At-risk owners have a number of options, but they all start by calling a lender. Beyond deferment and forbearance, some lenders might offer a loan modification.

Tapping a retirement account and using the money for current expenses is generally an unwise move – but it can be done now without paying the usual 10% penalty.

The Mortgage Bankers Assoc. says requests for mortgage payment delays surged 1,270% during the first half of March and another 1,896% during the second half.

The SBA’s loan processing system stopped working Monday, making it impossible for loans to be approved and funds distributed, according to community bankers.

Agents who need IRS tax liens discharged are finding it difficult to get that done – or even receive a response as the IRS shuts down phone lines and juggles a blitz of pandemic-related calls. Electronic tax lien requests reportedly still work if there isn’t a problem with the discharge.

As a result of COVID-19 affecting Fla.’s real estate industry, the association’s leadership team approved free eSign assistance to all members using Form Simplicity.

Self-isolation will change people. More buyers will likely be comfortable shopping online, and more will want a home office. Visualize the changes and market to them now.

FHA mortgage holders – including those with a reverse mortgage – have temporary eviction protection in place and tools to help at-risk families keep their home.

Confusing info on mortgage options is forcing some homeowners to pick a three-month delay and hope their lender offers the better Fed-backed deal before 90 days are up.

The NAR affiliate’s APEX Awards recognize land-sale pros, and Fla. brokers took top honors in three of seven categories, including commercial and residential land.

The nation suddenly found itself conducting most business online, and Realtors new to virtual meetings aren’t sure where to start. There’s an array of products out there, but which one to choose? What equipment do I need? How do I share documents? Can I close online?

By emergency rule, FREC approved video conferencing of in-person courses so members may fulfill biennial license requirements, including ones for post- and pre-licensure.

The pandemic has boosted Zoom’s video-conferencing software but it came with a dark side: The company and its program are now a target for scammers and hackers.

Final loan approval relies on documents and approvals from different offices, and the spread of COVID-19 has created problems – but some recent changes should help.