtor® for 40 years, Veissi is broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc., in Miami, and specializes in land development and acquisition.... Read More ANAHEIM (November 14, 2011) - PeggyAnn McConnochie, a Realtor® from Juneau, Alaska, has received the National Association of Realtors® 2011 Distinguished Service Award. Out of 1.1 million Realtors®, no more than two are recognized with this award each year. The recipients were announced in Anaheim, Calif. during NAR’s annual REALTORS® Conference & Expo. NAR established the DSA in 1979 to honor Realtors® who have made outstanding contributions to the real estate industry and are recognized as leaders in their local communities. The award is... Read More ANAHEIM (November 14, 2011) - Adorna Carroll, a Realtor® from Berlin, Conn., has received the National Association of Realtors® 2011 Distinguished Service Award. Out of 1.1 million Realtors®, no more than two are recognized with this award each year. The recipients were announced in Anaheim, Calif., during NAR’s annual Realtors® Conference & Expo. NAR established the DSA in 1979 to honor Realtors® who have made outstanding contributions to the real estate industry and are recognized as leaders in their local communities. The award is considered the... Read More ANAHEIM (November 13, 2011) - Home buyers face unprecedented hurdles in qualifying for a mortgage in today’s market, but getting a loan is possible for those who know how to overcome the obstacles, according to a presentation on Cracking the Credit Code at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo. Data from the National Association of Realtors® shows that 18 percent of NAR members reported contract failures in recent months, which are double the levels of a year earlier. Contract failures are cancellations caused... Read More ANAHEIM (November 13, 2011) - The struggling housing market needs to be a priority on the nation’s public policy agenda, because housing and homeownership issues affect all Americans. That was the message from speakers at the Legislative and Political Forum yesterday at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo here. Realtors® at the National Association of Realtors® annual conference heard from Washington Post columnist Eugene Robinson and political media consultant Alex Castellanos,... Read More
RealtorŪ Confidence in Commercial Market Growing
Rate Increases Ahead for Some National Flood Insurance Program Policyholders
Forecast for Housing and the Economy Solidifying, Future Tax Treatment Important
?30 Under 30? RealtorsŪ Embark on New Era of Real Estate
Short Sale Approval and Valuation Issues Continue to Impact Housing Market
Regulatory, Financial Reform to Significantly Impact Future Secondary Mortgage Market
Housing and Tax Reform Top Issues Affecting RealtorsŪ, Real Estate Industry
RealtorsŪ Bring Public Policy Priorities to Capitol Hill
NAR Member Survey Shows RealtorŪ Business and Income Continue to Improve
Metro Area Home Price Growth Trend Continues in First Quarter
Statement From NAR President Gary Thomas on Melvin Watt's Nomination to Head FHFA
March Pending Home Sales Improve but Overall Pace Leveling
RealtorsŪ Urge Preserving of Homeownership Tax Policies
RealtorŪ Volunteering Works Program Announces 2013 Mentoring and Grants Recipients
Ramp Up Curb Appeal with Gardening Ideas from HouseLogic.com
March Existing-Home Sales Slip Due to Limited Inventory, Prices Maintain Uptrend
Buyers, Sellers and RealtorsŪ Get Ready for Nationwide Open House Weekend
RealtorsŪ Applaud FHA for Taking Steps to Improve its Financial Stability; More Reforms Necessary
Treater Joins REach? Charter Class
2012 Vacation Home Sales Up, Investment Dips but Stays Elevated, Prices Rise
NAR Tech Edge Gives RealtorsŪ Tools to Enhance Their Business
Pending Home Sales Slip on Constrained Inventory
NAR Selects Six Start-Ups to Join REach? Accelerator Program
Home Values Performed 42 Percent Better When Located Near Public Transportation During Last Recession
Existing-Home Sales and Prices Continue to Rise in February
Buyers Value Storage Space, In-Law Suites, NAR Survey Finds
HouseLogic Helps Homeowners Get the Tax Breaks They're Due
REALTORŪ Magazine Seeking Nominations for 2013 Good Neighbor Awards
FHA Plays Vital Role for American Homeowners, RealtorsŪ Testify
One Year In, RealtorŪ University's Graduate Real Estate Program Thrives
January Pending Home Sales Up in All Regions
Commercial Real Estate Sectors Steadily Improve
January Existing-Home Sales Hold with Steady Price Gains, Seller?s Market Developing
This Valentine's Day, HouseLogic Helps You Fall in Love with Your Home Again
Fourth Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Show Strongest Performance in Seven Years
Commercial Real Estate Investors Eager to "Turn the Page," According to New Outlook Report
Exterior Replacement Projects Provide Biggest Return on Investment for Homeowners, Say RealtorsŪ
Pending Home Sales Down in December but Remain on Uptrend
Existing-Home Sales Slip in December, Prices Continue to Rise; 2012 Totals Up
Second Century Ventures Brings Cloud Computing to RealtorsŪ
BombBomb Joins NAR's REach? Tech Accelerator Program
NAR Statement on the Qualified Mortgage Rule
REALTORŪ Magazine Seeks Entries for 2013 Volunteering Works Program
Housing Affordability Index to Set Annual Record for 2012
Joint NAR/Google Study Shows More People Use Internet to Research Homes for Sale
November Pending Home Sales Rise Again
November Existing-Home Sales and Prices Maintain Uptrend
"Pin the Season" to Win $500 in HouseLogic Pinterest Giveaway
Pending Home Sales Rise in October
Commercial Real Estate Vacancies Slowly Declining, Rents Rising
National Association of RealtorsŪ Wins Gold in Best in Biz Awards
Existing-Home Sales Rise in October with Ongoing Price and Equity Gains
2013 NAR Officers Installed
NAR Presents RealtorŪ Bruce Aydt with Distinguished Service Award
NAR Presents RealtorŪ Paula Savard with Distinguished Service Award
RealtorsŪ Salute and Help Serve Those Who Served Our Country
RealtorsŪ Celebrate 100 Years of Quality Service Through the Code of Ethics
More Cash Sales, Shrinking Time on Market Show Changing Buyer Dynamics
RealtorsŪ Get Social in Orlando
RealtorŪ Heroes Keep the Dream of Homeownership Alive
NAR Survey of Home Buyers and Sellers Shows Dual Income Couples Fueling Market
Commercial Market Sluggish, Yet Investment Continues to Improve
RealtorsŪ Reflect on Recent Successes; Regroup for Road Ahead
Fannie, Freddie Laying Groundwork for Better Future Housing Finance System
NAR Ready to Fight for Homeownership Future
Housing Market Uptrend Expected Through 2014
RealtorsŪ Think Globally, Act Locally
RealtorsŪ REThink the Future of Real Estate
National Association of RealtorsŪ Announces First-Ever Strategic Technology Accelerator, REach
RealtorsŪ Help Create Housing Opportunities for Orlando Residents
Metro Area Home Prices Show Stronger Increases in Third Quarter, Sales Up
Realtor Property ResourceŪ Now Available to All RealtorsŪ
September Pending Home Sales Show Slight Improvement
RealtorŪ Good Neighbor Award Winners Strengthen Communities, Improve Lives of Neighbors Nationwide
HouseLogic Announces $1,000 Sweepstakes and Backyard Makeover Webisodes
September Existing-Home Sales Down but Prices Continue to Improve
2013 NAR Statistical News Release Schedule
... Read More
RealtorsŪ Focus on Workforce Housing Challenges, Solutions at National Forum
Low Valuation in Home Appraisals Causing Steady Level of Contract Glitches
Discounted Sprint Plans Make it Easier for RealtorsŪ to Connect
Pending Home Sales Decline in August
How Low Can They Go?
HouseLogic Named Best Online Content Marketing Program of the Year
August Existing-Home Sales and Prices Rise
Home Sales and Job Creation would Rise with Sensible Lending Standards
Terrorism Risk Insurance Vital to Commercial Real Estate Market, Say RealtorsŪ
Homes Selling More Quickly, Time on Market Down with Tighter Supplies
HouseLogic Helps Families Prepare for Back-to-School
NAR Announces Finalists Recognized for Excellence in Community Service
July Pending Home Sales Rebound
NAR Member Benefit Helps RealtorsŪ Take Care of Their Homes
Commercial Real Estate Recovering at a Slower Pace
RealtorsŪ Applaud FHFA for Expanding Short Sale Eligibility to Help More Struggling Homeowners
Existing-Home Sales Improve in July, Prices Continue to Rise
Second Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Rise, Limited Inventory Capping Sales
Credit Union Merger Provides Greater Services for RealtorsŪ
Voting for $20k Home Renovation Now Open on HouseLogic
Pending Home Sales Slip in June, Remain Above a Year Ago
RealtorsŪ Support Setting Deadline for Subordinate Lien Holder Short Sale Decisions
The legislation, "The Fast Help for Homeowners Act," was offered in Congress today by U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-Calif.) and is strongly supported by the National Association of Realtors®.
June Existing-Home Prices Rise Again, Sales Down with Constrained Supply
RealtorsŪ Testify Broad Qualified Mortgage is Critical to Bringing Certainty to Housing Finance System
RealtorsŪ Applaud Long-Term Reauthorization of Flood Insurance Program
HouseLogic Helps Homeowners Clean up After Floods
"The damage from natural disasters like floods and hurricanes not only affects individual families but also entire communities," said... Read More
Strong, Independent Appraisal Industry Vital to Market and Loan Origination Process, Say RealtorsŪ
Home is Where the History Is
Pending Home Sales Up in May, Continue Pattern of Strong Annual Gains
HouseLogic Offers a $20,000 Home Renovation with Boost Your Roost Contest
Existing-Home Sales Constrained by Tight Supply in May, Prices Continue to Gain
American Business Awards Recognize National Association of RealtorsŪ
National Association of RealtorsŪ Applies for New .Realtor Top-Level Domain
International Sales Continue to Climb in U.S. Market, RealtorsŪ Report
Pending Home Sales Decline in April but Up Strongly From a Year Ago
RealtorŪ Volunteering Works Program Announces 2012 Winners
NAR Tech Edge Helps RealtorsŪ Expand, Develop Their Tech Use
RealtorsŪ Offer Support for Bill to Help Responsible Homeowners Refinance
All Commercial Real Estate Sectors Continue to Improve, Multifamily Strong
RealtorsŪ Report Increase in Commercial Transactions, Income
The study's results represent Realtors® who practice commercial real estate; these NAR members conduct all or part of their activity in commercial sales, leasing, brokerage and development for land,... Read More
April Existing-Home Sales Up, Prices Rise Again
HouseLogic Presents an Energy-Saving Home Makeover and Chance to Win $100
Credit Union Merger Expands Benefits for RealtorsŪ
Future of U.S. Housing Markets Depends Largely on Echo Boomers
RealtorsŪ Know Workforce Housing Solutions are About Building Trust and Relationships
Lack of Capital Hinders Commercial Market While Modest Improvement Persists
Housing and Economic Forecast Brightens
RealtorsŪ Raise Awareness at Real Estate Rally
"30 Under 30" RealtorsŪ Represent Future of Real Estate Profession
Future of Housing Finance Will be Top Issue for Next President
Housing Will Play a Major Role in Presidential Election, Say Leading Political Insiders
Housing Mortgage Market Reform Key to Housing Recovery
Housing Affordability Indices Reach Records in First Quarter
New REALTOR BenefitsŪ Partner, Xceligent, Creates Competitive Advantage
RealtorsŪ Ready to Drive Real Estate Issues Home in Nation's Capital
2012 NAR Member Survey Shows Rising Incomes
Xceligent Acquires Commercial Data Platform from NAR's Second Century Ventures
RealtorŪ Magazine Wins Multiple Awards for Media Innovation
America Needs Long-Term Extension of National Flood Insurance Program, Say RealtorsŪ
First Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Stabilizing, Sales Up and Inventory Down
Tight Lending Standards Hindering Commercial Real Estate Recovery
RealtorŪ Associations Advance Housing Opportunities Through Grants
RealtorsŪ Recognize Innovative Ideas from School of the Future Design Competition Winners
March Pending Home Sales Rise, Market Recovering
HouseLogic Announces "Spring Cleaning Pinaway" Pinterest Giveaway
NAR, U.S. Treasury, Bring Short Sale Assistance to Illinois Homeowners
Existing-Home Sales Decline in March but Inventory Down, Prices Stabilizing
RealtorsŪ Praise FHFA for Issuing Short Sale Approval Guidance
RealtorsŪ Call for Broad Qualified Mortgage Definition to Help Consumers and Housing Market
Homeownership Makes Tax Time Less Taxing
RealtorsŪ Raise Fair Housing Awareness in Local Communities
Investment and Vacation Home Sales Surge in 2011
Investment and Vacation Home Sales Surge in 2011
Pending Home Sales Ease in February but Solidly Higher Than a Year Ago
Strong Investment Home Sales Demonstrate Limited Need for Bulk REO Sales Program, Say RealtorsŪ
February Existing-Home Sales Slip But Up Strongly From a Year Ago
RealtorsŪ Praise FHFA for Banning Private Transfer Fees
Seniors and Young Adults Will Influence U.S. Housing Markets
NAR Protects RealtorŪ Trademark by Winning Domain Name Challenge
Housing Affordability Index Hits Record High
Government Foreclosure to Rental Pilot Programs Not Needed In Most Markets, Say RealtorsŪ
REALTORŪ Magazine Seeking Nominations for Annual Good Neighbor Awards
January Pending Home Sales Rise, Market on Uptrend
Commercial Real Estate Vacancy Rates Improving, Rents Firming
NAR Collaborates With U.S. Treasury on Short Sale "Help for Homeowners"
Existing-Home Sales Rise Again in January, Inventory Down
NAR to Administration: Do No Harm to Housing
Fourth Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Boost Affordability, Sales Improving
REALTORŪ University Granted Approval to Offer Master of Real Estate Degree Program
REALTORSŪ: Bernanke Underscores Need for Housing Recovery
REALTORSŪ Support Obama's Efforts to Assist Housing Market and Help Homeowners Refinance
Pending Home Sales Decline in December, Remain Above a Year Ago
Homeownership Matters to State of the Union
HouseLogic Presents a Makeover and Chance to Win $100
December Existing-Home Sales Show Uptrend
REALTORSŪ Recognize Credit Union as Valuable Member Benefit
NAR Fact Sheet
REALTORŪ Magazine Seeks Nominations for Volunteer and Mentor Program
Continuing Education Courses Help RealtorsŪ Stay on Track
Increased Lending and More Loan Modifications are Key to Recovery
Pending Home Sales Rise Again in November, Highest in a Year-and-a-Half
Existing-Home Sales Continue to Climb in November
REALTORSŪ Identify Exterior Replacement Projects as Best Investment for Homeowners
HouseLogic Poll Finds Voters Driven by Jobs, Housing in 2012 Election
REALTORSŪ Applaud Bill to Protect Taxpayers From Mortgage Industry Bailouts
NAR Media Contacts
Business Practices
Sara Wiskerchen
Managing Director, Media Communications
202-383-1013
swiskerchen@realtors.org
Yolanda Byrd
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REALTORSŪ Urge Comprehensive Reform of Mortgage Finance System
REALTORSŪ Offer Solutions for Workforce Housing Crisis
REALTORSŪ Praise FHA for Serving the Needs of Millions of Hard-Working Families
Pending Home Sales Jump in October
Growth in Commercial Real Estate Markets Expected in 2012
NAR Awards RealtorŪ Associations Grants to Promote and Expand Affordable Housing
October Existing-Home Sales Rise, Unsold Inventory Continues to Decline
RealtorsŪ Applaud Congress for Reinstating FHA Loan Limits
NAR Installs 2012 Officers
RealtorŪ PeggyAnn McConnochie Honored with NAR Distinguished Service Award
RealtorŪ Adorna Carroll Honored with NAR Distinguished Service Award
REALTORSŪ Help Buyers Overcome Tight Mortgage Credit
Housing Must Be a National Priority
Craig Owens
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