RSS feed for Items tagged 'news releases + for-the-media'

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

Realtors® Can Increase Their Value by Better Leveraging Technology, Says realtor.com®

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

Realtor® Confidence in Commercial Market Growing

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

Rate Increases Ahead for Some National Flood Insurance Program Policyholders

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

Forecast for Housing and the Economy Solidifying, Future Tax Treatment Important

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

“30 Under 30” Realtors® Embark on New Era of Real Estate

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

Short Sale Approval and Valuation Issues Continue to Impact Housing Market

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

Regulatory, Financial Reform to Significantly Impact Future Secondary Mortgage Market

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

Housing and Tax Reform Top Issues Affecting Realtors®, Real Estate Industry

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

Realtors® Bring Public Policy Priorities to Capitol Hill

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

NAR Member Survey Shows Realtor® Business and Income Continue to Improve

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

Metro Area Home Price Growth Trend Continues in First Quarter

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

Statement From NAR President Gary Thomas on Melvin Watt's Nomination to Head FHFA

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

March Pending Home Sales Improve but Overall Pace Leveling

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

Realtors® Urge Preserving of Homeownership Tax Policies

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

Realtor® Volunteering Works Program Announces 2013 Mentoring and Grants Recipients

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

Ramp Up Curb Appeal with Gardening Ideas from HouseLogic.com

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

March Existing-Home Sales Slip Due to Limited Inventory, Prices Maintain Uptrend

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

Buyers, Sellers and Realtors® Get Ready for Nationwide Open House Weekend

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

Realtors® Applaud FHA for Taking Steps to Improve its Financial Stability; More Reforms Necessary

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

Treater Joins REach™ Charter Class

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

2012 Vacation Home Sales Up, Investment Dips but Stays Elevated, Prices Rise

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

NAR Tech Edge Gives Realtors® Tools to Enhance Their Business

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

Pending Home Sales Slip on Constrained Inventory

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

NAR Selects Six Start-Ups to Join REach™ Accelerator Program

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

Home Values Performed 42 Percent Better When Located Near Public Transportation During Last Recession

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

Existing-Home Sales and Prices Continue to Rise in February

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

Buyers Value Storage Space, In-Law Suites, NAR Survey Finds

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

HouseLogic Helps Homeowners Get the Tax Breaks They're Due

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

REALTOR® Magazine Seeking Nominations for 2013 Good Neighbor Awards

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 14^th annual Good Neighbor Awards. Five winners will be announced in the... Read More

FHA Plays Vital Role for American Homeowners, Realtors® Testify

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

One Year In, Realtor® University's Graduate Real Estate Program Thrives

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

January Pending Home Sales Up in All Regions

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

Commercial Real Estate Sectors Steadily Improve

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

January Existing-Home Sales Hold with Steady Price Gains, Seller’s Market Developing

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

This Valentine's Day, HouseLogic Helps You Fall in Love with Your Home Again

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

Fourth Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Show Strongest Performance in Seven Years

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

Commercial Real Estate Investors Eager to "Turn the Page," According to New Outlook Report

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

Exterior Replacement Projects Provide Biggest Return on Investment for Homeowners, Say Realtors®

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

Pending Home Sales Down in December but Remain on Uptrend

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

Existing-Home Sales Slip in December, Prices Continue to Rise; 2012 Totals Up

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

Second Century Ventures Brings Cloud Computing to Realtors®

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

BombBomb Joins NAR's REach™ Tech Accelerator Program

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

NAR Statement on the Qualified Mortgage Rule

“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

REALTOR® Magazine Seeks Entries for 2013 Volunteering Works Program

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

Housing Affordability Index to Set Annual Record for 2012

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

Joint NAR/Google Study Shows More People Use Internet to Research Homes for Sale

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

November Pending Home Sales Rise Again

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

November Existing-Home Sales and Prices Maintain Uptrend

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

"Pin the Season" to Win $500 in HouseLogic Pinterest Giveaway

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

Pending Home Sales Rise in October

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

Commercial Real Estate Vacancies Slowly Declining, Rents Rising

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

National Association of Realtors® Wins Gold in Best in Biz Awards

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

Existing-Home Sales Rise in October with Ongoing Price and Equity Gains

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

2013 NAR Officers Installed

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

NAR Presents Realtor® Bruce Aydt with Distinguished Service Award

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

NAR Presents Realtor® Paula Savard with Distinguished Service Award

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

Realtors® Salute and Help Serve Those Who Served Our Country

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

Realtors® Celebrate 100 Years of Quality Service Through the Code of Ethics

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

More Cash Sales, Shrinking Time on Market Show Changing Buyer Dynamics

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

Realtors® Get Social in Orlando

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

Realtor® Heroes Keep the Dream of Homeownership Alive

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

NAR Survey of Home Buyers and Sellers Shows Dual Income Couples Fueling Market

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

Commercial Market Sluggish, Yet Investment Continues to Improve

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

Realtors® Reflect on Recent Successes; Regroup for Road Ahead

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

Fannie, Freddie Laying Groundwork for Better Future Housing Finance System

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

NAR Ready to Fight for Homeownership Future

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

Housing Market Uptrend Expected Through 2014

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

Realtors® Think Globally, Act Locally

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

Realtors® REThink the Future of Real Estate

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

National Association of Realtors® Announces First-Ever Strategic Technology Accelerator, REach

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

Realtors® Help Create Housing Opportunities for Orlando Residents

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

Metro Area Home Prices Show Stronger Increases in Third Quarter, Sales Up

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

Realtor Property Resource® Now Available to All Realtors®

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

September Pending Home Sales Show Slight Improvement

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

Realtor® Good Neighbor Award Winners Strengthen Communities, Improve Lives of Neighbors Nationwide

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

HouseLogic Announces $1,000 Sweepstakes and Backyard Makeover Webisodes

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

September Existing-Home Sales Down but Prices Continue to Improve

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

2013 NAR Statistical News Release Schedule

All released at 10:00 a.m. ET. This schedule is also available in .pdf format.

... Read More

Realtors® Focus on Workforce Housing Challenges, Solutions at National Forum

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

Low Valuation in Home Appraisals Causing Steady Level of Contract Glitches

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

Discounted Sprint Plans Make it Easier for Realtors® to Connect

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

Pending Home Sales Decline in August

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

How Low Can They Go?

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

HouseLogic Named Best Online Content Marketing Program of the Year

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

August Existing-Home Sales and Prices Rise

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

Home Sales and Job Creation would Rise with Sensible Lending Standards

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

Terrorism Risk Insurance Vital to Commercial Real Estate Market, Say Realtors®

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

Homes Selling More Quickly, Time on Market Down with Tighter Supplies

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

HouseLogic Helps Families Prepare for Back-to-School

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

NAR Announces Finalists Recognized for Excellence in Community Service

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

July Pending Home Sales Rebound

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

NAR Member Benefit Helps Realtors® Take Care of Their Homes

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

Commercial Real Estate Recovering at a Slower Pace

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

Realtors® Applaud FHFA for Expanding Short Sale Eligibility to Help More Struggling Homeowners

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

Existing-Home Sales Improve in July, Prices Continue to Rise

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

Second Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Rise, Limited Inventory Capping Sales

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

Credit Union Merger Provides Greater Services for Realtors®

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

Voting for $20k Home Renovation Now Open on HouseLogic

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

Pending Home Sales Slip in June, Remain Above a Year Ago

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

Realtors® Support Setting Deadline for Subordinate Lien Holder Short Sale Decisions

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.

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®.

"As the leading advocate for homeownership, Realtors® know that issues and delays with secondary lien holder... Read More

June Existing-Home Prices Rise Again, Sales Down with Constrained Supply

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

Realtors® Testify Broad Qualified Mortgage is Critical to Bringing Certainty to Housing Finance System

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

Realtors® Applaud Long-Term Reauthorization of Flood Insurance Program

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

HouseLogic Helps Homeowners Clean up After Floods

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.

"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 Realtors®

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

Home is Where the History Is

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

Pending Home Sales Up in May, Continue Pattern of Strong Annual Gains

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

HouseLogic Offers a $20,000 Home Renovation with Boost Your Roost Contest

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

Existing-Home Sales Constrained by Tight Supply in May, Prices Continue to Gain

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

American Business Awards Recognize National Association of Realtors®

WASHINGTON (June 19, 2012) – Yesterday the National Association of Realtors^® was recognized with two gold Stevie Awards at the 10^th 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

National Association of Realtors® Applies for New .Realtor Top-Level Domain

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

International Sales Continue to Climb in U.S. Market, Realtors® Report

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

Pending Home Sales Decline in April but Up Strongly From a Year Ago

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

Realtor® Volunteering Works Program Announces 2012 Winners

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

NAR Tech Edge Helps Realtors® Expand, Develop Their Tech Use

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

Realtors® Offer Support for Bill to Help Responsible Homeowners Refinance

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

All Commercial Real Estate Sectors Continue to Improve, Multifamily Strong

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

Realtors® Report Increase in Commercial Transactions, Income

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.

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

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

HouseLogic Presents an Energy-Saving Home Makeover and Chance to Win $100

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

Credit Union Merger Expands Benefits for Realtors®

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

Future of U.S. Housing Markets Depends Largely on Echo Boomers

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

Realtors® Know Workforce Housing Solutions are About Building Trust and Relationships

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

Lack of Capital Hinders Commercial Market While Modest Improvement Persists

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

Housing and Economic Forecast Brightens

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

Realtors® Raise Awareness at Real Estate Rally

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

"30 Under 30" Realtors® Represent Future of Real Estate Profession

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

Future of Housing Finance Will be Top Issue for Next President

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

Housing Will Play a Major Role in Presidential Election, Say Leading Political Insiders

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

Housing Mortgage Market Reform Key to Housing Recovery

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

Housing Affordability Indices Reach Records in First Quarter

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

New REALTOR Benefits® Partner, Xceligent, Creates Competitive Advantage

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

Realtors® Ready to Drive Real Estate Issues Home in Nation's Capital

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

2012 NAR Member Survey Shows Rising Incomes

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

Xceligent Acquires Commercial Data Platform from NAR's Second Century Ventures

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

Realtor® Magazine Wins Multiple Awards for Media Innovation

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

America Needs Long-Term Extension of National Flood Insurance Program, Say Realtors®

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

First Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Stabilizing, Sales Up and Inventory Down

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

Tight Lending Standards Hindering Commercial Real Estate Recovery

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

Realtor® Associations Advance Housing Opportunities Through Grants

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

Realtors® Recognize Innovative Ideas from School of the Future Design Competition Winners

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

March Pending Home Sales Rise, Market Recovering

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

HouseLogic Announces "Spring Cleaning Pinaway" Pinterest Giveaway

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

NAR, U.S. Treasury, Bring Short Sale Assistance to Illinois Homeowners

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

Existing-Home Sales Decline in March but Inventory Down, Prices Stabilizing

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

Realtors® Praise FHFA for Issuing Short Sale Approval Guidance

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

Realtors® Call for Broad Qualified Mortgage Definition to Help Consumers and Housing Market

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

Homeownership Makes Tax Time Less Taxing

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

Realtors® Raise Fair Housing Awareness in Local Communities

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

Investment and Vacation Home Sales Surge in 2011

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

Investment and Vacation Home Sales Surge in 2011

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

Pending Home Sales Ease in February but Solidly Higher Than a Year Ago

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

Strong Investment Home Sales Demonstrate Limited Need for Bulk REO Sales Program, Say Realtors®

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

February Existing-Home Sales Slip But Up Strongly From a Year Ago

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

Realtors® Praise FHFA for Banning Private Transfer Fees

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

Seniors and Young Adults Will Influence U.S. Housing Markets

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

NAR Protects Realtor® Trademark by Winning Domain Name Challenge

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

Housing Affordability Index Hits Record High

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

Government Foreclosure to Rental Pilot Programs Not Needed In Most Markets, Say Realtors®

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

REALTOR® Magazine Seeking Nominations for Annual Good Neighbor Awards

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

January Pending Home Sales Rise, Market on Uptrend

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

Commercial Real Estate Vacancy Rates Improving, Rents Firming

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

NAR Collaborates With U.S. Treasury on Short Sale "Help for Homeowners"

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

Existing-Home Sales Rise Again in January, Inventory Down

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

NAR to Administration: Do No Harm to Housing

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

Fourth Quarter Metro Area Home Prices Boost Affordability, Sales Improving

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

REALTOR® University Granted Approval to Offer Master of Real Estate Degree Program

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

REALTORS®: Bernanke Underscores Need for Housing Recovery

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

REALTORS® Support Obama's Efforts to Assist Housing Market and Help Homeowners Refinance

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

Pending Home Sales Decline in December, Remain Above a Year Ago

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

Homeownership Matters to State of the Union

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

HouseLogic Presents a Makeover and Chance to Win $100

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

December Existing-Home Sales Show Uptrend

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

REALTORS® Recognize Credit Union as Valuable Member Benefit

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

NAR Fact Sheet

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

REALTOR® Magazine Seeks Nominations for Volunteer and Mentor Program

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

Continuing Education Courses Help Realtors® Stay on Track

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

Increased Lending and More Loan Modifications are Key to Recovery

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

Pending Home Sales Rise Again in November, Highest in a Year-and-a-Half

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

Existing-Home Sales Continue to Climb in November

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

REALTORS® Identify Exterior Replacement Projects as Best Investment for Homeowners

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

HouseLogic Poll Finds Voters Driven by Jobs, Housing in 2012 Election

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

REALTORS® Applaud Bill to Protect Taxpayers From Mortgage Industry Bailouts

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

NAR Media Contacts

View contact information based on subject of interest.

January 22

December Existing-Home Sales

January 28

December Pending Home Sales Index

NAR Policies
Public Advocacy Campaign (NAR's Consumer Advertising Effort)
Stephanie Singer
Managing Director, Media Communications
202-383-1050
ssinger@realtors.org

... Read More

REALTORS® Urge Comprehensive Reform of Mortgage Finance System

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

REALTORS® Offer Solutions for Workforce Housing Crisis

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

REALTORS® Praise FHA for Serving the Needs of Millions of Hard-Working Families

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

Pending Home Sales Jump in October

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

Growth in Commercial Real Estate Markets Expected in 2012

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

NAR Awards Realtor® Associations Grants to Promote and Expand Affordable Housing

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

October Existing-Home Sales Rise, Unsold Inventory Continues to Decline

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

Realtors® Applaud Congress for Reinstating FHA Loan Limits

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

NAR Installs 2012 Officers

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

Realtor® PeggyAnn McConnochie Honored with NAR Distinguished Service Award

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

Realtor® Adorna Carroll Honored with NAR Distinguished Service Award

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

REALTORS® Help Buyers Overcome Tight Mortgage Credit

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

Housing Must Be a National Priority

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

U.S. Will Remain a Nation of Homeowners

ANAHEIM (November 12, 2011) - The U.S. will not become a nation of renters; there are just too many benefits, both financial and otherwise, to own versus rent. That’s according to the combined findings of several recent studies presented during the “Buyer or Renter Nation?” session today at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo.

An analysis over a 31-year period across 23 metropolitan areas compared the ownership benefits in terms of appreciation and interest deductibility and the costs homeowners... Read More

Every Market is a Second-Home Market

ANAHEIM (November 12, 2011) - A diverse set of buyers and property types comprise the second-home sector and opportunities for second-home buyers exist in nearly every market, even in nontraditional, non-resort markets.

That was the message delivered today at the Resort and Second Home Forum at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo. Attendees at the forum heard from several experts about how to identify second-home sales opportunities in their own local markets.

Americans appreciate the value of homeownership – so much that many of them own second homes, either... Read More

Realtors® Take Aim at Appraisals in Anaheim

ANAHEIM (November 12, 2011) - Accurate home appraisal valuations are vital in today’s market; inaccurate appraisals can slow down or even cancel a home sale. Today Realtors® and other real estate experts gathered at the “Appraisals: What You Absolutely Need to Know” forum during the Realtors® Conference & Expo to address this pressing issue.

“In today’s market, home appraisals that fail to provide accurate valuation are causing many sales to be cancelled or postponed,” said National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps,... Read More

Commercial Real Estate Market to See Improvement in Year Ahead

ANAHEIM (November 12, 2011) - Depressed conditions in the financial and small business sectors continue to negatively affect the commercial real estate industry and the nation’s economic recovery. That’s according to economists at the Economic Issues and Commercial Real Estate Business Trends Forum at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo yesterday.

During the forum, National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun shared his predictions for the commercial real estate market in 2012 and 2013, anticipating a steady improvement in commercial real... Read More

Gradual Recovery for Housing and the Economy Expected in 2012

ANAHEIM (November 11, 2011) - Although the housing market struggled to maintain an even footing in 2011, gradual improvement is expected in 2012 and beyond, according to projections at a residential forum here at the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo.

Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors®, said home sales should be stronger. “Tight mortgage credit conditions have been holding back home buyers all year, and consumer confidence has been shaky recently,” he said. “Nonetheless, there is a... Read More

NAR's 2012 President Committed to Facing Challenges Ahead

ANAHEIM (November 11, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® will not waiver in its commitment to ensure access to homeownership, affordable housing, and commercial investment, according to Moe Veissi, 2012 NAR president. Veissi shared his perspective and insights into some of the key issues facing the real estate industry in the coming year during the 2011 Realtors® Conference & Expo today.

“It’s a difficult time in many ways for real estate; some would go as far to say that... Read More

NAR's Global Initiatives Cross Borders

ANAHEIM (November 11, 2011) - As the international community continues to seek out opportunities in the U.S. property market, the National Association of Realtors® is expanding its global reach through several new initiatives. During the 2011 REALTORS® Conference & Expo here this week, attendees from all over the world can learn about NAR’s global business tools and resources.

One of those resources is a new global website, Realtor.com® International (www.realtor.com/international). The site... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Down in July but Up Strongly From a Year Ago

WASHINGTON (August 18, 2011) - Existing-home sales declined in July from an upwardly revised June pace but are notably higher than a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Monthly gains in the Northeast and Midwest were offset by declines in the West and South.
... Read More

Realtors® Ready to 'Seize the Day' for America's Home Owners

ANAHEIM (November 10, 2011) - Realtors® stand ready to protect and defend opportunities for homeownership, and many of them have gathered here at the 2011 REALTORS® Conference & Expo to prepare for the challenges ahead.

During the opening session today at this week’s meetings, National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps outlined obstacles and opportunities facing the real estate industry.

“For the first time in generations, the American dream of homeownership is... Read More

National Bus Tour Underscores Importance of Home Ownership Matters

Anaheim, November 10, 2011

After travelling through 33 states and visiting more than 50 cities across the country, the National Association of Realtors® Home Ownership Matters Bus arrives in Anaheim, Calif., today for the Realtors® Conference & Expo here this week. The bus will be parked on the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center throughout the conference.

The bus’s final stop in Anaheim wraps up a successful eight-month trek that kicked off in Chicago, Ill., this past March. The multi-city bus tour was launched as part of NAR’s Home Ownership... Read More

Chrysler Group LLC Puts Realtors® on the Road to Savings

ANAHEIM (November 10, 2011) - During the 2011 REALTORS® Conference & Expo in Anaheim today, the National Association of Realtors® named Chrysler Group LLC as the “Official Automobile Manufacturer” of NAR and the latest addition to the REALTOR Benefits® Program.

“This new partnership provides Realtors® with significant savings and access to a wide range of vehicles, as well as services through Chrysler Group,” said Bob Goldberg, senior vice president of Marketing and Business Development, Commercial Services and Business Specialties.... Read More

Realtors® Frame the Future of Homeownership for Orange County Families

ANAHEIM (November 9, 2011) - Realtors® work tirelessly to make sure the American Dream of owning a home is available to everyone who is willing and able to assume the responsibilities of homeownership. That commitment was evident today as hundreds of Realtors® volunteered their time and labor to frame homes that will later be used by Habitat for Humanity of Orange County for local individuals and families.

Throughout the day volunteers worked inside the Anaheim Convention Center Arena to frame homes that will be constructed inside a new 15-home community in nearby Cypress,... Read More

Third Quarter Metro Area Prices Soften but State Sales Broadly Rise

WASHINGTON (November 9, 2011) - Metro area median existing-home prices in the third quarter generally were down from a year ago, while sales rose in every state from the third quarter of 2010, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®.

The median existing single-family home price rose in 39 out of 150 metropolitan statistical areas¹ (MSAs) in the third quarter from a year earlier; 111 areas showed price declines. In the second quarter, 41 metro areas... Read More

Realtor.com Goes Global With Launch of International Site

WASHINGTON (November 3, 2011) - Today the National Association of Realtors®, and Move, Inc. (NASDAQ: MOVE), the leader in online real estate and operator of Realtor.com, extended the lead of Realtor.com as the world’s largest online destination for real estate listings with the launch of the Realtor.com International web site.

Available at www.Realtor.com/International, the new site delivers the 4.4 million¹ for-sale property listings displayed on Realtor.com to buyers across the globe, as well as residential... Read More

Realtor® Good Neighbor Award Winners Step Forward to Help People in Need

WASHINGTON (November 2, 2011) - For the past 12 years the Good Neighbor Awards program has recognized Realtors® who are devoted to strengthening communities through volunteer work and helping those in need. The five individuals named as this year's REALTOR® Magazine Good Neighbor Award winners are leading examples of how Realtors® value service and are committed to improving communities.

The 2011 Good Neighbor Awards winners are LeRoy J. Bendickson, Edina Realty, Edina, Minn., for National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Minnesota Chapter; Marta Karpiel,... Read More

September Pending Home Sales Down, Still Higher Than a Year Ago

WASHINGTON (October 27, 2011) - Pending home sales declined in September, although activity remains above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, fell 4.6 percent to 84.5 in September from 88.6 in August but is 6.4 percent higher than September 2010 when it stood at 79.4. The data reflects contracts but not closings.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the housing market is being... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Off in September but Higher Than a Year Ago

WASHINGTON (October 20, 2011) - Existing-home sales were down in September on the heels of a strong gain in August, but remain well above a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Total existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 3.0 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.91 million in September from an upwardly revised 5.06 million in August, but are 11.3 percent above... Read More

Congress and Obama Administration Must Act to Stimulate Housing Recovery

WASHINGTON (October 25, 2011) - America needs strong housing policies that ensure a robust recovery and do not further weaken the nation’s housing market. That was one of several recommendations resulting from the bipartisan New Solutions for America’s Housing Crisis forum on October 4 and endorsed by the National Association of Realtors®.

The forum was hosted by the Progressive Policy Institute and Economic Policies for the 21st Century and brought together policy leaders, industry representatives, members of Congress, thought leaders and the media. In a... Read More

Government Plays Valuable Role in Homeownership, Say Realtors®

WASHINGTON (October 13, 2011) -- Owning a home has had long-standing government support in the U.S. because homeownership benefits individuals and families, strengthens communities, and is integral to the nation’s economy, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today.

NAR President-Elect Moe Veissi outlined the association’s recommendations for housing finance reform before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on International Monetary Policy and Trade.

“We must be better stewards of the U.S. housing... Read More

Preserving Home Ownership Tax Benefits Vital to Housing Market, Say Realtors®

WASHINGTON (October 6, 2011) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps.

“Today, witnesses before the Senate Finance Committee were in complete agreement that now is not the time to make changes to the mortgage interest deduction. NAR is pleased that a range of witnesses testifying at the committee’s hearing on tax incentives for homeownership reinforced the message Realtors® have been delivering to Washington: do no harm.

“As the leading advocate for housing and homeownership issues, NAR firmly... Read More

Realtors® Urge Long-term Flood Insurance Reform as Congress Passes Stopgap Extension

WASHINGTON (October 4, 2011) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps.

“The National Association of Realtors® is pleased that a continuing resolution passed by Congress today included a short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program, but still believes a longer term extension is needed to ensure access to affordable flood insurance for millions of homeowners.

“As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, NAR strongly supports the NFIP and believes that a 5-year... Read More

Housing Must Remain Nation's Top Priority, Say Realtors®

WASHINGTON (October 4, 2011) - We need to keep housing first on the nation’s public policy agenda, because housing and homeownership issues affect all Americans, and a housing recovery is necessary for the nation’s economic well-being.

That was the message delivered today by National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps during the New Solutions for America’s Housing Crisis forum, where he joined a panel of experts to discuss solutions for addressing the country’s housing and economic challenges. The event was hosted by Economic Policies for the... Read More

Pending Home Sales Decline in August but Remain Above a Year Ago

WASHINGTON (September 29, 2011) - Pending home sales slipped in August with a mixed regional performance but are 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 1.2 percent to 88.6 in August from 89.7 in July but is 7.7 percent above August 2010 when it stood at 82.3. The data reflects contracts but not closings.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the decline reflects an... Read More

REALTORS® Bring Workforce Housing Concerns to Nation's Capital

WASHINGTON (September 28, 2011) - Realtors® strive to preserve and expand housing opportunities for all Americans, and that’s particularly important for public and private sector workers. To address a nationwide shortage of workforce housing, the National Association of Realtors®, in partnership with the National Housing Conference, will host a forum today in Washington, D.C.

Bring Workers Home 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 D.C. forum will explore... Read More

Increased Lending, Short Sales Necessary to Reduce High REO Inventories, Say REALTORS®

WASHINGTON (September 15, 2011) - Improving access to affordable mortgage financing for qualified home buyers and investors and committing additional resources to loan modifications and short sales will help reduce current and future inventories of real estate owned (REO) properties held by government agencies, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

In a ... Read More

REALTOR® Award Finalists Recognized for Volunteer Efforts

WASHINGTON (August 29, 2011) - Realtors® don’t only help people realize their dreams of home ownership; they also volunteer their time and skills to help improve the communities in which they live. Ten such Realtors® were recognized today by the National Association of Realtors® as finalists for REALTOR® Magazine’s 2011 Good Neighbor Awards.

This year marks the 12th year the Good Neighbor Awards program has recognized Realtors® who volunteer to serve the needs of those who are less fortunate. The Realtors®... Read More

REALTORS® Call for Increased Lending, Pre-Foreclosure Efforts to Reduce High Inventories

WASHINGTON (September 20, 2011) - 20, 2011Increased lending to creditworthy home buyers and more loan modifications and short sales are necessary to reduce the rising inventory of foreclosed homes and help stabilize and revitalize the housing industry and economy, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

... Read More

REALTORS® Advocate Public Policies That Support Home Ownership

Washington, DC, September 22, 2011
... Read More

REALTORS® Advocate Public Policies That Support Home Ownership

WASHINGTON (September 22, 2011) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps.

As the Republican presidential debate kicks off tonight in Orlando, the National Association of Realtors® Home Ownership Matters bus tour will be onsite to remind candidates how important home ownership is to the economic and social fabric of our country.

U.S. public policies have long supported home ownership because it contributes to stable communities, supports our nation’s economy, and helps families build wealth. Removing... Read More

August Existing-Home Sales Rise Despite Headwinds, Up Strongly from a Year Ago

WASHINGTON (September 21, 2011) - Existing-home sales increased in August, even with ongoing tight credit and appraisal problems, along with regional disruptions created by Hurricane Irene, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Monthly gains were seen in all regions.

Total existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 7.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.03 million in August... Read More

REALTORS® Call for Increased Lending, Pre-Foreclosure Efforts to Reduce High Inventories

WASHINGTON (September 20, 2011) - Increased lending to creditworthy home buyers and more loan modifications and short sales are necessary to reduce the rising inventory of foreclosed homes and help stabilize and revitalize the housing industry and economy, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

That was the message delivered today by Allan Dechert, 2011 president of the New Jersey Association of Realtors®, who testified on NAR’s behalf before the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development... Read More

Pending Home Sales Slip in July but Up Strongly From One Year Ago

WASHINGTON (August 29, 2011) - Pending home sales declined in July but remain well above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. All regions show monthly declines except for the West, which continues to show the highest level of sales contract activity.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, slipped 1.3 percent to 89.7 in July from 90.9 in June but is 14.4 percent above the 78.4 index in July 2010. The data reflects contracts but not closings.

... Read More

REALTOR® Award Finalists Recognized for Volunteer Efforts

WASHINGTON (August 29, 2011) - Realtors® don’t only help people realize their dreams of home ownership; they also volunteer their time and skills to help improve the communities in which they live. Ten such Realtors® were recognized today by the National Association of Realtors® as finalists for REALTOR® Magazine’s 2011 Good Neighbor Awards.

This year marks the 12th year the Good Neighbor Awards program has recognized Realtors® who volunteer to serve the needs of those who are less fortunate. The Realtors® acknowledged by this... Read More

Hurricane Irene Underscores Importance of Reauthorizing National Flood Insurance Program

WASHINGTON (August 26, 2011) - As homeowners across the East Coast brace for Hurricane Irene and the heavy rains that are expected to fall over the next few days, the current threat underscores the importance of flood insurance, which is the only way for homeowners to financially protect their property or businesses from flood damages.

Hurricane damage from water is only covered by flood insurance, which must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and if Congress doesn’t act soon this critical program will expire on September 30, 2011,... Read More

Bus Tour Brings Home Ownership Matters to Grand Rapids

WASHINGTON (August 23, 2011) - Changes to the mortgage interest deduction could dramatically impact home owners and aspiring home owners in Grand Rapids, Mich., and beyond. That’s just one of the many issues the National Association of Realtors® wants Michigan residents to know about as the Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour pulls into Grand Rapids this week.

“As the leading advocate for housing issues, Realtors® know that home ownership supports our nation’s economy and helps families build wealth,” said NAR President Ron... Read More

Second Quarter Metro Area Prices Mixed with Little Change, State Sales Down

WASHINGTON (August 10, 2011) - Median existing-home prices declined modestly in the second quarter with 27 percent of metropolitan areas experiencing price gains from a year ago, while state home sales declined from the second quarter of 2010, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®.

The median existing single-family home price rose in 41 out of 151 metropolitan statistical areas¹ (MSAs) in the second quarter from the same... Read More

REALTORS® Rally for Joplin Recovery

WASHINGTON (August 4, 2011) - As the National Association of Realtors® Home Ownership Matters bus crosses Missouri this week, a stop in Joplin, Mo., today will underscore Realtors®’ commitment to rebuilding the local community.

“When we see the devastation of families losing their homes in natural disasters, we’re reminded of just how much home ownership matters,” said NAR 2011 Vice President Elizabeth Mendenhall, who will meet with Realtors® and families affected by the tornadoes in Cunningham Park, 26th and Maiden Lane, at 1 p.m. CDT today.... Read More

Realtors Urge Action on Debt Ceiling

WASHINGTON (July 29, 2011) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps.

“The National Association of Realtors®, on behalf of its 1.1 million members, their clients and customers, and the nation’s 75 million homeowners, urges Congress to resolve the mounting debt ceiling crisis before the August 2 deadline.

“Until a resolution is reached, Congress will be unable to address the myriad issues facing the nation’s families, communities, and economy. The indecision in Congress is paralyzing... Read More

NAR and NHC Bring Workers Home Through Workforce Housing Forum

WASHINGTON (July 28, 2011) - Public and private sector workers in the Northeast need more affordable housing opportunities. In response, the National Association of Realtors®, in partnership with the National Housing Conference, will host a regional forum today in Boston to help develop solutions to workforce housing issues.

During the daylong Bring Workers Home forum, Realtors® will join local and state housing and business leaders as well as local government officials to address area workforce housing challenges, and highlight regional solutions and best practices... Read More

Homeownership Tax Benefits Must Be Preserved, Say Realtors®

WASHINGTON (July 28, 2011) - Any changes to the mortgage interest deduction now or in the future could threaten recent progress toward stabilizing the housing market, critically erode home prices and values, destroy middle-class wealth accumulation and hurt economic growth.

That was the message delivered by National Association of Realtors® NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun during today’s Rethinking the Mortgage Interest Deduction forum, where he joined a panel of experts to debate the future of the MID. The event was hosted by the Tax Policy Center, a joint... Read More

Pending Home Sales Rise in June

WASHINGTON (July 28, 2011) - Pending home sales increased in June following a wide swing down in April and then up in May, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Activity increased in the West and South but declined in the Midwest and Northeast; all regions show strong double-digit gains from a year ago.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 2.4 percent to 90.9 in June from 88.8 in May and is 19.8 percent above the 75.9 reading in June 2010, which was the low point... Read More

Bus Tour Brings Home Ownership Matters to Memphis

WASHINGTON (July 21, 2011) - If regulators get their way, many qualified home buyers in Memphis, Tenn., may be shut out of the market very soon. That’s one of the reasons the National Association of Realtors® will be in town this weekend as part of its Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour.

“As leading advocates for home ownership and housing issues, Realtors® are committed to keeping people in their communities informed about public policy changes that could dramatically affect their lives,” said NAR President-elect Moe Veissi, who is in Memphis this week... Read More

June Existing-Home Sales Slip on Contract Cancellations, but Prices Stabilize

WASHINGTON (July 20, 2011) - Existing-home sales eased in June as contract cancellations spiked unexpectedly, although prices were up slightly, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Sales gains in the Midwest and South were offset by declines in the Northeast and West. Single-family home sales were stable while the condo sector weakened.

Total existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops... Read More

Tornado Recovery Underscores How Much Home Ownership Matters

WASHINGTON (July 20, 2011) - As NAR’s Home Ownership Matters bus crosses Alabama this week, Realtors® are providing assistance to victims of the April 27 tornadoes with funds raised from Realtor® donations across the country.

“When we see the devastation of families losing their homes in natural disasters, we’re reminded of just how much home ownership matters,” said National Association of Realtors® 2012 First Vice President Steve Brown, who met with Realtors® and families affected by the tornadoes. “Realtors® not only build... Read More

Stabilizing the Housing Market is Key to the Economic Recovery, Say Realtors

WASHINGTON (July 19, 2011) - Stability in the housing market will lead to a quicker and greater economic recovery, according to the National Association of Realtors®. In a letter to Shaun Donovan, secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Timothy Geithner, secretary of the Treasury; and Gene Sperling, director of the National Economic Council, NAR offered its recommendations for helping stabilize and revitalize the housing industry and economy.

“As the nation’s... Read More

NAR Bus Tour Takes Home Ownership Issues Coast-to-Coast

WASHINGTON (July 15, 2011) - As policymakers consider changes to government programs and incentives that could dramatically change the nature of home ownership in this country, the National Association of Realtors® is once again bringing these issues to people across the country with the second phase of the Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour.

“Home ownership is under attack, and we want to make sure that people understand what’s at stake,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “Whether you own a home today or want... Read More

Bus Tour Brings Home Ownership Matters to Atlanta

ATLANTA (July 15, 2011) - Home buyers across Georgia may have reduced access to mortgage funds this fall if Congress decides to reduce current Federal Housing Administration loan limits. That’s just one of the many issues the National Association of Realtors® wants Atlanta residents to know about as the Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour pulls into town this weekend.

“Home ownership is under attack, and we want to make sure that people understand what’s at stake,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “... Read More

Realtors® Offer Recommendations to Strengthen the Mortgage Origination

WASHINGTON (July 14, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® offered recommendations to Congress today about a number of issues affecting the mortgage origination process and the real estate and housing finance industry’s ability to facilitate home sales.

Testifying before the House Financial Service Committee’s Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity, NAR spokesperson Steve Brown, executive vice president, Crye-Leike Realtors® in Memphis, Tenn., identified several proposed regulations and existing rules that have exacerbated problems... Read More

Realtors® Support Bill for Comprehensive Reform of Secondary Mortgage Market

WASHINGTON (July 7, 2011) - The long-term viability of America’s housing finance market requires comprehensive reform of the secondary mortgage market. Toward that end, the National Association of Realtors® supports H.R. 2413, the “Secondary Market Facility for Residential Mortgage Act of 2011.”

“As the leading advocate for home ownership and housing issues, Realtors® want a secondary mortgage market that will serve home owners today and in the future, as well as support a strong housing market and economic recovery,” said NAR President Ron... Read More

Seven Out of 10 Renters Say Owning a Home is a Top Priority

WASHINGTON (July 6, 2011) - Most Americans still believe that owning a home is a solid financial decision, and a majority of renters aspire to home ownership as a long-term goal. According to the 2011 National Housing Pulse Survey released today by the National Association of Realtors®, 72 percent of renters surveyed said owning a home is a top priority for their future, up from 63 percent in 2010.

Seven in 10 Americans also agreed that buying a home is a good financial decision while almost two-thirds said now is a good time to purchase a home. The... Read More

Celebrating America's History of Home Ownership

WASHINGTON (July 1, 2011) - The ability to buy, sell and own property has defined our nation throughout its history, and as the U.S. prepares to celebrate its 235 birthday, Americans continue to reaffirm their support of and aspirations toward home ownership.

“For over 100 years, Realtors® have helped bring families home,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “There’s a reason why home ownership is called the American Dream – it’s part of our collective history and an essential part of building our... Read More

Pending Home Sales Turn Around in May

WASHINGTON (June 29, 2011) - Pending home sales rose strongly in May with all regions experiencing gains from a year ago, pointing to higher housing activity in the second half of the year, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 8.2 percent to 88.8 in May from an upwardly revised 82.1 in April and is 13.4 percent higher than the 78.3 reading in May 2010. The data reflects contracts but not closings, which normally occur with a lag... Read More

Realtors® Urge Regulators to Reconsider Narrow QRM Definition

WASHINGTON (June 22, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® is urging regulators to go back to the drawing board on the proposed Qualified Residential Mortgage rule.

At a news conference on Capitol Hill today, the original sponsors of the QRM provision in the Dodd-Frank Act – Sens. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) and Kay Hagan (D-N.C.) – joined Reps. John Campbell (R-Calif.) and Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) to urge regulators to reconsider unnecessarily high down payment requirements under the proposed QRM... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Decline in May with Market Constraints, Temporary Conditions

WASHINGTON (June 21, 2011) - Existing-home sales were down in May as temporary factors and financing problems weighed on the market, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, fell 3.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.81 million in May from a downwardly revised 5.00 million in April, and are 15.3 percent below a... Read More

Realtors® Support Legislation for Comprehensive GSE Reform

WASHINGTON (June 8, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® supports comprehensive reform of America’s housing finance market that protects taxpayers and ensures the availability of affordable mortgage credit today and into the future.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership and housing issues, NAR believes that a methodical, measured and comprehensive approach for reforming the secondary mortgage market is in the best interest of home buyers and taxpayers,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “A... Read More

Realtor® Volunteering Works Program Announces 2011 Winners

CHICAGO (June 1, 2011) - REALTOR® Magazine’s Good Neighbor Society has announced the recipients of the third annual Volunteering Works program, which matches Realtors® who work on small-scale charitable efforts with mentors and awards them grant money.

The five Realtors® recognized will receive a $1,000 grant and a year of one-on-one mentoring from a member of the Good Neighbor Society, who are past recipients of the annual REALTOR® Magazine Good Neighbor Award for volunteer service.

“Realtors® play a significant role in building... Read More

NAR Grants Help Make Home Ownership an Affordable Opportunity

WASHINGTON (May 31, 2011) - Seventeen local and state Realtor® associations have been awarded over $60,000 through the Housing Opportunity Program Grants, a National Association of Realtors® grant program. The funds will be used by the associations to promote and expand affordable housing opportunities in their communities.

“Realtors® strive to preserve and expand housing opportunities for all Americans,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “The Housing Opportunity grants program and its recipients are... Read More

April Pending Home Sales Drop After Two Monthly Gains

WASHINGTON (May 27, 2011) - Pending home sales fell in April with regional variations following increases in February and March, with unusual weather and economic softness adding to ongoing problems that are hobbling a recovery, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, dropped 11.6 percent to 81.9 in April from a downwardly revised 92.6 in March. The index is 26.5 percent below a cyclical peak of 111.5 in April 2010 when buyers were rushing... Read More

Realtors® Continue to Push Congress for Comprehensive GSE Strategy

WASHINGTON (May 25, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® supports a secondary mortgage market model with some level of government participation that would protect taxpayers and ensure that creditworthy consumers have access to affordable mortgage capital in all markets at all times.

That is the message delivered today by NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I, during a Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership, Realtors® agree that the existing... Read More

Realtors® Advocate Higher Loan Limits and Low Down Payment for FHA

WASHINGTON (May 25, 2011) - The Federal Housing Administration plays a critical role in the nation’s housing financing system, providing safe, affordable mortgage financing to consumers in all markets during all economic conditions, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today.

NAR President Ron Phipps spoke before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity regarding a discussion draft of legislation to reform FHA.

“As the leading advocate for homeownership, NAR strongly supports FHA’s... Read More

Commercial Real Estate Markets Stabilizing, Demand Growing

WASHINGTON (May 24, 2011) - The improving economy and job creation mean growing demand for commercial real estate, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said job creation will be the biggest factor moving forward. “Job growth creates demand for commercial space, and the economy should be adding between 1.5 million and 2 million jobs annually both this year and in 2012, with the unemployment rate falling to 8.0 percent by the end of next year,” he said. “Given the minimal new... Read More

"30 Under 30" Realtors® Grounded in Present, Look to the Future

WASHINGTON (May 23, 2011) - REALTOR® Magazine’s 2011 “30 Under 30” honorees exemplify the personal drive many Realtors® have to be the best and provide a high level of service to their clients, despite tough market conditions and a constantly evolving industry.

“I am amazed at the outstanding qualities and work ethic this year’s ‘30 Under 30’ honorees possess,” said National Association of Realtors® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps... Read More

April Existing-Home Sales Ease

WASHINGTON (May 19, 2011) - Existing-home sales slipped in April, although the market has managed six gains in the past nine months, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, eased 0.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.05 million in April from a downwardly revised 5.09 million in March, and are 12.9 percent below a 5.80 million pace in April... Read More

Foreign Buyers Recognize Value of Home Ownership in U.S.

WASHINGTON (May 18, 2011) - The U.S. continues to remain a top destination for foreign buyers as international purchases surged by $16 billion this year, one of the highest increases in recent years.

This is according to the National Association of Realtors®’ 2011 Profile of International Home Buying Activity. According to the survey, total residential international sales in the U.S. for the past year ending March 2011 equaled $82 billion, up from $66 billion in 2010. Total international sales were... Read More

NAR Member Survey Shows Focus on Training, Commitment to Profession

WASHINGTON (May 17, 2011) - Realtors® have been focusing more on training to help them better meet the needs of clients in a housing market with unique challenges, according to the 2011 National Association of Realtors® Member Profile.

The study’s results are representative of the nation’s Realtors®, who account for more than half of the approximately 2.0 million active real estate licensees in the U.S. The typical NAR member has 12 years of experience; nine out of 10 say they are certain they will remain in... Read More

New NAR Benefits Partner Improves Realtor®-Client Communications

WASHINGTON (May 16, 2011) - As Realtors® and their clients becoming increasingly more mobile, Realtors® must ensure that buyers and sellers can reach them at a moment’s notice. Ifbyphone, a voice-based marketing automation platform, provides a solution that enhances voice transactions and is now available to members of the National Association of Realtors® through the REALTOR Benefits® Program.

Ifbyphone is offering two products to NAR members – Ifbyphone for Realtors® and Ifbyphone for Realtors® Plus. This industry-leading product suite of... Read More

New Realtor® Certification Helps Members Grow Business

WASHINGTON (May 13, 2011) - With the changing real estate landscape and the increased use of broker price opinions (BPOs) by market participants, the National Association of Realtors® has launched a new certification, BPO Resource, recognizing Realtors® who have completed NAR’s new BPO education program. The new certification course was offered here during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo.

Nearly 160 Realtors® attended the one-day “BPOs: The Agent’s Role in the Valuation Process” course earlier this week. The... Read More

Minority Homeownership Award Winners Help Others Realize, Sustain American Dream

WASHINGTON (May 13, 2011) - While the past few years have been challenging for many, owning a home continues to be a goal for Americans of every background, according to John D. Trasviña, Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Trasviña made his remarks during the Multicultural Housing & HOPE Awards Symposium yesterday at the National Association of Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.... Read More

NAR Expands Home Ownership Through Diversity Initiative Grants

WASHINGTON (May 13, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® has awarded four state and local Realtor® associations with $15,000 through its Diversity Initiative Grants Program. Award recipients were announced at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C., this week.

NAR’s Diversity Initiative Grants Program provides associations with grants up to $5,000 twice a year for activities that reinforce the role of Realtors® as leaders in our country’s increasingly diverse communities and that extend the benefits of home... Read More

NAR Chief Economist Sees Sluggish but Improving Commercial Outlook

WASHINGTON (May 13, 2011) - The commercial real estate market continues a slow pace toward recovery with occupancy rates rising in the office and industrial properties in most major cities across the U.S. supported by rising employment and restocking of wholesale inventory, according to National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. At the “Economics Issues and Commercial Business Trends Forum,” Yun identified bright spots and challenges within the commercial sector.

The forum took place during the Realtor® Midyear Legislative Meetings... Read More

Realtors® Urge Regulators to Rethink Mortgage Requirements

WASHINGTON (May 12, 2011) - A proposed rule to define qualified residential mortgages (QRM) under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the Dodd-Frank Act) would unnecessarily restrict access to home ownership. Realtors® at the Real Estate Services Forum – The Impact of Dodd-Frank on Real Estate session today during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo gained insights into the implications of a narrowly defined QRM.

“As the leading advocate for housing... Read More

Housing and Economic Forecast Points to Rising Activity

WASHINGTON (May 12, 2011) - Home sales are expected to stay on an uptrend through 2012, although the performance will be uneven with mortgage constraints weighing on the market, according to experts at a residential real estate forum today at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said existing-home sales have been underperforming by historical standards and will rise gradually but unevenly. “If we just hold at the first-quarter sales pace of 5.1 million, sales this year would... Read More

NAR Awards Nearly $5 Million in Workforce Housing Grants

WASHINGTON (May 11, 2011) - Realtors^® strive to preserve and expand housing opportunities in communities across the country, and the National Association of Realtors^® supported many of these efforts through the Ira Gribin Workforce Housing Grants. NAR issued a final report, “Tackling Workforce Housing State by State,” on the grant program results today at the Realtors^® Midyear Legislative... Read More

New FTC Rule Impacts Realtors®' Short Sale Business

WASHINGTON (May 11, 2011) - A new rule from the Federal Trade Commission that aims to protect home owners from mortgage relief scams may impact real estate professionals who represent clients involved in short sale transactions. Several hundred Realtors® learned more about the new rule and its impact on their business at the “Risk Management and License Law Forum” during the Realtors® 2011 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C. today.

National Association of Realtors... Read More

Realtors® Go Green with New and Improved Designation

WASHINGTON (May 11, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® is modifying its popular Green Designation program to focus on residential real estate practice.

“NAR research has consistently shown that there is a considerable and growing market for green buildings, and many of today’s consumers want homes and communities that are more resource efficient and sensitive to the larger environment,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “NAR’s Green Designation helps Realtors® meet that consumer demand... Read More

Realtors® Urged to "Seize the Day"

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) - Now is the time for Realtors® to come to the aid of their industry, on behalf of the nation’s 75 million home owners, aspiring home owners, real estate investors, and the nation’s economy. That was the message delivered today during “59 and ½ Minutes: A Member-Director Forum” during the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo here.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership, housing issues and private property rights, the National... Read More

Housing Finance Market Reform Must Ensure Mortgage Affordability, Availability

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) - Reforms to America’s housing finance market must ensure a reliable source of affordable mortgage lending for creditworthy consumers. That’s according to Realtors® and other industry insiders who examined the federal government’s future role in the secondary mortgage market at the “Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac: Obama Options and Beyond” session during the National Association of Realtors® 2011 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo, here through May... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Rise in Most States in First Quarter; Metro Area Prices Mixed

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) - Existing-home sales continued to recover in the first quarter with gains recorded in 49 states and the District of Columbia, while 22 percent of the available metropolitan areas saw prices rise from a year ago, according to the latest survey by the National Association of Realtors®.

Total state existing-home sales, including single-family and condo, rose 8.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate¹ of 5.14 million in the first quarter from 4.75 million in the... Read More

Realtors® Advocate Mortgage Liquidity for Creditworthy Home Buyers

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) - The pendulum on mortgage credit has swung too far in the other direction after the recent housing downturn and is putting an unnecessary burden on creditworthy consumers, impeding the economic and housing market recoveries. That’s what a panel of industry experts told several thousand Realtors® gathered at a special symposium, Ensuring Mortgage Availability for Creditworthy Homebuyers, during the Realtors® 2011 Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C., here through... Read More

Realtors® Working for Tomorrow's Home Owners Today

WASHINGTON (May 9, 2011) - 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 home owners, aspiring home owners and real estate investors everywhere as the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo begins.

“As leading advocates for home ownership, housing issues and private property rights, Realtors® know that the time for action is now,” said NAR President Ron... Read More

ePropertyData Provides Customized Data Solutions for Realtors®

Washington, DC, May 05, 2011

Commercial members of the National Association of Realtors® will have greater access to commercial information exchange data through a new mobile application by ePropertyData.

ePD, a leading CIE solutions provider, is owned by NAR and operates CIEs throughout the U.S., offering data solutions to more than 150,000 commercial real estate professionals.

“Realtors® build communities, and Realtors® who practice commercial real estate help revitalize communities by facilitating investment which supports millions of jobs... Read More

Pending Home Sales Rise Again in March

WASHINGTON (April 28, 2011) - March saw another increase in pending home sales, with contract activity rising unevenly in six of the past nine months, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, rose 5.1 percent to 94.1 in March from a downwardly revised 89.5 in February. The index is 11.4 percent below 106.2 in March 2010; however, activity was at elevated levels in March and April of 2010 to meet the contract deadline for the home buyer tax... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Rise in March

WASHINGTON (April 20, 2011) - Sales of existing-home sales rose in March, continuing an uneven recovery that began after sales bottomed last July, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased 3.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 million in March from an upwardly revised 4.92 million in February, but are 6.3 percent below the 5.44... Read More

New Errors and Omissions Insurance Benefit Provides Protection for Realtors®

WASHINGTON (April 18, 2011) - Realtors® now have access to an errors and omissions insurance program from the National Association of Realtors®’ newest REALTOR Benefits® Partner, Victor O. Schinnerer & Company, Inc.

“Realtors® help consumers invest in their future through home ownership,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “E&O insurance helps Realtors® protect their own business investment while they’re helping buyers, sellers and investors achieve their real estate goals.... Read More

Realtors® Commend Students for School of the Future Designs

WASHINGTON (April 15, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® welcomed middle school students from across the country this week to participate in the annual School of Future Design Competition. The competition encourages students to work in teams to plan and design a school that will improve the learning environment and the facility’s energy efficiency, be sensitive to the environment, and is integral to the surrounding community. This year’s winners were announced last night during an event held at NAR’s D.C. offices.

“Realtors® help build... Read More

Realtors® Applaud Bill to Speed Lender Response to Short Sales

WASHINGTON (April 13, 2011) - A new bill to improve the process for approving short sales may soon bring relief to distressed home owners who are unable to keep their homes and hope to avoid foreclosure. The bill, introduced in the U.S. House yesterday and strongly supported by the National Association of Realtors®, would impose a deadline of 45 days on lenders to respond to short sale requests.

The legislation, the “Prompt Decision for Qualification for Short Sale Act of 2011,” was offered in Congress by U.S. Reps. Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) and Robert Andrews (D-N.J.).... Read More

NAR Study Finds Americans Prefer Smart Growth Communities

WASHINGTON (April 4, 2011) - Americans favor walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, with 56 percent of respondents preferring smart growth neighborhoods over neighborhoods that require more driving between home, work and recreation. That’s according to a recent study, the Community Preference Survey, by the National Association of REALTORS®.

“REALTORS® care about improving communities through smart growth initiatives,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R... Read More

Realtors® Committed to Fair Housing Throughout the Year

WASHINGTON (April 1, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® will join Americans across the country as they honor Fair Housing Month this April. As the leading advocate for home ownership, NAR strongly supports the Fair Housing Act and believes that anyone who is able and willing to assume the responsibilities of owning a home should have the opportunity to pursue that dream.

This April marks the 43rd anniversary of the 1968 landmark Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial... Read More

Realtors® Urge Congress to Approach GSE Reform Slowly

WASHINGTON (March 31, 2011) - The National Association of REALTORS® today urged Congress to move cautiously when reforming government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Reforming America’s housing finance market can only be achieved through a forward-looking, comprehensive approach that supports the housing and economic recoveries, said NAR President Ron Phipps in testimony before the House Subcommittee on Capital Markets today.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership, NAR strongly agrees that the existing system failed and that reforms are... Read More

Vacation- and Investment-Home Shares Hold Even in 2010

WASHINGTON (March 30, 2011) - The market share of vacation- and investment-home sales¹ held steady in 2010, although the sales volume declined with the overall market, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

NAR’s 2011 Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey, covering existing- and new-home transactions in 2010, shows vacation-home sales accounted for 10 percent of transactions last year while the portion of investment sales was 17 percent, both unchanged from 2009.

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun... Read More

Realtors® Oppose High Down Payment Requirement for Qualified Residential Mortgage Exemption

WASHINGTON (March 29, 2011) - High down payment requirements being proposed by federal regulatory agencies as part of the upcoming rulemaking under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act will unnecessarily burden homebuyers and significantly impede the economic and housing recovery, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Six agencies, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., Federal Housing Finance Agency, Federal Reserve, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and the U.S. Securities and... Read More

February Pending Home Sales Rise

WASHINGTON (March 28, 2011) - Pending home sales increased in February but with notable regional variations, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator, rose 2.1 percent to 90.8, based on contracts signed in February, from 88.9 in January. The index is 8.2 percent below 98.9 recorded in February 2010. The data reflects contracts and not closings, which normally occur with a lag time of one or two months.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief... Read More

OfficeMax Offers Realtors® New Ways to Save

WASHINGTON (March 28, 2011) - As Realtors®’ businesses grow, so do their needs for quality office supply products. Now OfficeMax and the National Association of Realtors® are proud to offer discounts to NAR members on office supplies and services through the REALTOR Benefits® Program.

“The REALTOR Benefits® Program provides value-added offers and savings to Realtors®,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “The OfficeMax Partner Advantage Program is custom-designed to provide exceptional... Read More

NAR Home Ownership Bus Tour Stops in Portland

PORTLAND (March 25, 2011) - After several stops throughout the country this month, the Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour will stop in Portland on Saturday, March 26, outside the Portland Better Living Home Garden & Lifestyle Show. Hosted by the National Association of REALTORS®, the bus tour will give consumers the chance to speak with NAR leaders and local officials about how shifting priorities and public policies in Washington could affect home ownership in Portland.

“Our government has historically supported home ownership because it helps families build their... Read More

February Existing-Home Sales Decline following Sustained Gains

WASHINGTON (March 21, 2011) - Existing-home sales fell in February following three straight monthly increases, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, dropped 9.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.88 million in February from an upwardly revised 5.40 million in January, and are 2.8 percent below the 5.02 million pace in February 2010.... Read More

Denver Welcomes NAR Home Ownership Bus Tour

WASHINGTON (March 18, 2011) - A month-long Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour hosted by the National Association of Realtors® makes a stop this week outside the Denver Home Show on Saturday, March 19. NAR leaders and invited local officials will be on hand to hear from consumers and speak with them about how shifting priorities and public policies in Washington could affect home ownership here in Denver.

“We need to keep housing first on the nation’s public policy agenda, because housing and home ownership issues affect all Americans,” said NAR President Ron... Read More

Tax Time Less Taxing for Home Owners

WASHINGTON (March 15, 2011) - “Owning a home offers myriad benefits throughout the year, but some of the financial advantages of home ownership are most apparent at tax time,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “As many of today’s hard-working American families are feeling a financial squeeze, the tax benefits that can come from owning a home can be a welcome relief.”

A number of tax deductions and credits are still available for home owners; these include deductions – with specific limits... Read More

Realtors® Advocate Reform, Long-term Extension of National Flood Insurance Program

WASHINGTON (March 11, 2011) - Congress needs to strengthen and reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program for the long term to prevent undermining the fragile real estate market recovery, the National Association of Realtors® said in testimony today before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity.

The NFIP authority is set to expire on September 30 for the 10th time in two years. The program ensures access to affordable flood insurance for more than 5.6 million home and business owners in 21,000 communities nationwide.
... Read More

Home Ownership Essential to Job Growth and Economy, Say Realtors®

WASHINGTON (March 9, 2011) - Testifying before a Senate panel today, National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps told members of Congress that sustainable home ownership must be the goal when considering future federal housing policies.

“As the leading advocate for home ownership, NAR wants to ensure public policies that promote responsible, sustainable home ownership and that any changes to current programs and incentives don’t jeopardize a housing and economic recovery,” Phipps told the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee.... Read More

NAR Home Ownership Bus Tour Rolls into Chicago

WASHINGTON (March 4, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® month-long Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour kicks off this weekend in Chicago outside of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show on Saturday, March 5. Chicagoans can speak with NAR leaders and invited local officials about the housing issues that matter to them, as well as learn about how public policy developments in Washington could affect their ability to buy, sell and own a home.

“Home ownership matters to individuals, families and communities across this country,” said NAR President Ron Phipps,... Read More

NAR Bus Tour Opens National Home Ownership Dialogue

WASHINGTON (March 1, 2011) - Throughout this month, consumers across the country can engage Realtors®, local officials, and their neighbors on an issue that literally hits close to home – home ownership – as the National Association of Realtors® kicks off a month-long Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour in cities across the nation.

“Americans today are debating what home ownership means to their families, communities and the nation as a whole,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “We want to engage in... Read More

Pending Home Sales Decline in January

WASHINGTON (February 28, 2011) - Pending home sales eased moderately in January for the second straight month, but remain 20.6 percent above the cyclical low last June, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator, declined 2.8 percent to 88.9 based on contracts signed in January from a downwardly revised 91.5 in December. The index is 1.5 percent below the 90.3 level in January 2010 when a tax credit stimulus was in place. The data reflects contracts and not closings... Read More

REALTOR® Magazine's Good Neighbor Awards Now Accepting Nominations

Washington, DC, February 25, 2011

The National Association of Realtors® is currently accepting applications for the 12th annual REALTOR® Magazine Good Neighbor Awards. The awards recognize Realtors® for their dedication to volunteer service.

Five winners will be announced in the November issue of REALTOR® Magazine. Each winner will be recognized at the 2011 REALTORS® Conference & Expo in Anaheim, Calif., and receive a $10,000 grant for his or her charity. Winners will also receive travel expenses to the conference and national... Read More

Commercial Real Estate Vacancy Rates to Decline but Rent Recovery Delayed

WASHINGTON (February 25, 2011) - A stabilization trend is taking place in commercial real estate sectors, but in most markets rent will remain soft except for multifamily rentals, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said a pullback in construction is helping stabilize the market. “Very limited construction of new commercial real estate over the past few years has essentially fixed the supply of available space,” he said. “This means vacancy rates could fall quickly from any... Read More

Existing-Home Sales Rise Again in January

WASHINGTON (February 23, 2011) - The uptrend in existing-home sales continues, with January sales rising for the third consecutive month with a pace that is now above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased 2.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.36 million in January from a downwardly revised 5.22 million in... Read More

America Needs an Affordable and Adequately Regulated Secondary Market, Says NAR

WASHINGTON (February 11, 2011) - The National Association of REALTORS® welcomes the Obama Administration’s call for an orderly transition from the current form of the secondary mortgage market to a new structure that would enable Americans to achieve affordable, sustainable mortgages.

“NAR believes that we cannot have a restoration of the former secondary mortgage market with entities that took private profits while pushing losses onto the taxpayer. The new system must involve some government presence, outside of FHA, USDA, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, to... Read More

Home Price Stabilization Seen in Most Metro Areas during Fourth Quarter, Sales Up

WASHINGTON (February 10, 2011) - Home sales rebounded in 49 states during the fourth quarter with 78 markets – just over half of the available metropolitan areas – experiencing price gains from a year ago, while most of the rest saw price weakness, according to the latest survey by the National Association of REALTORS®.

Total state existing-home sales, including single-family and condo, jumped 15.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate¹ of 4.80 million in the fourth quarter... Read More

GSE Structures Must Protect Taxpayers and Ensure Mortgage Availability, Says NAR

WASHINGTON (February 9, 2011) - Continued government participation in the secondary mortgage market is essential to ensuring affordable and available home mortgages to qualified consumers when private lenders withdraw from the market, according to the National Association of Realtors®’ recommendations for restructuring the government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs).

The House Financial Services Subcommittee will convene today for the first hearing in a series to debate the future of the government-sponsored enterprises, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. NAR’s recommended... Read More

Realtors® Praise FHFA for Proposed Rule to Prohibit Private Transfer Fees

WASHINGTON (February 4, 2011) - The National Association of Realtors® applauds the Federal Housing Finance Agency for moving ahead with a proposed rule to restrict government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and the 12 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, which are often attached to a property by developers and require payment of fees back to the developer each time the property is resold; the covenants can be difficult to reverse and... Read More

Pending Home Sales Continue Uptrend

WASHINGTON (January 27, 2011) - Pending home sales improved further in December, marking the fifth gain in the past six months, according to the National Association of Realtors®

The Pending Home Sales Index,* a forward-looking indicator, increased 2.0 percent to 93.7 based on contracts signed in December from a downwardly revised 91.9 in November. The index is 4.2 percent below the 97.8 mark in December 2009. The data reflects contracts and not closings, which normally occur with a lag time of one or two months.

... Read More

New ABR® App for iPhone Helps REALTORS® Connect with Buyers

CHICAGO (January 24, 2011) - Realtors® who work with buyers now have a new resource available through the ABR® App for the iPhone. Available now through the iTunes store, this new benefit will help Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designees grow their business while also connecting with home buyers.

The ABR® iPhone App is the latest resource from the National Association of Realtors®’ Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council. This powerful and practical app was developed by Jacobs & Clevenger, a multichannel marketing communications... Read More

December Existing-Home Sales Jump

WASHINGTON (January 20, 2011) - Existing-home sales rose sharply in December, when sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Existing-home sales¹, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 12.3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December from an upwardly revised 4.70 million in November, but remain 2.9 percent below the 5.44... Read More

Owners, Renters Agree: Owning a Home is a Smart Decision

WASHINGTON (January 19, 2011) - A substantial majority of both home owners and current renters agree that owning a home is a smart decision over the long term. That’s according to the results of a National Association of Realtors® survey of 3,793 adults conducted online by Harris Interactive.

The American Attitudes About Homeownership survey found that in today’s challenging economy, 95 percent of owners and 72 percent of renters believe that over a period of several years, it makes more sense to own a home. In addition, an... Read More

Realtor® Volunteer and Mentor Program Seeks Nominations

WASHINGTON (January 11, 2011) - REALTOR® Magazine’s Good Neighbor Society is seeking entries for Volunteering Works, a program that matches Realtors® who would like to expand their community service outreach with a mentor who is already a successful volunteer leader.

For the third year, the Good Neighbor Society is soliciting applications from Realtors® who work on small-scale charitable efforts that have great potential for growth. Five Volunteering Works applicants will be selected to receive a year of one-on-one mentoring from a member of the Good... Read More

Real Estate Today Celebrates 100th Show

WASHINGTON (January 7, 2011) - Real Estate Today, the national talk radio show produced by the National Association of Realtors®, celebrates its 100th show this weekend. Now the fastest growing real estate show in the country, Real Estate Today can be heard on more than 120 stations across the U.S, including in every top-10 market.

“The 100th show is a significant milestone in talk radio, and we’re proud of this achievement,” said NAR President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “The overwhelming success... Read More

Realtors® Recognize School of the Future Design Winners

WASHINGTON (April 30, 2010) –Wind and solar power, recycled building materials and structures that encourage community involvement are all components of winning designs for the annual School of the Future Design Competition. Winners were announced last night at ceremony held at the National Association of Realtors®.

The contest gives middle school students the opportunity to redesign their school spaces to enhance learning, save energy, preserve resources, and make connections to the surrounding community.

“Realtors® build communities, and well-planned... Read More

Realtors® Recognize School of the Future Design Winners

WASHINGTON (April 30, 2010) - Wind and solar power, recycled building materials and structures that encourage community involvement are all components of winning designs for the annual School of the Future Design Competition. Winners were announced last night at ceremony held at the National Association of Realtors®.

The contest gives middle school students the opportunity to redesign their school spaces to enhance learning, save energy, preserve resources, and make connections to the surrounding community.

“Realtors® build communities, and well-planned schools... Read More

NAR Recognizes School of the Future Design Winners

WASHINGTON (May 1, 2009) - The annual School of the Future Design Competition recognizes the efforts of young students in integrating sustainability, technology and community involvement into school design. This year’s winners were announced by the National Association of Realtors® and the Council of Educational Facility Planners International Foundation at an event last night.

Middle school students from around the country participated in the competition, which is part of School Building Week, April 27-May 1. The week is sponsored by NAR and CEFPI, as well as the U.S.... Read More

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