Vacation-home buyers pounce on short sales, foreclosures…

Central Florida’s second-home market has been thriving, thanks to a seemingly irresistible combination of record-low prices and record-high numbers of tourists. The Orlando metropolitan area was recently listed, for instance, as one of the country’s “10 hot spots for foreign buyers” by Inman News, an online real-estate news service. Read more…http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=278097

How to snag mortgage rates in 3% range!

Mortgage rates are at record lows, with 30-year fixed-rate mortgages – the most popular choice among homebuyers – averaging in the 3 percent range for the last several weeks.

So how can homebuyers snag such low financing for their home purchase? Read more…

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=277879

Free Florida Webinar: Hurricane Preparedness

What does it take to brace for high winds and driving rain? Florida-created webinar to help owners and residents prepare. Read more.

IBHS study says FL and VA have best building codes…

Florida and Virginia ranked highest in a new comparison study that examined residential building codes and enforcement systems in the most hurricane-prone states. http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=276951

Well Prepared for 2012 Hurricane Season

With the 2012 Hurricane season already begun, June 1, 2012 – November 30, 2012, it is always good to have access to information and resources in case of an emergency or damage caused by a hurricane. The Florida Division of Emergency web-site contains valuable information to assist homeowners and visitors to prepare for this type of situation: http://www.floridadisaster.org/DEMpublic.asp

Home Styles: A Guide to Residential Architecture

Homes aren't one-size-fits-all. Learn about 24 popular architectural styles, including their unique features and maintenance issues. Plus, check out classic examples and current listings for each style. We'll help you find the style that's right for you. http://www.frontdoor.com/buy/home-styles-guide-features-and-examples-of-residential-architecture/1088

Florida housing market continues positive signs…

Single-family prices rose 10.2%, condos 16.1%; pending sales higher. NAR: Sales up 3.4% over March; 10% over year ago. Read more.