At NAR’s annual Policy Forum, policymakers highlighted ideas to boost home sales, including updating capital gains rules and reducing FHA red tape.

By skipping the perfect-home myth, first-time buyers can focus on budget, condition and location, and choose a home and neighborhood that truly fit how they live.

A new roof can boost curb appeal, buyer confidence and deal certainty. Beyond looks, roof age can influence appraisals, insurance and financing decisions.

Designers say homeowners who turned walk-in closets into offices may want to restore them before selling, as buyers now prize storage and livability.

Updated TVs, sound systems and lighting can boost an entertainment room’s appeal. Smart upgrades help buyers picture daily living and can strengthen a home’s showing.

Mortgage rates edged higher, with 30-year loans at 6.1% (up from 6.09%) and 15-year rates at 5.49%. Buyers and sellers are watching what comes next.

With no immediate rate changes from the Fed, the next moves for mortgage rates may depend on economic reports and any action involving mortgage-backed securities.

Vacant and neglected homes can attract pests, wildlife and squatters, raising health and safety concerns for neighbors and putting pressure on nearby property values.

Debt-to-income ratio, savings balances and credit scores shape borrowing power, loan terms and readiness to buy a home in today’s market.

Refinancing can lower monthly payments, change loan terms or tap home equity, but fees, credit scores and timing matter when replacing an existing mortgage.

The Fed left rates unchanged, citing solid growth and a steady job market. Officials want clearer progress on inflation before resuming cuts, likely later this year.

The Code of Ethics has adapted with the real estate industry for over 100 years. Updates to the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual go into effect at the beginning of each year.  Here’s what’s new in 2026.

A new compensation form replaces two prior agreements and updates how sellers and brokers offer payment in residential transactions.

Members often ask about the ethical boundaries regarding interference with another brokerage’s exclusive representation. The answer is found in Article 16’s Standards of Practice.