Philadelphia Real Estate News

Fairy-Tale ‘Carpenter Gothic Victorian’ Hits the Market on Long Island’s Shelter Island

Larissa Runkle — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A Victorian home in one of the Northeast’s best-preserved historic summer destinations has come on the market in Shelter Island Heights, NY, for $2.99 million.

Built around 1875, the home at 13 Spring Garden Ave. sits within the Shelter Island Heights Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993. The Heights began in the early 1870s as a planned summer community; today, the district includes more than 140 historic buildings.

“It’s a classic Carpenter Gothic Victorian, the style the Heights is known for,” says listing agent Douglas Cabral of Century 21 Excelsior Realty.

The home was built in 1875, with an ornate wooden exterior meant to mimic the style of earlier Gothic stone homes. (EPM Real Estate Photography)

Views from the home’s wraparound porch (EPM Real Estate Photography)

Inside the main living room space (EPM Real Estate Photography)

The term refers to a style in which 19th-century carpenters sought to re-create the ornate stonework of Gothic architecture using wood. That craftsmanship is most visible on the facade, where a wraparound front porch trimmed with hand-carved arches leads up to a covered second-floor balcony, overlooking Spring Garden Avenue.

Inside the home, about 2,300 square feet of living space has been restored for year-round use. Chapel-style front doors open to a shiplap-clad parlor, which flows into an open living and dining area with beamed ceilings, a white brick fireplace, built-in bookcase, and spacious window seat.

Another set of chapel-style doors leads to the kitchen, which has a white soapstone-marble center island, floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry, and Viking appliances. Two dishwashers, a wine cooler, and brass accents round out the space, and a breakfast area sits in a bay window. A brick courtyard off the kitchen connects to an outdoor dining area on the porch.

Upstairs are all three of the home’s bedrooms, including a primary suite with a cathedral ceiling, a walk-in closet, and a private bath. One guest room opens onto the front balcony, and the other has a window seat tucked beneath a turret.

“The bedrooms have a storybook, fairy-tale-like charm,” Cabral says.

A dining space just off the living room (EPM Real Estate Photography)

The remodeled kitchen includes custom cabinetry and Viking appliances. (EPM Real Estate Photography)

A cozy window seat in one of the home’s three bedrooms (EPM Real Estate Photography)

A third-floor viewing tower looks out over Dering Harbor and the surrounding bays. Central air conditioning has also been added to the 19th-century structure.

“Buyers respond to the combination of period craftsmanship and year-round comfort,” Cabral says.

The 0.37-acre lot is oversized for the neighborhood, leaving room for a large private yard that owners have used for croquet, along with a detached garage. Heights residents have access to the association’s tennis courts, beach club, and community parks.

Shelter Island sits between the North Fork and South Fork of Long Island and is reachable only by ferry, with service to Greenport, Sag Harbor, and the Hamptons.

“It’s rare to find a restored 1870s Carpenter Gothic home, updated for modern living without losing its historic character—especially in a setting with beach, tennis, and a small-town village feel,” says Cabral.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/carpenter-gothic-victorian-for-sale-shelter-island/.

HHHunt names CFO Ann Kelly as next CEO in 2027 C-suite reset

HousingWire Automation — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Buck Hunt to remain chairman and lead new venture, as executive shuffle elevates Steve Brant to CFO

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/hhhunt-ann-kelly-new-ceo-2027/.

One of Frank Lloyd Wright’s First Commissions Lists near Chicago for $2.4 Million

Kristine Hansen — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie style and usonian homes are well recognized around the world, but his earlier commissions—those completed between the 1890s—are not nearly as well-known.

Built in 1895, the Chauncey Williams House in River Forest, IL which is now listed for $2.4 million, is one of those.

Chauncey Williams was a classmate of Wright’s at the University of Wisconsin and he hired the architect to design his family home in this near-western suburb of Chicago. The home is also only 1 mile from the home where Wright lived and had his studio.

After working for Louis Sullivan at Adler & Sullivan, Wright left the firm in 1893, then went into private practice, first in Chicago, then—by 1898—in Oak Park.

As one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s earliest commissions, this home completed in 1895 is a design departure from the Usonians and Prairie Style homes he designed later in his career. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

The boulders flanking the arched entryway were sourced from the nearby Des Plaines River. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

In the home’s dining room is a fireplace original to the home. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

With the built-in shelving, an area of the home could be used as a home office, library or study. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

The sun room is an ideal spot for relaxing at home, including hosting friends or family. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

Since the home was built in 1895, the kitchen has been updated for modern living. (Cesar Wilson Photography)

Open for limited showings, and handled by the estate of the last steward, the six-bedroom, 4.5-bath home spanning three stories across 3,297 square feet has been listed with Tagger O’Brien of P.M. Walsh & Co. The same family has owned it for 54 years.

“This is a unique home for Frank Lloyd Wright with the vaulted roof and the steep pitch. The majority of his homes are horizontal,” O’Brien says.

The home has been celebrated for its “exaggerated, steeply pitched roof with a wide overhang that projects like a tent over a shallow base,” according to the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust in a description of the property on its website. In addition to that, “mounds of boulders from the nearby Des Plaines River flank an arched entryway bordered in Sullivanesque ornament.”

While it’s not known exactly how many families owned the home before the sellers, much of the interior is original and has been thoughtfully preserved over the decades, including the front door, lighting fixtures and fireplaces throughout, and a beamed ceiling in the living room.

Four bedrooms, including the primary suite, are on the second floor, with an additional two on the floor above. Unique for a Wright home, the basement is finished. It boasts a wine cellar, recreation room, laundry and utility rooms, and a half bath.

There are several other wow-worthy features are inside the home.

“The beautiful stained glass [window] on the second-floor hallway is lit up because there’s a skylight atrium on the third floor,” says O’Brien.

Like many of Wright’s homes, there are a ton of windows, coaxing in natural light. The library alone is anchored by three windows each on an octoganal design, which is common in a few of Wright’s subsequent homes, including the Warren Hickox House in Kankakee, Illinois, completed in 1900.

Then, outside, the aforementioned rocks and boulders around the foundation brought over from the Des Plaines River remain intact, framed by the arched doorway.

After 1900 the structure’s dormers were modified and an enclosed porch added, according to the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.

Eight years ago the sellers installed a new roof that cost six figures, says O’Brien. The design incorporates a composite that resembles slate.

While it’s true the property is unlike many of Wright’s designs, it does share similarities with some of his other homes.

“The octagonal configuration of the dining room and library also appeared with frequency in his contemporary work,” says the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. Also, two materials the architect frequently employed—Roman brick and stucco—were chosen for this home’s design, too.

In addition to the home itself, what might draw potential buyers is the size of the lot and the neighborhood where it’s located.

“It’s got a beautiful backyard that was designed by someone who worked at the Morton Arboretum (in Lisle, Illinois),” says O’Brien. This includes two patio areas: one in the shade and one in the sun, for a variety of sun exposures.

“It’s on a great lot. It’s a 125’ x 200’ lot,” adds O’Brien.

Another perk is that the home is in a quiet part of town.

“It’s on a secluded street. It’s not a through street by any means. It’s only a block-and-a-half long,” says O’Brien.

The listing also includes a two-car garage.

O’Brien says the schools and the proximity to both Chicago airports as well as the city’s downtown are what attract people to River Forest, a community of just under 12,000 people.

“Those are probably the biggest pluses. There is a family that has shown some interest. They’ve been there a couple of times and have come back with a builder-designer,” she says.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/frank-lloyd-wright-home-river-forest-illinois-for-sale/.

‘Verity’ Production Designer Amy Williams Reveals How Modern Scandinavian Architecture Creates ‘Eerie Drama’ in the Film

Hannah Chambers — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

For viewers obsessed with architectural design, there’s nothing quite as exciting as when a home serves as more than a backdrop in a film or television show.

In “Verity,” the Dakota Johnson and Anne Hathaway-led psychological thriller based on the bestselling Colleen Hoover novel, a stunning lake house is nearly a main character all on its own.

The movie is primarily filmed in an Armonk, NY, home called Beckoning Path—a 1960s property chosen intentionally for its symbolic design.

In real life, the 27-acre waterfront estate is a private wellness retreat, and was created by Jen Quistgaard, the chief designer of Scandinavian homeware brand, Dansk. The home makes its mark with an inverted V-shaped roof that nearly resembles jagged teeth, as well as a variety of natural materials used in innovative ways.

“Verity” production designer Amy Williams tells Realtor.com® that the dwelling was “quintessential to shaping and complementing the overall design of the film,” with the Scandinavian influence adding rich dimension to the story.

“The open, airy nature of mid-century modern Scandinavian architecture gives characters and their decor space to elegantly float through space and punctuate movements,” Williams continues.

“Verity” was primarily filmed in an Armonk, NY, home called Beckoning Path—a 1960s property chosen intentionally for its symbolic design. (Amazon MGM Studios)

“Verity” production designer **Amy Williams **tells Realtor.com that the dwelling was “quintessential to shaping and complementing the overall design of the film.” (Amazon MGM Studios)

“The open, airy nature of midcentury modern Scandinavian architecture gives characters and their decor space to elegantly float through space and punctuate movements,” she said. (Amazon MGM Studios)

Natural lighting and clean lines, which are key characteristics of Scandinavian modern architecture, are found through the home. (Amazon MGM Studios)

The unique windows are symbolic for the film, but also show a desire to connect the interior of the home with the surrounding landscape. (Amazon MGM Studios)

The home’s exposed beams and expansive windows were helpful tools, leveraged in tandem with “the integration of nature and organic materials” to “provide a balanced and eerie drama ripe for the cinematic eye.”

In a film with loads of twists and turns, Beckoning Path was the perfect playground for Williams and team.

“The sharp yet elegant lines create imposing shadows and tension,” Williams adds. “The large open windows and expanse add to the voyeuristic nature of a cinematic thriller.”

Looking to learn more about Scandinavian architecture? Read on for more information on this design style.

Exposed wood beams are common in Scandinavian modern architecture. (Amazon MGM Studios)

While this bathroom is intended to be treacherous, its use of natural materials and textures is very Scandinavian modern. (Amazon MGM Studios)

Light wood materials and sustainable practices are key to this design style. (Amazon MGM Studios)

What are the most distinctive features of a Scandinavian modern home?

Scandinavian modern design prioritizes minimalism and functionality, using natural materials and clean lines to create beautiful, uncluttered spaces.

“Clean, simple, and most of all functional,” Maija Rasila, a Finnish Design Shop interior architect, told Living Etc. “Scandinavian design is hardly ever based only on aesthetic matters. Instead, it’s the function that leads to the design process.”

The style is informed by life in Scandinavia—the region made up of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Because residents of Nordic countries spend most of the harsh winter months inside, the architecture is intended to create naturally lit, airy spaces.

Expect expansive windows, sprawling open floor plans, and skylights. Sustainable practices are typically preferred, as are locally sourced raw materials, such as untreated wood, stone, and brick.

Light wood materials and calm, neutral color palettes are paramount. Architectural features are intended to work in tandem with the surrounding environment, blurring the lines between what is designed and what is naturally occurring—not unlike the thrilling plot of “Verity.”

Interiors take the same approach, with carefully chosen textiles, functional furniture, and plants used to warm up the space.

Calm, airy color palettes help create a sense of calm and comfort. (Getty Images)

This design style seeks to blur the lines between what is man-made and what is naturally occurring. (Getty Images)

Open floor plans are very common in Scandinavian modern homes. (Getty Images)

How is Scandinavian modern design different from midcentury modern design?

While the style bears quite a resemblance to midcentury modern design—and they rose to popularity around the same time period—there are some nuances.

“Scandinavian and mid-century modern design both came out of the same postwar desire to make the home feel more human, more livable, more thoughtful, and more connected to the way people actually use their space,” Brittny Smith of Homesmith Design told Living Etc.

Where midcentury modern may lean “a little more into the experimental side” with bold geometry and darker colors, Scandinavian modern is lighter and cozier.

Why do people buy Scandinavian modern homes?

Because of the intentionality behind the design, Scandinavian modern architecture has plenty of benefits, beginning with functionality.

These residences provide a deeper connection to the outdoors, which is a great perk in areas where the climate may be too harsh to spend a significant amount of time outside year-round.

The decluttered, simple aesthetic can create a calm vibe that’s very appealing, and the sustainable approach to building can be a huge draw for environmentally focused buyers.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/house-in-verity-set-design-scandinavian-modern-architecture/.

YouTube Star Kris Krohn Lists Mind-Blowing $14 Million Utah Mansion With a Pool That Transforms Into a Ballroom

Kellie Speed — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Real estate investor and YouTube star Kris Krohn is looking to part ways with his jaw-dropping 28,446-square-foot Utah compound featuring an indoor pool built on a hydraulic floor system.

Listed for an eye-popping $13,950,000, the six-bedroom megamansion, located in Woodland Hills, was commissioned by the social media influencer in 2017.

“The room everyone talks about is the indoor pool,” says listing agent Paul Benson of Engel & Völkers Park City.

“The floor is hydraulic. Lower it and you have a pool. Raise it and the same room becomes a ballroom with no columns, ready for a seated dinner or a wedding reception. The idea came from the O Theater at the Bellagio, and I have never seen it in a private home.”

The Utah compound features an indoor pool built on a hydraulic floor system. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

When the floor is raised, the same room becomes a ballroom with no columns. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

The home boasts a commercial grade gym, with a sparring ring, a racquetball court and a full spa. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

The Summit Creek estate boasts two connected wings: an 8,446-square-foot “family wing” with a caretaker’s apartment, and a newly completed 20,000-square-foot wing where the pool/ballroom is located.

“The rest of the new wing is at that same level,” Benson notes. “There is a commercial-grade gym with a sparring ring for boxing and MMA, a racquetball court, and a full spa with a dry sauna, steam room, cold plunge, float room, and massage suite. There is an executive office with its own conference room, so you can run a company from home, and a second kitchen that opens to the ballroom for large events.”

The massive compound’s elevated location overlooks the valley, providing panoramic views of the Wasatch Range, Utah Lake, and Loafer Mountain.

“What impresses me most is that it still feels like a home,” he adds. “The family wing is separate, with its own kitchen, a great room with a two-story wall of glass, and a hot tub on the deck above the valley. You can host a big event on Saturday night and wake up to a quiet house on Sunday morning.”

For the auto enthusiast, there is also a 13-car garage.

“The garages total more than 5,500 square feet,” Benson says. “Most of that is a gallery for a car collection, with display platforms and a lounge, and there is a separate RV garage that fits a motorhome or the boat for Lake Powell.”

The living room, in the family wing, sits completely separate. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

The spacious kitchen in the family wing. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

The home features an executive office with incredible views. (Engel & Völkers Park City)

Benson believes the home will most likely be used as a primary estate.

“Much of what our team sells in Park City is a second home, and this is the opposite,” he notes.

“Nothing here is set up for a few weeks a year. You work here, train here, and host here every day. Utah County is also where people live full-time and build their companies, so I expect the buyer to make this their main home.

“The one exception I can see is a buyer from out of state who wants a base in Utah that is big enough to bring everyone together several times a year.”

Designed for grand-scale entertaining, the enormous estate would also be ideal for a professional athlete.

“The gym, the ring, the court, and the spa are what you expect at a private training facility, not at a house,” he says.

Benson believes the next buyer will be “someone who has built a business and wants everything in one place.”

“My guess is an entrepreneur or founder who already lives in Utah, most likely with a company in Utah County or Silicon Slopes, who works from home, trains every day, collects cars, and loves to host,” he adds.

“That person would normally need an office, a gym, an event venue, and a separate building for the cars. Here it is all under one roof, behind a gate. Either way, it will be someone who likes to bring people together, because that is what this home was built for.”

Located in an exclusive enclave with a residents-only clubhouse, private trails, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and pickleball courts, the property is just 15 minutes from Provo Municipal Airport and 30 minutes from skiing at Sundance.

“That combination is hard to find: a mountain setting, real privacy, and a short drive to one of the fastest-growing areas in the country,” Benson notes.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/kris-krohn-lists-14-million-utah-compound/.

A Restoration Hardware Stylist Turned an 870-Square-Foot California Bungalow into an Indoor-Outdoor Oasis

Larissa Runkle — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Stylist Aaron Hom has styled rooms for Restoration Hardware and Design Within Reach, but some of his most personal work has happened at home—and, usually in very small spaces.

His latest project, a 1922 bungalow in the Maxwell Park neighborhood in Oakland, CA, is now on the market for $750,000.

In 2009, House Beautiful photographed Hom’s earlier Craftsman bungalow. He had furnished it with midcentury pieces and secondhand finds, making the compact home feel larger with his use of light, layout and easy access to the outdoors.

For the 870-square-foot, two-bedroom home, he has applied the same strategy on a larger scale.

“The interiors are beautifully designed, but then you step outside and the property just keeps unfolding,” says listing agent Jodi Nishimura of Kai Real Estate.

The dining room, styled by Aaron Hom (Aaron Hom)

The living room space just opposite the dining room (Aaron Hom)

The home’s unique living spaces extend into the styled backyard (Open Homes Photography)

Hom, who lived in a loft during the pandemic and wanted an outdoor space of his own, bought the house in 2021. He looked at about 40 properties before settling on this one for its backyard. The facade gives little away, but once you’re past it, Hom says, “it’s a private world.”

The kitchen opens onto a large deck that Hom treats as an extra room for meals and gatherings, and there’s also a hot tub. Paths wind through drought-tolerant grasses, sunflowers, strawberries, persimmons and passion fruit to a sculpture garden patio and a 130-square-foot studio set up as an office. A vine-covered arbor rounds out the grounds.

“It’s true indoor-outdoor California living,” Nishimura says.

One of two bedrooms inside the home (Open Homes Photography)

The kitchen, which leads directly into the backyard (Open Homes Photography)

A quiet dining or work space outdoors (Aaron Hom)

Earlier owners handled much of the interior renovation, with Hom adding the designer finishes. Nishimura describes the kitchen as modern but elegant and the bathroom as artfully done.

“It’s pretty rare to find a home in Maxwell Park with this level of impeccable design,” she says. “That level of curation is difficult to replicate.”

The neighborhood, which dates to 1921, borders the Dimond District’s shops and restaurants and sits near trails in the Oakland Hills.

“Maxwell Park is a bit of a hidden gem in Oakland,” Nishimura says. “For me, it’s really the combination of the design, the gardens and the indoor-outdoor experience. It’s a classic California bungalow that has been elevated by someone with a really sophisticated design eye.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/aaron-hom-oakland-craftsman-bungalow-lists-for-750k/.

Have mortgage rates peaked, or will we see even more chaos?

Logan Mohtashami — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The month of October still has plenty of variables that can be a problem for rates

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/have-mortgage-rates-peaked-or-will-we-see-even-more-chaos/.

Ashton Woods leans into discipline as orders and margins slide

Tyler Williams — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Net new orders fell 6.7% and gross margin slid to 22.7% as incentives and land costs pressured returns

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ashton-woods-q1-2027-earnings/.

Cash Flow vs. Appreciation: What Matters Most in 2027 (Rookie Reply)

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Should a rental property put cash in your pocket each month or build serious wealth over time? Cash flow versus appreciation is the oldest debate in real estate investing, but […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-781.

Inside eXp Con 2026: High energy, AI and a push to help agents win

Brooklee Han — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 4,000 agents from 20 countries heard product launches and a Gary Vaynerchuk keynote speech on content and AI

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/exp-con-2026-agent-tools/.

The Lazy Investor’s Guide to Finding Rental Properties

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This is how to find investment properties the lazy way. Many of us work full-time jobs, have kids, or juggle a lot of responsibilities, so we can’t dedicate days each […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1341.

Trump appoints committee to investigate statements by the Fed's Lisa Cook

TCS Property Management — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Trump tried to fire Cook, a nominee of former President Joe Biden, but the Supreme Court blocked his first attempt.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/09/fed-lisa-cook-trump.html.

Wall Street is pitching data centers as a major real estate bet. The risks are piling up

TCS Property Management — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Wall Street firms are bringing AI data center investments to public markets as political, liquidity and project risks grow.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/09/ai-data-centers-investing.html.

Why immigration enforcement is colliding with the housing shortage

John McManus — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Builders report 60% to 80% crew losses in some markets, while September net orders fell 19.5%, Wolfe says

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/immigration-enforcement-homebuilding-delays/.

Australian pension fund CEO on housing and AI investment opportunities

TCS Property Management — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Hostplus CEO David Elia discusses Australia’s housing supply shortage and the fund’s growing exposure to residential property, as well as where long-term investors can find opportunities across the AI ecosystem, including data centers, electrification, semiconductors and energy.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/08/australian-pension-fund-ceo-on-housing-and-ai-investment-opportunities.html.

Melius' Michael Rehaut on housing: Supply will become a double-edged sword over the next few years

TCS Property Management — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Rehaut, Melius head of housing research, joins ‘Squawk Box’ to discuss the state of the housing market, impact of rising mortgage rates, and more.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/08/melius-michael-rehaut-on-housing-supply-will-become-a-double-edged-sword-over-the-next-few-years.html.

The American Economy Enters Its “Lost Decade”

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

America could enter what nobody wants—a “lost decade.” No huge gains, no massive price drops, just a slow, stagnating market where inflation eats away at the returns we once thought […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-467.

Why REITs aren't getting killed by rising interest rates this time around

TCS Property Management — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

REITs have been seen as a low interest rate play. But some experts are making the case that real estate fundamentals today are outweighing even rising rates.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/08/why-reits-arent-getting-killed-by-rising-interest-rates-this-time.html.

Comparing Short-Term Rental Insurance? 5 Questions That Reveal What You’re Actually Looking At

Garrett Brown — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A screwdriver, a hammer, a saw, and a wrench come from the same toolbox but are for different jobs. You wouldn’t grab one at random and expect it to do […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/how-to-compare-short-term-rental-insurance.

Property Winterization for Landlords: How to Keep a Frozen Pipe From Becoming a Denied Claim

Tony Robinson — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Right now, frozen pipes probably aren’t on your radar. But your insurance company is already thinking about them. Cold snaps don’t follow your calendar. One hard freeze on a night […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/property-winterization-for-landlords.

Pennsylvania New Jersey and Delaware Real Estate Market Update — October 2026

Benjamin Oller — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Home prices across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware are still rising this fall, but more slowly than a year ago. Inventory is up across the three states, homes are taking longer to sell, and price cuts are becoming more common.

The shift comes as borrowing costs rise. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 7.28% in Freddie Mac’s survey released October 2, up a full percentage point from a year earlier. The result is a regional market where prices have not fallen, but buyers have more choices and leverage.

Prices Are Still Rising as Supply Grows

State	Median sale price (August 2026)	Change vs. 2025	Homes for sale	Change vs. 2025
New Jersey	$587,553	+2.2%	32,750	+8.8%
Delaware	$401,488	+3.2%	5,591	+8.8%
Pennsylvania	$327,636	+4.0%	43,881	+7.6%

The Federal Reserve’s mid-September rate increase added to the pressure. Freddie Mac’s 30-year average rose to 7.3% at its highest point of the past year, compared with a 52-week low of 5.98%.

For a buyer financing a $400,000 home with 20% down, moving from roughly 6.3% to 7.3% adds about $200 to the monthly principal and interest payment. That difference matters most in the tri-state’s more affordable markets, where first-time buyers are already stretched.

Sales volume is flat to slightly higher in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and down in Delaware. Listings, however, are increasing faster than buyers are absorbing them, which is why inventory is rising in every state.

Philadelphia: Steady Statewide, Stalled in the City

Pennsylvania posted the strongest price gains of the three states, with a statewide median sale price of $327,636, up 4.0% from a year earlier. Sales rose 2.6%, and the typical home went under contract in 37 days. About one in three homes still sold above asking.

Philadelphia is a different story. City home sales fell 39% year over year in the second quarter, reaching their lowest spring level since 2014. For-sale inventory reached its highest point since late 2022, and homes took an average of 43.5 days to sell, the most since 2016. Quality-adjusted prices were up just 2.7% over the year, below the city’s long-run average.

Across the metro area, the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington area recorded a 1.3% median price decline in August to $374,900, while active listings jumped 13.3%. Outside the city, only one in six listings had a price cut.

Renters, by contrast, are absorbing units quickly. Philadelphia’s third-quarter rental absorption reached a post-pandemic high, with 3,200 units leased and vacancy tightening to 4.1%. The market is showing stronger demand for rentals even as home sales slow.

New Jersey Remains the Most Competitive

New Jersey remains the priciest and most competitive of the three states. August figures put the median sale price at $587,553, up 2.2%, with 48% of homes selling above list price. Homes sold 3.8% more often than a year earlier and went under contract in 43 days.

The state’s Realtors group reported year-to-date closed sales down 1.5%, with a single-family median of $610,000. Inventory rose 5.9% to 21,637 homes, homes took 40 days to sell, and buyers paid 101.5% of list price on average.

The north remains the hot spot. Bergen County’s single-family median reached $949,500 in July, up 8.5%, while homes sold in an average of 10.46 days. The higher-end market around North Jersey continues to produce some of the largest swings.

Delaware Is Cooling the Most

Delaware is cooling more clearly. The August median sale price reached $401,488, up 3.2%, but sales fell 1.8% and the typical home took 57 days to go under contract, nine days longer than a year earlier.

Buyers have gained leverage. Nearly one in five listings had a price cut, homes sold for 98.5% of asking on average, and fewer than a quarter sold above list. Inventory rose 8.8% to 5,591 homes, about four months of supply.

Wilmington led the state with 6.9% price growth, followed by Dover at 5.3%. Suburbs in New Castle County, including Claymont and Elsmere, remain among the most competitive areas near Philadelphia. With a statewide median about $186,000 below New Jersey’s, northern Delaware remains a lower-cost option within commuting distance of the city.

What to Watch This Fall

The tri-state market is shifting toward balance rather than a downturn. Prices are still rising, but more listings, longer selling times, and more price cuts point to a slower winter.

Buyers: More motivated sellers are willing to negotiate, especially in Delaware and in Philadelphia’s city market. Higher rates offset some of that advantage, so buyers should look for rate relief before stretching their budgets.
Sellers: Pricing matters more than it did a year ago. Homes that miss the market are more likely to need a cut, particularly outside North Jersey’s strongest suburbs.
Landlords and investors: Rental demand is the bright spot. When buyers get harder to reach, more households keep renting, supporting occupancy and rents across the region.

The biggest wildcard is the Federal Reserve. Another rate increase could push mortgages higher, while any easing in inflation could bring rates and buyers back more quickly.

Climbing mortgage rates hitting real estate agents

TCS Property Management — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick joins ‘Fast Money’ to talk the impact of rising mortgage rates on the real estate sector.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/01/climbing-mortgage-rates-hitting-real-estate-agents.html.

Denver’s Historic $10.75 Million ‘Tom Shane’ Estate Hits the Market as City’s Second-Most Expensive Home

Larissa Runkle — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A Tudor Revival estate in one of Denver’s Country Club neighborhood has come to market for $10.75 million—making it the second-highest listing in the Mile High City.

The home at 575 Circle Drive—one of the city’s most storied addresses—was built in 1931 for $38,000 by architect **Henry S. Koch and the **F.J. Kirchoff Construction Co. for Mason and Dorothy Lewis.

The Lewises, of the law firm Lewis and Grant, lived there for three decades. Mason was the son of Robert E. Lewis, a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit.

The home was clearly built for distinguished ownership, with six bedrooms and about 10,000 square feet of interior living space. The exterior offers an iconic old-world flair with its custom brick, masonry, and half-timbering, while the interiors carry ample art deco details.

“The uniqueness of the location being in the city, but feeling like an English countryside estate, makes this such an iconic and special home that rarely comes to market,” says listing agent Katie Hoster of LIV Sotheby’s International Realty.

The main entrance of the historic Denver residence. The exterior offers an iconic old-world flair with its custom brick. (Way Up Media)

Art deco detailing and original millwork can be found throughout the home (Way Up Media)

A quiet library and study space inside the home. (Way Up Media)

Lewis’s daughter, Sally, remembered a gentler Denver. Her recollections appear in Alice Millett Bakemeier’s “Country Club Heritage: A History and Guide to a Denver Neighborhood.” She recalled the milkman clomping down the street in his wagon, and walking to the movies at the Hiawatha, now the Esquire Theater.

The Gallagher family later bought the home, adding rooms over the garage and renovating the interior. Its most famous former owner is Tom Shane of the Shane Co. jewelry chain, known as “the diamond king.”

Nearly a century on, the home is ready for its next owners, yet with all of its original craftsmanship and charm intact. Hand-carved limestone accents appear inside and out, alongside solid wood trim, detailed moldings, leaded windows and cast pot tapered chimneys.

“Each custom detail is handcrafted to showcase the exceptional quality of construction and craftsmanship that was accomplished by highly skilled trades in the 1930s,” she says.

The kitchen opens out onto the backyard as well as a formal indoor dining space (Way Up Media)

One of 7.5 bathrooms in the home (Way Up Media)

A well-appointed backyard space with a fire pit and rose gardens (Way Up Media)

The second floor holds five en-suite bedrooms. A private third-floor suite can work as nanny or in-law quarters. Two balconies, one off a second-floor bedroom and one on the third level, look out over the grounds. The finished lower level includes an expansive entertaining space with a kitchenette, gym, sauna, and temperature-controlled wine cellar.

Those grounds may be the real prize. The house sits on a three-quarter-acre lot, a rare size in the neighborhood. Mature trees and established landscaping keep it tucked away from the street.

The outdoor space also includes a firepit and a rose garden with a pergola covered in flowering vines. Brick patios extend from the grand salon for dining outdoors, and a dedicated grilling area has a built-in Kalamazoo grill.

“Together, the expansive grounds, thoughtfully designed entertaining spaces and remarkable privacy create the feeling of a secluded garden estate,” Hoster says.

The seclusion comes with a city address. The boutiques and restaurants of Cherry Creek North are within walking distance, and the Cherry Creek bike path is minutes away. Downtown Denver is about a 10-minute drive.

“This is a one-of-a-kind home that has stood the test of time,” Hoster says.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/denver-historic-tudor-revival-estate-for-sale/.

Ex-MLB Star James Shields Cuts Price on Modern Rancho Santa Fe Estate to $19.9M

Larissa Runkle — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A Rancho Santa Fe, CA owned by retired star major league pitcher James Shields is back on the market for $19.9 million after a price cut.

The home at 14783 Roxbury Terrace, originally listed in $23 million in March, resides in a guarded enclave of the affluent San Diego County community. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, the listing referred to its style as “Californian Modern organic.”

The home is listed with Eric Iantorno of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty.

Built from the ground up over three years and completed in 2024, the residence spans over 13,000 square feet on 2.44 acres. It has four bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms.

The home’s courtyard is filled with lush gardens. (Realtor.com)

An open living room and dining room connects to the kitchen and pool area. (Realtor.com)

The design allows for a seamless flow between the courtyard and the interiors. (Realtor.com)

Rather than opening into a grand foyer, the house greets visitors with a sophisticated courtyard. From there, it moves into a great room and chef’s kitchen. Steel pocket sliders, each 16 feet tall, open the great room to the outdoors and frame sunset views across the property.

Custom steel finishes appear throughout, with doors that were designed to look and function like windows. Natural materials connect the interiors to the surrounding landscape, while four large fireplaces keep the modern design feeling cozy.

One of the most unusual spaces in the home is a light-filled photography studio, which the listing says was inspired by the equestrian lifestyle. The primary suite is built as a wellness retreat, with its own spa, sauna and steam room.

Poolside at the $19 million Rancho Santa Fe home. (Realtor.com)

A modern kitchen with all new finishes. (Realtor.com)

One of four bedrooms on the property. (Realtor.com)

The home’s automation system is described as one of the most advanced in San Diego. Speakers are plastered into the walls so they disappear from view, and discreet sensors in each room feed a central climate control system. In the kitchen, the island includes custom pullout pasta boards.

The recreation continues outside. There’s a golf simulator, a custom putting green and an in-ground pool. The grounds are filled with mature oaks, citrus trees and lavender.

A maintenance shed, designed to match the house, stores equipment that’s used only on the property to keep the landscape free of outside contaminants. A six-car garage rounds out the offering.

Besides its double set of gates, the estate also includes a hidden safe room.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/sports/james-shields-rancho-santa-fe-mansion-price-drop/.

High mortgage rates are trapping homeowners in place, and making renovations harder to afford

TCS Property Management — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Homeowners are stuck in houses they might have left by now due to the low mortgage rates of the past, and can’t even remodel with HELOCs too expensive to tap.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/03/mortgage-rates-home-equity-heloc-remodeling.html.

Off-Grid Earthship Home Hits the Market for $625K in Wyoming

Kellie Speed — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

An off-grid Earthship home, built from 1,343 pounded tires and featuring a 66-foot greenhouse and custom bottle-glass work, has just landed on the market in Wyoming for $625,000.

Located in Wheatland, bordering 280 acres of Bureau of Land Management land, the two-bedroom residence sits on 55.13 acres of privacy.

“One of the coolest things about the home is that it is at a higher elevation and able to sustain a temperature that never gets below 62 degrees in the winter and 82 degrees in the summer,” says Rowan Bennett, who is co-listing the property with Holly Allison of #1 Properties Ranch and Recreation.

The home in Wheatland, WY, was built from 1,343 pounded tires and features custom bottle-glass work. (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

The two-bedroom home borders 280 acres of Bureau of Land Management land. It comes with 55.13 acres of privacy. (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

The living room (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

Built into the Laramie Peak foothills about an hour north of Cheyenne, the sustainable dwelling features a solar array, passive geothermal for cooling, a wind turbine, a backup diesel generator, and a roof water catchment system.

“What is also unique is that every system has a backup operation, so if the hot water heater goes out, there is a propane backup,” says Bennett.

The 1,500-square-foot interior features hand-troweled plaster walls, bottle-glass work, custom bottle lighting, and a built-in bed.

“It has been used as a secondary residence by the sellers, who used it as a retreat,” she notes. “It would also be cool to use it as an investment property and put some yurts on the property.”

The kitchen has custom pine cabinetry with hand-carved diamond inlays. (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

The bedroom (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

The bathroom with a claw-foot soaking tub and shower combination (Justin Schoenborn @ 1980 CO)

Other highlights include flagstone and crushed-shell brick floors, peeled log vigas spanning the ceilings, and glass doors and walls.

The kitchen has custom pine cabinetry with hand-carved diamond inlays, tile countertops, a decorative tile backsplash, a Sun Frost energy-efficient refrigerator, and a countertop ice maker.

One full bathroom offers a claw-foot soaking tub and shower combination with an air massage system. The sellers, who are the original owners, built the residence in 2011.

A permitted domestic well can be found on the property, which also boasts outbuildings for storage. There is also a level building pad plumbed for sewer, awaiting a future garage or second dwelling with applicable approvals. Water utility has been stubbed across the road, ready for a future pond or garden.

“The next buyer will be someone who loves the outdoors and nature and is not big on putting a big carbon footprint out there,” Bennett says.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/wyoming-off-grid-earthship-home-for-sale/.

REVEALED: All the Celebrities Who Have Flocked to Nashville in Pursuit of a Slower Life—and Fewer Paparazzi

Hannah Chambers — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Nashville has long been home to some of the most recognizable names in R&B and country music, but over the last few years, celebrities from a variety of industries have flocked to the Music City.

As the city has continued to grow, it has earned a reputation for its distinct brand of laid-back luxury, offering residents a bustling culture, mild weather, and a reasonably-priced cost of living.

It’s no surprise that more than a few famous transplants have decided to relocate to this hospitable location.

From podcasters who can record from a home studio to stars of the silver screen who seek a quieter pace of life for their families, there are plenty of valid reasons why celebrities are ditching the more popular choices of Los Angeles and New York City to start fresh in Tennessee.

See which notable people have recently traded in their former residences for Nashvilian status.

Dennis Quaid

Actor Dennis Quaid grew tired of the taxes in California, and currently has his Los Angeles home on the market. (Santiago Felipe/Getty Images)

In June, Dennis Quaid decided to say farewell to his longtime Los Angeles abode, listing it for $5.2 million before cutting $500,000 from the asking price on Sept. 29.

The “Parent Trap” star’s decision to offload his contemporary Brentwood Hills home came about six years after he and his wife, Lara Savoie, moved to Tennessee in 2020, citing frustrations with California taxes.

“It used to be such a great town and the ‘90s was nice,” the Texas native told Fox News of life in L.A. “And then it’s been kind of going downhill and I feel like people pay these taxes for no services is what it gets down to.”

For a time, Quaid and Savoie were traveling back and forth between Los Angeles and Nashville, but following the 2025 California wildfires, they decided to pull the plug on life on the West Coast.

Rumer Willis

Rumer Willis took a “leap of faith” relocating cross-country after being awarded primary custody of her daughter. (Getty Images for Children’s Oncology Support Fund)

In August 2026, actress and singer Rumer Willis packed her belongings to begin a new chapter in Nashville.

“Moving your whole life across the country is a leap of faith,” the daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore shared in an Instagram post, in which she documented “two decades” of her life that had been moved “across 2,000 miles and set down in Nashville.”

Willis had been splitting her time between Idaho—where she was raised with her sisters—and Los Angeles—in a home she’d resided in for nearly 14 years after it was passed over to her by her mother’s ex-husband, Ashton Kutcher.

The desire for a fresh start came after a legal battle with her ex, Derek Richard Thomas. Willis was eventually awarded temporary primary custody of the former couple’s 3-year-old daughter, Louetta Isley Thomas Willis.

In a Sept. 22 Instagram post, Willis offered an update on her new era, writing, “So grateful and thankful for this beautiful life, my exquisite daughter, our new home, my family.”

Kristin Cavallari

The “Laguna Beach” alum says there’s “not really a whole lot to not like about Nashville.” (Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for siriusXM)

“Laguna Beach” may be the first thing that comes to mind when some think of Kristin Cavallari, but the reality TV veteran has called Nashville home for nearly a decade.

In 2017, “The Hills” alum and her now-ex-husband, former Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, left the Windy City in pursuit of a “great place” to raise their family.

“I love it. You know you still get all four seasons, but it’s much milder than other parts of the country and it’s just fun. The people are cool. There’s really good food. There’s always something fun to do. There’s not really a whole lot to not like about Nashville,” Cavallari told People magazine just before their move in April 2017.

These days, Cavallari is residing in a beautiful Tennessee estate after offloading the “divorce house” she found comfort in following her split in 2020.

The new abode sits on a 130-acre plot of land, offering lots of privacy, thanks to its remote location just outside of Nashville.

Jessica Simpson

Singer Jessica Simpson loves that she can do “cartwheels down the Walmart aisles” without having her photo taken. (Dia Dipasupil/FilmMagic)

In January 2025, singer Jessica Simpson announced her split from former NFL player Eric Johnson, sharing her plans to leave Los Angeles a month later in an interview with her sister, Ashlee Simpson Ross, in The Cut.

The former reality star candidly spoke about how “she needed to go somewhere” she could put herself first, eventually deciding to split her time between California and Tennessee, residing in a rental property in Nashville.

She realized she wanted to spend more time in the city when celebrating her daughter Maxwell’s 11th birthday, and began “looking at real estate that day.”

“Another great thing about Nashville is there’s no paparazzi,” she said. “I literally was doing cartwheels down the Walmart aisles.”

Chrissy Metz

Chrissy Metz has been recording music in Nashville, where she’s found love. (Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)

“The Hunting Wives” star Chrissy Metz relocated to Tennessee from California in 2020, noting that the move helped her find love and self confidence after 21 years in L.A.

Without completely ditching her ties to Los Angeles, as she has continued to maintain a residence there, Metz told People magazine in 2025 that she was drawn to Nashville for the opportunity to record music.

She also noted that she had found love locally in Tennessee. The “This Is Us” star chooses to keep her partner out of the spotlight, and only disclosed that he is an electrical engineer that she had been with for a year by the time of the interview.

Nicole Young

With her “Selling Sunset” days behind her, Nicole Young is loving her “really beautiful” life in Nashville. (Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)

“Selling Sunset” alum Nicole Young decided to make Nashville her primary residence in October 2025, telling Realtor.com ® that while she wasn’t planning to say a “permanent goodbye to L.A.,” the Music City would “definitely” be her new home as she split her time between locations.

In the year since Young set her sights on a Nashville abode she loved, she’s since spent lots of time soaking up her “new beginnings,” taking to Instagram on May 4 to share that “life lately in Tennessee” has “been really, really beautiful.”

Ariel Winter

Ariel Winter splits her time between Nashville and Los Angeles after moving to Tennessee with her partner Luke Benward in 2022. The pair have since split. (Lila Seeley/Getty Images)

Actress Ariel Winter relocated to Nashville after purchasing a $2.9 million abode in College Grove in May 2022.

At the time, she had moved from California with her former partner, Luke Benward, but the pair split in August 2025 after nearly six years of dating.

In May 2026, the “Modern Family” star revealed that she now splits her time between Nashville and Los Angeles, after moving into a California rental with her former on-screen brother, Nolan Gould.

Kathie Lee Gifford

Kathie Lee Gifford loves the “good people” of Nashville. (Michael Tullberg/Getty Images)

Kathie Lee Gifford moved to Nashville in 2019 after leaving her hosting gig on the “Today” show, reportedly snapping up a $3.7 million 7,965-square-foot abode.

In a 2020 interview with Nashville Lifestyles, Gifford explained that she had visited the city plenty of times throughout her career, recording albums, filming TV shows, and attending the CMA festival.

“I found the people of Nashville to be great fun and truly kind hearted—good people as a whole,” she said. “I discovered almost immediately that Nashville was even more fun and exciting than I could have dreamed.”

Ben Foster

Actor Ben Foster is “enjoying” life in Nashville, due to his love of horses and country music. (Wiktor Szymanowicz/Anadolu via Getty Images)

After the Covid-19 pandemic, actor Ben Foster decided to chase a slower life in Nashville.

“I lived in L.A. for, we’ll call it 12 years. I lived in New York for about the same,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in September 2025.

“After the pandemic, I had a cognition that I didn’t need to live on either coast, quite frankly,” said Foster, who shares two children with ex-wife, “Orange is the New Black” actress Laura Prepon.

The duo split in September 2024, agreeing to sell the Nashville home they had shared together. However, Foster stayed in the city after the split.

“I love horses and I ride. I love live music. I dig country music. There’s been a shift from both coasts and I’ve found that it’s gentler for me, at least, to hub there,” he continued. “Nashville is just a different way. I’m enjoying it.”

Melissa Joan Hart

The “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” star has lived in Nashville with her family for six years. (Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

Melissa Joan Hart is coming up on six years in Music City, after relocating from Connecticut with her husband, Mark Wilkerson, and their three sons.

In October 2023, the “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” star celebrated the family’s third anniversary of moving to Tennessee “to make a new home and create new memories.”

“A big hug to all the friends, neighbors, teachers, and people who have made it such a wonderful place to raise our family,” she wrote in an Instagram caption.

Steven Tyler

Rocker Steven Tyler is “going to stay” in the “musical Mecca,” where he’s lived since purchasing a home in 2016. (Mike Coppola/Getty Images for MTV)

**Steven Tyler **purchased a home in the “musical Mecca” in 2016, telling Louder Sound he was living in Nashville “full-on” after testing the waters by renting first.

The Aerosmith frontman explained that the city’s passion for his favorite industry pulled him in.

“This town still has the passion for music. It hasn’t lost it through business and money, which may be big here but the music aspect still has the passion,” he told the magazine. “Artists come here from all over the world to be part of it, and there’s so much music dripping out of the honeycomb of this town that I’m in it. I’m in it neck-deep.”

The rocker, now 78, was committed to the city from the moment he touched down, claiming, “I’m going to stay here. I’m going to live here. I love it here.”

Kellan Lutz

Twilight’s Kellan Lutz has lived in Nashville with his family for a few years, but “never wanted to leave” California. (Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Lionsgate)

“Twilight” actor Kellan Lutz moved his family from L.A. to Nashville in 2023, but it sounds as though he could head back to the Golden State sometime in the future.

“My wife and I, our hearts are still in California, especially Orange County,” he said during an interview on the “Inside of You” podcast in August. He admitted he “never wanted to leave” California in the first place, and wasn’t sure “how long” the family would stay in Tennessee.

Lutz explained that the move came from a desire to stay close to family, noting that the parents of his wife** Brittany Lutz** made the move first.

“Her family chose to leave California and we followed,” he explained. “You know, mainly when I’m working, my wife didn’t have a support system, someone to help with the kids while I’m away.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/celebrities-move-nashville-tennessee-relocate/.

Tiger Woods Spearheads Gated Golf Community in Texas with Luxury Homes Starting at $1M

Kiri Blakeley — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A luxury residential golf community spearheaded by golf legend Tiger Woods is opening this fall outside of Fort Worth, TX.

Bluejack Ranch is the 914-acre followup to Bluejack National, a highly-rated resort-style community and private club three hours away in Montgomery, which is the first Tiger Woods-designed golf course in the country.

Eventually, the new $2.5 billion Bluejack Ranch community will have 500 custom and semi-custom homes, ranging from 1,282 square foot, 2-bedroom casitas to estate homes on one-half to one-acre sites with a minimum of 4,000 square feet. There’s also the occasional sprawling mansions, at 19,000-plus square feet, which can run into the tens of millions.

Prices start at $775,000 for half-acre lots on which to build and residential products start at $1M, with an average home costing between $2 million and $4 million. Lot buyers must use a Bluejack builder.

“You live on 900 acres with every form of entertainment imaginable,” developer **Andy Mitchell **tells Realtor.com. “You don’t need a big home, necessarily. It’s like going to a resort, you don’t have to build your own game room.”

Pro golfer “J.J.” Henry (left), developer Andy Mitchell (center) and golf icon Tiger Woods (right) partnered on creating private residential golf communities Bluejack National and now Bluejack Ranch, both in central Texas. (Katie Park)

The courses, designed by Woods’ TGR Design firm and land planner Beau Welling, a firm based in Greenville, SC, has a championship 18-hole course as well as a “short course” with 10 holes, and a practice facility with driving range and three putting greens.

The standard course will stretch over almost 8,000 yards from the “Tiger tees” or longest tee boxes. It has been grassed with Stadium Zoysia.

Located in Aledo—a 20 minute drive from downtown Fort Worth—the community will also boast a private golf club, a working dude ranch, entertainment hall, podcast studios, multiple pools, tennis and pickleball courts, bowling alley, several restaurants, comfort stations, a spa and wellness center, all ages recreational center, and a 24/7 gated security.

The developer is also planning a commercial hub near the front “greeter’s barn,” filled with what the developer hopes will be “high-end lifestyle brands” that will suit the community theme of “laidback luxury.”

Building a Bluejack brand

The developer offers multiple styles of homes, and the entry price point is around $1 million. (Bluejack)

Bluejack Ranch developer Andy Mitchell, co-chairman and co-owner, with wife Kristin Mitchell, of Bluejack Management Partners, first met golf legend Tiger Woods in 2013.

“He was just kicking off his design business,” says Mitchell. A mutual friend brought the pair together for a collaboration that led to Bluejack National, Woods’ first U.S. design project. (He had already worked on one in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.)

“We’re both fathers, our kids are similar age,” says Mitchell. “We’re literally one month apart. We’re a lot alike. We both love to win. I can’t hide it, he can’t hide it.”

“If we’re going to do something, he wants it to be the best.”

The developer says while both he and Woods were concerned about the courses, an even greater goal was integrating family into the community, making it a truly multigenerational experience. To that end, there’s a slew of amenities for kids and those who don’t tee off.

Mitchell stresses that the community will be the type of place where someone as famous as Woods can walk around or have dinner without being pestered for a selfie.

“You’re free to be Tiger Woods,” he says of the community. “Nobody is going to solicit you or ask for your autograph. If someone were to walk up to Tiger when he’s having dinner with his two kids, they wouldn’t be a member tomorrow morning.”

The golf community will contain a standard 18-hole course as well as a shorter 10-hole course for easier playing. (Bluejack)

Welcome to Bluejack Ranch

“It wasn’t like I was looking to do another course,” says Mitchell, who re-teamed with Woods and joined up with pro golfer “J.J.” Henry on the second Bluejack golf community. “It just organically happened.”

Mitchell has had an eclectic career that includes founding private equity firm Lantern Asset Management. In 2018, the company snapped one of the most distressed assets on the market—the film library of The Weinstein Company, founded by disgraced mogul Harvey Weinstein.

Mitchell and his partners purchased the 277-film library out of bankruptcy for $289 million and later acquired Studios de Paris, producing popular series such as Netflix’s Emily in Paris and Murder Mystery 2, starring Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler, and various movies, including some of the Liam Neeson Taken franchise.

It was the Fort Worth native’s love of golf—and family fun times—that led him to want to create a golfing community of “laidback luxury” in his home state of Texas.

“I love Tiger and I love golf,” he says. “But this real estate play is about multigenerational family club.”

To that end, the developer says his wife and business partner, Kristin, had lots of say over features that were designed to make the community engaging for everyone from grandparents to grandkids, and even those who have no interest in golfing.

He mentions Woods’ daughter, Sam Alexis, who is studying at Stanford University and focused on premed courses, unlike Woods’ son, Charlie, who is following in his dad’s golfing footsteps.

“She might want to bring her friends out, sit at the spa, do yoga, hang out and run and jog,” he says.

Bluejack Ranch’s courses were designed by Tiger Woods design team TGR Design, in collaboration with J.J. Henry and Andy Mitchell. (Katie Park)

Then there is the dude ranch, with 10 horses, miniature highland cows, donkeys, a Labrador retriever, and even a small herd of longhorns.

“We lucked out, we bought three and two were pregnant,” he says of the breed of cattle known for its enormous horns. He says the cattle are “protected” and will never be made into burgers.

Experienced riders to beginners who need lessons are welcome to take out the mounts—and leave their continual upkeep to experienced staff. Mitchell says the ranch hands joked with him about the stable being as luxurious as the human homes. “They’d say, ‘Hey, Andy, nice horse mansion,’” he says.

But there is no doubt that it’s the 135 acres of golf courses, and the Tiger Woods aura, that are the main draw of the community.

Beyond the hefty home price tags, there are monthly HOA fees running into the thousands to keep the common areas and amenities in tip-top shape.

“This is about the lifestyle, and it’s not cheap,” Mitchell says. “But what we provide is not cheap. A luxury golf course like this cost millions of dollars a year to maintain.”

Another cost to living in the community is the private golf club, with one-time initiation fees up to $225,000 and up to around $3,000 in monthly dues, depending on type of membership tier and amount of golf access. “One size doesn’t always fit all,” he says.

But club membership isn’t guaranteed—a resident will still need to be invited and vetted.

“I can’t control who you sell your home to,” he says. “The way I protect the club is if you sell your home to somebody who should not be in the club—imagine the biggest villain you know—he will never get into the club.”

At the end of the day, Mitchell says Bluejack isn’t about luxury—or even necessarily about golf. It’s about shaking off the hectic outside world, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing.

“Bluejack is, ‘Why don’t you unplug?’” he says. “Come on out, turn your phone off, go hang out with cattle, be close to nature.

“I love it when members get here and say, ‘Andy, I need a little more Bluejack.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/tiger-woods-bluejack-ranch-development-fort-worth-andy-mitchell/.

Westchester’s Priciest Listing Hits the Market for $16 Million with 360-Degree Water Views

Kellie Speed — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A newly reimagined estate in Mamaroneck, NY, offering breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and Premium Mill Pond, has just hit the market for $15,995,000.

Fresh of a renovation completed earlier this year, the eight-bedroom residence sits on 1.35 acres in the 24-hour guard-gated peninsula of Premium Point.

“Some of the original stone structure remains, but essentially, it’s new construction in that you have a new slate roof, copper detailing, and they completely redid all the interior,” says Zach Harrison, who is co-listing the property with Heather Harrison of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass.

“One of the amazing things about this property is it’s done by Cum Laude Group, which is one of the premier luxury builders and developers in the Westchester market, so they do a phenomenal job, and it really shows when you walk through the home.”

The newly renovated home in Mamaroneck, NY boasts water views from nearly every room. Pictured is the living room. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

The home comes complete with a chef’s kitchen with marble countertops, and two islands. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

The kitchen has an entryway to a spacious dining room. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

Known as one of the enclave’s “Big Four” properties for its elevation, scale, water frontage, and privacy, the residence also features entirely new systems and a full builder warranty.

“One thing that I think is really just truly amazing is that you have water views from every room in the house, because you either have views of the Long Island Sound, which are incredible, or you also have views of Premium Mill Pond, which are phenomenal as well,” says Harrison.

The 13,481-square-foot open floor plan offers a dining room with coffered ceilings and bespoke lighting, and a gourmet chef’s kitchen with marble countertops, two islands, custom white oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a butler’s pantry, and direct access to a waterfront terrace.

Lavish amenities include a primary retreat with a steam shower, separate guest suites, a wine room, and a third-floor recreation room.

“One of the standouts for me is the primary bedroom suite,” says Harrison. “You have scenic waterfront views of the Long Island Sound that are really amazing. It also has a marble fireplace, two walk-in closets, and a really amazing, beautiful primary bath. So it’s really just an extraordinary, extraordinary space.”

The primary suite boasts views of the Long Island Sound and a marble fireplace. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

The primary bathroom also boasts water views. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

The pool area of the estate. (Courtesy of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass)

Luxurious details found throughout the multi-level interior include an elevator for easy access to each level, glass walls, white oak floors, custom millwork, and a sculptural staircase.

“Premium Point is an outstanding community,” he notes. “It’s really special in that it’s a peninsula. It’s surrounded by the Long Island Sound and Premium Mill Pond. It has 24-hour gated security, so there’s tremendous privacy and seclusion, but it’s also very close to Manhattan.

“Another amazing thing about the community is residents have private beach access and access to boat slips. So, you really have an amazing community with waterfront living, great security, and convenience in a very unique way.”

The property also has a heated and cooled three-car garage, a two-story pool house/guest suite, and a dedicated fitness level. Designed for entertaining and relaxing, a covered waterfront terrace, overlooking the pool and spa, has an outdoor kitchen.

Harrison believes there are most likely three different types of buyers this estate appeals to.

“It could either be somebody who currently lives in New York City and wants to move to the suburbs, but be very close to New York City with close commuting access, and they want super high-end construction with privacy, water views, and space,” he says.

“It could also be somebody who’s already living in the suburbs of New York City, already living in Westchester County, who wants to move up to a larger home, and who’s always dreamed of having incredible water views, scenic views, and private beach access in Westchester County without having to go anywhere else.

“And then third, it could also be a buyer who has homes throughout the United States or throughout the world who’s looking for something that’s really unique and special. It’s also a very convenient drive to Greenwich as well.”

Ultimately, Harrison says he thinks the home might be used as a primary residence.

“We have seen a number of buyers over the years who will buy a home like this and have a city apartment and kind of use it as their weekend getaway home as well as their summer home during the warmer months,” he notes. “So, I think it could work very well in either context. It’s an extraordinary residence and is just really, really special and unique.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/westchesters-priciest-listing-16m-mamaroneck-waterfront-estate/.

What’s next for housing: 7%, 8% or 9% mortgage rates?

Logan Mohtashami — Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates are at 7.57% and demand softened more last week

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/whats-next-for-housing-7-8-or-9-mortgage-rates/.

7 Real Estate Tax Benefits to Supercharge Your Rental Returns in 2027

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

We’re always talking about cash flow, appreciation, and loan paydown, but tax benefits are some of the most understated and overlooked advantages of real estate investing. Do you want to […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1338.

Here's what's weighing on new home prices, according to Morgan Stanley's Jim Egan

TCS Property Management — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Jim Egan, Morgan Stanley U.S. housing strategist and co-head of securitized products strategy, joins CNBC’s ‘Squawk on the Street’ to discuss the state of the housing market.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/02/heres-whats-weighing-on-new-home-prices-according-to-morgan-stanleys-jim-egan.html.

How Much Should a House Hack Make in 2027? (Rookie Reply)

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Can the numbers on your house hack still work when your tenant’s rent doesn’t come close to covering the mortgage? And if it won’t cash flow, how much should a […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-778.

‘Lawfare is now the norm’: MLS leaders brace for more legal battles

Brooklee Han — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

MLS legal experts at CMLS Open House urged scenario planning around cooperation, participation, and data access as lawsuits and demand letters increase

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/mls-antitrust-policy-changes/.

Private listing ecosystems could deepen the housing affordability crisis

Stuart Siegel — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Rising prices alongside weaker sales and closed listing ecosystems are reducing consumer visibility and competition

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-transparency-private-listings/.

View Homes CEO Gandhi rebuilds builder operating platform

John McManus — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Leadership changes, standardized concessions, and a 12–18 month systems rollout are central to the plan

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/view-homes-operating-platform/.

Watch CNBC's full interview with Morgan Stanley's Jim Egan

TCS Property Management — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Jim Egan, Morgan Stanley U.S. housing strategist and co-head of securitized products strategy, joins CNBC’s ‘Squawk on the Street’ to discuss the state of the housing market.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/02/watch-cnbcs-full-interview-with-morgan-stanleys-jim-egan.html.

Why real estate agents are mentoring college athletes — and getting referrals

Jonathan Delozier — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Student-athletes receive mentoring and complete requirements to become licensed real estate referral agents

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/why-real-estate-agents-are-mentoring-college-athletes-and-getting-referrals/.

Your best producer is the hardest person in the building to read

Martha Fernandez — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The operational signals that show strain before the leaderboard does

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/mortgage-production-lagging-metric/.

A lot of potential home buyers on the sidelines right now, says Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman

TCS Property Management — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman joins ‘Closing Bell Overtime’ to talk the compounding pressures impacting the housing market right now.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/10/01/a-lot-of-potential-home-buyers-on-the-sidelines-right-now-says-brown-harris-stevens-ceo-bess-freedman.html.

The Trillion-Dollar Bubble Grows Bigger

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

AI could lead to an extinction event, but don’t worry, the stock market will be hitting all-time highs on the way there! We’re entering a new phase of the artificial […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-465.

Apolo Ohno’s “Patient” Real Estate Investing Approach for Financial Freedom

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room to build wealth through real estate. But you do need patience, discipline, and a willingness to play the long […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1337.

How to Go From 1 to 10 Rentals with “The Stack” Method

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The idea of building and scaling a rental portfolio can seem daunting to most rookies starting off. What if we told you there’s a realistic, proven formula most rookies don’t […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-777.

August new home sales beat estimates

TCS Property Management — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick breaks down the newest housing data.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/24/new-home-sales.html.

Better, Garg face securities class action tied to volume guidance

Flávia Furlan Nunes — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Lawsuit alleges Better overstated resilience to macro conditions

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/better-securities-class-action/.

Christina Haack and Heather and Tarek El Moussa Celebrate Daughter Taylor’s 16th Birthday With a $150K BMW: ‘So Well Deserved’

Hannah Chambers — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Believe it or not, the eldest El Moussa child is ready to hit the road. Taylor El Moussa—the daughter of HGTV stars Tarek El Moussa and Christina Haack—just turned 16 and the family marked the milestone with a very lavish gift.

The teen, who was first introduced to audiences as a toddler on the premiere of “Flip or Flop” back in 2013, was gifted a $150,000 BMW X5 ahead of her special day.

Taylor’s close-knit crew of co-parents—her mom, dad, and stepmom, Heather El Moussa—shared an Instagram post together to allow their followers to witness the generous gifting moment.

The video shows Taylor and Tarek circling a parking lot in what is described as a “dad-daughter driving lesson,” when Heather and Christina pull up in the new vehicle, appropriately decked out in a massive pink bow.

Taylor seemed overwhelmed with excitement upon seeing her new wheels.

While Tarek El Moussa was giving daughter Taylor a driving lesson, mom Christina Haack and stepmom Heather El Moussa prepared to surprise her with a BMW. (Heather Rae El Moussa/Instagram)

“It’s such a beauty,” said Christina. “I’m so happy for her.”

In the caption of the post, Heather hinted that the trio had worked together to surprise Taylor, questioning whether the car itself or “the fact that the three of us actually pulled this off” was more impressive.

“The car is so well deserved,” Heather wrote. “We love you so much, Tay.”

Although Taylor was gifted the SUV in August, her actual birthday was Sept. 23. Tarek noted the occasion was an emotional one for him, gushing over his daughter in a touching Instagram post.

“This one got me,” the real estate investor admitted, with a crying emoji.

The teen was very surprised by her lavish 16th birthday gift, a $150,000 vehicle. (Heather Rae El Moussa/Instagram)

Alongside a series of photos of Taylor at all ages, Tarek remarked that he sees “every version” of her at once.

“The day you made me a dad, my life changed forever. Somehow, 16 years passed in a blink, I almost can’t believe it’s real,” he wrote. “Part of me wishes I could go back and hold on to every one of these moments a little longer! But I am just so proud of the strong, smart, kind, beautiful person you are!”

The proud dad continued with some advice for Taylor as she continues to navigate her teenage years.

“As your world gets bigger, never make yourself smaller for it,” he added. “Keep your voice. Keep your kindness. Know your worth. And never forget… wherever your life takes you, your dad will always be standing beside you.”

Mom Christina weighed in with a comment, adding, “Time goes by too fast.”

Christina has previously remarked on her co-parenting relationship with Tarek and Heather, sharing her appreciation for their blended family. (Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for HGTV)

Of course, Christina shared her own sweet post, too, letting the world know a bit more about Taylor’s personality and achievements.

She explained that Taylor works hard at “everything” she does without being asked, from being awarded “straight As” at school and “excelling at soccer.”

“You try hard and you just get it,” the interior designer wrote. “You are kind, smart, sweet, determined, an old soul, and drop dead gorgeous. You changed my life in all the best ways. I’ll always be here for you, I’ll always have your back, and you’ll always be my baby.”

Heather chimed in on the birthday fun, posting a selection of snapshots with Taylor.

“Time is moving so fast and I feel so grateful to get to watch you grow into such a beautiful young woman,” the “Selling Sunset” star gushed. “You continue to amaze me. Love you so much, Tay.”

Heather just recently celebrated a birthday of her own, ringing in her 39th with a trip to Napa, CA, with Tarek, Christina, and Christina’s partner, Chris Larocca.

The set of couples spent the weekend enjoying wine tastings, spa services, and time by the pool.

In honor of Heather’s birthday, Christina opened up about their friendship, writing, “Love co-parenting, working, and all the fun adventures with you!”

In addition to Taylor, Tarek and Christina welcomed a son, Brayden James El Moussa, 11, during their marriage.

The former couple were married from 2009 to 2016, finalizing their divorce in 2018.

In 2019, Tarek met Heather, and the pair wed in October 2021. Together, they share a son, Tristan Jay El Moussa, 3.

Christina also has a younger son named Hudson London Anstead, 6, with her second ex-husband, Ant Anstead.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/reality-tv/christina-haack-heather-tarek-el-moussa-daughter-birthday-car/.

Coldwell Banker Realty CEO on housing market: Consumers are reacting to rising mortgage rates

TCS Property Management — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Coldwell Banker Realty CEO Kamini Rangappan Lane joins CNBC’s ‘Squawk on the Street’ to discuss the housing market as new home sales climbed to their highest level since last December.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/24/coldwell-banker-realty-ceo-on-housing-market-consumers-are-reacting-to-rising-mortgage-rates.html.

EXCLUSIVE: Aspen Estate Where John Denver Wrote ‘Rocky Mountain High’ Hits the Market for $62.5 Million

Kelsi Karruli — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Aspen, CO, property where **John Denver **wrote his iconic hit “Rocky Mountain High” has hit the market for a staggering $62.5 million—although the residence that now occupies the site is a decidedly modern take on mountain living.

Known as Panorama House, the newly completed estate at 401 Carroll Drive sits on approximately 6.5 private acres in Starwood, Aspen’s first and only gated community.

The property has a storied connection to Denver, who wrote “Rocky Mountain High” while living there. Released in 1972, the song became one of the late singer-songwriter’s most recognizable hits and an enduring ode to Colorado.

Today, the property is home to an entirely different kind of Rocky Mountain retreat: a newly completed 13,439-square-foot mansion filled with resort-style amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, gym, cold plunge, sauna, private movie theater, and an 800-bottle wine room.

More than five years of design, permitting, and construction went into creating Panorama House, which is now being offered fully furnished and with no outstanding approvals.

The Aspen property where John Denver wrote his iconic hit “Rocky Mountain High” has hit the market for a staggering $62.5 million—although the residence that now occupies the site is a decidedly modern take on mountain living. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

The residence was designed by KA DesignWorks, a Basalt, CO, architecture firm led by Kenneth Adler, AIA, whose residential work has been recognized at the International Design and Architecture Awards.

The interiors were completed by Studio 133, led by Chris Powell, who trained under Jed Johnson and Robert A.M. Stern in New York before establishing his Aspen practice 25 years ago. Janckila Construction, which has been building luxury properties across Aspen, Snowmass, and Vail since 1995, handled construction of the home.

Panorama House’s elevated location provides approximately 180-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Elk Mountains and all four Aspen Snowmass ski areas.

Walls of glass throughout the residence were designed to make those vistas a focal point of the interiors, while expansive terraces extend the living spaces outdoors.

The entire residence is also above grade, allowing natural light to enter throughout the home while maximizing its connection to the surrounding mountain landscape.

Inside the main residence are seven en suite bedrooms and nine full bathrooms.

A separate two-bedroom Caretaker Dwelling Unit provides additional accommodations away from the primary living quarters and can be used for staff, extended family members, or overnight guests.

Yet it’s the home’s sprawling wellness facilities that help distinguish it from other luxury properties on the Aspen market.

Panorama House comes with a heated outdoor swimming pool and integrated spa, as well as a full fitness gym and yoga area.

The wellness facilities don’t end there. Owners can also make use of a steam room, infrared sauna, cold plunge, and dedicated massage room without ever having to leave the property.

A cabana lounge, complete with a fireplace and television, opens onto the exterior spaces, creating another area for owners and their guests to relax after a day on the slopes—or simply take in the surrounding scenery.

Known as Panorama House, the newly completed estate at 401 Carroll Drive sits on approximately 6.5 private acres in Starwood, Aspen’s first and only gated community. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

Pools of this size are particularly rare among Aspen properties, according to the listing team, adding to the property’s appeal at the upper end of the area’s real estate market.

“The upper end of the market remains resilient, especially for irreplaceable properties and amenities such as pools. With aging inventory, new turn-key properties remain in high demand and command a premium,” listing agent Riley Warwick of Saslove & Warwick at Douglas Elliman said.

The mansion also provides plenty of entertainment space away from its wellness wing.

A tiered private theater offers a dedicated spot for movie nights, while a game room, marble bar, and wine room capable of storing approximately 800 bottles provide additional spaces for hosting.

There is also an executive office for working from home.

Outside, the estate has been designed to function during Aspen’s dramatically different seasons.

Expansive terraces, an outdoor kitchen, landscaped grounds, and multiple fire features offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor entertaining during warmer weather.

When the snow begins to fall, an extensive snowmelt system beneath approximately 4,500 square feet of exterior surfaces helps keep the outdoor areas accessible.

Solar generation and battery backup also help run the home’s systems.

However, Panorama House’s appeal isn’t limited to the residence itself. Starwood has long been one of Aspen’s most exclusive residential enclaves.

The community was founded in 1962 by Edgar Stern, who also developed Utah’s Deer Valley, and occupies an elevated position above McLain Flats.

That location was specifically selected for its remarkable exposure to the surrounding mountains, with many residences enjoying views across all four Aspen Snowmass ski areas and the Elk Mountains.

Over the decades, Starwood has attracted an impressive roster of wealthy and high-profile residents, including recording artists, billionaires, and former heads of state.

After more than five years spent taking Panorama House from its design and permitting stages through construction, the residence is complete, furnished, and ready for occupancy. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

More than half a century after Denver found inspiration in the property’s Rocky Mountain surroundings, its newest incarnation offers a much more lavish way to experience those same celebrated views. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

The neighborhood’s privacy extends well beyond its famous residents. Starwood has private security at its gate, its own fire station, a conference center, and horse pastures. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

Panorama House is listed for $62.5 million with Riley Warwick of Saslove & Warwick at Douglas Elliman. (Brandon Huttenlocher)

Hedge fund billionaire John Paulson owns the former Starwood compound of Prince Bandar bin Sultan, while model and actress Barbi Benton and her husband, real estate developer George Gradow, built the community’s distinctive Copper Palace.

The neighborhood’s privacy extends well beyond its famous residents. Starwood has private security at its gate, its own fire station, a conference center, and horse pastures.

Its tightly controlled land-use rules have also helped preserve the character—and exclusivity—of the gated community.

Those restrictions mean that new construction on the scale of Panorama House, which combines nearly 13,500 square feet of living space with approximately private 6.5 acres, is no longer possible within Starwood’s boundaries.

That makes the newly finished residence something of a rarity in a community already known for its limited supply.

It also means the next owner won’t need to embark on the lengthy process required to create a comparable Aspen retreat from scratch.

After more than five years spent taking Panorama House from its design and permitting stages through construction, the residence is complete, furnished, and ready for occupancy.

Panorama House is listed for $62.5 million with Riley Warwick of Saslove & Warwick at Douglas Elliman.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/john-denver-rocky-mountain-high-aspen-colorado-estate-for-sale/.

Google invests in HBI program linking veterans to building careers

HousingWire Automation — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Homebuilders are short an estimated 700,000 construction workers a year, costing the industry $10.8B annually, HBI reports

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/hbi-google-trades-training/.

HouseCanary files for chapter 11 bankruptcy in New Jersey

Brooklee Han — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Petitions list more than $50 million in assets and at least $50 million in liabilities across 6 affiliated debtors

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housecanary-chapter-11-bankruptcy/.

Legendary Boston Celtics Commentator Mike Gorman Lists City Penthouse Steps From TD Garden for $1.5 Million

Hannah Chambers — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A piece of New England sports history has officially hit the market, with former Boston Celtics commentator Mike Gorman listing his penthouse at the intersection of the city’s North End and West End neighborhoods for $1.495 million.

Boasting views of TD Garden—the iconic home venue to the 18-time NBA championship-winning team—the sun-filled, two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence is right at home within the city’s skyline.

Gorman was the voice of the basketball team for 43 years before retiring in 2024, and even credits the beautiful condo and the easy commute it offered for contributing to the longevity of his career.

“It’s a really great location. I can’t say enough about the building and the people,” he said in a video tour of the home shared on Instagram. “I would say it added on 10 years to my career.”

The retired announcer snapped up the 1,244-square-foot dwelling in 2017, purchasing it from the building’s developer the year it was built.

Mike Gorman was the voice of the Boston Celtics for 43 years before retiring in 2024. (Boston Herald via Getty Images)

The legendary commentator is looking to offload his conveniently located penthouse for $1.5 million. (Surette Media Group)

The two-bedroom, two-bathroom pad is filled with sunlight and boasts impressive city views. (Surette Media Group)

The building is just steps away from some of Boston’s best attractions. (Surette Media Group)

George Sarkis of the Sarkis Team at Douglas Elliman notes the unit is a rare find these days.

“You cannot buy that same size unit with the views it has in a full-service building pretty much anywhere in Boston,” Sarkis told Boston.com.

While the penthouse was a perfect location for Gorman in the later years of his legendary career, he’s ready for a new chapter.

“He has a place somewhere else, more like a vacation place, and he just wants to travel and be closer to his family,” Sarkis confirmed.

“He has grandchildren now,” he continued. “He’ll always have a piece of Boston, but he just doesn’t need this place.”

The custom kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, including a wine refrigerator. (Surette Media Group)

The breakfast bar operates as a charming center of the open-layout unit. (Surette Media Group)

Featuring an expansive open-concept living and dining space, the oversized windows and light-colored fixtures throughout the home create a light and airy atmosphere.

The custom kitchen is equipped with premium Bosch and Gaggenau appliances, even touting a wine refrigerator and a breakfast bar—prime for taking an extra moment to enjoy a nutritious morning meal, especially if your commute is just a walk around the corner.

The primary suite is ideal for comfortable living, featuring four thoughtfully-designed closets.

The spa-inspired bathroom includes a dual vanity, a glass-enclosed walk-in shower, and a separate soaking tub.

The secondary bedroom is a special spot, too, as it’s nestled in a corner of the unit, offering additional sunlight and another walk-in closet.

The unit features hardwood floors and built-in bookshelves and storage.

The primary suite includes a spa-inspired bathroom and ample closet space. (Surette Media Group)

The secondary bedroom is located in a corner of the building, boasting views of TD Garden, the notable seller’s former workplace. (Surette Media Group)

Gorman purchased the unit from the developer in 2017, and is the only resident in the home’s history. (Surette Media Group)

The building offers plenty of amenities, too. Concierge service is available 24 hours a day, and common areas include a fitness center, an entertainment lounge, children’s playroom, dog spa, and a rooftop terrace outfitted with grilling stations. Private storage options are available.

While this particular penthouse has its own dedicated parking spot, the building also offers valet parking.

The surrounding area offers many great destinations within walking distance, including the Hub on Causeway, a mixed-use building filled containing a hotel, shopping center, and a handful of restaurants just steps away.

It’s also close proximity to some of Boston’s most scenic walking and biking paths, and a water taxi providing transportation to Logan Airport and other local attractions.

Gorman’s former pad isn’t the only Boston penthouse on the market with a notable seller.

Michael Dell, the chairman and CEO of Dell Technologies, is looking to offload his barely-used 59th floor home in the Millennium Tower. The sky-high abode is up for auction now, with bidding currently open online through Oct. 29.

The reserve for auction is $6.5 million, a 41% drop from the original purchase price of $10.9 million.

“Someone’s likely to get a hell of a home, with a hell of a view, for a hell of a price,” said Misha Haghani, CEO and founder of Paramount Realty USA, the brokerage handling the auction.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/sports/boston-celtics-commentator-mike-gorman-lists-penthouse/.

Miami's ultra-luxury housing market booms as cash transactions dominate, high-end brands like Bugatti and Porsche jump in

TCS Property Management — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Miami’s ultra-luxury housing segment is booming even as the broader market cools. UBS sees a declining risk of a bubble.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/24/miami-luxury-housing-boom-bugatti-bubble.html.

Millions of California Homeowners at Risk of HOA Fee Increases Under New Bill

Anna D'Amico — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Only days remain before California Gov. Gavin Newsom must make a decision on a bill that is designed to protect homeowners, but that critics say may raise homeowners association (HOA) fees for millions of residents.

The bill in question, Assembly Bill 2050, was proposed in February by Democrat Jessica Caloza and co-authors Republican Diane Dixon and Democrat Richard Chavez Zbur. After several amendments were made to the proposal, it passed last month and is now in the hands of Newsom.

The governor has until Sept. 30 to decide whether to sign the bill into law. With concerns about housing costs at the top of mind for many voters, the decision may be fraught.

HOAs handle the maintenance, repair, and replacement of community communal areas, “including, but not limited to, roofs, paving, mechanical systems, and critical infrastructure,” the bill reads.

In order to protect the safety and property values of their residents, HOAs must “proactively and adequately save for these significant long-term structural and operational obligations.” Associations that don’t properly fund reserve accounts put homeowners at risk of needing to levy steep special assessments, the legislation states.

The legislation follows several cases of large HOA special assessments on California homeowners, such as the condo owners in San Clemente who faced a $26,000 emergency assessment to replace their roofs. Nationwide, nearly 44% of homes for sale carry HOA fees, according to Realtor.com® research.

If signed into law, AB 2050 would require HOAs to maintain a minimum reserve contribution level to ensure that projected reserve balances do not fall below zero over a 30-year period.

If projections show that an association’s reserve balance may fall below zero at any time over the following 30 years, the bill would require that the association transfer 15% of its gross annual operating budget into its reserve each year until properly funded.

“AB 2050 is about affordability, fairness, and protecting homeowners from financial surprises. Today, homeowners are being hit with massive special assessments seemingly overnight because their associations haven’t adequately planned for major repairs, long-term costs or natural disasters,” Caloza said in a statement to Realtor.com.

“For families already struggling with the high cost of housing, an unexpected bill for thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars can be catastrophic. And for many first-time homebuyers, a condo is their first opportunity to own a home and begin building wealth. Unpredictable HOA costs jeopardizes that dream,” she added.

The Assemblymember stated that the lack of predictability and sustainability compound California’s ongoing affordability and housing crisis. The proposed bill gives associations a path to build their emergency reserves and be transparent with residents, rather than leaving homeowners to foot the bill for repairs all at once.

Caloza’s office referenced California SB 326, which requires additional inspections for any balconies, decks, stairways, or walkways more than 6 feet off the ground. While previous safety requirements only included visual checks, this legislature requires the inspection of hidden framing elements, load-bearing wood supports, and waterproofing systems on a regular cycle.

Because the cost of these regular inspections and repairs factor into associations reserves, Caloza and her colleagues wanted to figure out a predictable pathway to building reserves.

Critics of the bill worry that increases could force many Californians out of their homes if HOA fees become unmanageable.

Executive director of the Consumer Federation of California, Robert Herrell, and president of the Center for California Homeowner Association Law, Marjorie Murray, wrote for Capitol Weekly that taking 15% from an HOA’s operating account would still put strain on homeowners amid the affordability crisis.

“AB 2050 doesn’t explain how the operating account, the money used for daily expenses—like paying the property manage and keeping the lights on—is to be replenished. The only logical answer is that the board would have to increase regular monthly assessments. State law lets HOAs raise regular dues 20% a year though few homeowners see their income rise at this rate,” they wrote for Capital Weekly.

Harrell told the San Francisco Chronicle that pushing legislation that placed a cap on fee increases would have been more ideal.

“We’re not against reserving, but it ought to be combined with some reasonable limitations on what could be increased and how rapidly,” he told the Chronicle.

If 23% of California’s 13.8 million households are paying HOA fees, about 3.3 million households could face monthly expense increases if AB 2050 is made law. (stock image) (Orange County Register via Getty Images)

Roughly 23% of California households pay HOA fees, according to U.S. Census Bureau data from 2024. During that year, the median monthly HOA fee for the state was $278, over double the national median of $135.

If 23% of California’s 13.8 million households are paying HOA fees, about 3.3 million households could face monthly expense increases if AB 2050 is made law.

Caloza responds to critics by saying the proposed legislation is about responsible, long-term planning and avoiding unexpected assessments for homeowners and associations. The goal is to help homeowners plan ahead, rather than being vulnerable to major bills overnight.

“Predictability is a critical part of affordability, especially for working families and first-time homeowners. No homeowner should be blindsided by a sudden special assessment that can run into the thousands of dollars,” she states.

Realtor.com reached out to Newsom’s office by email but did not receive a response at the time of publication.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/california-homeowners-risk-hoa-fee-increases-legislation/.

More renters struggling with monthly housing costs

HousingWire Automation — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In 2025, 27.8% of lower-income households reported difficulty paying rent

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/more-renters-struggling-with-monthly-housing-costs/.

Mortgage Rates Top 7% for First Time Since Early 2025 in Blow to Homebuyers

Snejana Farberov — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates surged past the 7% threshold for the first time since January 2025 this week, propelled by skyrocketing Treasury yields and energy shocks stemming from the U.S.-Iran war.

The average rate on 30-year fixed home loans hit the 7.03% mark for the week ending Sept. 24, up 8 basis points from 6.95% the previous week, according to Freddie Mac. For perspective, rates averaged 6.3% one year ago.

“The housing market remains supported by a solid labor market and an economy that is growing at a healthy rate,” says Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist.

Although daily mortgage indicators have flickered above 7% in recent weeks, this is the first time in 20 months that Freddie Mac’s weekly average has topped the key threshold.

This latest readout comes on the heels of a 19-basis point jump recorded on Sept. 17, which marked the largest one-week increase since April 2025.

Realtor.com® senior economist Anthony Smith** **explains that the 10-year Treasury yield, which mortgage rates closely track, drove the bulk of the recent surge. On Wednesday, the yield reached 5.11%—its highest level since July 2007.

This spike is tightly linked to escalating inflationary pressures, with Brent crude oil prices hovering above $100 per barrel due to war-related supply disruptions and the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping artery.

At its September meeting last week, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) raised the federal funds rate by a quarter point to a range of 3.75% to 4% in a bid to rein in inflation. Since then, central bank officials have maintained a hawkish tone in their public messaging.

In remarks at the Chicago Fed’s housing affordability summit, Gov. **Michael S. Barr **acknowledged his support for the unanimous decision to hike. He argued the Fed had been “out of position” given changes in the economy, and said his base case is that “further policy adjustments are likely to be needed to bring inflation back to target in a timely fashion.”

Barr also noted that roughly half of outstanding mortgages still carry a rate of 4% or below, which keeps existing owners locked in place, constraining inventory.

Realtor.com research shows that lock-ins remain a dominant force within housing, and the current mortgage rate environment adds to these dynamics.

“For buyers and sellers, the highest mortgage rates in more than a year and a half are landing on a market that is in the midst of a slowdown,” says Smith.

(Realtor.com)

Existing home sales hit their 2026 low in August and pending sales have turned negative year over year.

“A 7% handle is as much psychological as mathematical, and it arrives at the point in the season when leverage usually shifts toward buyers,” adds the economist.

Home shoppers are advised to rate-proof their budgets rather than react to each weekly print. Realtor.com analysis of mortgage rate volatility since 2000 finds that buyers three months out from closing should plan for 50 basis points of movement in either direction, meaning anything between 6.5% and 7.5% from here, a swing worth roughly $30,000 in purchasing power on a $2,000 monthly principal and interest budget.

For sellers, the question is still whether to cut prices as a greater share have recently done, or pull the listing.

“Either way, this will continue to add to the headwinds in place for home sales,” forecasts Smith.

Housing market maintains resilience

Despite these hurdles, Realtor.com weekly housing data signals that the market remains on relatively stable footing.

The typical for-sale home spent 61 days on the market, one day less than a year ago, where mortgage rates were trending downward.

Meanwhile, new listing activity ticked up 0.9% year over year, despite the lock-in effect bolstered by rising mortgage rates.

Economists attribute this resilience to record-high real estate values and homeowner equity, which give long-time homeowners a sizable financial cushion to make a move even in a high-rate environment.

How your credit score affects your mortgage

Your credit score plays a role when you apply for a mortgage. A credit score will determine whether you qualify for a mortgage and the interest rate you’ll receive. The higher the credit score, the lower the interest rate you’ll qualify for.

The credit score you need will vary depending on the type of loan. A score of 620 is a “fair” rating. However, people applying for a Federal Housing Administration loan might be able to get approved with a credit score of 500, which is considered a low score.

Homebuyers with credit scores of 740 or higher are typically considered to be in very good standing and can usually qualify for better rates, which can reduce monthly payments.

Different types of mortgage loan programs have their own minimum credit score requirements. Some lenders have stricter criteria when evaluating whether to approve a loan. Ultimately, they want to make sure you’re able to pay back the loan.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/mortgage-rates-today-fed-rate-hike-september-24-2026/.

The Housing Market Correction Is Spreading

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The housing market correction is about to get worse. Before, the Northeast and Midwest markets were insulated from the sizable price drops happening in places like Texas and Florida, but […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-463.

This Florida brokerage built an AI prospect so agents can practice before the real call

HousingWire Automation — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Scenarios vary from call to call to prevent agents from memorizing responses

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ai-agent-training-tool-built-by-brokerage/.

How to Get 10%+ Off Your Next Real Estate Deal Right Now

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Imagine getting 10% off your next rental property (on the low end). What about getting a rate in the 3% or 4% range, or putting only 5%-15% down on a […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1334.

Multifamily vs. Single-Family Investing: Which Is Better for Beginners?

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Every rookie investor arrives at the same fork in the road early on: single-family home or multifamily. Which one’s actually the better option? The property type you choose first can […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-774.

Nearly 10% of borrowers opted for riskier mortgages last week, as rates soared over 7%

TCS Property Management — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As mortgage rates rise, borrowers are seeking savings in riskier, adjustable-rate mortgages that offer lower rates.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/23/nearly-10percent-of-borrowers-opted-for-riskier-mortgages-last-week.html.

KB Home reverses gains, stock falls sharply in extended trading

TCS Property Management — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick joins ‘Fast Money’ to break down what is weighing on the home builders sector.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/22/kb-homes-reverses-gains-stock-falls-sharply-in-extended-trading.html.

Rates Were Hiked: Here’s What Investors Should Do Now

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve hiked rates last week, but did it actually help the housing market? Our panel of real estate investing experts isn’t all that bummed by potentially higher rates […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-462.

Why Birmingham Has Become One of America’s Hottest Markets For Real Estate Investors

Jeff Vasishta — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

It’s hard to argue with a purchase price of $160,000 and a median monthly rent of $1,300, even in a high interest rate climate. Those median figures are why Birmingham, […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/birmingham-real-estate-market-for-investing.

How the Modern Farmhouse Went From Trendy HGTV Buzzword to Inexpensive Housing Solution

Hannah Chambers — Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

It’s hard to imagine life before the modern farmhouse. The architectural style has soared in popularity in recent years, popping up in neighborhoods throughout the United States.

Favored for their polished, yet comfortable aesthetic, modern farmhouses manage to feel both nostalgic and totally new.

They’ve become main characters in reality shows across networks—from projects on HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” and “Farmhouse Fixer” to the time the cast of Bravo’s “Vanderpump Rules” all ended up purchasing nearly identical black-and-white mansions in the San Fernando Valley.

Countless celebrities—including Michael B. Jordan and Demi Lovato—have opted to call modern farmhouses home, too.

How did these homes become so trendy? And what factors have contributed to their staying power? Read on to discover how this relatively new architectural style is making an impact.

Modern farmhouses are often marked by crisp vertical siding, sharp black features, expansive windows, and symmetrical structures. (Getty Images)

The homes have risen to popularity in the past decade, with the industrial-yet-cozy aesthetic sweeping homes across the country. (Getty Images)

Nowadays, the modern farmhouse comes in all sizes, from sprawling estates to quaint little abodes. (Getty Images)

What are the most distinctive features of a modern farmhouse?

Modern farmhouses have a very distinct look, featuring symmetrical shapes, oversized windows, gable roofs, covered porches, and lots of vertical siding.

Color palettes are generally neutral, and it’s common to see lots of white paint with black accents, such as windows, doors, and light fixtures.

Inside, you’ll likely find an open plan layout, which Ariel Barrionuevo of La Coralina Island House previously told Realtor.com®, “makes it easier for families to be together and fits the friendly feel of an old farmhouse.”

Additional design features include reclaimed wood, shiplap or board and batten walls, wide-plank hardwood floors, white granite or marble countertops, farmhouse sinks, pendant lights, and brass accessories.

Modern farmhouse style has dictated interior design, as well. Think: white, beige, or gray furniture and fabrics in classic patterns, such as gingham or ticking stripes. Wicker and wrought-iron elements also bring home the rustic vibes.

Chip and Joanna Gaines are often credited with popularizing the modern farmhouse on their HGTV show “Fixer Upper.” (joannagaines/Instagram)

When was the first modern farmhouse designed?

It’s tricky to pinpoint one individual property that can take the title of “first modern farmhouse,” which is likely partly due to the fact that the style’s pop culture ascension is so closely tied to renovations.

As a 2018 Curbed article noted, the term “modern farmhouse” was first used by the New York Times in October 2016 to describe the style of interior design firm Jersey Ice Cream Co.

Google’s records of use of the phrase indicated it was barely used from 2004 to 2015, but saw a drastic increase starting in 2016.

Chip and Joanna Gaines of “Fixer Upper” are often credited with skyrocketing the aesthetic—a mission furthered by their Magnolia empire, which produces home decor items as small as candles and as large as sofas.

Where are the best places to find modern farmhouses?

Waco, TX, is home to the Gaines family’s design empire, but it’s far from the only place you can find a modern farmhouse.

Despite its agricultural-inspired origins, this architectural style can be found all over the country, from cities to suburbs to rural areas. The aesthetic can be used for structures of all kinds, such as sprawling mansions, chic townhouses, and quaint little homes.

Open floor plans, reclaimed wood, and neutral decor define the interiors of modern farmhouses. (Getty Images)

Barn doors have made their way inside, serving as space-saving and stylish options for closet and en suite bathroom doors. (Getty Images)

How have modern farmhouses changed over the years?

Although modern farmhouses have been around for about a decade, they’ve already seen changes, thanks to their ability to be easily reproduced with cheaper materials.

In the home renovation and design shows that brought the aesthetic to the masses, the modern farmhouse look was often accomplished by salvaging original materials—brick chimneys, vintage tile, and reclaimed wood.

As the highly recognizable aesthetic has spread, less-expensive materials—that are easy to replicate—are used more frequently. For example, traditional wood construction can be replaced with cheaper fiber cement siding.

The modern farmhouse has become increasingly mainstream with the use of more accessible, less expensive materials. (Getty Images)

Why do people buy modern farmhouses?

Modern farmhouses are trendy for a reason.

Thanks to the somewhat timeless aesthetic, this architectural style can lend itself to a variety of decor styles, giving owners the opportunity to swap up their space without having to change too much.

The expansive windows and sprawling, open-concept layouts create a bright, airy atmosphere that’s very appealing.

And as the style becomes increasingly mainstream with the use of more accessible, less expensive materials, a modern farmhouse can be a more affordable option than some architectural styles that favor very complex design.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/modern-farmhouse-architectural-style-history/.

Superfan Snaps Up Graceland-Inspired Home in Memphis for $150K: ‘I Bought It for Every Elvis Fan’

Hannah Chambers — Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

When Elvis Presley superfan Claire Starring heard musicians Dale Watson and Celine Lee were selling a Graceland-inspired home in Memphis, TN, it was only a matter of hours before she would find herself visiting the property and placing an offer.

At the time, the Woodstock, GA, resident was enjoying a trip to the real Graceland—the historic estate of the late legendary musician, a destination she frequents often.

“I have to have this place. I don’t care how I do it, I have to have this place,” Starring recalls thinking in conversation with Realtor.com®.

“The minute I stepped foot on the shag green carpet, I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh. I love it. We have to have this house.’”

Starring “immediately” put an offer on the property, despite her husband’s advice.

A renovator and former set designer, new owner Claire Starring plans to leave “Lil’ Graceland” largely untouched. But she did paint the exterior blue on Day 1. (Claire Starring)

Starring purchased the home fully furnished, saying she immediately fell in love with the green shag carpet. (Lil’ Graceland)

The dwelling is filled with Elvis memorabilia and other items from the 1950s. (Lil’ Graceland)

This peacock living room draws inspiration from a similarly-themed stained-glass room in the real Graceland. (Lil’ Graceland)

The kitchen has a retro vibe, but has been outfitted with new appliances. (Lil’ Graceland)

“My husband just rolled his eyes and said, ‘You know, when you’re buying something, Claire, you’re supposed to act as if you’re not interested, so you can get a better price,’” she says with a laugh. “I’m like, ‘No, you pay asking price, because I want this place.’ And he was like, ‘I’m going to go wait in the car.’”

According to property records, Starring snapped up the three-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home for $150,000, a dip from the original asking price of $175,000. Watson and Lee purchased the property from the original owners in 2017 for $55,000.

Considering she’s a former set designer turned home renovator, Starring surprisingly plans to leave “Lil’ Graceland” largely untouched.

While she wasted no time painting the exterior of the brick-red home a bright turquoise on the day she closed on the property, the retro-themed abode came fully furnished, and Starring’s “doing absolutely nothing to the inside.”

There are two caravans located in the backyard, and the superfan will “glamp them out” to serve as an additional source of income.

The property can be used as a short-term rental, a film and photo set, and a recording studio. (Robert Dye)

Starring resides in Georgia, but maintains the home during visits and with the help of a local team. (Lil’ Graceland)

Previous owners Celine Lee and Dale Watson pose in one of the home’s three bedrooms. (Lil’ Graceland)

Two caravans on the lot will be remodeled to host guests. One contains a full bathroom. (Claire Starring)

Eventually, the property will host weddings. (Claire Starring)

In the right hands, Lil’ Graceland can be a lucrative combination of businesses. It currently serves as a short-term rental on Airbnb, a film and photo set location, and a recording studio. Eventually, betrothed fans of the singer can exchange vows here, too.

The location can be booked by the day, or visitors can “get the whole experience” and stay overnight.

The basement is stocked with original equipment from Sun Studio, a recording service founded in the 1950s by Sam Phillips, a producer credited with launching the careers of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and many other icons.

The gear was acquired by Watson, the previous owner, who will record another album there in October. It’s also been used recently by bands such as The Black Keys and Reverend Horton Heat.

Starring plans to pass the keys to allow fans and industry professionals to enjoy the home, but a few dates are blocked off for her own family’s use. Residing about a five-hour drive from Lil’ Graceland, she maintains the property with the help of “a good group of people in Memphis” and stays close to the previous owners.

Starring, pictured here with her husband and daughter, was recently married at Graceland. (Robert Dye)

Starring is a longtime fan of Elvis and admires his legendary rags-to-riches story. (Robert Dye)

“We’ll be going for Thanksgiving. We’re going to have a 1950s Thanksgiving at the house,” she explains. “And then, we’ll be back for Elvis’ birthday.”

Starring is mom to a daughter, Presley Grace, and was recently married at Graceland. Her husband isn’t quite as big a fan of the rock star as she is, but he’s a “lovely guy” who understands what the fandom means to her.

Upon meeting her new beau, Starring explained that her daughter comes first, rescue animals come second, and Elvis comes next.

“Elvis is massive in my life. So if you can deal with that, then we’re good to go. If not, then you can jog on,” she says. “He accepts my crazy, and he loves it.”

Starring became a fan of Elvis as a child, growing up “in a little tiny island called the Isle of Man” in the Irish Sea between Ireland and Great Britain.

Musical couple Lee and Watson still use the home’s recording studio, with Watson set to record a new album there in October. (Suzanne Cordeiro/Corbis via Getty Images)

Lil’ Graceland’s green-carpeted “jungle room” (SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)

“My mum and dad just busted their butts all the time. They were always working,” she remembers. “My mum would put on Elvis for me as, like, a babysitter.

“Sometimes, people don’t have something to believe in. I believe in God, and I’d never think that Elvis is a god … but he was everything when I was growing up,” she shares. “He was the person I talked to about everything. His music really helped me.”

Starring cites the musician’s rags-to-riches story as her inspiration.

“The way he came from nothing and never changed who he was … That, to me, is massive,” she says.

Although it is clear that owning Lil’ Graceland brings Starring lots of joy, it’s not one she revels in alone.

“I didn’t buy it for me,” Starring explains. “I bought it for every Elvis fan. Every fan of music. Every fan of Memphis. You know, it’s a really special place.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/elvis-presley-superfan-buys-graceland-inspired-house/.

A Homesteader’s Dream: This 386-Acre Sporting Retreat Uses Transformed Grain Silos as Living Quarters

Kellie Speed — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

An enormous 386.1-acre “recreational retreat” with four transformed grain silos and shooting areas has just hit the market near Odessa, WA, for $895,000.

“The seller is the original owner, and this was a piece of property that he built for his family and friends to recreate,” says listing agent** ****Jason Hall **of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Mann Realty. “It isn’t stocked now, but he stocked the pond with fish.”

Known as Steel Ranch, the property was custom-designed for anyone seeking “wide-open space and a getaway unlike the typical cabin.”

“You can shoot 1-mile long-range target practice, and it also has a pistol range,” Hall says. “There are also short-range targets.”

The 386.1-acre Steel Ranch was custom designed by the seller. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

The property features grain silos that have been transformed into living quarters. Pictured is the kitchen. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

The silos feature loft-style sleeping accommodations. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

Four grain silos were transformed in 2022 into unique living quarters with entertaining spaces and loft-style sleeping quarters.

One of the silos has a garage door offering extra storage space for recreational gear and equipment.

“They gave it a freshening up over the summer,” notes Hall.

While the property could be used for a multitude of purposes, including a weekend getaway, it has the charm and character of a “private hunting lodge,” with a walk-in gun vault located in one of the silos.

“It could also be transformed into a private gun or hunting club, or it might work well as an RV resort,” Hall says. “It would also be a great homesteader’s property, a game farm, or sporting clays.”

One of the silos features a walk-in gun vault. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

One of the silos features a garage door, offering extra storage space. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

A private pond sits on the 386.1-acre property in Odessa, WA. (Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate)

In addition to shooting on the property, there are plenty of opportunities to fish in the private pond or hunt across the acreage.

Domestic and irrigation wells, along with water rights for a 10-acre food plot, offer “added valuable flexibility for wildlife and land management.”

Gravel roads throughout the ranch provide easy access across the property.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/repurposed-grain-silos-designated-shooting-areas-and-the-opportunity-to-create-a-sporting-lodge-in-washington-for-895k/.

Inside ‘The Cactus House’: A $17 Million Restored Malibu Sanctuary on a Secret Beach

Kellie Speed — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A recently renovated midcentury Malibu estate with steps leading directly down to a former secret beach has just hit the market for $16,995,000.

Built in 1947 and designed by modernist architect Charles Kanner, the 3,861-square-foot estate known as The Cactus House last sold in 2021, when the sellers purchased it for $7,956,000 and decided to undertake a massive restoration project while taking great care to thoughtfully preserve its history.

“The home is architecturally unique and has been updated, but the sellers wanted to maintain the architectural integrity of the home, so it lives more like a sanctuary on the beach,” says listing agent **Sandeep Dhariwal **of Sotheby’s International Realty - Beverly Hills Brokerage.

“It has got a lot of character and charm, along with 58 feet of frontage on the beach.”

She notes that while the property is for sale, it is also available for lease at a reduced winter rate of $67,500 a month.

The living and dining areas of the beachfront retreat boast views of the Pacific Ocean. (Mike Kelley)

The kitchen features French doors that open onto an expansive teak deck. (Mike Kelley)

A spacious open floor plan features French doors opening to an expansive teak deck with views to Point Dume and overlooks a gated terracotta courtyard designed to soak in the stunning Pacific Ocean views.

“It’s a really unique midcentury home located on a really large lot, on what was once a secret beach,” says Dhariwal. “It’s also on a private road and has got significant parking space.”

Following much consternation, in 2023, Malibu’s “hidden beach” opened to the public for the first time in 40 years, when California’s state agencies approved an agreement to provide access to Escondido Beach.

“When you walk in, it’s so special and a rare find,” she noted. “It’s a very earthy house with spectacular, unmatched views.”

The house is described as “earthy” with unmatched views. (Mike Kelley)

The primary suite features a double vanity. (Mike Kelley)

The home is situated on a large lot, which is rare for a beachfront property in Malibu. (Mike Kelley)

A sleek chef’s kitchen has custom cabinetry, floating shelves, a breakfast bar, and a separate dining area facing the waterfront.

The primary retreat, with a soaking tub and dual-sink vanity, overlooks a private garden.

“One of the bedrooms is ocean-facing, straight onto the sand,” she added. “You feel totally grounded when you are there. It’s like having a boutique hotel to yourself.”

Dhariwal believes the property will likely be used as a secondary residence.

“Most homeowners here have a portfolio of homes,” she says. “These larger lots are harder to find. You could also build an ADU or a three-car garage on a portion of the lot, which is incredibly rare for a beachfront property.”

Designed for entertaining, the estate has multiple dining and living areas for relaxing and hosting.

“It is located just a few minutes from Cross Creek Ranch, where there are loads of retail available,” Dhariwal says. “I think the next buyer will be someone who has a deep connection to architecture and beachfront living with character.”

The property is also near one of the area’s most popular dining establishments, Geoffrey’s, and is within close proximity to Escondido Falls, Zuma Beach, and El Matador.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/malibu-17m-cactus-house-secret-beach/.

Keeping The Appliances Working for 20+ Years Is Like Winning the Homeowner Jackpot

Anna Baluch — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Splurging on a shiny, new appliance for your home can be exciting.

However, nothing last forever. In fact, modern appliances usually come with shorter lifespans than their older counterparts—and these days, they cost a lot more.

The Chicago Fed studied the impact of** President Trump’s tariffs** imposed last year and found many housing-related industries among the most exposed to cost increases from March to December 2025.

Retailers report price increases, and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) estimates that about 10% of of building materials used in residential construction are imported.

Electrical appliances, equipment, and components saw almost a 3% increase in input costs.

That’s why keeping an older appliance, such as a fridge, washer dryer, dishwasher, or HVAC systemrunning is a massive financial victory.

“Homeowners often assume an old appliance and a high repair bill mean it’s time for a replacement. What they often forget is that if you’ve had an appliance for 10+ years with no major repairs up to this point, a repair is the way to go as it’s built with high quality parts and will most likely last another 10 years,” says Sean Murphy, owner of Duncan Home Services in Indianapolis.

Fortunately, the right care and maintenance is all it takes to maximize the longevity of your older, higher quality appliances and avoid premature replacement costs.

Modern appliances aren’t built like they used to be

So, why do the latest, greatest appliances often break down long before we want them to? Put simply, manufacturers have different priorities than they used to.

“Twenty or even 30 years ago, materials were much heavier and technology was much simpler. Modern appliances are typically designed to be energy-efficient with more plastic components,” says Matthew Morrison, appliance expert at JustAnswer.

Unfortunately, this massive change in manufacturing has cut the lifespan of most appliances in half.

“If you get 10 years out of an appliance, consider yourself a winner,” Morrison explains.

It usually makes more sense to repair an older model as it can easily run you $700 for a new dishwasher and $3,000 for a fridge, according to Morrison.

“Calling a local appliance company to take care of some of the minor issues as the unit experiences normal wear and tear will ultimately save you a lot of cash (and headaches) in the long run,” adds Morrison.

Murphy echoes Morrison’s thoughts, and explains that most homeowners assume if they have a repair bill that’s 50% or more of the replacement cost, they should just go out and buy a new appliance.

“I would push back on that and ask them to realize that if they buy new, they’re buying a new set of problems with potentially less reliable parts, as well as manufacturer defects, and warranty issues,” Murphy adds.

Keeping your appliances in good working order will save you more money in the long run. (Getty)

How to make your older appliances last longer

If you’d like your older, higher quality appliances to stand the test of time, routine maintenance is key.

“To extend the life of your HVAC system, for example, regularly replace the filters and clean the outside condenser so that it’s free of dust and leaves,” says Morrison.

When it comes to your fridge, clean the condenser coils so that it runs cooler for longer and wipe down the door seals to prevent air loss.

Washers require you to run monthly cleaning cycles and inspect the fill hoses for wear. And dryers rely on proper venting and smooth operation.

Dishwashers will be in better shape when you use proper detergent and ensure the spray arms (which are usually located beneath the racks) can rotate freely.

“Remember that anything that causes extra stress on a cooling system, such as dirt or decreased airflow, for example will always automatically reduce the lifespan of your refrigeration systems like fridges and air conditioners, and the same principle applies for fans and heating systems,” Murphy explains.

Morrison reinforces the fact that although less efficient, older appliances are almost always more durable and easier to repair.

“With a few basic hand tools, you can usually be your own household appliance repairman,” adds Morrison.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/older-appliances-vs-modern-saving-money/.

Will mortgage rates rise to 8% or drop to 6%?

Logan Mohtashami — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage spreads, the Iran conflict and the economy are key

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/will-mortgage-rates-rise-to-8-or-drop-to-6/.

Cramer’s week ahead: What to watch as Wall Street navigates a tough September

TCS Property Management — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Jim Cramer said investors could be in for a relatively quiet week as Wall Street works its way through a historically difficult September.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/jim-cramer-week-ahead-costco-okta.html.

Don’t Buy a House Hack Until You’ve Checked These Numbers (Rookie Reply)

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Investing in your first house hack but not sure whether the deal makes sense in the long run? House hacking is the way most rookies get started in real estate, […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-772.

Hagens Berman seeking plaintiffs for Compass MRED class action

Brooklee Han — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The firm cites claims of 98% market share and points to Compass research showing 4.6% higher sale prices after pre MLS marketing

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/hagens-berman-compass-mred-plaintiffs/.

How to Buy Your First Small Multifamily Property This Year (2-4 Units)

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This is how to buy a small multifamily rental property the right way. It’s not hard, it’s not complicated, and it’s (arguably) one of the best residential real estate investments […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1332.

Lennar defends even-flow, land banking strategy as risks build

Tyler Williams — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Miller said nearly 50% of visitors cannot immediately qualify, as CPI ran 3.4% and the Fed lifted rates to 3.75% to 4%

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/lennar-q3-2026-earnings/.

Lightning Round: Rate hikes are the worst thing for companies like Rocket, says Jim Cramer

TCS Property Management — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

‘Mad Money’ host Jim Cramer weighs in on stocks including: Rocket and Navitas.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/18/lightning-round-rate-hikes-are-the-worst-thing-for-companies-like-rocket-says-jim-cramer.html.

Next move for housing trade

TCS Property Management — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick talks with Ivy Zelman, Zelman co-founder and EVP, about the Fed’s interest rate hike.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/18/next-move-for-housing-trade.html.

NIL era brings new wealth — and new buyers — to college housing markets

Jonathan Delozier — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Experts share best practices for helping student-athletes navigate new wealth and homebuying

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/nil-era-brings-new-wealth-and-new-buyers-to-college-housing-markets/.

Realtor.com lead dispute heads to closed-door arbitration after appeal fails

Brooklee Han — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Appeals court said it lacked jurisdiction because the dismissal was effectively a stay pending arbitration

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ninth-circuit-denies-rehearing-realtorcom-leads/.

What Fed Rate Hikes Could Mean For Real Estate Investors to End the Year

Jeff Vasishta — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As Al Pacino famously said in The Godfather III, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!” Just when you thought you’d seen the end of […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/what-fed-rate-hikes-could-mean-for-real-estate-investors-to-end-the-year.

7 Real Estate Investments to Capitalize on “the Silver Tsunami” as America Ages

G. Brian Davis — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A popular statistic thrown around over the last decade noted that 10,000 Americans turned 65 every single day. From 2025 to 2027, however, that number is projected to peak at […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/7-real-estate-investments-to-capitalize-on-the-silver-tsunami-as-america-ages.

Brown Harris Stevens' Bess Freedman: The Fed's rate hike made a complicated housing market more complicated

TCS Property Management — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Bess Freedman, Brown Harris Stevens CEO, joins ‘The Exchange’ to discuss the Fed’s decision to hike rates and what that means for future homebuyers.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/17/brown-harris-stevens-bess-freedman-the-feds-rate-hike-made-a-complicated-housing-market-more-complicated.html.

Higher rates hit housing market

TCS Property Management — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick sits down with Willy Walker, Walker & Dunlop CEO, for a discussion on how the Fed raising interest rates will impact the housing market.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/17/higher-rates-hit-housing-market.html.

You’re Not Gonna Like What Happens to Mortgage Rates

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. government may have just lost the war on mortgage rates. Last week, the U.S. Treasury announced one of its biggest bond buyback programs in years—a whopping $6 billion […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-461.

Fed Rate Hike and Philadelphia Real Estate: First Increase Since 2023

Mary Varlas — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve made its long-anticipated move Wednesday afternoon, and Philadelphia real estate investors should take note. The central bank raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 3.75%-4%, its first increase since 2023, in a unanimous 12-0 vote.

Why the Fed Moved

The hike is aimed at combating inflation driven by spiraling oil prices and lingering tariff impacts. Projections show PCE inflation at 3.7% in 2026, falling to 2.3% in 2027, as domestic spending remains resilient. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh vowed a “timelier return” to 2% inflation, and the median policymaker projected one more quarter-point hike this year, with meetings remaining in October and December.

Notably, the committee also lowered its unemployment outlook to 4.1% — a sign the Fed believes the labor market can absorb tighter policy.

What It Means for Mortgages and Buyers

Borrowing costs were climbing even before today’s announcement. The 30-year fixed mortgage sat at 6.91% on September 14, with the 15-year at 6.37%, as markets priced in the hike. Housing experts have warned rates could climb above 7% this fall, driven by 10-year Treasury yields near 4.77%-4.78% and oil prices above $93 a barrel.

For Philadelphia-area buyers, that math matters. At today’s rates, financing costs on a median Main Line home near $900,000 are meaningfully higher than a year ago — which will push more would-be buyers toward renting.

The Investor Takeaway

Higher rates cut both ways. Acquisition financing gets more expensive, and cap rates need to be sharper to make deals pencil. But for landlords, the demand picture strengthens: every household priced out of a purchase by a 7% mortgage is a prospective tenant, and in supply-constrained markets like the Main Line and Greater Philadelphia, that translates directly into rental pricing power and low vacancy.

The strategy in a rising-rate environment is discipline: buy right, lock financing thoughtfully, and hold quality assets in high-demand school districts and transit corridors. With the Fed signaling rates will remain around this level into next year, patient, cash-flow-focused investors are positioned to win.

Mary Varlas is an investment and sales specialist at TCS Investments and TCS Property Management, a national single-family investment and rental property management firm headquartered in Philadelphia, PA.

Main Line Philadelphia Suburbs See Record Price Growth as City Buyers Push Westward

Alex Prince — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia’s Main Line suburbs recorded their strongest year of home price growth in over a decade, with the median sale price rising 11.4% year-over-year to $620,000 as buyers pushed westward from the city in search of space, top-rated schools, and commuter rail access.

The Main Line Market at a Glance

The Main Line — the string of affluent suburbs along the historic Pennsylvania Railroad corridor west of Philadelphia — has long been one of the region’s most desirable residential markets. But 2026 has brought a level of price acceleration not seen since the post-pandemic surge of 2021.

Key market statistics for the twelve months ending August 2026:

Median sale price: $620,000 (up 11.4% year-over-year)
Closed sales: 3,840 (up 6.2% year-over-year)
Median days on market: 14 (down from 22 a year ago)
Sale-to-list price ratio: 99.1% (up from 97.4%)
Active listings: 520 (down 18% year-over-year)
Months of supply: 1.6 (the lowest on record)

The supply shortage is the defining feature of the current market. With just 1.6 months of inventory on hand, the Main Line is one of the tightest markets in the entire Philadelphia metropolitan area.

What’s Driving the Surge

1. City-to-suburb migration. After several years of elevated mortgage rates keeping city buyers in place, a growing cohort of Philadelphia homeowners is selling and moving west. Remote and hybrid work arrangements have made the trade-off of a longer commute acceptable in exchange for larger lots and better school districts.

2. School district demand. The Main Line’s public school districts — Lower Merion, Radnor, Tredyffrin-Easttown, and Great Valley — consistently rank among the best in Pennsylvania. For families with children approaching school age, this is the single most cited reason for making the move.

3. Inventory scarcity. The Main Line’s built environment is largely mature, with limited land for new construction. Zoning restrictions in communities like Lower Merion and Radnor further constrain new supply, so demand is chasing a nearly fixed stock of homes.

4. Premium for space. The post-pandemic preference for larger homes and yards remains intact. Main Line properties average 3,200 square feet on lots averaging 0.4 acres, compared to Philadelphia’s city average of 1,400 square feet on much smaller lots.

Submarket Breakdown

The Main Line is not monolithic. Price points and dynamics vary significantly by community:

Lower Merion: Median $780,000, up 9.8%. The most expensive Main Line community, anchored by Villanova and Ardmore. Inventory is extremely tight at 1.2 months.
Radnor: Median $720,000, up 12.1%. Radnor’s top-ranked schools and proximity to the city make it the most competitive submarket, with homes regularly receiving multiple offers within days of listing.
Tredyffrin-Easttown: Median $590,000, up 13.4%. The strongest price growth on the Main Line, driven by relative affordability compared to Lower Merion and Radnor, plus excellent schools.
Great Valley: Median $540,000, up 10.2%. The most affordable Main Line community, attracting buyers priced out of the eastern submarkets.
Malvern/Frazer: Median $510,000, up 14.1%. The western edge of the Main Line is seeing the fastest appreciation as buyers push further out for value.

Impact on the Rental Market

The Main Line’s sales market tightness is spilling into rentals. With homeownership increasingly out of reach for many households — a 20% down payment on the median $620,000 home requires $124,000 in cash, plus closing costs — demand for rental units is rising.

Average asking rent: $2,650/month (up 5.8% year-over-year)
Vacancy rate: 3.4% (down from 4.1% a year ago)
New apartment deliveries: 280 units in 2026, the lowest in three years

Single-family rentals are particularly scarce. Investors who acquired Main Line rental properties in recent years are seeing strong rent growth and low turnover, as tenants who cannot afford to buy are staying in rentals longer.

What This Means for SFR Operators

For single-family rental investors and property managers, the Main Line presents a distinct set of opportunities and challenges:

High barriers to entry. Acquisition prices are steep, and cap rates are low (3.5-4.5%). Cash-flow investors will find better numbers in Philadelphia proper or in emerging suburban markets like Norristown or Coatesville.
Strong appreciation potential. For investors with a longer horizon, the Main Line’s supply-constrained market and enduring school-district demand support continued price appreciation.
Tenant quality and retention. Main Line renters tend to be stable, high-income households. Turnover is low, and tenants treat properties well.
Rent growth support. With homeownership costs rising faster than rents, the rental pool is growing, supporting continued rent increases of 4-6% annually.

Outlook

The Main Line market shows no signs of cooling in the near term. With inventory at record lows, school demand unwavering, and city-to-suburb migration continuing, prices are likely to keep rising at a 7-10% annual pace through 2027. The main risk factor is mortgage rates — a meaningful decline could unlock a wave of additional buyers and push prices even higher, while a further increase could cool demand at the margins.

For now, the Main Line remains one of the strongest residential markets in the Philadelphia region, and one of the most difficult for buyers and renters alike.

Philadelphia Landlord Accountability: New Era of Local Manager Rules and Tighter Enforcement

Benjamin Oiler — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia landlords are operating under a fundamentally different set of rules this fall. Between the Safe Healthy Homes Act signed into law this spring, a newly funded citywide inspection program, and stricter enforcement of the city’s managing agent requirements, the compliance bar for rental property owners has never been higher — and the consequences for falling short have never been more expensive.

For the roughly half of Philadelphia households who rent their homes, the changes represent the most significant expansion of tenant protections in years. For landlords, they represent a wholesale shift in how the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) will police the city’s estimated 250,000 rental units.

Here’s what every owner and operator needs to understand.

The Safe Healthy Homes Act Is Now Law

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker signed two bills known collectively as the Safe Healthy Homes Act into law on May 7. After City Council passed them in April with a 16-1 vote — a margin that guaranteed the legislation would become law with or without her signature. Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke introduced the bills in April 2025 and spent a year working with landlords and tenant organizations on amendments before the package cleared Council.

The legislation does several things at once. One bill protects tenants against retaliatory evictions and empowers them to speak out about dangerous living conditions, while the companion measure authorizes the city to create a program to proactively inspect rental units on a regular cycle. The package also expands the city’s good cause eviction law, among many other provisions.

The most consequential change for day-to-day operations may be the new linkage between code violations and a landlord’s rental license. Under Bill No. 250329, if a property has any open L&I violation or habitability issue on record for more than 30 days with no pending appeal, L&I can refuse to issue or renew that property’s rental license — and the license is treated as not in good legal standing. Tenants gain new legal remedies as well, including lawsuits for up to $2,000 per unit plus rent refunds and attorney’s fees.

That connection matters because in Philadelphia, the rental license is the foundation of a landlord’s legal standing. A landlord without a current rental license cannot collect rent, tenants can withhold rent until the license is obtained, and the landlord cannot file for eviction until the license is current. An unresolved violation that once meant a fine and a repair is now capable of blocking a license renewal, uncollectible rent, and exposure to tenant lawsuits.

The Inspection Decision: Philadelphia Commits to Proactive Checks

For decades, Philadelphia stood out among major American cities for what it didn’t do. Rental properties were inspected only if a complaint was filed with L&I, and Philadelphia is one of only a few big cities in the country that do not perform proactive inspections. A 2021 Pew Charitable Trusts analysis found L&I inspected only about 7% of Philadelphia’s rental units in a year, a shortfall attributed to limited resources.

That era is ending. The city has now made the decision — legislatively and financially — to inspect every licensed rental in Philadelphia on a recurring schedule.

The details took shape during this spring’s budget season. During an April budget hearing, L&I officials told City Council they want to staff the program with a total of 18 positions, including as many as 13 inspectors. The department reported a soft launch already underway with five inspectors, with plans to add eight more, and said it intends to inspect all licensed rentals on a rotating five-year cycle, prioritizing properties with violation histories and greater public risk.

The money followed. Philadelphia’s approved budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1 allocates $7.5 million to grow L&I’s proactive rental inspections program. Under the authorization legislation, L&I is directed to build out the inspection program with a rollout target of July 2030 and public annual reporting on its progress. The department is crafting the pilot phase with help from researchers at the Pew Charitable Trusts.

L&I leadership has framed the program as the natural next step in the department’s evolution. Commissioner Bridget Collins-Greenwald told Council the agency had already established proactive fire inspections and proactive enforcement on business corridors, and that proactive rental inspections were next on its list. She also told lawmakers the Parker administration’s concerns about the bill had been addressed and that the amended legislation could be successfully implemented.

For landlords, the practical meaning is simple: the odds of a city inspector walking through your property are going up every year, whether or not a tenant ever files a complaint. Officials have said the program exists partly because many tenants fear eviction if they speak up about dangerous conditions, and a proactive program would reduce the risk of that kind of retaliation. Owners with clean units and current paperwork will have little to fear. Owners who have relied on tenant silence to defer maintenance are the program’s explicit first targets.

The Local Manager Requirement: Why Every Philadelphia Rental Needs a Philadelphia Contact

One requirement getting renewed attention under the new enforcement regime is the city’s managing agent rule — a provision that many out-of-town and out-of-state owners still miss.

Under Section 9-3907 of the Philadelphia Code, the owner of any property required to obtain a rental license must designate a managing agent for the property. At the start of each tenancy, the managing agent must provide the tenant with contact information — including a telephone number and an address that must be a Philadelphia address and not a post office box — along with information about whether the managing agent handles routine maintenance and, if not, contact details for whoever does.

In plain terms: every rental property in Philadelphia must have a responsible party with a real, physical Philadelphia address whom tenants and the city can reach. For local owner-operators, that can be the owner. For investors in the suburbs, New York, or out of state, it means designating a local individual or hiring a Philadelphia-based property management company.

The managing agent requirement dovetails with the city’s disclosure rules. Philadelphia’s Tenant Right to Know Ordinance requires landlords to provide every tenant, at lease signing, with a written statement including the name, address, and phone number of the property owner and any property manager, plus the name and contact information of any managing agent or emergency contact.

With license renewals now tied to open violations, the local manager role is no longer a formality. Someone needs to be on the ground to receive violation notices, inspectors, and get repairs done inside the 30-day window before a violation starts threatening the license itself.

The Compliance Baseline Hasn’t Changed — But the Stakes Have

None of the new legislation replaces Philadelphia’s existing landlord obligations. It stacks on top of them, and the new enforcement tools make old gaps more dangerous.

The fundamentals remain: every landlord renting a residential unit in Philadelphia must hold a current rental license issued by L&I, with no exemption for single-family homes, duplexes, or owner-occupied properties renting out a portion. Courts can bar an unlicensed landlord from collecting rent until the license is obtained, and tenant attorneys routinely raise unlicensed status as a defense in eviction proceedings.

At lease signing, L&I requires landlords to provide tenants a Certificate of Rental Suitability — a document confirming that the unit complies with the Philadelphia code — which must be obtained from L&I before lease signing and attached to the lease. Landlords must also provide the City’s Partners for Good Housing handbook, which explains tenant rights and responsibilities.

Lead safety adds another layer for older housing stock. For pre-1978 units, the landlord must obtain a Philadelphia Lead Safe Certificate from the Health Department, provide it to the tenant before move-in, and ensure the unit passes a visual inspection showing no chipping, peeling, or chewable lead-painted surfaces. Given that the overwhelming majority of Philadelphia’s rowhome inventory predates 1978, this applies to most of the city’s rental stock.

Underlying everything is Pennsylvania’s implied warranty of habitability. State law, confirmed in Pugh v. Holmes (1979), holds that every residential lease includes a non-waivable promise that the landlord will maintain the property in a condition fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy.

Landlord Opposition and an Ongoing Legal Fight

The new laws did not pass quietly. Two landlords — one of whom is the political chair for HAPCO Philadelphia, the city’s largest association of rental property owners — sued Council, alleging members violated the Sunshine Act by privately deliberating before public comment. After a settlement sent the bills back to a committee and a second round of allegations, the city moved the dispute to federal district court, where a judge denied most of the landlords’ requests, clearing the way for Council’s final vote.

HAPCO has argued the package overburdens small operators. The group said the requirements could make it extremely difficult for small landlords to operate and remain in business by adding extensive new compliance obligations. One of the plaintiffs, landlord Seth Floyd, put it more bluntly, warning the legislation “could be catastrophic” for owners who encounter the wrong tenant dispute at the wrong time.

Bill sponsor O’Rourke has dismissed those fears for compliant owners, saying actual small landlords who are following the law should have no fear that the new legislation will make their lives miserable. A contempt hearing was scheduled for June to hear arguments about whether Council violated its March settlement with the landlords, and HAPCO has signaled it intends to keep litigating. But as of this writing, the laws are on the books and the inspection program is funded and hiring.

What Philadelphia Landlords Should Do Now

The throughline of every 2026 change is the same: Philadelphia is done relying on tenant complaints and owner self-certification alone. The city is building the staff, the budget, and the legal machinery to verify compliance itself — and to make noncompliance directly threaten a landlord’s cash flow.

The practical checklist for the months ahead:

Clear open violations immediately. Any violation that sits open past 30 days without an appeal can now block your license renewal and stop your rent collection. Treat every violation notice as a license emergency, not a maintenance ticket.

Verify your managing agent designation. Confirm your rental license lists a managing agent with a genuine Philadelphia street address, and that your tenants received the required contact disclosures at move-in. Out-of-area owners without local representation should fix this before their next renewal.

Audit your paperwork. Current rental license, Certificate of Rental Suitability attached to each lease, Partners for Good Housing handbook delivered, lead-safe certification for pre-1978 units. Compliance management in Philadelphia is no longer a once-a-year task — it now touches your ability to collect rent, evict a nonpaying tenant, and defend yourself in court.

Prepare for an inspector’s visit. With a five-year citywide cycle beginning with the highest-risk properties, owners with violation histories will see inspectors first. Walk your units now with the property maintenance code in mind, and document repairs as you make them.

Philadelphia has decided that landlord responsibility will be verified, not assumed. The owners who thrive under the new regime will be the ones who treated that as good news.

Benjamin Oiler is the co-founder of TCS Property Management, a Philadelphia-based property management firm, and publisher of Philadelphia Real Estate News.

Philadelphia Rental Absorption Hits a Post-Pandemic High in Q3 2026

Alex Prince — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia’s rental market recorded its strongest absorption quarter since the post-pandemic rebound, with 3,200 units leased during the third quarter of 2026. Vacancy tightened to 4.1%, down 60 basis points from the prior quarter and the lowest reading since early 2022, as new supply slows and demand from young households accelerates across the metro.

Headline Numbers

The Q3 2026 results mark a clear inflection point for the Philadelphia multifamily and SFR rental markets:

Net absorption: 3,200 units leased, the highest single-quarter figure since Q2 2021
Vacancy rate: 4.1%, down from 4.7% in Q2 and 5.3% a year ago
Average asking rent: $1,895, up 3.4% year-over-year
Concessions: Down to 0.6 weeks free on average, from 1.8 weeks a year ago
New deliveries: 1,100 units, the lowest quarterly total in two years

The gap between absorption and new deliveries — 2,100 units — is the largest positive spread the market has seen since before the pandemic, meaning existing vacant units are being filled faster than new ones are coming online.

What’s Driving the Demand

Three factors are converging to push absorption higher:

1. Slowing supply pipeline. After a construction boom that delivered roughly 12,000 units between 2023 and 2025, the pipeline has thinned considerably. High financing costs and tightened lending standards have shelved or delayed many planned projects, so new competition is arriving at the slowest pace in years.

2. Demographic tailwinds. Philadelphia continues to attract young professionals aged 25-34, particularly in University City, Fishtown, and the Navy Yard corridor. This cohort is forming renter households at a faster clip than the national average, and many who might have purchased are staying in rental units longer given mortgage rates above 7%.

3. Affordability gap. With the median home price in Philadelphia at $245,000 and mortgage rates elevated, the monthly cost of ownership remains meaningfully higher than renting for most households. This “locked-in renter” effect is keeping demand concentrated in the rental pool rather than bleeding off into for-sale purchases.

Neighborhood Performance

Absorption was not evenly distributed. The strongest submarkets were:

University City / West Philadelphia: 920 units absorbed, vacancy at 3.2%
Fishtown / Northern Liberties: 610 units absorbed, vacancy at 3.8%
Center City / Logan Square: 580 units absorbed, vacancy at 4.4%
South Philadelphia: 470 units absorbed, vacancy at 4.6%
Northeast Philadelphia: 620 units absorbed, vacancy at 4.9%

University City’s performance was driven by a return to in-person graduate programs at Penn and Drexel, plus continued life-sciences hiring along the Market Street corridor. The Northeast saw high absorption but also the highest vacancy, as a cluster of 2024-vintage buildings continue to lease up.

What This Means for SFR Operators

For single-family rental investors and property managers, the tightening multifamily market has several implications:

Rent growth support. As apartment vacancy falls, SFR landlords have more room to push rents, particularly for 2-3 bedroom homes that compete directly with larger apartment units.
Tenant quality. The pool of prospective renters is growing, which means more applications per listing and better screening options.
Retention focus. With rents rising, existing tenants have an incentive to stay put. Proactive renewal outreach and modest renewal increases (3-4%) are likely to hold occupancy without triggering turnover.
Concessions fading. The era of one-to-two months free on new leases is effectively over in most submarkets. Operators should price confidently and avoid leading with concessions.

Outlook

The absorption trend is likely to continue through the end of 2026. With only 3,500 units projected to deliver in all of 2027 — less than half the 2024 pace — and demand indicators remaining strong, vacancy could fall below 4% by mid-2027. That would put Philadelphia in the tightest rental market position it has occupied in over five years, creating a favorable environment for both multifamily and SFR operators.

The full quarterly report, including submarket-level absorption tables and concession tracking, is available for download below.

8+ Ways to Find Your First or Next Rental Property in 2027

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Finding real estate deals is a challenge for many rookies. Trying to tell the difference between a great deal and a property that is merely disguised as one is something […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-771.

A case for permit shot clocks builds as approval durations drag out

Richard Lawson — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers tracked 1.1 million permits from 2000 to 2025, showing approvals, not construction, drive much of the delay

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/permit-shot-clocks-research/.

AI can read the mortgage file, but who decides which facts are true?

Gerald Green — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Conflicting payroll, LOS, tax and bank data push lenders to define when evidence is supported or unresolved

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ai-mortgage-evidence-adjudication/.

Amanda Seyfried and Husband Thomas Sadoski Split After 9 Years of Marriage—Weeks After She Lists Longtime L.A. Home for $3.2M

Kelsi Karruli — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

“Mamma Mia!” star Amanda Seyfried and her husband, Thomas Sadoski, have split after nine years of marriage—just weeks after the actress put her longtime Los Angeles home on the market.

The actors confirmed their separation in a joint statement to People, revealing that they had already been living apart for “a while.”

“We have been separated for a while, and it’s proven to be the right move for us and our family unit. We’ve got each other forever—and it’s GOOD,” the pair said.

Seyfried, 40, and Sadoski, 50, first met in 2015 before confirming their romance the following year. In 2017, the couple revealed that they had quietly eloped in an intimate ceremony.

“We eloped. We just took off into the country with an officiant and, just the two of us, and we did our thing. It was beautiful. It was everything that it should be. It was just the two of us talking to each other,” Sadoski said at the time.

“Mamma Mia!” star Amanda Seyfried and her husband, Thomas Sadoski, have split after nine years of marriage—just weeks after the actress put her longtime Los Angeles home on the market.

Shortly after tying the knot, the pair welcomed their first child, daughter Nina. Their son, Thomas Jr., followed in 2020.

News of their separation comes just weeks after Seyfried listed her longtime Los Angeles home for $3.2 million—15 years after purchasing the property for a fraction of its current asking price.

The actress put the property up for sale amid what has now been revealed to have been an extended period of separation from Sadoski.

The 40-year-old actress, who now resides primarily on a beautiful farm property in upstate New York, which she bought in 2013, has used the three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home as her West Coast base for more than a decade.

In March 2025, she opened up about her decision to relocate to the rural New York estate full time, explaining that the calm setting helped to ease the symptoms of her anxiety and OCD.

Now, it seems she may well be ready to cut ties with California altogether, after bringing her 2,700-square-foot Los Angeles abode to the market, where it is listed with Justin Paul Huchel of Carolwood Estates.

Seyfried purchased the picturesque L.A. dwelling, which was originally built in 1916, from her “Jennifer’s Body” co-star Adam B r ody in 2011 for $1.85 million, using a trust through which she has previously released music.

The home sits on a 9,104-square-foot lot and boasts a beautiful outdoor space that is ideal for soaking up the California sunshine and includes a host of amenities, including a private swimming pool, spa and wraparound porch, while the interiors feature a den and scenic views.

The listing makes note of the home’s many privacy features, describing it as a “private oasis” tucked behind “mature hedges and a private gate.”

The property is “surrounded by lush gardens and features a sparkling pool and spa, creating an idyllic setting for both entertaining and everyday living.”

Inside, the home boasts several dedicated living and dining spaces, as well as a kitchen and cozy den.

The actors confirmed their separation in a joint statement to People, revealing that they had already been living apart for “a while.” (Angela Weiss / AFP via Getty Images)

“We have been separated for a while, and it’s proven to be the right move for us and our family unit. We’ve got each other forever—and it’s GOOD,” the pair said. (Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

Seyfried, 40, and Sadoski, 50, first met in 2015 before confirming their romance the following year. In 2017, the couple revealed that they had quietly eloped in an intimate ceremony. (mingey/Instagram)

Upon entering the dwelling, guests are greeted with an expansive floor plan that opens up to the main living area, which features a cozy fireplace.

The kitchen is surely the crown jewel of the home thanks to its blue cabinets and state-of-the-art appliances.

Adjacent to the kitchen there are several seating areas surrounded by floral wallpaper.

“A light-filled sunroom provides the perfect space to relax, work, or enjoy views of the beautifully landscaped grounds year-round,” the listing describes.

Elsewhere in the home, there is a garage that has been converted into a gym.

Out back, the leafy grounds are anchored by a private swimming pool and spa, creating a secluded spot for relaxing and entertaining.

A wraparound porch adds to the century-old home’s character, while the property also boasts scenic views.

“Located just steps from Runyon Canyon, this one-of-a-kind retreat offers the best of both worlds-peaceful, resort-like living in the heart of the city,” the listing adds.

The decision to sell came years after Seyfried and Sadoski made a major lifestyle change, swapping Los Angeles for a quieter existence on their sprawling farm in upstate New York.

The actress previously lifted the lid on how trading the glare of the Hollywood spotlight for quaint farm life in upstate New York helped to ease her unrest.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, she described the debilitating nature of her obsessive-compulsive disorder, revealing that she was “barely” able to function when the condition was at its worst.

The actress, who hails from Allentown, PA, also looked back on her childhood, admitting that she was “relentlessly loud and energetic and needed constant attention” when she was younger. Performing was one of the few things that helped to alleviate her symptoms early on.

News of their separation comes just weeks after Seyfried listed her longtime Los Angeles home for $3.2 million—15 years after purchasing the property for a fraction of its current asking price. (Google Earth)

The actress put the property up for sale amid what has now been revealed to have been an extended period of separation from Sadoski. (mingey/Instagram)

“Performing and make-believe eased my anxieties. I was able to step outside of myself,” she said.

However, as her acting career began to take off, Seyfried said the constant attention and “stress” caused her to compare herself to others around her, making her more anxious.

“I was born with obsessive-compulsive disorder. They didn’t figure that out until later, but the signs were there,” she shared.

“If my socks weren’t a certain length, I could barely function. This was true about other things. I’d jump on floor tiles and not be able to continue walking until I was satisfied it was safe.”

After she began modeling, she quickly developed body insecurities, she said. “Modeling was performing, but I had braces and noticed I was chubbier than everybody else, creating new anxieties. To be 11, 12, and 13 just sucked.”

Seyfried landed the role of Karen Smith in the hit 2004 movie “Mean Girls” after auditioning for the lead part, Regina George.

However, it wasn’t until she secured the lead role of Sophie in the musical film “Mamma Mia” that she truly became a household name, taking center stage in her first major lead role.

Thankfully, despite having more eyes on her, Seyfried discovered how she could calm her OCD symptoms, one of which involved setting up a full-time residence far away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

In 2013, nine years after “Mean Girls” was released, the actress moved to a 1930s farmhouse, where she and Sadoski now live with their two children—and a host of rescue animals.

“Today, I live with my husband, actor Thomas Sadoski, and our two children on a 1930s farm in upstate New York. I fell in love with the main house’s rustic stonework and the trellis between the house and stand-alone garage,” she told the Journal.

While seeking calm and quiet away from Los Angeles has been integral for Seyfried maintaining her mental health, she said that caring for the animals they house on the property has been the best thing for her.

“The house was small, so we built onto it to add a kitchen. We use the barns as a sanctuary for rescued horses, ducks, chickens, peacocks, goats, and other animals,” she went on.

The home sits on a 9,104-square-foot lot and boasts plenty of amenities for enjoying the California sunshine, including a private swimming pool, spa and wraparound porch, while the interiors feature a den and scenic views. (seen on her NY farm) (mingey/Instagram)

“I still have anxieties, but tending to the aging animals keeps me from obsessing over things that don’t matter. My pony, Cliff, is 38. Every day I have with him is a gift. It’s grounding.”

Further in the interview, Seyfried revealed that the home’s interior is “very farmhouse.” Her favorite area of the property is a “little window-box area that extends off my living room, giving me office space. It’s like a cozy den,” she said.

“On the weekends, I’ll wake up with the kids on Saturday mornings, I make them breakfast, and then I sit in the window box while the kids watch ‘Bluey,’” she previously told House Beautiful. “I’ll crochet there or just sit there—that’s me decompressing. It’s everything. It’s my happy place.”

She admitted that she is very particular about the kitchen and noted that she doesn’t want people touching her cabinets.

“There’s one thing that makes me want to cry: If [the kids] scratch the cabinets or people touch them with their dirty hands. I’m like, ‘Get your filthy hands off my cabinets.’

“If you drip spaghetti sauce on it or even water or coffee, you got to clean it up right away. But nobody is as focused on the cabinets as I am. And that’s OK. I do not fault that, to each their own,” she confessed to House Beautiful.

The adjoining barn on the property was transformed into a guesthouse, and Seyfried has focused on passing on her love for animals to her two children: Nina, 8, and Thomas, 5.

“I can see them learning what a responsibility and treat it is to care for pets, even at their young ages. I think all pets give us purpose,” she told the outlet.

Seyfried previously told Vogue it took her “10 months” to renovate the home, adding that she kept its “rustic charm.”

The actress sold her Manhattan condo for $3.25 million in 2022, having purchased the property for $1.9 million in 2010.

The couple still own a home in New York City, however. It’s a stunning apartment on the Upper West Side that she purchased the same year that she offloaded her former city abode.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/amanda-seyfried-thomas-sadoski-marriage-divorce-los-angeles-home/.

Dog Reunites With Firefighters Who Rescued Him From House Fire

Julie Gerstein — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A dog rescued from a Pasadena, CA, house fire was reunited this week with the firefighters who saved him from the burning home.

Milo, a 6-year-old Shetland sheepdog, was home alone at his family’s Michillinda Avenue property on Sept. 9 when neighbors called 911 to report smoke coming from the home.

The 911 dispatcher heard a dog barking in the background and alerted firefighters that an animal was likely in the home.

Fernando Sr. plays with his dog Milo, a 6-year-old Shetland sheepdog who was found unconscious last week during a house fire at the family’s Pasadena home on Monday. Arcadia Fire Department saved the dog using a pet oxygen mask. (Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)

By the time firefighters arrived at the address, Milo had been trapped inside in the smoke for eight minutes and was unconscious. Firefighter Jessica Johnson said she found Milo under a table and carried him outside.

Pasadena Humane Animal Control administered oxygen to him, and after about five minutes, he regained consciousness.

Johnson, who is a dog owner, said the incident made her tear up.

“I shed a little bit of a tear, but, you know, you’ve got to keep it professional and continue to do my job, which I did. I did my job, and it came out successful, came out rewarding,” she told KABC-TV.

Arcadia firefighter paramedic Nick Russell shows the press the pet oxygen mask he and his partner, Brandon Moerke, used on Milo after the dog suffered from smoke inhalation in a house fire. (Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)

The American Humane Society recommends pet owners put a decal on their front window to alert firefighters to the number and kind of animals inside. This can speed up the rescue process in a fire.

Milo’s owner, **Letitia Ga****xiola, **praised the quick-thinking firefighters.

“Acting as quickly as they did, risking their lives for somebody else, and trying for it to be the best outcome as possible,” she told the outlet. “I’m forever, forever grateful. They’re truly heroes.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/dog-milo-firefighter-pasadena-house-fire/.

EXCLUSIVE: Hollywood Home of Martin Short’s Late Daughter Sells for $1.7 Million—Months After Her Death

Kelsi Karruli — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Hollywood home where Martin Short’s daughter, Katherine, died has officially sold to its new owner for $1.67 million—just two months after being listed.

The three-bedroom property first hit the selling block in July, being listed for $1.795 million. In August, it was reported that the property had entered the contingency phase, meaning the seller accepted an offer; however, the sale was dependent on specific conditions being met.

Now, Realtor.com® can exclusively reveal that the deal has gone through, with the California property having traded hands for $1.67 million.

Katherine died on Feb. 23 at the age of 42 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the Hollywood Hills property, following a lifelong battle with depression and mental illness.

Short later paid tribute to his daughter, describing the pain he felt over the loss of his daughter—while comparing the loss to that of his wife, Nancy, who died of cancer in 2010 when she was 58.

The Hollywood home where Martin Short’s daughter, Katherine, died has officially closed, selling for $1.67 million—just two months after being listed. (Joan Adlen/Getty Images)

“It’s been a nightmare for the family, but the understanding [is] that mental health and cancer, like my wife’s, are both diseases, and sometimes with diseases, they are terminal,” the actor said during an appearance on CBS News.

“And my daughter fought for a long time with extreme mental health, borderline personality disorder, other things, and did the best she could, until she couldn’t.”

He added that he hoped his daughter’s death would help to shine a light on mental illness, noting that he wanted to bring it “out of the shadows” and encourage people to speak more openly about it.

He wanted to help people to stop “hiding from the word ‘suicide’” and instead “accept that this can be the last stage of an illness,” Short explained.

Katherine moved into her Hollywood home in 2014, when she purchased it for $1 million through a trust, according to property records. It was brought to the market on July 15 with an asking price of $1.79 million.

Situated in L.A.’s Beachwood Canyon neighborhood, the home is described in its listing—which was held by Steven Moritz of Sotheby’s International Realty—as offering “the perfect blend of privacy, character, and serene canyon living.”

The home spans 1,836 square feet and is described in its listing as an “enchanting” dwelling that perfectly blends “privacy, character, and serene canyon living.”

Upon entering the abode, guests are greeted with a charming living area with a cozy fireplace and large windows.

“The spacious living room is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyday living and entertaining,” the listing read.

The dining room boasts a sparkling chandelier and access to the exterior through chic French doors.

The bathrooms exude charm thanks to their patterned wallpapers.

“The primary suite encompasses the entire upper level, offering a peaceful sanctuary complete with two walk-in closets and treetop views,” the listing notes.

The home also comes with a sauna and an art studio.

The three-bedroom property first hit the selling block in July, being listed for $1.795 million. In August, it was reported that the property had entered the contingency phase, meaning the seller accepted an offer, however, the sale was dependant on specific conditions being met. (Patrick McMullan/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Now, Realtor.com can exclusively reveal that the deal has gone through, with the California property having traded hands for $1.67 million. (Christopher Polk/VF11/Getty Images for Vanity Fair)

“Adding to its rare appeal are a backup generator for peace of mind, an attached garage with direct access into the home, a detached sauna tucked into the landscape, and a separate artist studio retreat perched on the hillside perfect as a creative space, private office, or quiet escape,” the listing reads.

The home is located about a 40-minute drive from both of Short’s Los Angeles homes. He has owned his primary residence in the Golden State since 1987, when he picked up the picturesque Pacific Palisades property for $1.33 million.

That property, which is located in an area that was significantly affected by the California wildfires in January 2025, survived the blazes.

In 2024, he bought another L.A. dwelling—this one in Mandeville Canyon—for $2.3 million.

Katherine was the eldest of three children Short shared with his late wife, Nancy. Her body was found at the home after the actor called a friend to check in on his daughter, having grown concerned over not hearing from her.

When the friend arrived to Katherine’s home, she found a note on her bedroom door, which was locked. She phoned the police, who then entered the room and found Katherine dead.

Katherine’s family issued a statement expressing their heartbreak over her death.

“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” the statement read. “The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time.

“Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/martin-short-late-daughter-katherine-los-angeles-home-sells/.

Fed Hikes Interest Rates for First Time in 3 Years—Unanimous Decision Comes in Defiance of Trump

Keith Griffith — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Reserve policymakers have raised the benchmark interest rate for the first time in three years in response to pernicious inflation, defying President Donald Trump’s insistent calls for lower borrowing costs.

Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh joined the 12-0 majority on the Federal Open Market Committee on Wednesday, voting unanimously to raise the federal funds rate by a quarter percentage point. The move brings the overnight rate to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%, its highest level since last fall.

“The plain fact is that inflation is too high and has been for too long,” Warsh said at a press conference following the vote. “The committee’s unanimous vote shows our resolve to achieve price stability on a timelier basis.”

The decision marks a stunning reversal in outlook for the central bank, which as recently as March had been expected to cut interest rates this year. But soaring energy prices, fueled by the disruption in oil trade during Trump’s war with Iran, have left Fed policymakers faced with a new inflation crisis.

Markets now expect the Fed to raise rates again once more before the end of the year. Mortgage rates have already risen sharply in anticipation of the policy change, climbing quickly toward 7% this month after hitting a three-year low of 5.98% in late February.

The rate hike may put Warsh in the crosshairs of Trump, who has persistently called for lower rates and publicly clashed with former Fed Chair Jerome Powell over rate policy.

In a post on his Truth Social site following the FOMC vote, Trump slammed the decision without attacking Warsh directly, and reiterated his threat to halt most international trade if the Fed doesn’t dramatically lower rates.

“Interest Rates in the United States should be 1%, or less, because we are the Best Credit in the World — BY FAR,” he wrote. “If we stopped Trading with every country that we have a Deficit with, which is most of them, we would make, at least, 1.5 Trillion Dollars a year. The word “Deficit” is nothing more than a fancy word for LOSS. We are “carrying” almost every country in the World, and that cannot go on any longer.”

Trump had previously threatened to halt trade with countries that have a trade surplus with with U.S. if the Fed didn’t slash rates, a proposal that many economists criticized as extreme and misguided.

Warsh, handpicked by Trump to lead the central bank, had also called for lower rates before starting the job in May. But Warsh has faced mounting concerns from colleagues on the FOMC that inflation could again spiral out of control if monetary policy isn’t tightened.

At the July meeting of the FOMC, when the majority voted to leave rates unchanged, three “hawkish” members dissented in favor of a rate increase. Now, the 12-member panel is unanimous in supporting a hike as the inflation threat looms.

“Price stability is foundational to economic growth, and I think we took an important step today to deliver it. We did it in part by removing the dose of accommodation that I mentioned before,” Warsh said.

The Fed uses higher interest rates to fight inflation and lower rates to stimulate the job market, in line with the central bank’s mandate of maintaining price stability and maximum employment. The Fed doesn’t directly set mortgage rates, which instead move in response to the bond market.

In recent weeks, the bond market has been beset by turmoil, with the yield on the key 10-year Treasury surging above 5% to nearly a 20-year high. That move reflects investor fears about inflation, growing federal deficits, and concerns about the Warsh Fed’s willingness to defy Trump and raise rates if necessary.

Warsh insisted that the decision to raise rates was not in response to the alarm bells in bond markets.

“We made this decision today based on our assessment of the situation, based on our assessment of the trajectory for employment, based on our judgment on the strength of the economy. Sometimes the market tries to prejudge our outcomes,” he said. “I’ll observe market prices and see what they have to say. But today was our decision.”

The 10-year Treasury yield is a key benchmark for mortgage rates, as the typical 30-year home loan is typically refinanced or closed through a home sale at around the 10-year mark. And mortgage rates show no sign of easing after hitting a 15-month high last month.

Mortgage rates averaged 6.76% last week, according to Freddie Mac. That’s the highest in 15 months, and rising rates have already put a dent in home sales for August, the latest data shows.

Existing-home sales plunged to a 14-month low in August, dipping below 4 million annualized for the first time since June 2025. And pending sales also retreated last month, snapping an eight-month growth streak, Realtor.com data shows.

“The pressure on mortgage rates was here even before the Fed rate hike, and it doesn’t show signs of relenting,” says Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale. “The higher rate environment is a marked contrast to fall 2025, when rates dropped below 6.5%, and likely means less year-over-year momentum in home sales in the last quarter of 2026.”

‘Dot plot’ forecast shows higher rates through 2027

The FOMC on Wednesday also released its quarterly summary of economic projections, which includes member forecasts on future conditions and rate policy.

That includes the “dot plot” chart, which shows the anonymous projections of the 19 total members of the panel, including seven nonvoting participants. (Warsh abstained from including his forecast in the dot plot, saying “my business is not to give forward guidance.”)

The dot plot forecast shows Fed rates climbing higher by the end of 2026 and remaining there through 2027 (Federal Open Market Committee)

The dot plot shows overwhelming expectations on the FOMC that the Fed will raise rates again this year, with 12 participants projecting one additional quarter-point rate hike, and four participants penciling in two hikes.

The median FOMC participant expects the federal funds rate to remain above 4%, which is higher than its current level, by the end of 2027, indicating tighter conditions may remain for some time.

By the end of 2028, the median participant expects the Fed rate to sit at a range of 3.75% to 4.00%, the same level it reached after Wednesday’s vote.

“With the Fed shying away from forward guidance, markets may read into the economic projections even more than usual for clues about the range of outlooks on the FOMC and, importantly, their reaction functions,” says Hale.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/fed-meeting-interest-rate-decision-september-2026-2/.

Fed hikes rates, with analysts seeing more tightening ahead

Flávia Furlan Nunes — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Fed raises benchmark rate to 3.75% to 4% range in response to high inflation and solid employment

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/fed-rate-hike-inflation-geopolitics-housing-impact/.

Fed raises rates: What it means for your credit cards, mortgages, savings accounts and auto loans

TCS Property Management — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Fed’s quarter-point rate hike will impact a range of consumer borrowing and savings costs, including mortgages, credit cards, car loans and deposit rates.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/fed-rate-hike-consumer-borrowing-and-savings-rates.html.

Federal court denies Zillow injunction, sends MRED claims to arbitration

Brooklee Han — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Illinois judge also paused Zillow’s claims against Compass pending arbitration results

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/zillow-mred-arbitration-ruling/.

House To Vote on Bill Protecting Homeowners From AI Data Center Power Costs

Tristan Navera — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Lawmakers are poised to vote on a bill that would shield homeowners from higher utility costs brought by large data centers, marking the latest congressional move on the fraught subject of data center and artificial intelligence regulation.

The House is set to vote on the Ratepayer Protection Act on Wednesday. It would establish a federal standard recovering the costs that utilities make for upgrades that serve large-load users, like data centers. The bill’s sudden ascendance on Congress’ agenda shows how quickly data centers have rocketed into the spotlight as a major political issue this year.

It also demonstrates the fraught situation Congress faces in regulating artificial intelligence. President Donald Trump wants to see no guardrails on AI and has also shrugged off widespread public opposition to data center development.

Rep. **Brett Guthrie **(R-KY) said on the House floor on Tuesday that the measure brings a “modest but important measure of accountability.” It came after lawmakers spent the August recess hearing from constituents back home who are worried about data centers, he said.

“Electricity demand is growing at a pace not seen since World War II, and communities are rightly concerned about what this might mean for their daily lives,” Guthrie said. “As this industry continues to develop, I want to be absolutely clear that we need it to develop here at home and not in China.”

The bill to minimize data centers’ impact on energy costs emerged from a field of about a half-dozen other AI- and data center-related bills that have failed to gain traction in Congress.

The Senate has a companion bill introduced by Sen. **Jon Husted **(R-OH) and cosponsored by Sen. **Tommy Tuberville **(R-AL). It’s been in committee since July.

Ratepayer protection bill

The Ratepayer Protection Act started as a bipartisan effort between Reps. Gabe Evans (R-CO) and **Kathy Castor **(D-FL), who introduced it in June. But it rapidly gained sponsors in recent weeks as lawmakers face louder calls to rein in artificial intelligence.

The bill encourages state utility regulators to implement standards charging large-load electric users—those with peak electric demand over 100 megawatts. The rates those users would pay should help the utility recover the costs of the upgrades that their demand creates. It also puts the onus on large customers to offset the impacts if they ceases operation.

That way, the bill aims to shield homeowners from the costs of building out new power infrastructure intended to service large commercial clients.

“By and large, it has not been the data centers footing the bill; it’s been our constituents,” Rep. **Frank Pallone Jr. **(D-NJ) said on the floor on Tuesday night. “It doesn’t matter if you’re in a red state or a blue state, your prices have gone up.”

The bill has 42 cosponsors, overwhelmingly Republicans, having picked up 28 of them since the House convened for its summer recess in late July. It also picked up the support of the moderate Problem Solvers Caucus.

Evans said data centers provide economic growth. He also characterized “responsible development practices” as necessary to regulate the business. Still, he said the data center buildout in the U.S. is necessary to prevent foreign competitors from gaining an edge.

U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans, who sponsored the Ratepayer Protection Act. (Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post))

Artificial intelligence conundrum

Both chambers of Congress have other AI-related bills in front of them. They include a range of ideas: Sen. **Bernie Sanders **(I-VT) pitched a total moratorium on data center development. Others, like Rep. **Ron Wyden **(D-OR), pitched a tax on data centers to offset their impacts.

But those bills have not garnered support at the same speed as the Ratepayer Protection Act. And they face an uphill battle as Trump has repeatedly criticized calls for regulation of the industry.

“Concerning AI, when, in the History of Business, did anyone see the Leaders of an Industry call for Regulation that, if strongly implemented, will drive them into oblivion and bankruptcy?” Trump posted to Truth Social on Monday. “AI, and Data Centers, will be the Greatest Economic Development Engine in History —Bigger than Oil, Gold, Diamonds, or even the Internet.”

House Speaker **Mike Johnson **(R-LA) echoed Trump’s view. He called the weekend’s headlines about AI as an existential threat to humanity a “hoax” to drum up fears before the midterms. Instead, the government will convene business leaders in AI to discuss the gamut of issues with the industry.

“They can self-police, they can self-regulate,” Johnson said of tech companies at a press conference. “They don’t need the government to tell them to slow it down.”

But Pallone said the Ratepayer Protection Act “does not go far enough” to constrain how data center development affects the electric bills of homeowners. State and federal legislators must address generation and transmission costs as well, he said.

Data centers are broadly unpopular, in part for fears they’re driving up homeowners’ electric bills. (Hrach/Adobe Stock)

Broader energy moves

In the meantime, Congress has taken to improving the nation’s energy generating capacity in a bid to offset the expected energy generation demands from hundreds of new data center projects.

McKinsey estimates the industry will pour $7 trillion into infrastructure by 2030, fueling economic growth that supporters tout. Goldman Sachs estimated that data center power demand will more than double from 2025 to 2027. But only about 50% to 60% of data center capacity will come online due to delays and cancellations, it said.

That’s meant bipartisanship on renovating the nation’s nuclear energy and modernizing technology to allow for more plants to be constructed. It’s also meant the government is helping provide financing for more nuclear reactors to offset the power demands.

The Department of Energy also said in early September it would loan $1.9 billion to restart a nuclear power plant in Iowa. NextEra, the plant’s owner, secured a deal with Google to use some of the plant’s energy to power its data centers.

In July, the White House publicized a “ratepayer protection pledge,” which highlights companies that would buy the power needed for their facilities. About 300 groups voluntarily signed, including major utilities like AEP Corp., Dominion Energy, and Duke Energy, and big users like Amazon, Meta, and Google.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/house-vote-ratepayer-protection-act-data-center-energy-costs/.

Housing Market Spotlight: The housing market signal to watch as rates top 7%

Rachel Bader, HW Data — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

New listings and pending sales can offer an early look at whether buyer demand is losing ground

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-market-data-mortgage-rates-above-7-percent/.

How to Find People Ready to Sell in Any Real Estate Market in 20 Minutes

Garrett Brown — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

I’ve had my real estate license since 2016. For the first couple of years that I was trying to find my own deals, I did what basically every new investor […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/how-to-find-people-ready-to-sell-in-any-real-estate-market.

Inside a $950K Estate Complete With a Built-In 1950s Diner—Just Minutes From Lake of the Ozarks

Kellie Speed — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Who wants a home with a 1950s-style diner with checkerboard floors, a jukebox, and a retro dining area?

An entertainer’s paradise, complete with a ‘50s-style diner and an indoor aquatic center with a heated pool, hot tub, and sauna, has just hit the market for $949,000. Bonus: It’s just minutes from Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks.

Built in 2001, the four-bedroom residence sits on 3.8 acres of privacy, with up to 34 total acres available for purchase, helping it nab the top spot of the week’s most popular homes list.

The jaw-dropping estate, designed as a high-yield vacation retreat, could be used as a multigenerational legacy compound for the ultimate getaway.

Highlights include an executive office, two kitchens, a reinforced concrete safe room, expansive living and dining areas for entertaining, and a four-car garage.

The “legendary estate” also has a security system and a fenced area for livestock.

Other properties grabbing attention this week include a Massachusetts church seeking a real estate resurrection, Georgia’s Creel House seen in “Stranger Things,” and an affordable creekfront cabin in North Carolina.

10. 2109 Morning Dr, Loveland, CO

Price: $2,550,000

Why it’s here: This “extraordinary architectural treasure,” designed by David Eric Calvin, is a stylish interpretation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s solar-hemicycle residence.

Constructed in 1981, the three-bedroom home was built into its 1.45-acre hillside location for passive solar gain. Signature highlights of the 4,136-square-foot midcentury-inspired interior include curved gathering spaces, clerestory windows, glass walls and doors, beamed ceilings, and stonework. The cozy living room has a suspended fireplace and built-in curved conversation seating. A floating staircase leads to a lavish primary suite and an indoor hot tub “conservatory,” nestled under a glass ceiling for stargazing.

A separate guest suite has a private entry and access to the outdoor area, surrounded by a koi pond, an outdoor fire pit, and a pergola.

Jessica Tate of milehimodern - Boulder is the listing agent.

Midcentury-inspired estate in Loveland, CO (Realtor.com)

9. 53 Greylock Ter, Pittsfield, MA

Price: $165,000

Why it’s here: The former St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church is seeking a real estate resurrection—a buyer with a vision to convert the 2,652-square-foot sanctuary into the home of their dreams.

The intact church features original pews, stained-glass windows, and chandeliers. A “dramatic sanctuary” remains the centerpiece, and its open floor plan offers a flexible layout for a conversion project. It also has a kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and 1.5 baths.

Buyers should note the property is being sold as is, and the listing encourages investors to perform their due diligence “regarding permitted use.”

Heather Gallagher of Stone House Properties is the listing agent.

Former church in Pittsfield, MA (Realtor.com)

8. 906 E 2nd Ave SW, Rome, GA

Price: $1,700,000

Why it’s here: The transformed Creel House, seen in Season 4 of the hit Netflix show “Stranger Things,” has returned to the market once again. It last changed hands for $1,600,000 in 2022.

This well-preserved Victorian Second Empire estate, built in 1882 by Col. Hamilton Yancey, features loads of original charm and character. Original highlights include grand entertaining rooms, millwork, built-in bookcases and cabinetry, a custom dining room buffet, an antique wall safe, and 11 fireplaces. The not-so-creepy eight-bedroom residence also features an unfinished third floor.

A detached Gothic-style guesthouse has one bedroom on the main level, along with a living area and full kitchen, and two more rooms upstairs could be used for additional sleeping quarters. The property is being sold as is.

Molly Steeves of Hardy Realty is the listing agent.

Victorian Second Empire estate in Rome, GA (Realtor.com)

7. 92 Silas Branch Rd, Burnsville, NC

Price: $249,000

Why it’s here: It’s an affordably priced three-bedroom creekfront cabin nestled on 5.17 acres of wooded privacy.

Built in 1940, the 1,109-square-foot retreat features wood-paneled walls, an inviting living room with a buck stove insert, and a retro kitchen with green cabinetry. It has access to a spacious back deck overlooking the creek. One bedroom is on the main level, with two more located upstairs. The covered front porch would be a nice spot for morning coffee while soaking in the serene scenery.

The listing notes “most of the property sits across the road from the house” and could be used to build an additional house site.

Erica Deaton of Whispering Pines Mountain Real Estate is the listing agent.

Bungalow in Burnsville, NC (Realtor.com)

6. 44B Chases Pond Rd, York, ME

Price: $715,000

Why it’s here: This historic 1740 Georgian-style antique, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of three residences comprising the John Sedgley Homestead.

The three-bedroom residence features 2,486 square feet of preserved space that “blends authentic 18th-century character with modern living.” Charming amenities include a parlor designed for formal entertaining, a modernized kitchen with soapstone countertops, and a den with French doors that open to a private brick patio surrounded by stone walls. An upstairs primary suite has a walk-in closet. Original details include wide-plank floors, exposed beams, custom millwork, vaulted ceilings, and four fireplaces, including one with a beehive oven.

Recognized as “the oldest homestead still in its original setting in Maine,” the 6.4-acre property is shared among the three homes, and owners also share the driveway, well, and septic system. There is also a 960-square-foot barn with a loft that could be used for a workshop, storage, or a studio.

Nola Cady of Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty is the listing agent.

1740 Georgian-style home in York, ME (Realtor.com)

5. 475 Dry Creek Rd, Clark Fork, ID

Price: $439,000

Why it’s here: It’s a three-bedroom “cabin in the woods” tucked away on an acre of privacy, near hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby Kaniksu National Forest and Clark Fork River.

Built in 1965, the 1,100-square-foot retreat features hand-hewn logs, “rustic” floors, exposed beams, and vaulted ceilings. An updated kitchen now features butcher block countertops and a wood-burning stove. A patio out back offers views of the private lot.

The property comes with several outbuildings, including a two-car garage, a workshop, a chicken coop, and a greenhouse. It also has an orchard and vegetable garden.

Jackie Suarez of Century 21 Riverstone is the listing agent.

Cabin in the woods in Clark Fork, ID (Realtor.com)

4. 1865 E Herbert Ave, Salt Lake City, UT

Price: $2,100,000

Why it’s here: This art moderne landmark was built in 1938 and has been thoughtfully updated by the sellers.

The four-bedroom multilevel residence features 3,363 square feet of stylish space, including arched doorways, curved windows, built-ins, and glass doors. Highlights include a modern chef’s kitchen with built-in seating, circular island, and custom cabinetry; a dining room overlooking the living room with fireplace; and a primary retreat with lounge area and spa-inspired bathroom with soaking tub.

The “living sculpture” also has a covered patio with outdoor kitchen. An enormous roof deck atop the three-car garage overlooks the private yard.

**Maura Powers **of Windermere Real Estate-Utah is the listing agent.

Art noderne estate in Salt Lake City, UT (Realtor.com)

3. 1949 Wolf Creek Hwy, Narrows, VA

Price: $200,000

Why it’s here: It’s a very affordable waterfront log cabin sitting on 9.69 acres, with direct frontage along the banks of Wolf Creek.

The two-bedroom mountain getaway, built in 1920, has a metal roof, insulated tilt windows, and hardwood floors. A spacious living room with a vaulted ceiling and exposed beams has a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. An updated kitchen has modern cabinetry and an electric cooktop island. The partial wraparound porch was designed for entertaining, relaxing, and soaking in the peaceful views.

Several outbuildings offer additional storage space.

**Joseph Dykes **of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Mountain Sky Properties is the listing agent.

Wolf Creek cabin in Narrows, VA (Realtor.com)

2. 714 Riviera Dr, Mastic Beach, NY

Price: $399,000

Why it’s here: This two-bedroom houseboat on Narrow Bay was designed as a “water enthusiast’s dream come true.”

Built in 1984, the 1,200-square-foot residence has a deck for entertaining, a boat dock, and open floor plan designed to frame the waterfront views. Sliding glass doors and oversized windows blur the interior and exterior lines. The kitchen has direct access to a balcony for al fresco dining overlooking the bay.

A spiral staircase leads to the sleeping quarters.

Eric Boorum of Douglas Elliman Central Suffolk is the listing agent.

Houseboat in Mastic Beach, NY (Realtor.com)

1. 2721 Highway 52, Eldon, MO

Price: $949,000

Why it’s here: Located minutes from the Lake of the Ozarks, this 7,180-square-foot estate with an authentic 1950s diner is an entertainer’s playground.

The jaw-dropping residence that could be used for multigenerational living or transformed into a “high yield vacation rental” features an indoor aquatic center with heated pool, hot tub, and sauna; a reinforced concrete safe room; and two kitchens. Other unique details include bidets, urinals, and a primary suite with numerous shower jets and glass-block walls.

A covered and screened patio overlooks the enormous property.

Amy Dunn of Dunn and Associates is the listing agent.

Country estate in Elden, MO (Realtor.com)

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/missouri-estate-1950s-diner-lake-of-the-ozarks/.

Is non-QM a modern-day Cinderella mortgage investment?

Suha Zehl — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BofA Securities sees $100B in securitization issuance after record $20.9B non-QM RMBS in Q3 2025

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/non-qm-originations-2026-forecast/.

July business inventories rises 0.8% while homebuilder sentiment remains negative

TCS Property Management — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Rick Santelli and Diana Olick report on the latest economic data to cross the tape.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/16/july-business-inventories-rises-0-point-8-percent-while-homebuilder-sentiment-remains-negative.html.

Midwest City Known as ‘Niceville USA’ Leads the Nation in Homebuilding and Affordability

Snejana Farberov — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As surging mortgage rates and stubborn inflation squeeze Americans’ budgets, 10 cities across the South and Midwest stand out as rare strongholds of aggressive homebuilding and relative affordability, led by a thriving Heartland construction hub.

Nationally, the U.S. faces a deficit of over 4 million homes, the byproduct of decades of systemic underbuilding fueled by scarce buildable land, regulatory hurdles, strict zoning laws, and high material costs.

This chronic shortage of new homes continues to put upward pressure on housing prices, forcing many aspiring buyers to delay homeownership and rent indefinitely.

However, the 2026 Realtor.com® Metro Report Cards serve as a reminder that all real estate is local. Market conditions vary dramatically by location, with some metros in well-supplied regions exceeding expectations when it comes to construction and affordability.

“The challenges facing prospective homebuyers are not uniform across the country. Some places punch above their weight class in terms of homebuilding and subsequently offer more affordable homes to buyers, while others struggle to deliver new inventory and have housing markets that remain inaccessible to many,” says Realtor.com senior economist Joel Berner.

The 2026 State Report Cards released in June highlighted top-performing states, led by Indiana.

Building on that earlier analysis, the latest study focuses on homebuilding and affordability at the metro level to pinpoint where homes are actually being built, and where buyers can still find properties within their budgets.

(Realtor.com)

The 10 metros leading the class of 2026

Ranking and grading the metros

The 100 largest metros by population were ranked on a 100-point scale based on two criteria carrying equal weight: housing affordability and homebuilding.

Affordability, which accounts for half of the final score, measures how accessible homeownership is for typical earners and takes into account the Realtors® Affordability Score.

The remaining half is determined by homebuilding activity. Eighty percent of that score comes from the permit-to-population ratio measuring how many homes are being built relative to the number of people in the metro. The remaining 20% comes from the new-construction premium—the extra market cost of buying a brand-new home versus an existing one.

Each metro on the list receives a total score out of 100 and is assigned a grade from F to A+.

The 10 cities at the peak of the ranking earned a grade from A- to A+ and each scored higher than 50 on both the affordability and homebuilding components.

“This shows that each of the top performers displayed a balanced mix of favorable current affordability conditions and healthy future inventory growth to sustain them, rather than being propped up by just one side of the ranking criteria,” notes Berner.

Only two metros—Des Moines and Raleigh—were awarded a grade of A+, but Iowa’s state capital, dubbed “Niceville USA,” edged out the competition thanks to its best-in-class overall score driven by an impressive affordability component.

The Valedictorian: Des Moines, IA

This three-bedroom home in Des Moines, IA, is listed for $349,900, which aligns with the market’s median home price. (Realtor.com)

Des Moines’ permit-to-population ratio is 1.85, meaning that the metro permits 85% more new homes for construction than would be expected based on its population and the national average for permitting, making the Midwestern metro a homebuilding powerhouse.

More importantly for buyers, the median earner in Des Moines spends just 27.5% of their $86,600 median annual income on a monthly payment for the median-priced home of $349,903.

Des Moines’ overall affordability score of 0.894 far outpaces the national average of 0.675, signalling that residents at all levels of income have plenty of housing choices within their means.

“It’s really about high purchasing power,” Iowa Realtors statewide housing analyst Les Sulgrove tells Realtor.com. “Our cost of living is below the national average, but our major employers in finance, insurance, and ag-tech still pay solid, competitive wages.”

Sulgrove explains that because the Des Moines metro still has room to expand outward, land remains affordable, keeping median home prices well below national figures.

The secret to Des Moines’ success, according to Sulgrove, is proactive local leadership in suburban Polk and Dallas counties, where officials fast-track projects and invest in roads, water, and utilities to facilitate construction.

“That infrastructure is often in place before builders break ground, clearing the path for fast, seamless development,” notes the analyst.

Echoing Sulgrove, Eric Quiner, agent with Realty ONE Group Impact, argues that Des Moines’ ascendance is the result of decades of practical governance, combined with a strong emphasis on allowing the private sector to thrive.

“There’s a culture here that values getting things done,” Quiner tells Realtor.com. “Des Moines isn’t trying to be something it isn’t. It’s a practical, business-friendly community that has grown steadily without losing its quality of life. That combination—land, infrastructure, reasonable regulation, a healthy private sector, and a community that continues to invest in itself—has allowed our housing market to grow in a way that many larger cities simply haven’t been able to replicate.”

According to Quiner, the Des Moines housing market succeeds by leveraging its strengths to draw newcomers.

“Iowa doesn’t have mountains or an ocean, and our winters can be pretty brutal,” he points out. “So we’ve had to create the things that make people want to live here. We have outstanding parks and recreation, clean and well-maintained communities, a surprisingly strong music and dining scene, good schools, and neighborhoods where people can still afford to put down roots.”

Des Moines’ weak spot

This newly built three-bedroom home in Des Moines is listed for $445,990. (Realtor.com)

The metro’s sole vulnerability is its 23.4% new-construction premium, placing it in the bottom half of metros for the price gap between new builds and existing homes.

To make newly built homes more accessible to lower- and middle-income buyers, Sulgrove says developers are now pivoting toward more cost-effective “missing middle” housing.

“We’re seeing a big push into townhomes, duplexes, and smaller-lot, single-family designs,” he says. “Shrinking the footprint allows builders to deliver new construction in that $200,000 to $300,000 sweet spot, keeping entry-level buyers from being priced out.”

Following Des Moines, Raleigh clinched the No. 2 spot and an A+ grade thanks to its impressive 2.61 permit-to-population ratio and a negative new-construction premium.

Berner points out that while half of the top 10 metros, including Des Moines, are located in states that earned an A on the State Report Cards, Raleigh, along with Jacksonville, Oklahoma City, Palm Bay, and Columbia, outperformed their states.

For example, unlike Raleigh, North Carolina earned a B, as did Florida, while Oklahoma and Ohio each got a C+.

The regional divergence

Overall, the metros follow the same regional patterns as the states, with Southern and Midwestern markets dominating while their Northeastern and Western counterparts are lagging far behind.

The South and Midwest benefit from ample space and lower land costs, robust job markets, accessible home prices, and lenient zoning and permitting policies, creating the conditions allowing markets like Des Moines and Columbia to flourish.

On the other hand, metros in regions where buildable land is scarce and expensive, and housing policies are less flexible, found themselves at the bottom of the heap, with Los Angeles, Providence, RI, New York City, Honolulu, and Boston receiving the ranking’s worst total scores and F grades across the board.

“One common thread among the ‘A’ metros is that they tend to be blue cities in red states, which is an important distinction in that builders often do not have to deal with the same kind of state-level environmental reviews that they do in many of the ‘F’ metros, and the ‘A’ metros have the latitude to enact pro-housing policy instead,” says Berner.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/homebuilding-affordability-des-moines-iowa-2026-report-card/.

Mortgage demand from homebuyers drops 19% from a year ago, as interest rates surge abruptly higher

TCS Property Management — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates have surged to the highest level since the start of 2025, causing a major pullback in mortgage demand.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/mortgage-demand-from-homebuyers-drops-19percent-from-a-year-ago.html.

Scentre Group CEO sees 'great opportunity' in Australia's housing shortage

TCS Property Management — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Scentre Group CEO Elliott Rusanow speaks exclusively to CNBC on the Westfield operator’s expansion into the Australian housing market, and why the company is betting on it despite high borrowing costs and a property downturn.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/16/scentre-group-ceo-sees-great-opportunity-in-australia-housing-shortage.html.

Simone Biles Reveals Plans To Move to Indianapolis for Husband Jonathan Owens—Months After Moving Into Texas Dream Home

Kelsi Karruli — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles has revealed that she plans to relocate to Indianapolis to support her NFL star husband, Jonathan Owens—just months after the couple finally moved into their custom-built Texas dream home.

Biles, 29, opened up about the couple’s latest move while speaking to People after Owens, 31, signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts in March.

Although Biles has remained primarily in Houston thus far, she confirmed that she plans to join her husband in Indianapolis later on—while holding on to their sprawling lakefront mansion outside Houston.

“I’ve been in Houston most of the time, so I’m going to officially move there [to Indianapolis] a little bit later. So I haven’t experienced too much, but the stadium is stunning. It’s beautiful. I’m just excited to watch my husband. It doesn’t matter, as long as he’s safe and healthy and he’s having fun, then I don’t care,” she said.

Though the couple’s home base will remain in Texas, they could opt for a rental in Indianapolis during the NFL season, much as they did in Chicago while Owens was playing for the Chicago Bears.

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles has revealed that she plans to relocate to Indianapolis to support her NFL star husband, Jonathan Owens—just months after the couple finally moved into their custom-built Texas dream home. (Instagram/Simone Biles)

During Owens’ stint in Chicago, Biles regularly traveled between Illinois and Texas as construction continued on the couple’s custom mansion outside Houston.

Work on their Texas property was finally completed in November, although Biles and Owens didn’t officially move in until February, after packing up their Chicago residence following the end of the Bears’ season.

Since settling into the home, Biles has offered several glimpses inside the lavish property—including a peek at their luxurious bedroom, which was designed to evoke the feeling of a five-star hotel.

Posting a video of the room’s remote-controlled drapes opening one morning, the Olympian revealed that she had asked interior designer Diamond Hadley to create the kind of ambiance typically found at a high-end resort.

“When we designed this bedroom, I told them I wanted it to feel like a hotel and it feels exactly like that,” Biles captioned the clip, which showed the curtains opening to reveal the couple’s outdoor patio and pool.

Biles has also filled the home with more personal touches, particularly inside her private office, where she has begun displaying mementos from her decorated gymnastics career.

Among them is her January 2025 Sports Illustrated cover, which celebrated her being named the magazine’s 2024 Sportsperson of the Year.

Above it hangs another Sports Illustrated cover featuring Biles alongside fellow Olympians Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky, who were hailed as “The Greatests: Stars of a Red Hot American Summer” following their performances at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

A poster from the Gold Over America Tour, which Biles launched in September 2021 following the Tokyo Olympics, completes the trio of framed achievements.

Biles, 29, opened up about the couple’s latest move while speaking to People after Owens, 31, signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts in March. (Instagram/Simone Biles)

However, the first few months in Biles’ long-awaited dream home have also included a frightening chapter.

In early June, the gymnast revealed that she had “almost died” after experiencing an unspecified medical emergency while she was alone at the Texas property. Owens was in Indianapolis at the time for practices with his new team.

Biles opened up about the health scare in a post on her Instagram Stories, sharing an image of her wrist covered with hospital bands.

“Almost dying wasn’t on my bingo card earlier this week,” she wrote. “This was one of, if not the scariest experience of my life. Especially since Jonathan was in Indy for practices.”

The three-time Olympian said she was “in bed resting” and would “explain sooner or later” what had led to her hospitalization, while thanking the people closest to her for their support.

Though the couple’s home base will remain in Texas, they could opt for a rental in Indianapolis during the NFL season, much as they did in Chicago while Owens was playing for the Chicago Bears. (Instagram)

“[Shout out] to my close circle who reached out, checked in, visited and/or sent flowers,” she wrote. “Love ya’ll.”

Biles later found herself defending her decision to take a vacation after the medical emergency when some social media users criticized images she shared from the getaway.

“A little over two weeks ago, I experienced a serious medical emergency that could have ended very differently, and this trip has been part of allowing myself to heal and appreciate being here,” she wrote in response.

“I hope you understand that life changing experiences can shift your perspective and that you’re able to extend a little more grace to others moving forward. Have a nice day!”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/simone-biles-move-indiana-jonathan-owens-texas-home/.

Skip Single-Family? Why You Don’t Need to Start Small

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Most investors follow the same path—buy a single-family rental, learn the ropes, and upgrade to small multifamily, slowly snowballing the portfolio. But what if you could take the leap from […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1331.

Student loan match program could add up to $20B annually to retirement accounts

HousingWire Automation — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

EBRI findings highlight an opportunity for employers and plan sponsors to use student loan matching to close retirement savings gaps

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/student-loan-retirement-match-ebri-112b-2026/.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Ramp Up Security at New $5 Million Ohio Home With High-Tech Warning System

Kelsi Karruli — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are going to extreme lengths to protect their privacy at their new $5.35 million Ohio home—installing a high-tech security system that reportedly issues verbal warnings to anyone who ventures too close.

The Kansas City Chiefs tight end, 36, snapped up the palatial eight-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom property in March, as first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Now, Page Six has revealed that Kelce and Swift have taken additional measures to safeguard the property, with the sophisticated system apparently capable of warning off anyone who gets too close to the residence.

“A neighbor approached the house and got a voice warning about not passing onto the property after getting too close to the house,” a nearby resident told the outlet.

Built in 1895, the historic residence spans an impressive 21,140 square feet and boasts several fireplaces, a media room, a five-car garage, and a resort-style pool and spa, according to property records.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are going to extreme lengths to protect their privacy at their new $5.35 million Ohio home—installing a high-tech security system that reportedly issues verbal warnings to anyone who ventures too close. (Fox)

The estate is located near Cleveland and is also close to a private airport, according to the outlet—offering the star athlete a convenient launching point for trips with his wife, 36.

Kelce purchased the dwelling from Figurati Construction Group, which is owned by Gary Pellegrino. The company acquired the property for $1.95 million in 2023.

The home was subsequently listed for $6.99 million in 2024 before its asking price was reduced to $5.99 million in May 2025. Kelce ultimately secured the estate for $5.35 million—$1.64 million below its original asking price.

Located in Bratenahl, OH, the property sits just a few miles from Cleveland Heights, where Kelce grew up alongside his older brother, Jason Kelce.

The tiny village is nestled along the southern shore of Lake Erie and offers a mix of multimillion-dollar estates and more modest residences. Homes currently on the market in the area range from roughly $250,000 to $2.4 million, according to Realtor.com® data.

The transaction was represented by David Ayers and Nick Zawitz of The Agency Cleveland.

“We’re thrilled for the new owners and so excited for Cleveland,” Ayers and Zawitz said in a statement.

News of their purchase comes just one day after it was confirmed that Kelce and Swift added a fluffy white dog to their family.

He introduced the couple’s adorable white pup to the world while starring in Tommy Hilfiger’s fall 2026 ad campaign.

In a video accompanying the ad, Kelce could be seen rubbing shoulders with a host of famous faces, including Gigi Hadid, Frances Tiafoe, and Carmelo Anthony, while making his way through Manhattan’s famed Plaza Hotel.

Yet despite the star-studded cast—and Kelce’s stylish ensembles—it was his fluffy, four-legged companion that ultimately stole the show.

At one point in the clip, the white pup gazes adoringly at the NFL star before hopping onto a couch to snuggle beside him while Kelce lovingly pets the pooch.

The Kansas City Chiefs tight end, 36, snapped up the palatial eight-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom property in March, as first reported by The Wall Street Journal. (Jason Howard/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

The sweet cameo appears to confirm months of speculation that Kelce and Swift had quietly expanded their family with a Samoyed in 2025.

According to Forbes, the couple’s dog is a female Samoyed, a breed the American Kennel Club describes as “smart, social, mischievous dogs who demand love and attention.”

Just hours later, Kelce opened up about his pup on his podcast, “New Heights.”

Jason, 38, first brought up the new addition, revealing that they named the dog, Wendy. He added, “I didn’t know that Wendy was out of the bag.”

“She is officially a picture dog. We gotta get the line in her size. Unfortunately, she’s just got her fur on. We gotta work with Tommy on getting her some good clothes,” Kelce said.

The NFL star added that he wanted to “talk it over with Tay” before including the pup in the photoshoot, but she was “all for it.”

Just days after Kelce and Swift wed, it was revealed that the pup had become such a key part of their lives that it even played a role in their wedding celebrations.

Eagle-eyed fans then connected the dots to a resurfaced video from several months ago, which showed a fluffy white dog hopping out of one of Swift’s cars.

Others have suggested that the dog was actually a gift to Kelce from his new bride—calling attention to a December 2025 episode of the NFL star’s podcast, “New Heights,” in which he said that the “best gift” he received for Christmas that year had come from the singer, while refusing to reveal what it was.

“The best gift that I got was from Taylor, but it gives away things that we’re trying to keep in house, so not going to say it, and l love you Tay,” he said.

The “Lover” singer is known to have a very soft spot for her own pets: three cats, named Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button.

It’s not yet known how the felines have responded to the family’s newest member.

However, the dog playing such a key role in Swift and Kelce’s wedding ceremony indicates what a big part of their lives it has become—with a framed photo of the pup taking center stage in one of the few glimpses of the venue leaked since the wedding.

“A neighbor approached the house and got a voice warning about not passing onto the property after getting too close to the house,” a nearby resident told the outlet. (Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for iHeartRadio)

A spokesperson for the couple did later confirm reports that the ceremony was officiated by Adam Sandler, while also sharing details about the couple’s wedding day looks.

According to the official release, both the bride and groom sported Christian Dior Haute Couture, Christian Louboutin shoes, and Cartier jewelry—and neither had a bridal party. Instead, they relied on their siblings to be by their side during the ceremony.

“Taylor and Travis did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen. Austin Swift served as Taylor’s Man of Honor, Jason Kelce was Travis’ Best Man,” the statement read.

According to People, the singer walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of her hit “Love Story.”

“They were both beaming the entire night,” an unnamed guest told the outlet.

The insider further revealed that the lovers spent 20 minutes exchanging their handwritten vows, and that they handed out custom handkerchiefs, embroidered with a “TT” and lyrics from Swift’s 2014 song “Blank Space.”

During her vows, which attendee George Stephanopoulos branded “real, vulnerable, serious, and silly,” Swift praised Kelce’s kind heart, even sharing that she “wished she knew someone” like him in high school—a line that allegedly caused the athlete to tear up.

“She was absolutely glowing and floating around the room,” another guest said of Swift. “I didn’t see her stop smiling once.”

The star-studded guest list is said to have included Simone Biles, Matthew Stafford, Brad Pitt, Emma Stone, Mariska Hargitay, Tom Hanks, Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, and Patrick Mahomes.

Sabrina Carpenter, Miranda Lambert, and members of the singer’s band and dancers were also reportedly in attendance.

“Everywhere you looked, there were stars, one more famous than the next. But it wasn’t like a typical Hollywood party—everyone was so down to earth. Stars talked to family friends and were gawking just as much about the vibe and saying how happy they were to be there. There was an electric energy in the room,” a guest told the outlet.

The A-list couple joined a long line of celebrities who have wed in New York City, where Swift has owned property for more than a decade.

The estate is located near Cleveland and is also close to a private airport, according to the outlet—offering the star athlete a convenient launching point for trips with his wife, 36. (Aeon/GC Images)

Kelce purchased the dwelling from Figurati Construction Group, which is owned by Gary Pellegrino. The company acquired the property for $1.95 million in 2023. (Instagram)

In 2014, she snapped up two penthouses in the chic Tribeca neighborhood for about $20 million and combined them into a nine-bedroom, nine-bath abode with beamed ceilings, a curved staircase, and enormous windows.

She purchased a third unit in the building a few years later for $9.75 million, increasing her Tribeca takeover by over 3,500 square feet.

Then, in 2017, the pop star splurged on an adjacent townhouse, paying $18 million for the three-story mansion measuring 5,000 square feet.

While her Tribeca pad was undergoing renovation, she resided in a West Village townhouse, which she reportedly paid $38,000 a month to live in from 2016 until 2017.

It’s currently unclear exactly where the newlyweds will base themselves full time. Kelce’s primary home is in Kansas, not far from the home stadium of his NFL team, the Chiefs.

Kelce purchased his 17,000-square-foot Leawood, KS, mansion in 2023, shortly after he went public with his romance with Swift. It was at the property where he popped the question to her in August 2025.

The football pro has committed to spending at least one more year in Kansas, announcing in March of this year that he will return to the team for the 2026 season, ending months of rumors that he was set to retire.

According to ESPN, the athlete will return to the Chiefs on a one-year contract—suggesting that he is eager for one more shot at Super Bowl glory after the team’s incredibly disappointing 2025 season, which saw the Chiefs miss out on a playoff spot for the first time in years.

The outlet stated that Kelce made his decision to return to the Chiefs before the NFL’s free agency window, which started on March 9. He is said to have informed the team of his decision as free agency kicked off.

His contract is said to be worth $12 million but carries a maximum value of $15 million, according to ESPN expert Adam Schefter.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-ohio-home-security-system/.

Warranty standardization can unlock trapped building benchmarks

Scott Finfer — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Better measurement can look worse to markets, which weakens incentives to normalize and share benchmarks

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/standardize-warranty-events-homebuilding/.

What real estate professionals should know about the Fed rate hike

Jonathan Delozier — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Housing professionals said the psychological effect on homebuyers and sellers is immediate

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/what-real-estate-professionals-should-know-about-the-fed-rate-hike/.

Where Do ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Stars Live? See Where They’re Headed in Light of Cast Shake-Up

Hannah Chambers — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

“MomTok”—the corner of the internet dedicated to following the lives of the women now known as the cast of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives”—has survived a lot.

But the future of the group of Utah-based influencers-turned-TV-personalities has never been more uncertain, with cast departures, new endeavors, and a spinoff series in the mix.

Speculation around the series has only grown with the premiere of Season 5.

Hulu released just five new episodes of the show on Sept. 11, unexpectedly halting production and ending the latest installment on a “To be continued…” cliff-hanger in light of a turbulent dynamic among the women.

The season was supposed to include 10 episodes, but, according to a March 19 Instagram Story from cast member Mikayla Matthews, the group came together and “agreed” to stop production.

“We didn’t feel comfortable filming with everything that was happening,” Matthews wrote, alluding to a domestic assault investigation involving cast member Taylor Frankie Paul and her former partner, Dakota Mortensen.

The “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” cast will soon look different, with some stars saying goodbye and making moves. (Bruce Glikas/Getty Images)

The series originally followed the lives of a Utah community called “MomTok,” but as the women gain success, they’re packing up. (Fred Hayes/Disney via Getty Images)

Charges against Paul were dropped in April, and on Aug. 6, the streaming platform announced a 20-episode renewal of the show, confirming its return for Seasons 6 and 7. Each season will feature 10 episodes, and so far, new seasons have been released every six months since the September 2024 series premiere.

As the women gain success, navigate turmoil, and carve new paths, the MomTok community is no longer bound to Utah. Read on for the latest on each of the women’s living situations.

Taylor Frankie Paul

Taylor Frankie Paul is set to return for Season 6, a move that’s sparked backlash from some of the cast. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

ABC and Disney confirmed Paul’s Season 6 return, as verified by Page Six.

The report included word from an insider who added Paul “has been working on herself” and “dealing with personal issues” as of late, adding the network has “been supportive throughout this process.”

The news follows the network’s March 2026 decision to cancel Paul’s season of “The Bachelorette,” in which the 32-year-old mom of three was set to search for a new partner as the lead of the popular dating show.

An ABC spokesperson confirmed the season—which was due to premiere just days after the announcement—was canceled in light of the TMZ release of footage of an altercation between Paul and Mortensen.

In pursuit of a “fresh start” post-controversy, Paul became a solo homeowner for the first time in May 2026, purchasing a $1 million Utah home.

Paul was set to become “The Bachelorette,” and even filmed the season, but it was pulled following a personal legal dispute. (Michael Kirchoff/disney)

She shared the news in an Instagram post, thanking her mother, real estate agent Liann May, for her help throughout the process.

“Officially a solo home owner and thank you to the best real estate agent in Utah, Liann May,” she wrote. “I see the sadness through the excitement but I am trying.”

Real estate continues to be a priority for Paul, who shared she is now focusing on “renovations and rentals.”

In a Sept. 15 Instagram post, Paul shared a video showing the signing of paperwork to close on her “first rental property.”

“I’m just excited to finally start something I’ve always wanted to do,” she wrote in the caption, adding that her mother was once again her real estate agent for this transaction, and that her father is “the best general contractor.”

In response to a comment from a follower, Paul also noted she’d “be chill” as a landlord.

Mikayla Matthews

Mikayla Matthews announced her departure in a Sept. 15 Instagram post. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

Matthews, a 26-year-old mom of four, is the latest to depart the cast.

She announced her departure from the show in a Sept. 15 Instagram post.

“I’m not comfortable being a part of something that continues to platform behavior I don’t agree with, especially given my own experience growing up in a home with multiple forms of abuse,” she wrote.

“There’s no amount of money worth going against my morals or changing the stance I’ve had since I first saw and heard the things that made me feel this strongly,” she continued. “For me personally, continuing to directly profit from this behavior feels wrong and unethical. It feels like a disservice to the children, everyone’s healing, and the millions of people watching.”

Matthews went on to explain her gratitude for the experience, vouching to continue to share her story.

Hours after her initial announcement, Matthews shared more details in an Instagram Story, addressing speculation regarding her decision and confirming that she did begin filming Season 6.

(Mikayla Matthews/Instagram)

“The only reason I’m leaving the show is because I was told a certain person was coming back,” she clarified. She had agreed to sign on for the next season only “if that certain someone” was not involved.

“No ultimatums, I’m not in control of who comes and who leaves,” she continued.

It is likely fans may see Matthews included in Season 6 in some capacity, as she did begin filming and still has some “contractual obligations and interviews” to complete before entirely washing her hands of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”

No longer tied to the show, it’s unclear where Matthews will land next. In an Aug. 10 post, the influencer admitted her “home situation is always up in the air” and shared that she’s “getting settled in a new temporary place.”

In an Aug. 27 update, she added she’s been “in and out of a hotel for the last four months.”

Matthews has previously opened up about her chronic inflammatory response syndrome, CIRS, which she believes was caused by “prolonged exposure to toxins,” and that mold illness “has ruined just everything” in her body, affecting her “nerves, skin, hair, brain, gut, liver, hormones, etc.”

In the hopes of easing the symptoms associated with CIRS, Matthews has spent much of 2026 traveling, temporarily relocating to Hawaii in May before heading to Florida in June in pursuit of a humid climate.

In an Instagram Story, she explained that Utah’s “super dry climate” is “good for mold,” adding that her “house had mold” before undergoing a remediation process.

“The heavy metals in the air from Great Salt Lake drying up add to my toxic load everyday, so I can’t detox everything out,” she wrote.

Whitney Leavitt

Whitney Leavitt announced Season 5 would be her last as she focuses on a career as a performer. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

In a May 3 video obtained by TMZ, the 33-year-old mom of three announced her departure from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”

Leavitt’s career has changed drastically since joining the series, with a stint on “Dancing With the Stars” and a role in the Broadway production of “Chicago” launching her to a new level of fame.

Weeks after the announcement, it was reported that the star and her husband, Connor Leavitt, sold the five-bedroom, four-bathroom home they purchased in April 2025. While the couple snapped up the Utah abode for $915,000, the final sale price was undisclosed.

Whitney is set to return to New York City for another Broadway role, with a six-week limited engagement in “Just in Time,” planned for Dec. 1, 2026, to Jan. 10, 2027.

Although she’s spending plenty of time on the East Coast, the Leavitt family maintains a Utah base, and on June 26, she announced the family had secured their “dream home.”

“These nomads are finally setting some roots,” she captioned the announcement.

Jennifer Affleck

Jennifer Affleck is trading in a life in Utah to call California home. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

Another “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star to compete for the iconic “Dancing With the Stars” Mirror Ball Trophy, Jennifer Affleck appears to be on the move, too.

The 27-year-old is currently expecting her fourth child with husband Zac Affleck and recently moved to California full time, joining the Utah reality show’s West Coast spinoff, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: Orange County.”

The series is set to include a new slate of local influencers, including Bobbi Althoff, Aspyn Ovard, and Avery Woods.

Mayci Neeley

Mayci Neeley announced her family is moving, but has yet to share where to. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

An original member of the show, 31-year-old mom-of-three Mayci Neeley is the latest to share news of a move.

In a Sept. 15 TikTok, she revealed, “We are moving! Can’t wait for you to see the new place.” The video depicts Neeley and her husband, Jacob Neeley, celebrating the news alongside a hallway filled with moving boxes.

The news immediately sparked comments from fans who pointed out all of the work the Neeleys had done to renovate the home they’ve lived in for more than four years, but Mayci confirmed they’ll hold on to that property.

“We aren’t selling it,” she confirmed in an Instagram comment. “It will be a rental, so either way it was worth it.”

The influencer has yet to confirm where her family is headed next, but her future on the show remains uncertain.

Following the news of Matthews’ departure, Mayci hinted at her future in a TikTok comment: “I am finishing this current season we are filming and then not sure after that!”

Layla Taylor

Layla Taylor has hinted that her future with the show is uncertain. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

Layla Taylor, a 25-year-old mom to two, shared a similar sentiment.

In response to a fan who asked if she’d be returning to the series given Matthews’ exit, Taylor captioned a Sept. 14 Instagram Story, “I just love her so much. It’s such an impossible situation for everyone involved, but I’m finishing out season 6 and then tbd.”

Jessi Draper

Jessi Draper is focused on “new beginnings” after selling her Utah home and filing for divorce. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

Jessi Draper, 34, is in the midst of starting over.

In March 2026, shortly after putting their sprawling Utah home on the market, Draper and Jordan Ngatikaura filed for divorce after more than five years of marriage. The couple share two children, and Draper was a stepmom to Ngatikaura’s daughter from a previous relationship.

The hair extension entrepreneur shared a peek at her “new beginnings” in an April Instagram Story in which she posted some photos of her “new home.” She thanked family and friends for helping her “unpack and organize” as she settled into the space.

Although she did not confirm the location of her new home, she appears to be continuing life in Utah, and her business, JZ Styles Salon, is still located in Pleasant Grove, UT.

Draper hinted at her future on the show during a Sept. 15 appearance on the “Just Trish” podcast.

“I don’t know because I love it so much and it’s not just a show. It’s my real friend group, right? It’s our real lives, and so it’s weird to be, like, ‘Well, I’d leave,’ ‘cause those are my friends,” she said.

While Draper said she’s unsure just how long she’ll stay, she’s planning to take it in stride.

“We’ll see how hard it gets,” she said.

Miranda McWhorter

Miranda McWhorter has not indicated that any major change is in store. (Disney/Nik Roberts)

Miranda McWhorter, 28, joined the cast in Season 2 after her split from her ex-husband, Chase McWhorter, with whom she shares two children.

Miranda has yet to weigh in on the shake-ups the show is facing, but is presumed to return for the next season, as she’s been seen on a cast trip with her co-stars in Italy.

Having recently shared a handful of videos with her MomTok friends in Utah, she doesn’t apear to have relocated just yet.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/reality-tv/secret-lives-mormon-wives-cast-homes-utah/.

Why more builder discounts are not unlocking new-home demand

Tyler Williams — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In September, two out of three homebuilders used incentives and 38% cut prices by 6% on average

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/why-more-builder-discounts-are-not-unlocking-new-home-demand/.

EXCLUSIVE: L.A. Estate With AD100 Interiors and 1,000-Square-Foot Edible Garden Is Listed for $13.8 Million

Kelsi Karruli — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A newly listed $13.75 million Los Angeles estate is taking the concept of farm-to-table living to another level—with an expansive edible garden that allows its owners to harvest fresh produce just steps from their kitchen.

Located at 1877 Rising Glen Road, just minutes from the Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills, the 8,339-square-foot contemporary residence is coming to market on Sept. 15 with Cory Weiss of Douglas Elliman.

While the sprawling property boasts custom interiors by Kathleen and Tommy Clements of AD100 firm Clements Design, one of its most unusual amenities can be found outside.

A newly listed $13.75 million Los Angeles estate is taking the concept of farm-to-table living to another level—with an expansive edible garden that is just steps from the kitchen. (Ryan Lahiff)

Located at 1877 Rising Glen Road, just minutes from the Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills, the 8,339-square-foot contemporary residence is coming to market on Sept. 15 with Cory Weiss of Douglas Elliman. (Ryan Lahiff)

The sprawling property boasts custom interiors by Kathleen and Tommy Clements of AD100 firm Clements Design. (Ryan Lahiff)

The 1,000-square-foot, multilevel edible garden produces fruits and vegetables throughout the year. (Ryan Lahiff)

The current owners created a 1,000-square-foot, multilevel edible garden on the grounds, where they harvest their own fruits and vegetables throughout the year.

The elaborate garden is professionally serviced three times a week, helping to maintain what amounts to a private urban farm in the heart of Los Angeles.

Professionally designed gardens of this scale and caliber can represent a six-figure investment, with comparable landscape projects ranging from approximately $100,000 to upward of $250,000, depending on their design and infrastructure.

For the future owner, the garden offers the opportunity to embrace a farm-to-table lifestyle without ever having to leave home, bringing produce quite literally from the backyard to the kitchen.

The edible garden is just one element of the property’s expansive outdoor setup.

Set on more than a half-acre, the estate was designed for indoor-outdoor living, incorporating disappearing walls of glass that open the interiors to the surrounding grounds.

The property boasts city views and a rare flat backyard, where an 80-foot swimming pool serves as a centerpiece of the outdoor space. The lengthy pool is further enhanced by a marble waterfall.

Inside, the residence has been customized with upgrades by Clements Design, whose work extends throughout the contemporary interiors.

The home comes with an elegant movie room. (Ryan Lahiff)

The flat backyard is anchored by an 80-foot swimming pool with a marble waterfall. (Ryan Lahiff)

There are several dining areas. (Ryan Lahiff)

The primary bathroom comes with a marble and glass-enclosed shower and a large soaking tub. (Ryan Lahiff)

The home includes a gym. (Ryan Lahiff)

At the center of the home is a chef’s kitchen equipped with Miele appliances, as well as a dramatic floor-to-ceiling wine refrigerator.

Additional living and entertaining spaces include a library outfitted with floating walnut bookshelves, a home theater, gym, bar and lounge.

The primary suite offers another connection to the outdoors, opening directly onto the grounds and providing easy access to the open-air spaces.

Beyond the main residence, the estate features a separate lower structure designed to provide additional privacy and flexibility.

That space includes a full bedroom suite, living room, and lounge, allowing it to serve as private accommodations for guests or alternatively be used as a home office.

The combination of the separate structure, expansive grounds, and numerous entertainment spaces gives the property a variety of areas for both hosting and everyday living.

But it is the sizable edible garden that provides one of the estate’s more distinctive offerings, particularly given its location just minutes from some of Los Angeles’ best-known neighborhoods.

The sizable edible garden is one of the estate’s more distinctive offerings, particularly given its close proximity to some of Los Angeles’ best-known neighborhoods. (Ryan Lahiff)

The garden is professionally serviced three times a week, helping to maintain what amounts to a private urban farm in the heart of Los Angeles. (Ryan Lahiff)

The estate is a decidedly Los Angeles interpretation of farm-to-table living. (Ryan Lahiff)

The garden is capable of producing fruits and vegetables throughout the year—all while maintaining the amenities of a contemporary luxury estate.

The result is a decidedly Los Angeles interpretation of farm-to-table living: an urban retreat where an 80-foot pool, custom designer interiors, and a professionally maintained edible garden all coexist on the same half-acre-plus property.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/los-angeles-estate-ad100-design-edible-garden/.

Federal Housing Law’s Architects Say Cities Must Now Step Up To Implement Reforms

Tristan Navera — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

What started as a conversation in a Washington, DC, steakhouse is now the law of the land.

But the architects of the largest housing bill in 30 years worry about its implementation and the housing affordability subjects it didn’t address.

It’s now up to cities across the country to determine the success of the bipartisan, bicameral 21st Century Road to Housing Act, lawmakers said during the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s housing conference in DC on Monday. And that will play out as the 33,295 government bodies with local zoning authority process the dozens of provisions in the bill aimed at making it easier to build and buy a home.

“A lot of the communities are excited about it, but now we’re in that stage where we need to write the regulations,” said Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE), who chairs the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee. “So it’s really important that everybody engage with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. That’s the stage we’re in right now.”

A few changes in the bill have immediate impact. But a vast majority of the 125 implementation items in the bill fall upon HUD. Several rules must be formulated and programs developed. And the bill carries no funding, an issue likely to come up in the government’s 2028 fiscal budget.

“For right now, this is a good start at getting people to use their imagination,” said Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), ranking member of the subcommittee.

House Financial Services Committee Chair Rep. French Hill (R-AR), the bill’s sponsor, told the Chamber the removal of the chassis mandate for manufactured housing, combined with HUD regulations that make it easier to build manufactured housing, offers “tremendous cost savings” for building more housing in rural areas of Arkansas.

“They did a magnificent job in working through this issue about supply-side barriers to greater construction, building better supply for that just simple basic Econ 100–type issue,” Hill said.

Trying to fix the problem on the demand side, such as through rent control, “only drives up prices more,” Hill argued.

Flood said the bill forced compromises from both parties. He said that started from the beginning of the discussion on the bill, at a now-shuttered DC restaurant called The Prime Rib, where they began to organize which of the dozens of housing provisions from across Congress to begin to incorporate into the bill.

“We just committed to each other, let’s do this for all the right reasons. I won’t get everything I want, you won’t get everything you want. But let’s get something done and see if we can sell it in Congress,” Flood recalled. “That partnership resulted in the best outcome you can have.”

Local impact

Hill said Congress has been looking at housing reforms since he was a staffer in the 1980s. But the system of incentives that encourages local governments to roll back regulations will be key to the bill. They’re paired with other changes, such removing required National Environmental Policy Act reviews that save up to $3,000 per unit. Lawmakers have also eyed other reforms.

“If you don’t have good density, lower development fees, and open a non-NIMBY type of environment, you can have your CDBG money clipped,” Hill said, referring to federal funding known as Community Development Block Grants. “That’s a good incentive for states and cities to get their act together on local development rules.”

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), ranking member of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee (Bloomberg via Getty Images)

“The vast majority of costs per unit are mostly local,” Hill said. “They’re decisions taken by city councils, county courts, and states. Both multifamily and single-family. So what we want to do was model good behavior by cutting regulatory red tape.”

Meanwhile, Accelerator for America held an implementation hearing on the bill Tuesday, where Colin Higgins, executive director of its National Housing Crisis Task Force, encouraged local governments not to wait for the implementation of the bill.

The bill was “scaffolding” for programs that will come online in coming years, he said.

Governments should create housing task forces and set the stage to address public land, manufactured housing, lending challenges, and permitting and environmental reviews. It’s best to start now even before funding comes.

“The feds have acted, but it’s going to take some time,” Higgins said.

When is the next housing bill?

Congress has expressed some enthusiasm for more housing reform in the coming years. What exactly it does, though, depends on whom you ask.

“The one thing I think we didn’t get—that we needed here—was the outright elimination of applying ‘Build America Buy America’ to housing,” Flood told the conference. That provision adds scrutiny to building materials, aiming to encourage builders to source more materials in the United States.

But, Flood said, while he supports the law, it shouldn’t apply to homebuilding.

“It has added costs on a level that would shock you,” he said. Flood also called for housing insurance reform, but admitted it’s likely to require “complex solutions.”

“There is a lot more to do,” Hill said. “We need to continue this supply-side deregulatory push, we need to hold HUD accountable. One of the least accountable agencies in the government.”

Hill listed some ongoing Republican priorities that Congress could address if they retain the majority after the 2026 midterms. That includes reforms to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. He also echoed HUD’s continued criticism of “Housing First” homelessness programs.

And he wanted to see action on the Fed’s proposed BASEL III reforms aimed to encourage more banks to finance mortgages and construction loans.

“That should take steps to encourage the large banks to participate in the secondary market for housing,” Hill said. “I think Dodd-Frank went too far on this point. Essentially, by the capital standards for a construction loan, pushed a lot of the biggest banks out of that business. It also limited mortgage servicing rights by the large financial institutions. Both of those things, at the margin, raise the cost of liquidity for housing.”

Cleaver took the opposite tack, arguing more bipartisanship will craft the next housing bill.

“You can’t sting and make honey at the same time,” Cleaver said. “You’ve got to make a choice. Are you going to be a stinger or are you going to make honey? The honey is legislation. The sting is all the bickering and fighting we have too much of right now.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/housing-bill-implementation-mike-flood-french-hill/.

Inside a Stunning $88 Million Estate With a 1,000-Bottle Wine Gallery and 9-Car Garage Overlooking Bel-Air Country Club

Kellie Speed — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A newly constructed lavish megamansion designed by SAOTA overlooking Bel-Air Country Club has just hit the market in Los Angeles for an eye-watering $88 million, making it tee its way to the top of the week’s most expensive homes list.

The stunning spec mansion perched on a 1.7-acre promontory was developed by Michael Chen’s Luxford Group and is said to have “previously served as an event space, including for a Louis Vuitton design exhibit,” according to The Real Deal.

Nestled in a gated enclave, the property boasts uninterrupted views from downtown L.A. to the Pacific Ocean. Over-the-top amenities include two kitchens, including a showroom and catering; a 1,000-bottle wine gallery; a home theater with 16-foot screen; a hand-carved stone bar; and a lounge with 50-foot water wall.

Custom-built for entertaining, a 2,500-square-foot rooftop deck has dual pergolas to soak in the skyline views. There is also a wellness pavilion with massage room, steam shower, and dry sauna.

Outdoors, the resort-caliber grounds boast a lap pool flowing into an infinity-edge pool with a spa, a swim-up bar, a sunken fire pit lounge, and a kitchen with barbecue pavilion.

There is also a showroom-style garage for up to nine sports cars and a private staff suite with separate access.

More spectacular estates to make the week’s most expensive homes list include a Tribeca condo in a Robert A.M. Stern–designed building, a three-level condo in Sunny Isles Beach, FL, and a newly constructed compound in Palm Beach with tunnel providing direct beach access to the Atlantic Ocean.

10. 10772 Chalon Rd, Los Angeles, CA

Price: $32,500,000

Maison de la Reine: This historic eight-bedroom mansion was built in 1928 for Alphonzo E. Bell, the founder of Bel-Air, and later became the home of Queen Noor of Jordan.

It was later owned by Hollywood producer Steven Reuther of “Dirty Dancing” fame, who added the home’s cinema and editing suite. A checkerboard terrazzo foyer opens to the 10,600-square-foot residence, which has many period details, including a formal living room, a “designer’s ballroom” with a Calacatta viola fireplace, a breakfast room with hand-painted Gracie wallpaper, and a primary suite with a soaking tub and dressing room “built for gowns and tuxedos.”

The estate’s original indoor pool has been transformed into a fitness center. Other opulent amenities include a wine cellar “backed in Cristallo,” a theater level with a smoked mirror bar, a massage area, and an in-ground pool.

Covered terraces overlook the nearly 1-acre private lot.

Christopher Soffer of The Beverly Hills Estates Inc. is the listing agent.

Maison de la Reine in Los Angeles, CA (Realtor.com)

9. 5 Sailview, Newport Coast, CA

Price: $32,900,000

Pelican Hill: Built in 1996, this six-bedroom estate is nestled in a guard-gated enclave and features sweeping views from the Pacific Ocean to Newport Harbor.

The recently remodeled 9,219-square-foot mansion was designed to provide a seamless transition to its outdoor living area. A “dramatic” two-story entry with a fireplace opens to the ocean-facing main living areas, with sliders opening to expansive patios that soak in the stunning views. The chef’s kitchen has an oversized island, custom cabinetry, and a separate dining area with water views. Also found throughout the home are an executive office, a bar, an upper-level primary suite with a fireplace and sitting area, and a lower level with additional accommodations, an entertainment area with a billiard room, a wine cellar, and a sauna.

A lagoon-style pool, spa grotto, waterfall, slide, sun decks, an outdoor fireplace, and multiple areas for dining and entertaining can also be found on the nearly half-acre lot.

Payman Paul Daftarian of Luxe Real Estate is the listing agent.

Pelican Hill estate in Newport Coast, CA (Realtor.com)

8. 70 Vestry St Unit 9S, Manhattan, NY

Price: $34,000,000

Waterfront Tribeca condo: Located high atop the Robert A.M. Stern–designed luxury building, this 4,355-square-foot residence is being offered for the first time since the building was constructed in 2018 and the sellers purchased the home for $21,412,500.

Located along the Hudson River, the four-bedroom estate, occupying the southwest corner, has two private terraces offering views from the Statue of Liberty to the downtown skyline. Ideal for the art collector, the gallery entry is the perfect spot to showcase a “significant” art collection. A corner great room has oversized windows framing the river and city views. Designer details include wide-plank white oak floors, 10-foot ceilings, a showstopper kitchen with custom hand-milled oak cabinetry and Bardiglio luco marble countertops, and a corner primary retreat offering three exposures, a dressing room, a spa-inspired bathroom, and a private terrace.

An $11,417 monthly association fee provides access to an 82-foot swimming pool, a regulation squash court, a fitness center, yoga and Pilates studios, a private lounge and dining suites, a billiard room, and a children’s playroom.

Mary Roth of Compass is the listing agent.

Tribeca condo in Manhattan, NY (Realtor.com)

7. 1465 Donhill Dr, Beverly Hills, CA

Price: $35,000,000

Essence: This brand-new “magnificent entertainer’s showplace,” developed by Ramtin Ray Nosrat and located near the Beverly Hills Hotel, is being offered fully furnished and with a collection of bespoke amenities and custom details.

Highlights found throughout the sprawling 15,000-square-foot open floor plan include custom European furnishings, double-swivel iron and glass doors, a double-height foyer, a “statement” wet bar, a chef’s kitchen, a formal dining room, and a “caterer’s galley.” Designed for grand-scale hosting, the estate has a floor-to-ceiling wine enclosure, an upstairs “family/pajama” room with access to a side patio with a fire table, and a lavish primary retreat with a parlor, separate wardrobes, a soaking tub, and two private outdoor areas. A secondary suite with a sitting room has views of the hills and mountains, as well as a private outdoor area with a fire pit. There is a roof deck with a sport court, a bar, and a fire table.

The 2.1-acre hilltop lot also has a lounge with a fire pit, a gym with a sauna, an office, a home cinema “accessed through a secret door,” a pool, a spa, and an outdoor kitchen with a serving ledge and a 116-inch TV. A massive garage can house eight cars.

**Sally Forster Jones **of Compass is the listing agent.

Brand-new mansion in Beverly Hills, CA (Realtor.com)

6. 122 Waverly Pl, New York, NY

Price: $45,000,000

Five-level townhouse: This four-bedroom “exquisite masterpiece” was built in 1835 and thoughtfully modernized during a “meticulously designed” gut renovation.

The 7,310-square-foot interior features two fifth-floor skylights, allowing natural light to flood into the center of the home. An eye-catching 30-foot stairwell chandelier “spans the entire height of the house.” Other jaw-dropping amenities include a built-in wine wall, a primary sanctuary with gas fireplace, and an entertainer’s kitchen with a waterfall breakfast bar and a banquette dining area, with a two-story window wall overlooking the garden terrace. There is a rooftop terrace providing views from the Freedom Tower to the Empire State Building.

The property also has a heated pool, a fitness center, massage and wellness rooms, a sauna, and a cold-plunge pool.

Keller Williams NYC holds the listing.

Five-level townhouse in New York, NY (Realtor.com)

5. 17975 Collins Ave Unit N-SF -02, Sunny Isles Beach, FL

Price: $47,500,000

The Estates at Acqualina: Villa Eterna Mare is a five-bedroom condo encompassing three levels of luxurious living.

Bespoke details include floor-to-ceiling glass walls; three kitchens, including one with commercial-grade appliances and a pizza oven; a private elevator; and five gas fireplaces. Architectural details providing “timeless sophistication” include whole-home automation, motorized window treatments, and an integrated security system.

Resort-style terraces offer a private pool, a summer kitchen, and a fireplace lounge. It has direct beach access and a climate-controlled four-car gallery garage.

**Chad Carroll **of Compass is the listing agent.

Condo at the Estates at Acqualina in Sunny Isles, FL (Realtor.com)

4. 12705 Chalon Rd, Los Angeles, CA

Price: $49,500,000

**Brentwood Country Estates: **Located in a guard-gated 13-home community, this seven-bedroom Tuscan estate sits on 2.47 acres of privacy.

A grand staircase flows into the dining and entertaining areas. The family room has a fireplace and wet bar, and a formal dining room connecting to the chef’s kitchen with two islands via a butler’s pantry is ideal for entertaining. A “breakfast rotunda” has multiple sets of French doors that open to patios designed for al fresco living and dining. The opulent primary suite has a fireplace, parlor, two large boutique-inspired closets, and a spa-style bath with floating dual-sink vanity, separate soaking tub, oversized shower, and toilet room. Other amenities include a screening room, guest suites with private terraces, a home office, and a massage room.

Also found on property are a lighted tennis/pickleball court with viewing pavilion, a basketball hoop, a wellness gym, a putting green, a pool, a spa, a sundeck, and a motor court.

Sally Forster Jones of Compass is the listing agent.

Brentwood Country Estates in Los Angeles, CA (Realtor.com)

3. 1540 S Ocean Blvd, Palm Beach, FL

Price: $74,900,000

Billionaires Row: This newly constructed eight-bedroom estate sits on an acre lot with breathtaking views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Three structures include a primary residence, a detached guesthouse, and a beachfront cabana. The legacy compound also has shaded loggias, a central courtyard, and an in-ground pool. A private tunnel underneath the property leads directly to the beach cabana. Plans are also in place for a beachfront plunge pool. Completed in 2025, the property has never been lived in.

The property was last sold for $9,500,000 in 2022, when the sellers purchased a “tear-down” house and built this spec estate in its place.

Margit Brandt of Premier Estate Properties is the listing agent.

New estate in Palm Beach, FL (Realtor.com)

2. 6015 Steele Canyon Rd, Napa, CA

Price: $75,000,000

**Moskowite Estate & Winery: **This 788-acre property with private airport and 500-acre lake is being offered for the first time since it was built in 1975.

The expansive property features “development rights, natural resources, and geographic features,” along with a 40-acre winery, a permitted 100,000-gallon production facility, a tasting room, and a “cave complex.” Designed for entertaining, the property has a newly constructed outdoor wedding venue with a stage and bar area, a covered “crush pad,” an office space, two restrooms, and undeveloped land that could be used “for a commercially entitled hotel and restaurant.”

The “exceptional opportunity” also has water rights and acreage that could be developed into 1-acre homesites.

Damian Archbold of Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty is the listing agent.

788-acre property in Napa, CA (Realtor.com)

1. 11005 Bellagio Pl, Los Angeles, CA

Price: $88,000,000

Spec mansion: This eight-bedroom estate designed for “true resort-style living” sits on a gated promontory lot offering sweeping views from Los Angeles and Santa Monica to the Pacific Ocean and beyond.

Designed for “effortless entertaining,” the lavish mansion has a showroom kitchen, a separate chef’s kitchen, a 1,000-bottle glass wine gallery, a Dolby Atmos cinema, a hand-carved stone bar, and a lounge centered on a dramatic 50-foot cascading water wall. Interior amenities include a four-stop elevator, a showroom-style garage, and a private staff suite.

The 1.7-acre property overlooks the Bel-Air Country Club and comes with a 2,500-square-foot rooftop deck with dual pergolas, a wellness pavilion, a massage room, a steam shower, a dry sauna, a lap pool flowing into an infinity-edge pool with a spa, a sunken fire pit lounge, and a kitchen with a barbecue pavilion.

Michael Chen of Christie’s AKG is the listing agent.

New mansion in Los Angeles, CA (Realtor.com)

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/bel-air-saota-estate-most-expensive-homes/.

Inside the Historic NYC Co-Op Where Al Capone and Marilyn Monroe Lived—Now Selling From $535K

Kellie Speed — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Two condos, located in the same building that legends like Al Capone, Marilyn Monroe, Doris Day, and George Burns once called home, have recently hit the market in Manhattan’s vibrant Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood.

The Emery Roth-designed building, known as The Whitby, was built in 1923 and still has many historic details throughout its 217-unit structure. Nestled in the heart of the Theatre District, the full-service co-op features a spectacular rooftop deck where residents can soak in panoramic views of the city.

“The Whitby was built in the early 1920s, when it started out as a hotel,” says Douglas Bellitto, who is co-listing the property with Rachel Glazer of Brown Harris Stevens. “It became known as a haven for actors, artists, and musicians. At the time, so many people refused to rent to those types of creatives, but The Whitby was absolutely welcoming.”

Living room of one-bedroom condo at The Whitby in Manhattan, NY, listed for $535,000 (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

Kitchen of one-bedroom condo at The Whitby in Manhattan, NY, listed for $535,000 (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

Lobby of The Whitby in Manhattan, NY (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

In its heyday, the building attracted some of the biggest names in show business, and even a Prohibition-era gangster before he got entangled with the law.

“Al Capone lived here in the early 1920s, and rumor has it his ghost still haunts the basement of The Whitby,” Bellitto says. “Marilyn Monroe also lived here in the 1950s, when she was dating Joe DiMaggio.”

Since then, the building has been transformed into individual residences that still feature many preserved details.

“Unit 601 is a one-bedroom unit with incredible light and all of the original prewar details,” he says. “The layout is just ideal and attractive.”

Listed for $535,000, the bright and airy, high-floor “sanctuary” has been thoughtfully modernized over the years, “while at the same time offering the comforts of contemporary living.”

“I envision the next buyer to be someone in the entertainment industry,” he notes. “It’s a very welcoming community still, and a very warm place to be.”

Bellitto says the sellers have owned the unit since 1988 and made thoughtful updates over the years, taking great care to preserve its history. A spacious living room has dark oak floors, beamed ceilings, and crown moldings. A windowed kitchen now has a built-in breakfast bar, granite countertops, and custom wood cabinetry.

“The kitchen and bathroom were also renovated about six years ago, and it was a high-end renovation, featuring a soaking tub, pedestal sink, and Toto finishes,” he says. “It also has southern exposures and views of the city skyline.”

There is also a long entry hallway that could “easily accommodate an expansive library wall,” which could be used to showcase artwork or transformed into a home office.

Kitchen of two-bedroom condo at The Whitby in Manhattan, NY, listed for $895,000 (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

Living area of two-bedroom condo at The Whitby in Manhattan, NY, listed for $895,000 (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

Rooftop of The Whitby in Manhattan, NY (Courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens)

If buyers are looking for a bit more space, a two-bedroom unit has also been extensively renovated but still has many period details intact.

Offering northern and western exposures, the condo, listed for $895,000, features a gourmet chef’s kitchen with a wood and stainless steel breakfast bar, custom wood-and-glass cabinetry, and a mosaic tile backsplash.

“Unit 916 is, I think, the most beautiful two-bedroom unit in the building,” he notes. “The sellers approached renovating it the same way as 601. It has a contemporary interior, but they also kept as much pre-war detail as possible.”

Amenities at The Whitby include a round-the-clock doorman, a new laundry room, storage space, a bike room, and a newly renovated Art Deco-inspired lobby. It is also within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, and entertainment.

“The Whitby has been flying under the radar in terms of the market,” Bellitto says. “It’s an incredible building with the most spectacular roof deck in Midtown West. Everything has been updated over the last few years. It’s a hidden jewel.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/the-whitby-marilyn-monroe-al-capone-condos-for-sale-hells-kitchen/.

Mortgage credit scores are evolving. What homebuyers need to know

TCS Property Management — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage lenders that work with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, government-sponsored enterprises, have the green light to use VantageScore 4.0 if they want to.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/mortgage-credit-scores-vantagescore-fico-homebuyers.html.

Potential AI slowdown is not ‘end of the world’ for data center real estate, says Digital Realty CEO

TCS Property Management — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Digital Realty and Equinix, two of the largest data center REITs, saw their stocks slump after warnings over AI advancements.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/data-center-reit-ceo-ai-slowdown.html.

Property Play: How tech is making old buildings smarter and cheaper to run

TCS Property Management — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick sits down with Runwise co-founder and CEO Jeff Carleton.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/15/property-play-how-tech-is-making-old-buildings-smarter-and-cheaper-to-run.html.

The 30-Day Clock That Can Start When You Inherit a Home

Allaire Conte — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Older Americans have never had more wealth tied up in their homes—and for many, that equity could provide a vital financial cushion in retirement.

Homeowners 62 and older were sitting on a record $14.92 trillion in home equity in the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest NRMLA/RiskSpan Reverse Mortgage Market Index.

“The rebound in senior housing wealth is encouraging news for older homeowners and underscores the important role home equity continues to play in retirement security,” says Steve Irwin, president of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. “With senior home equity reaching another record level, many older Americans have greater financial flexibility to help address rising living expenses, healthcare costs, or other retirement needs.”

But using that wealth in retirement can change what eventually reaches the next generation.

Reverse mortgages allow older homeowners to tap into their home equity without selling the property, with the resulting debt generally becoming due when they sell, permanently move out, or die.

For heirs, that can leave an unexpected complication: The family home may still contain substantial wealth, but it can also arrive with a loan that must be resolved within a very short window.

New federal records illustrate what can happen when that process breaks down—and reveal a little-discussed complication in America’s historic transfer of housing wealth.

Why older homeowners turn to reverse mortgages

When Congress authorized the federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage program, or HECM—the most common type of reverse mortgage—it explicitly pointed to the “increasing costs of meeting health, housing, and subsistence needs at a time of reduced income.”

For retirees facing that squeeze, the appeal is liquidity. HECM borrowers generally don’t make monthly principal-and-interest payments while they remain in the home, and they can use the proceeds to supplement income, pay off debt, or cover expenses that allow them to age in place.

Evan H. Farr, a certified elder law attorney and retirement planner in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, says reverse mortgages can offer another source of money to older homeowners with substantial home equity but limited cash.

“Reverse mortgages also offer an alternative source of capital for elderly homeowners who are ‘house rich’ but ‘cash poor,’ so they will be able to afford paying for in-home caregivers if they require assistance allowing them to age in place,” he says.

(Realtor.com)

Nearly four decades after the first HECM was issued, those pressures are becoming all the more common. Among homeowners headed by someone 65 or older, 28% were spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs in 2024—the highest rate of any age group, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2026 State of the Nation’s Housing report.

There’s also evidence that reverse mortgages have been disproportionately marketed to the older homeowners most likely to need another source of cash.

In 2021 and 2022, 74% of reverse-mortgage direct-mail advertising went to households earning less than $75,000, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. By comparison, 53% of older homeowner households had incomes below that level.

For many of those households, however, the home may also represent their largest store of wealth. Among homeowners 62 and older in 2019, median home equity was $160,000, compared with just $84,500 in median financial assets, including savings, retirement accounts, and investments.

“For high net worth families, real property is typically only one component of their total estate,” Farr says. “However, for middle-class families, the house could represent the entire estate.”

What happens after the borrower dies

Even so, that still doesn’t make using the equity a bad financial decision for the homeowner.

“Elderly homeowners should focus on addressing their retirement funding concerns before focusing on creating an inheritance for their children,” Farr says. “If using part of the equity in the house will enable an elderly person to reside safely in his/her home, receive required medical treatment/care, and maintain a reasonable standard of living, then there is no reason why they cannot make that choice regarding how they will choose to utilize their accumulated wealth.”

But a reverse mortgage changes what is left behind because the amount owed generally grows as borrowers take money out and interest and fees accumulate.

“Interest charged on the loan, plus mortgage insurance premiums, and the costs associated with financed fees/charges will gradually diminish the value of the home,” he explains. “Once the borrower vacates the property permanently or dies, the aforementioned costs are subtracted from the remaining value of the home, thus potentially reducing the inheritance received by heirs.”

The loan also eventually has to be resolved.

While a borrower may not have to pay it back while living in the home, a reverse mortgage becomes due when they permanently move out, sell the property, or die. Some qualifying surviving spouses have additional protections that may allow them to remain in the home.

After the last borrower dies and the loan becomes due, the servicer sends the estate, heirs, or other person with legal title a formal notice that the loan is due. Once that notice arrives, CFPB says heirs generally have 30 days to buy, sell, or turn over the home.

If they sell, the reverse mortgage is paid from the proceeds and whatever equity remains goes to the estate. But keeping the house can be harder.

An heir who wants the property generally has to resolve the reverse mortgage balance. CFPB explicitly acknowledged the financial obstacle in August, stating that heirs “might not have the money” to do that and may need to obtain a mortgage of their own.

That can re-create the same liquidity problem in the next generation. The parent had wealth locked in the house but needed cash. The heir may receive substantial remaining equity in that same house without having the cash—or borrowing power—needed to keep it.

If the reverse mortgage is larger than the home’s value, heirs generally don’t have to make up the shortfall themselves. CFPB says an underwater HECM can generally be satisfied by selling the property for at least 95% of its appraised value, with mortgage insurance covering the rest.

Even when heirs have additional time, they may be trying to open probate, establish who can act for the estate, get an appraisal, and secure financing simultaneously.

The National Consumer Law Center warned the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development last year that “heirs need clear, prompt, and committal communication from servicers” to complete the probate steps needed to resolve the loan.

When the loan isn’t resolved

New HUD records show what can happen when that process breaks down.

On Sept. 1, HUD put roughly 1,500 reverse mortgage loans with about $454 million in balances up for sale. The borrowers had died, the homes were still occupied by people who weren’t borrowers, and HUD said heirs “have not come forward in the time elapsed.”

HUD isn’t auctioning off the houses. It is selling the mortgage debts themselves to investors, who take over the loans and eventually have to resolve them.

The first such sale offers a glimpse of how long some difficult cases can remain unsettled. HUD later tracked 719 occupied, postdeath loans from that pool. By March 2026, 69.7% remained unresolved in delinquent servicing, while 20.4% were listed in HUD’s “foreclosure” category.

Of course, those aren’t the odds facing a typical family. HUD selected the loans because they were already troubled and unresolved, and the data doesn’t show why individual heirs failed to resolve them or how much equity remained in those homes.

Still, the cases put a concrete endpoint on a trade-off that begins much earlier, when an older homeowner decides whether to use housing wealth during retirement or preserve more of it for later.

Reverse mortgages aren’t suddenly booming. The Federal Housing Administration endorsed 27,995 HECMs in 2025, less than one-quarter of the 114,421 it endorsed in 2009. But hundreds of thousands of existing loans remain.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/reverse-mortgage-inheritance-30-day-clock/.

The 4% Mortgage Is Back. Is It Keeping New-Home Prices From Falling?

Allaire Conte — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The 4% home loan is back—and for buyers, it looks like a gift. For everyone else, it may be more complicated.

Nearly 1 in 7 new-construction listings advertised reduced interest in August, according to a new Realtor.com® analysis, with an average advertised rate of just 3.92%. The typical 30-year fixed mortgage rate for everyone else, meanwhile, was 6.67%.

“A sub-4% mortgage rate is extremely valuable, even for just a year or two, because it significantly cuts your early interest costs and builds home equity much faster,” Jeremy Olsher, a Florida-based real estate agent explains.

On a median-priced $450,000 new home with 20% down, the difference between those mortgages works out to about $614 less in principal and interest each month, or nearly $7,400 a year.

It’s real affordability relief in a market that’s showing signs of strain from elevated borrowing costs.

Median list prices fell 1.3% year over year in August, the 10th straight annual decline, while 20.4% of listings took a price cut, the highest share of 2026. And by Thursday, the market rate had climbed again to 6.76%, its highest level since June 2025.

But when builders deploy the strategy at scale, it can also reduce some of the pressure that high mortgage rates would otherwise put on home prices—helping buyers with subsidized financing afford more while potentially keeping prices higher for those shopping without it.

Builders are competing on the monthly payment

Reduced rates aren’t the only strategy that builders are using to sweeten the deal of buying new construction: Nearly 1 in 5 listings advertised an incentive of some kind in August.

But rate reductions were by far the most common—appearing on 13.8% of listings, compared with just 4.8% for flex cash, the next most-common incentive.

That dominance offers a clue about what builders are trying hardest to solve: the monthly payment.

Just 1.4% of new homes priced between $100,000 and $200,000 advertised a reduced rate. The share climbed with price, peaking at 17.1% among $500,000 to $750,000 homes, followed by 15.8% among those priced from $750,000 to $1 million.

That concentration puts the promotions squarely into move-up territory, where buyers may face a particularly difficult hurdle: giving up the cheap mortgage on the home they already own.

Nearly 88% of existing-home owners with mortgages still have a rate below 6%, and the report notes a reduced builder rate may help overcome the “psychological hurdle” of giving that up.

The strongest clue about how builders are using the incentive comes from the local data.

In San Antonio, TX, where the median new-construction listing price is about $330,000, reduced rates cluster in the $350,000 to $500,000 range. In Denver, where the median is nearly $639,000, they cluster in the $500,000 to $1 million range.

The report links that shift to competition: Builders tend to concentrate incentives on inventory facing more competitors. The offers aren’t simply following expensive homes; they are following the parts of local markets where builders have more reason to fight for a buyer.

And one way to win that buyer is to compete on the mortgage payment instead of the home price.

Builders are spending heavily to make the math work

But creating those lower payments comes at a cost, and builders are picking up the tab.

Lennar reported that sales incentives (including primarily price discounts and financing incentives) averaged $62,700 per home in fiscal 2025, or 13.8% of home-sale revenue. That was up from $42,900, or 8.8%, two years earlier.

PulteGroup reported a similar increase, with incentives reaching 10.9% of gross sales price in the first quarter of 2026, up from 8% a year earlier. Its home-sale gross margin fell to 24.4% from 27.5%, with the company citing higher incentives as one factor.

The question, then, is why would builders absorb that cost instead of doing what sellers elsewhere in the market are increasingly doing—cutting the price?

An analysis by the American Enterprise Institute Housing Center provides one possible explanation.

AEI estimated that reducing a mortgage rate by 1 percentage point costs a builder roughly 3.2% of the sale price. Producing approximately the same reduction in the buyer’s monthly payment through a price cut would require a roughly 10% reduction in price.

That makes the financing subsidy expensive, but potentially much cheaper than reducing the home price enough to deliver the same monthly payment.

Applying the national average advertised rate of 3.92% to median new-home prices in the 10 metros where builder incentives were most prevalent illustrates how large that difference can be. Compared with 6.67%, monthly principal and interest would be about $450 lower in San Antonio and $871 lower in Denver, assuming 20% down.

And if a buyer keeps the same monthly payment instead of pocketing the savings, the lower rate supports roughly $95,000 to $184,000 more mortgage debt across those markets.

That extra purchasing power is the source of both the opportunity and the tension, as Joel Berner, senior economist at Realtor.com and author of the report, explains.

“If new-home prices get propped up by rate incentives, buyers paying the same monthly payment could have a larger loan balance on the discounted mortgage rate than they would have at a market mortgage rate,” he says.

Are reduced rates actually keeping prices higher?

Recent research provides a reason to test for that possibility.

In a 2026 Brookings report, University of Pennsylvania economist Joe Gyourko included interest-rate buydowns among demand-side affordability policies that can put upward pressure on prices.

So, if builders are making that trade at scale, the natural place to look next is what has happened to new-home prices.

Nationally, the trends are consistent with the possibility Gyourko identifies. New-construction listing prices were down just 0.3% from a year earlier in August, compared with a 2.5% decline for resale homes.

Locally, however, it looks a lot messier. If rate subsidies were broadly cushioning prices, you might expect the pattern to be especially clear where builders rely most heavily on incentives. It isn’t.

Among the 10 metros where builder incentives of any kind were most prevalent, new-construction prices outperformed resale prices in 4 and underperformed in 6.

In Denver, new-home prices fell 1.6%, compared with a 5.7% drop for resale homes. In Durham–Chapel Hill, NC, the relationship reversed: New-home prices fell 8.5%, versus just 1.2% for resale.

The sale price doesn’t tell the whole story

Even if the data can’t prove a widespread price effect, the mortgage industry already recognizes that subsidized financing can affect the market.

Freddie Mac has warned appraisers to account for financing and sales concessions when analyzing comparable sales, noting that builders may use buydowns in new subdivisions to “drive interest and support higher prices.”

“I emphasize to clients and appraisers that concessions, especially rate buydowns, are not ‘free,’” says Joseph Pravettone, chief appraiser at Atlas VMS. “They are price influencers, and if we fail to analyze them properly, we risk supporting contract prices that do not reflect market value.”

That risk can compound when an owner needs to sell.

“If buyers unexpectedly need to move, they lose the discounted rate they just paid for while trying to sell a home purchased near record-high prices,” says Jon Brooks, housing market analyst and co-founder of Momentum Realty. “They may also compete against the builder’s new inventory, which comes with incentives they cannot offer to a resale buyer.”

And if home prices fall at the same time, Berner says the larger loan balance that a lower rate can support could become a liability.

“This higher loan balance, if combined with falling home prices, could lead to buyers ending up underwater—owing more on their home than it’s worth,” he says.

Pravettone puts the trade-off more starkly.

“Incentives solve affordability today, but they can create equity, refinance, and resale problems tomorrow,” he says. “Buyers who purchase at incentive-supported prices are exposed to risks that the market does not see until the incentives disappear.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/builder-mortgage-rates-new-home-incentives-2026/.

This Is Better Than the 1% Rule (New Real Estate Rule)

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The rules of real estate investing have changed. For years, investors were using the one-percent rule to quickly determine if a real estate deal would cash flow. But the one-percent […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-460.

What to watch as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent testifies before Congress

TCS Property Management — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent may face questions on rising energy prices, Federal Reserve policy, government debt and the Trump team’s economic agenda.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/scott-bessent-house-hearing-economy-midterms.html.

Good Cause Eviction in Philadelphia, Explained: When a Landlord Can — and Can't — End a Tenancy

TCS Property Management — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In most of Pennsylvania a landlord can simply decline to renew a lease when it ends. Not in Philadelphia. Under the city’s Good Cause Eviction Ordinance, ending a tenancy of a year or more requires a qualifying reason — stated in writing, served on time, and documented.

Who It Applies To

The Good Cause requirement, found in Philadelphia Code § 9-810, applies to residential tenancies of one year or more. For tenancies under a year, standard Pennsylvania notice rules apply without the good-cause overlay.

The ordinance sits on top of state law. The Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act still governs notice periods, security deposits, and court procedure, but Philadelphia adds its own layer of protection for longer-term tenants.

What Counts as Good Cause

The ordinance recognizes a specific list of qualifying grounds, including:

Nonpayment of rent
Material breach of the lease
Nuisance behavior
The owner or an immediate family member moving into the unit
Substantial renovation or remodeling of the property
Refusal to allow the landlord reasonable access

What is not on the list matters just as much. A landlord generally cannot qualify a tenancy simply because the lease term is up, without one of the recognized grounds.

Notice and Documentation Matter

The termination notice must identify the qualifying reason and be served within the required notice window. For non-renewals, tenants are generally entitled to substantial advance written notice.

A landlord should preserve the records supporting the decision — lease notices, payment history, repair records, access requests, and communications. If the case reaches court, the good-cause grounds and proof of proper notice are part of the evidence the court expects to see.

How It Connects to the Rest of the System

Good Cause does not operate alone. Before filing an eviction, a Philadelphia landlord also needs an active rental license, a current Certificate of Rental Suitability, safety paperwork for pre-1978 properties, and completed participation in the city’s mandatory Eviction Diversion Program.

A defective good-cause notice — or a missing license — can stall or defeat a case entirely. For property owners, the compliance checklist and the termination notice are now part of the same workflow.

A Moving Target

Philadelphia’s tenant-protection rules are among the most actively evolving in the country. City Council has continued to discuss expansions of good-cause and licensing requirements, and recent changes are the subject of pending federal litigation brought by landlord groups.

For property owners, that means today’s compliance checklist may not be tomorrow’s, and cutting corners on documentation is riskier than ever.

The Bottom Line

For landlords, the practical rule is simple: never serve a termination or non-renewal notice on a year-plus tenancy without identifying which good-cause ground applies and building the paper trail to prove it.

For tenants, the ordinance means a lease ending is not, by itself, a reason to leave — and any termination notice should state exactly why.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Philadelphia’s ordinances are actively changing and litigated; consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney about any specific tenancy.

The Philadelphia Rental License, Explained: What Every Landlord Needs Before a Tenant Moves In

TCS Property Management — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Renting out a property in Philadelphia without a rental license is not just a paperwork problem. It can cost a landlord the legal right to collect rent or pursue an eviction. Yet an estimated 55% of the city’s rental properties were licensed in a recent report, putting a basic compliance requirement back in the spotlight.

Who Needs a License

Every residential rental in Philadelphia requires an active rental license from the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). One license can cover all units in a single building, but separate buildings need separate licenses, and the license must be renewed every year.

Short-term rentals of 30 days or less in a primary residence fall under a different license type. For standard long-term rentals, owners should assume a rental license is required before a tenant moves in.

What It Takes to Get One

The rental license sits at the end of a chain of prerequisites. Before applying, a property owner needs:

A Philadelphia Business Tax Account Number and Commercial Activity License — Renting is treated as a business in the city’s eyes, and those registrations must be in place first.
Tax and code compliance — Owners must be current on city taxes, and outstanding code violations on the property must be resolved before the license is issued.
A Certificate of Rental Suitability — Issued by L&I, this confirms that the property meets habitability standards and must be provided to new tenants before move-in, along with the city’s required safety information.
Lead paperwork for older properties — Units built before 1978 require lead-safe certification through the Health Department before they can be legally rented.

Applications and renewals are handled through the city’s online eCLIPSE portal.

What It Costs

The license fee runs roughly $60 to $70 per unit per year. Recent published figures have ranged from $60 to $69, and fees are adjusted periodically, so owners should confirm the current amount on L&I’s fee schedule before filing.

Lead certification and inspection requirements can add compliance costs for older properties. Renewals also carry penalties when they are filed late.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

The license is not a formality. Under Philadelphia law, a landlord without a valid rental license and Certificate of Rental Suitability can be blocked from collecting rent during the unlicensed period and cannot lawfully pursue an eviction. The city’s mandatory Eviction Diversion Program requires an active rental license just to apply.

Enforcement pressure is also rising. A 2025 report from the Reinvestment Fund and Rutgers found that Philadelphia has historically been a low-compliance, low-enforcement environment, with only about 55% of rental properties licensed. City Council has also been weighing legislation that would further tighten rental licensing requirements.

The Bottom Line

For Philadelphia landlords, the rental license is the foundation of everything else: rent collection, lease enforcement, and access to the courts. Getting licensed — and staying current on renewal — is the cheapest insurance a rental owner can buy.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Requirements and fees can change; confirm current rules with Philadelphia L&I or a licensed attorney.

30-year fixed mortgage rate hits highest level since January 2025

TCS Property Management — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate hits 7.17%, the highest level since January 2025. CNBC’s Diana Olick reports.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/14/30-year-fixed-mortgage-rate-hits-highest-level-since-january-2025.html.

Airbnb pledges $250 million to jump-start stalled housing projects

HousingWire Automation — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Airbnb’s new housing accelerator targets the last-mile capital gap and policy barriers to new supply, and launches a $5M innovation prize

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/airbnb-housing-accelerator/.

Amblebrook and Shea’s Trilogy are rewriting their 55+ value pitch

Tyler Williams — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Showcasing daily life programming and social engagement can help convert hesitant active adult prospects to buying now

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/amblebrook-and-sheas-trilogy-are-rewriting-their-55-value-pitch/.

Best Week To Buy Is Almost Here—and It Could Save Home Shoppers $14K

Snejana Farberov — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As children head back to school and the air turns crisp, the housing market is entering its sweetest spot: the peak homebuying week of 2026, offering savvy shoppers more options, bigger savings, and less competition.

The new Realtor.com® Best Time To Buy 2026 report identifies Sept. 27–Oct. 3 as the week boasting the optimal blend of market conditions favoring buyers at the national level. Recognizing that real estate is shaped by local conditions, the report also pinpoints the top buying timeframe for each of the nation’s 50 largest metros.

Both buyers and sellers could use all the help they can get this fall. Early-year market momentum stalled in the spring due to rising mortgage rates propelled by the ongoing war in Iran.

“When our midyear forecast was released a few months ago, we expected mortgage rates to ease toward the end of the year, which likely would have brought more buyers into the market,” says Realtor.com senior economist Hannah Jones. “As inflation and the Middle East conflict drag on, however, the odds of seeing mortgage rate relief and a rush of buyers hoping to capitalize on it this year are dwindling.”

What does “best week” actually mean for buyers? Simply put, during this critical window, shoppers will enjoy nearly 32% more active listings to choose from than at the start of the year, and 13 more days to negotiate compared to the peak market pace of 51 days recorded in May.

“Buyers in the fall will be seeing homes that have been on the market a little longer, may have had a couple price reductions, may be more willing to negotiate,”** Susan Thayer**, an agent with The Thayer Group in Denver, tells Realtor.com. “There are also plenty of sellers that put their homes on the market in the fall, so there will also be fresh, new listings.”

(Realtor.com)

Perks for buyers

Even more significantly for budget-conscious buyers, purchasing during this week offers potential savings of roughly $14,000 or more compared to the summer peak for a median-priced home of $416,000.

That discount is particularly welcome against the current backdrop of elevated borrowing costs, which recently hit a 15-month high of 6.76%, coupled with overall uncertainty.

“When we didn’t have the typical spring buying season, a lot of us assumed that the summer would be busy instead. But between the Iran war, tariff issues, and other challenges keeping buyers feeling uncertain, homes are sitting on the market longer, so there is more inventory to choose from,” says Victor Currie, real estate agent at Douglas Elliman Real Estate in Los Angeles.

“The positive is that even though mortgage rates are still high, that additional inventory means that buyers in a position to transact within the current conditions can probably find a home they actually want rather than a close approximation they would settle for in a busier market,” adds Currie.

For deal hunters, the week highlighted by Realtor.com economists also delivers a surge in price reductions, with an average of 5.7% of listings offering discounts.

(Realtor.com)

“More than a few sellers who came in hot with an aspirational list price who have finally come to their senses,” Michelle Schwinghammer, an agent at West + Main Homes in Denver, tells Realtor.com. “Those sellers could easily find themselves in a time crunch needing to sell this year, making them particularly willing to negotiate on price, terms, concessions, and timelines.”

Another perk of jumping into the market in the last week of September is facing fewer rival buyers. According to Jones, viewership per property is roughly 30% lower than the summer peak and about 14% below the average week.

“In the fall, the market slows, giving buyers not only more time to consider homes, but also less competition for the home they find and want to offer on,” adds Thayer.

How economists identify the ‘best week’

Historically, the window offering the most balanced conditions for buyers typically occurs in the fall. According to Jones, that is largely due to the seasonal shift in market dynamics driven by school schedules and weather patterns.

“Housing activity typically kicks off in the spring and peaks in the summer, as many families aim to move while children are out of school,” explains the economist. “These buyers are often motivated by access to top-rated schools and the desire to settle [in] before the new academic year.”

The beginning of fall is accompanied by a slump in demand, as families with school-age children often exit the market, and the remaining inventory lingers unsold, resulting in softening prices and more flexible sellers.

(Realtor.com)

This year, the national best week to buy arrives about two weeks earlier than in 2025 due to shifting inventory levels. However, as the report makes clear, conditions vary widely by market, placing the optimal buying window anywhere from early September to early December across the 50 largest metros.

To determine the most buyer-friendly timeframe for each market, Realtor.com experts analyzed six supply and demand metrics that follow seasonal patterns from 2018 until 2025 (excluding 2020, which marked the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic). The metrics include listing prices, inventory levels, fresh listings, time on the market, and views per property on Realtor.com.

The next step was to score each week of the year from 0 to 100 based on housing measures most favorable to buyers, such as competition in any given week, listing prices, market pace, likelihood of price reductions, and homebuyer demand.

Mortgage interest rates were not included in the score because they do not follow a seasonal pattern, but rather depend on economic conditions.

Each week was then ranked by the average of those scores. The week with the highest composite score was deemed the best time to buy, representing a balanced view of market conditions favorable for buyers.

Of the top 50 metros, five markets, including New York City and Milwaukee, hit their best time to buy before the national target.

Meanwhile, 14 metros—among them Los Angeles, Denver, and Philadelphia—share the ideal time to buy with the U.S., and 31 cities peak later in the season, offering some breathing room to aspiring buyers who don’t have all their ducks in a row just yet.

At the extreme end, Sun Belt hubs like Miami and Tampa, FL, which have more retirees and are less tied to school calendars, don’t hit their stride until December.

Insights from local real estate agents

This regional variation demonstrates how metro-level demographics and inventory shape each market, serving a reminder for buyers to adapt their strategy to their local area.

In Philadelphia, Andy Oei, real estate agent at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors, says that early fall offers buyers a greater negotiating leverage.

“By September and early October, sellers who have been on the market through the summer have received meaningful market feedback,” he says. “They have a much better sense of how buyers are responding to their price, and if the property remains available, they may be more receptive to negotiating.”

He warns, however, that leverage does not apply to every deal.

“The best homes in Philadelphia, those that are well-positioned, in desirable locations, and offer attributes that are difficult to replicate, can still sell quickly or above asking,” says Oei. “For my buyers, the fall opportunity isn’t necessarily about finding a lower price. It’s about having more leverage to buy the right property at the right value.”

In Denver, Schwinghammer predicts that fourth-quarter sellers will be much more open to “contingent offers,” hinging on a buyer’s existing home selling in advance, providing the necessary funds to get the deal across the line without relying on bridge loans.

In sunny L.A., Currie says that while the area lacks traditional fall weather changes, the October-to-December period is marked by heightened and more purposeful market activity.

“Buyers who are out looking tend to be more serious and focused, and sellers aren’t as burned out from lots of showings in the busier seasons interrupting their lives, so the transactions may feel a bit smoother,” says the agent. “It can also be very nice to get into contract in early fall so you can be in your new home in time for the holidays.”

What should buyers do?

As aspiring buyers plan out their next move, experts advise them to think carefully about their priorities.

If price is the main concern, Jones says waiting until later in the season can pay off, given that listing prices tend to soften closer to the holidays.

However, If buyers are seeking the widest and freshest selection of homes, jumping into the market early is their best bet.

For Currie, his advice to buyers remains consistent throughout the year.

“Buy what you can afford within the current market conditions,” he says. “Don’t overspend, so you won’t be hurt by unexpected changes in the economy or your personal circumstances.”

Meanwhile, Schwinghammer, urges her clients not to squander their negotiating power by limiting their search to brand-new listings.

“Instead, focus your attention on homes that have been on the market for two weeks or more,” she says. “There’s nothing ‘wrong’ with them, I promise. There’s just plenty of sellers in that boat because there’s not enough buyers to absorb all the inventory that exists.”

Thayer agrees, urging buyers to seek out homes that lingered through the summer and have had two to three price reductions.

“These sellers are more likely to work with a buyer on pricing and other items than a seller who has just put their home on the market,” she says.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/best-time-to-buy-week-of-september-27-2026/.

Can the Housing Market Survive More Fed Rate Hikes?

Keith Griffith — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Policymakers at the Federal Reserve are set to vote this week on interest rate policy, and markets are anticipating that they will raise rates for the first time in three years.

Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh and the other members of the Federal Open Market Committee will cast their votes on Wednesday, and a rate increase seems likely following a string of reports showing strong hiring and elevated inflation.

It would mark the first Fed rate hike since 2023, when the central bank concluded a rapid tightening cycle to address the worst inflation in decades. After several rounds of cuts in 2024 and 2025, the overnight rate sits at a current range of 3.50% to 3.75%.

That hasn’t been enough to keep recent inflation in check, with energy prices soaring this year as a result of disruption in global oil flows from the Iran war. But interest rates have been high enough to depress the housing market, which has now suffered through three straight years of weak sales.

Warsh admitted as much in his recent keynote address at the Fed’s annual symposium in Jackson Hole, WY, saying that the housing market is “showing strains” despite the overall resilience of the economy.

So, a new round of rate hikes raises the prospect of further pain for the housing market. Already, mortgage rates have risen to their highest level in more than a year, as markets respond to inflation and game out future Fed policy moves.

Mortgage rates averaged 6.76% this week, according to Freddie Mac. That’s the highest in 15 months, and rising rates have already put a dent in home sales for August, the latest data shows.

“Whether a Fed rate hike comes in September or not, the pressure on mortgage rates is here already and doesn’t show signs of relenting,” says Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale.

The economist says that although “momentum has weakened,” so far “buyers and sellers have navigated the higher rate environment relatively well.”

The Fed doesn’t directly set mortgage rates, which move in response to the bond market. Instead, the Fed sets the overnight rate for lending between commercial banks, using higher rates to fight inflation and lower rates to stimulate hiring.

What real estate agents say about Fed rates

Abraham Sarway, a real estate agent with Douglas Elliman in New York City, says the biggest impact of a Fed rate hike this week might be the blow it delivers to consumer confidence.

“If buyers believe rates will stay higher for longer, they become more deliberate about price, timing, and leverage,” he says. “That can slow transaction volume even if mortgage rates themselves do not move materially, because uncertainty tends to delay decisions before it changes values.”

Sarway believes that higher-for-longer rates may not immediately affect home prices, but they may keep buyers and sellers on the sidelines until confidence returns.

Jeremy Olsher, a principal at Mizner Residential Group in Florida, remains confident.

“The housing market is not about to go over a cliff,” he tells Realtor.com. But, the Fed’s “highly anticipated interest rate decision is forcing real estate professionals to pivot from ‘waiting for relief’ to navigating a persistent ‘higher-for-longer’ environment.”

In Nashville, TN, Compass real estate agent Jake Kennedy says he doesn’t expect the Fed meeting to change much of anything for his clients.

“Money has been expensive for a long time, and the majority of buyers and sellers have already adjusted their behavior,” says Kennedy. “I will tell my clients the same thing I have been telling them for years: Don’t buy or sell a house because of one Fed meeting. If you need to move, you will find a way to make the numbers work, even if it means renting for a year or two.”

However, Christine Rordam, a real estate agent in Orlando, FL, is concerned that a rate hike will have the biggest impact on those who are already feeling the biggest pinch: first-time buyers and the middle class.

“Luxury buyers and sellers are not concerned with the rates as much, and many second-home buyers have enough funds to buy their rates down to begin with, so not all segments of the market will be negatively impacted,” she says.

Rordam says that if mortgage rates remain at their elevated levels, sellers will be forced to compromise more on price, repairs, and concessions at closing.

“The sky is not falling, but sellers should be up to consider all offers now,” she says. “Some buyers will in fact sit the market out until conditions improve.”

Julie Gerstein contributed to this report.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/fed-meeting-interest-rate-housing-market-september-2026/.

Chase offers 25-bps mortgage rate discount through Oct. 4

Sarah Wolak — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The discount applies to new purchase and refinance loans

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/chase-limited-rate-discount/.

Colorado River water cuts are coming. What will they mean for housing?

Brooklee Han — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

New 2027 to 2028 rules cut lower basin deliveries by 1.25 million acre-feet as Lake Mead sits at 28% capacity

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/colorado-river-rules-lower-basin-cuts/.

Compass launches global division for cross-border referrals

HousingWire Automation — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

New internal tiers and tracking tools aim to standardize referrals while Compass remains licensed only in the U.S.

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/compass-global-division-referrals/.

EXCLUSIVE: Buffalo Bills Quarterback Josh Allen Trims Over Half a Million Dollars From His California Bachelor Pad

Kelsi Karruli — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has slashed over $500,000 from the asking price of his California mansion—two months after listing the dwelling.

The athlete, 30, said “I do” to his wife Hailee Steinfeld, 29, on May 31 at the San Ysidro Ranch in what the “Pitch Perfect 2” star later described as a day filled with “love and magic.”

Mere weeks after tying the knot, Allen listed his four-bedroom, three-bathroom Dana Point home, which has served as his bachelor pad since 2023, for $8.5 million.

The property was then swiped off the market in Jan. 2026, until now. Allen has relisted the home and reduced the asking price to $7.95 million, Realtor.com® can exclusively reveal.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has slashed over $500,000 from the asking price of his California mansion—two months after listing the dwelling. (Realtor.com)

The athlete, 30, said “I do” to his wife Hailee Steinfeld, 29, on May 31 at the San Ysidro Ranch in what the “Pitch Perfect 2” star later described as a day that was filled with “love and magic.” (Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Allen snapped up the 2,808-square-foot property for $7.2 million in 2023 via a trust managed by his financial advisor, Troy Nunes, and he is believed to have spent a considerable amount of time during the offseason at the abode, soaking up the warm weather after a traditionally frosty Buffalo winter.

The four-bedroom, three-bathroom dwelling is located inside a “prestigious” guard-gated community that features its own private beach club—and offers proximity to a host of nearby five-star resorts, including the Ritz Carlton.

According to the listing, the property embodies “classic mid-century California architecture” and “is set behind the exclusive 24-hour guard-gated enclave of Monarch Bay.

“Positioned on one of the neighborhoods larger private lots, it offers exceptional potential in a highly sought-after coastal community.”

Surrounded by lush greenery, the modern pad welcomes guests with a black-and-white facade and gated entrance.

Upon entering the home, visitors are greeted with an open floor that features an expansive living area complete with large glass ceiling-to-floor windows and a cozy fireplace.

“Large openings with sliding doors create a natural flow between indoor and outdoor living, extending the space into the California sunshine,” the listing adds.

Adjacent to the living room, there is the chic dining area, which boasts the perfect dinner party location.

Allen snapped up the 2,808-square-foot property for $7.2 million in 2023 and is believed to have spent a considerable amount of time during offseason at the abode, soaking up the warm weather after a traditionally frosty Buffalo winter. (Realtor.com)

The primary suite follows the same grey and white theme that is present throughout the home and acts as a “private retreat with a sitting area and direct access to the outdoors, offering a true indoor-outdoor experience,” according to the listing. (Realtor.com)

The chef’s kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and chic white countertops that contrast with the grey cabinets.

The listing reads, “The formal dining area is perfect for entertaining beneath an elegant chandelier, while the kitchen features chic quartz countertops and ample storage.”

The primary bathroom features elegant his-and-her vanities and a large glass shower.

Three of the four bedrooms boast en suite bathrooms and open to outdoor spaces.

“The nearly 12, 000-square-foot flat lot backs to Monarch Bays private park with direct gated access, providing a perfect canvas for a resort-style backyard with pool, spa, and custom amenities.

“Residents enjoy exclusive membership to the private Monarch Bay Beach Club, managed by the Waldorf Astoria, offering beach butler service, coastal dining, oceanfront lounging, and private event space.

“Convenient access to world-class golf, hiking, Dana Point Harbor, and luxury resorts completes the unparalleled lifestyle,” the listing adds.

Although Allen, who was born in Firebaugh, CA, spends the majority of the season in Buffalo, he has maintained a close connection to the Golden State.

“Convenient access to world-class golf, hiking, Dana Point Harbor, and luxury resorts completes the unparalleled lifestyle,” the listing adds. (Realtor.com)

The primary bathroom features elegant his and her vanities and a large glass shower. (Realtor.com)

Although Allen, who was born in Firebaugh, CA, spends the majority of the season in Buffalo, he has maintained a close connection to the Golden State. (Realtor.com)

The sporting sensation also boasts another very sizable dwelling much closer to the Buffalo Bills’ training ground and stadium: a custom-built megamansion that he had erected on a plot of land he snapped up in 2021 for the relatively low price of $500,000.

Located in the tony community of Orchard Park, approximately eight minutes from Highmark Stadium, the home features a stunning swimming pool, pool house, and a private sports court that can be used for both basketball and tennis.

It’s the perfect place for Allen to lap up the last of the warm weather when he returns to Buffalo for preseason training camp, which kicks off on July 24.

However, thanks to his fiancée, the NFL pro also has his pick of properties over on the West Coast—where Steinfeld also owns a dazzling abode, which she picked up for $8 million back in 2021.

Located in Encino, CA, more than an hour away from Allen’s Dana Point dwelling, the home was previously owned by rocker John Fogerty, who sold it to Steinfeld for $7.98 million—more than $3 million more than he had paid for it in 2018.

The actress’ property spans an impressive 9,000 square feet and features six bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Much like her beau’s abode in Buffalo, it has a sizable private pool, which can be accessed via a motorized window wall that opens up from the main living area into the backyard.

If the pair are hoping to invest in property together, they may look elsewhere in California, specifically Malibu, which is where Allen popped the question to Steinfeld on Nov. 22, 2024.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/sports/buffalo-bills-quarterback-josh-allen-reduces-price-california-home/.

EXCLUSIVE: Maria Menounos Lists Longtime Encino Mansion for $7 Million

Kelsi Karruli — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

TV personality Maria Menounos has listed her longtime Encino mansion for $6.995 million, two decades after she and husband Keven Undergaro made the sprawling California estate their home.

The 48-year-old media personality’s six-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom residence hit the market for just shy of $7 million, offering a rare glimpse inside the property that Menounos has called home for much of her career.

As per the listing, which is held by Andrew Manning of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, the residence spans 5,145 square feet and sits on 0.8 acres in Encino’s sought-after Rancho enclave, where it is tucked away behind towering hedges and gates.

“Hidden behind towering privacy hedges in Encino’s famed “Rancho Estates,” this multi-structure tennis court compound delivers the ultimate sanctuary where high-end luxury seamlessly meets practical family livability,” the listing describes.

The property, which was built in 1938, was snapped up by the couple in 2005 for $2.3 million, and in the decades since, has been “renovated to perfection.”

TV personality Maria Menounos has listed her longtime Encino mansion for $6.995 million, two decades after she and husband Keven Undergaro made the sprawling California estate their home. (Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Lee)

As per the listing, which is held by Andrew Manning of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, the residence spans 5,145 square feet and sits on 0.8 acres in Encino’s sought-after Rancho enclave, where it is tucked away behind towering hedges and gates. (Realtor.com)

The property, which was built in 1938, was snapped up by the couple in 2005 for $2.3 million, and in the decades since, has been “renovated to perfection.” (Realtor.com)

The luxe dwelling has been designed for “grand-scale entertaining” and “everyday wellness,” as per the listing.

Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with checkered flooring and a grand staircase.

The living room is the perfect place to unwind thanks to its cozy fireplace and French doors that open up to the mature landscaping.

Menounos has been open about her attachment to the property over the years, even offering a look inside one of its most unique spaces—her elaborate private screening room—in a 2017 interview with the Los Angeles Times.

At the time, Menounos revealed that she and Undergaro transformed what had once been a classroom into an extravagant home theater complete with 15 reclining leather seats, beds for napping and its own bathroom and shower.

The space became a favorite retreat for the couple, who Menounos said would sometimes spend entire weekends there watching movies and TV shows.

But the screening room is just one of a lengthy list of amenities found throughout the expansive compound.

The home boasts a renovated open-concept kitchen designed to serve as a central gathering space, while dual staircases lead to the upper level, where the secondary bedrooms sit alongside an expansive primary suite with generous closet space.

The luxe dwelling has been designed for “grand-scale entertaining” and “everyday wellness,” as per the listing. (Realtor.com)

Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with checkered flooring and a grand staircase. (Realtor.com)

Elsewhere on the grounds is a separate gym overlooking the swimming pool, as well as a detached guesthouse that can double as an office or creative space.

Perhaps unsurprisingly for Menounos, who has spent decades working in television, radio and podcasting, the property also features its own separate podcast studio and side office.

Entertainment is a major focus throughout the estate, which includes not only the indoor theater but also an outdoor screening area and a separate barroom designed by “Bar Rescue” star Jon Taffer.

Outside, the grounds offer a private swimming pool, tennis court and sprawling lawns surrounded by mature landscaping.

There are also around 16 fruit trees on the property—including orange, tangerine, grapefruit, lemon and lime trees—as well as a brick-enclosed vegetable garden.

The sprawling motor court and covered parking areas provide enough room for numerous vehicles, while a circular driveway adds another layer of privacy and convenience.

Menounos has lived at the property for around two decades, with public records indicating the home last traded for $2.3 million in 2005.

Over the years, the residence has served as the backdrop to major milestones in Menounos’ personal and professional life.

Menounos has lived at the property for around two decades, with public records indicating the home last traded for $2.3 million in 2005. (Realtor.com)

Over the years, the residence has served as the backdrop to major milestones in Menounos’ personal and professional life. (Realtor.com)

The home has also previously been offered as a luxury rental, hitting the market for $40,000 a month in October 2025 before the asking price was lowered to $35,000. (Realtor.com)

Now, Menounos appears ready to officially part ways with her longtime residence, placing the estate on the market for $6.995 million. (Realtor.com)

She and Undergaro, who began dating in 1998, tied the knot during a live New Year’s Eve television broadcast in 2017 before celebrating with a second wedding in Greece the following year.

In June 2023, the couple welcomed their daughter, Athena, via surrogate.

The home has also previously been offered as a luxury rental, hitting the market for $40,000 a month in October 2025 before the asking price was lowered to $35,000.

Now, Menounos appears ready to officially part ways with her longtime residence, placing the estate on the market for $6.995 million.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/maria-menounos-encino-california-mansion-for-sale/.

Flock cameras changing due diligence for agents, homebuyers

Jonathan Delozier — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Experts say HOA documents remain behind the times regarding use of Flock and similar technology

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/flock-cameras-changing-due-diligence-for-agents-homebuyers/.

Glidden’s 2027 Color of the Year Promises a ‘Reset’ Without the Remodel

Allaire Conte — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

For homeowners craving a change but not necessarily the price tag—or upheaval—of a renovation, Glidden is offering a timely proposition: it’s time for a simple reset.

On Monday, the paint brand named Artifact, a smoky midtone blue, its Color of the Year for 2027. But the thinking behind the shade may say as much about how people are feeling about their homes as what they want them to look like.

“Our campaign for the year is around Artifact, and it is about resetting the room, skipping the remodel,” Ashley McCollum, Glidden color marketing manager, tells Realtor.com®.

McCollum says Glidden’s consumer research pointed toward a broader desire for balance, control and smaller, more intentional changes rather than wholesale reinvention.

The broader housing economy tells a similar story: 2026 is on track to be the slowest year for home sales since 2011, while homeowner spending on improvements and maintenance is expected to slow as high interest rates and building-material costs squeeze household budgets.

Against that backdrop, a paint color pitched as a way to make the home you already have feel different without tearing it apart has particular resonance.

Why 2027 is about a ‘reset,’ not a reinvention

Glidden doesn’t say the housing market or remodeling costs specifically drove its selection. Instead, McCollum says the company looks across consumer research and broader cultural and societal shifts when forecasting its colors.

Color drenching gives Artifact more impact by carrying the same shade across walls, trim and architectural details. (Glidden Paints)

For 2027, those signals converged around what Glidden calls “finding balance”—and, more specifically, a desire for smaller, intentional adjustments rather than starting over.

“People are really taking a step back, and they’re really focusing on what works for them, and figuring out what matters,” McCollum says. “Not a reinvention, not looking to start from scratch, but really looking for really thoughtful adjustments that they can make to their lives to make everything feel more balanced and calm.”

That represents something of an evolution from Glidden’s recent colors of the year.

Artifact can be color-blocked with 2026’s Warm Mahogany, reflecting the move toward mixing warm and cool tones. (Glidden Paints)

Purple Basil, its deep-purple pick for 2025, reflected what McCollum described as consumers becoming less concerned about resale value and more willing to choose bold colors simply because they liked them. Warm Mahogany followed in 2026.

Artifact still embraces color, but with a different aim. McCollum describes it as a warm, smoky midtone blue meant to feel calm and grounded rather than transformative.

And crucially for homeowners trying to make changes without triggering a much larger project, it was selected to work with what may already be in the room.

A new color without changing everything else

Although blue is generally thought of as a cool color, McCollum says Artifact sits on the warmer end of the spectrum.

That allows it to work alongside a range of existing finishes—including brushed nickel, stainless steel, black, bronze and brass—without requiring homeowners to change those elements, too.

Artifact’s warmer blue undertone makes it easy to pair with brass, bronze, black and other existing finishes. (Glidden Paints)

The same principle applies to how much of a room homeowners actually paint.

Asked how a cost-constrained homeowner could get the biggest sense of a reset without taking on a much larger renovation, McCollum suggested concentrating color where it will make the most visual impact.

“Every space is different, but I love fun, unconventional uses of color,” she says. “So, if you’re looking to really reset and make an impact, maybe you have bookcases in your space, and maybe you paint the bookcases, or maybe you paint the backs of the bookcases to give it a little bit more fun and flair to it.”

Rather than automatically repainting an entire room, she recommends identifying what the eye notices first.

“Think about where you want your focus to be in a space,” McCollum says. “Like if there’s a certain area that you want the attention to be, or you want to draw the eye immediately when you walk in. Think about that, and think about how you can apply color there, and maybe start there.”

Glidden says Artifact reflects a move away from algorithm-driven perfection toward more personal design choices. (Glidden Paints)

One color can do more than one job

Homeowners can also create more visual variation without buying several different colors.

McCollum suggests using Artifact in multiple sheens—for example, eggshell on walls, semi-gloss on trim and a matte or flat finish on a mantel or molding.

“Using that same color but having different sheens will draw your eye to different places of the space,” she says. “So adding dimension back in with sheens like that is one example.”

Painting the ceiling in Artifact turns the “fifth wall” into an unexpected focal point. (Glidden Paints)

One place McCollum does recommend investing a little extra effort is before opening the full gallon.

Lighting can dramatically change how a color appears from one home to another—and even over the course of a single day.

“Think lighting. That is your number one, like in my book, player of how a color will look in your space,” McCollum says. “So always test it first.”

Her advice is to live with a sample before committing.

“Take the samples home. Take a look at it. Live with it maybe for a couple days if you’re unsure and view it in those different lighting conditions. But lighting’s super key.”

Artifact can also work outdoors, from full exteriors to doors, shutters and covered porch ceilings.

That advice fits the larger thinking behind Artifact itself. At a moment when remodeling growth is slowing and the costs of homeownership continue to eat into household budgets, Glidden’s 2027 color isn’t really selling reinvention.

It’s selling the possibility that a small change can make staying put feel a little less like being stuck.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/glidden-2027-color-of-the-year-artifact/.

How DRB uses customer intel to connect land, product, and sales

John McManus — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

DRB sales and marketing spans research, digital journey, sales, and realty, tying customer insights to land and product

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/char-kurihara-drb-interwoven-leadership/.

I Started Buying Rentals at 46. By 50, They’ll Replace My Salary.

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Kent Long wanted passive income. The problem? All those gurus and guides online were only selling a fantasy. The one thing that seemed to actually generate income: real estate. When […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1330.

Kamala Harris’ $8 Million Malibu Mansion Targeted by Trespasser Who ‘Illegally Entered’ Property

Kelsi Karruli — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ $8.15 million Malibu, CA, property was targeted by an alleged trespasser after a woman illegally entered the grounds—prompting authorities to step up patrols around the high-profile home.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff’s property at around 10:30 p.m. Friday after the couple’s private security team reported a suspicious person.

According to authorities, the unidentified woman was asked to leave the property and initially complied.

However, she later returned, prompting security personnel to contact law enforcement.

Deputies ultimately took a trespassing report, but the woman was not arrested and left voluntarily without further incident, as first reported by TMZ.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ $8.15 million Malibu, CA, property was targeted by an alleged trespasser after a woman illegally entered the grounds—prompting authorities to step up patrols around the high-profile home. (EFF KOWALSKY / AFP) (Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images)

It remains unclear why the woman went to the property.

A spokesperson for Harris confirmed that neither the former vice president nor Emhoff was home at the time, adding that security personnel intervened before the woman was able to reach the residence itself.

“Last night, security personnel stopped an individual who illegally entered Vice President Harris and Second Gentleman Emhoff’s property before the individual reached the home. Vice President Harris and Second Gentleman Emhoff were not present. They are grateful to the security and law enforcement personnel who responded swiftly,” spokesperson Eduardo Negrón said.

The incident comes just months after Harris and Emhoff purchased the sprawling Malibu property for $8.15 million.

Following the trespassing incident, Lt. Jason Duron of the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station said deputies would increase patrols around the property as a precaution.

“We’re gonna keep an eye on the location. I’m directing my deputies to keep an eye on it,” Duron said, according to the California Post.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff’s property at around 10:30 p.m. Friday after the couple’s private security team reported a suspicious person. (Instagram/Kamala Harris)

According to authorities, the unidentified woman was asked to leave the property and initially complied. (Bing Guan/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Harris no longer receives U.S. Secret Service protection after President Donald Trump revoked an extension of her security detail in August 2025.

Former vice presidents are typically entitled to Secret Service protection for six months after leaving office.

Before departing the White House, former President Joe Biden extended Harris’ protection beyond that period, but Trump terminated the additional coverage effective Sept. 1, 2025.

In addition to her sprawling Malibu abode, Harris also holds the keys to a Hawaii hideaway and was previously seen touring a $20,000-a-month New York City apartment in January 2025—the same month she purchased her $8 million mansion.

Harris lost the 2024 presidential election to Republican candidate Donald Trump and ended her four-year run as vice president on Jan. 20, when **J.D. Vance **took over the role.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/kamala-harris-malibu-mansion-trespasser-illegally-entered-property/.

Lennar valuation near tangible book puts margins in spotlight

Dan Oppenheim — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The stock trades at about 1.05x tangible book after a 16% decline, with ROE most sensitive to margin shifts

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/lennar-valuation-book-margins/.

Longbridge Financial parent plans $100M note offering

Sarah Wolak — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Ellington Financial said it expects to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ellington-100m-notes-2030/.

Mortgage Rates Are at 15-Month Highs—but Waiting To Buy May Backfire, Study Finds

Anna D'Amico — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage hit a 15-month high of 6.76% last week, increasing from the previous week’s average rate of 6.71%.

While potential buyers often wait for high rates to fall, buying immediately resulted in a better outcome than waiting for potential market improvements in 61% of scenarios, according to a new historical analysis from top wholesale lender AD Mortgage.

The national mortgage broker analyzed home prices, mortgage rates, and the median household income in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., between the years of 2000 and 2022 to determine whether homebuyers benefitted from waiting two years to make a purchase while accumulating additional savings.

The scenario with the lower total purchase and financing cost was considered the favorable outcome. Across all years and all 50 states and D.C., buying immediately outperformed waiting in 61% of scenarios.

Florida and California had the highest immediate buying advantages at 74%, which AD Mortgage attributed to long-term home price growth in the two states. West Virginia had the lowest buy-now advantage at 39% and was one of only two states where the buying advantage was under 50%.

At different periods of the study, waiting proved to be beneficial. From 2007 to 2010, when home prices were falling rapidly, buying immediately was advantageous in 0% of scenarios. Still, purchasing immediately when ready dominated the overall results.

“After 30 years in the mortgage industry my advice to home buyers is not to wait if the deal makes sense to you,” said Max Slyusarchuk, CEO of AD Mortgage. “Trying to predict the market is not a guarantee as this study proves.”

Although mortgage rate is discussed as a major factor in timing to buy a home, waiting for rates to drop doesn’t always result in a better buying opportunity.

From 2000 to 2002, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate decreased from 8.05% to 6.54%. Despite the better financing rate, buying immediately in 2000 resulted in a better financial outcome in 34% of states compared to waiting until 2002. Changes in home prices, income and savings growth, and local markets are vital figures in addition to mortgage rates.

It’s important for buyers to focus on their own financial readiness to buy a home, rather than attempting to time a market that is famously unpredictable.

“People think things are always going to get better. They think if they hold off home prices are going to decrease, rates will drop, and no one else will be in the market for the same home they are looking for,” Nick Booth, a real estate agent in Salt Lake City, tells Realtor.com®.

While potential buyers often wait for high rates to fall, buying immediately resulted in a better outcome than waiting for potential market improvements in 61% of scenarios, according a new study.

However, falling mortgage rates can spur increased demand from buyers, increasing competition and driving home prices higher.

This was seen in the COVID-19 pandemic housing boom, when historically low mortgage rates brought hordes of new buyers to the market and, in turn, caused home prices to skyrocket. According to the Realtor.com analysis, home prices at the end of 2020 were roughly 7.6% higher than they were at the end of 2019.

“This is one of the biggest mistakes that buyer make. There are hundreds of thousands of people sitting on the bench right now waiting for interest rates to drop in order to buy. As soon as that happens, the market is flooded with buyers,” Booth says.

He recommends that buyers make their move when they can afford to, and refinance when mortgage rates drop. Loan rates can be adjusted in the future; the price you purchase your home for cannot.

“No one knows where things are going to go. The best time to buy is always 10 years ago. Instead of putting things off and waiting for the prices to increase, getting in now is the best option,” says Booth.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/mortgage-rates-high-wait-to-buy-2026/.

Nonbank HELOC lenders gain market share as tappable equity hits $11 trillion

HousingWire Automation — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Nonbanks grew HELOC originations about 140% from 2023 to 2025, versus 7% to 20% at depositories, a new white paper says

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/nonbank-heloc-share-equity/.

Regulators imply a ban without saying it, real estate agents should read the words

Darryl Davis — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Soft phrasing can indicate guidance or opinion, and agents can preserve compliant options by parsing what is actually prohibited

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/read-regulatory-language-precisely/.

Scammers Are Trying To Sell Homes They Don’t Own—and Attempts Have More Than Doubled

Allaire Conte — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A growing real estate scam starts with an audacious premise: A criminal pretends to be a property owner and tries to sell a home or piece of land that does not belong to them.

And title professionals say they’re seeing a lot more of it.

In a survey released on Monday from the American Land Title Association, 59% of title firms reported encountering at least one seller impersonation fraud attempt in the prior calendar year—more than double the 28% that reported one in ALTA’s 2024 survey.

Nearly 1 in 4 respondents (23%) said they had encountered three or more attempts in the month before the latest survey, up from just 4% two years earlier.

The FBI has separately warned that a related form of property fraud is on the rise. In April 2025, its Boston division said it was seeing a “steady increase” in reports of quitclaim deed fraud, including cases where owners had no idea their property had been sold—or was in the process of being sold.

The new ALTA findings offer a closer look at how criminals select properties, impersonate their owners, and attempt to turn someone else’s real estate into cash.

How do you sell a home you don’t own?

Seller impersonation fraud occurs when a criminal assumes the identity of a property owner and attempts to illegally sell the property. ALTA says fraudsters may use the actual owner’s identifying information and even legitimate notary credentials without the notary’s knowledge.

Finding potential targets may be surprisingly straightforward.

“Most property records are online and can be queried in systematic ways,” says Howard Jacobson, a real estate lawyer, investor, and developer.

The FBI has similarly warned that scammers comb public property records looking for vacant land and properties without a mortgage or other lien. They can then impersonate the owner, approach a real estate agent, and ask to list the property. In some cases, the real owner does not learn what happened until after the sale.

“It boils down to property owner impersonation,” Joe Cardosi, a special agent with the FBI’s Newark field office, warned in 2024. “These bad actors are able to use electronic communications to convince everyone at every level of a property sale that they’re the rightful owner of the property and, therefore, the rightful recipient of the sale proceeds. But they don’t own the property.”

In April, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched an office to combat deed theft in the city. (Anadolu via Getty Images)

The scam is evolving

ALTA’s latest survey suggests criminals still favor properties that are easier to transact without attracting the real owner’s attention: 72% of respondents said absentee ownership was at least somewhat common among properties targeted in seller impersonation fraud, while 68% said the same of properties owned free and clear.

Those figures do not mean 68% of paid-off properties are targets. Rather, they show which characteristics title professionals commonly encounter in these schemes.

Vacant land remains by far the most commonly reported property target, cited by 82% of respondents. But the latest survey suggests the target pool is widening.

The share of respondents identifying primary residences as a somewhat common target rose 13 percentage points from 2024, to 25%. Vacation homes, rentals, and agricultural land also registered double-digit increases.

The FBI has observed a similar shift. Its Newark division previously warned that scammers who had initially focused heavily on vacant land were expanding to other types of property as real estate professionals became more familiar with the scheme.

The tactics are evolving, too.

In ALTA’s survey, 87% of respondents said spoofed contact information was at least somewhat common in seller impersonation schemes. Seventy percent reported criminals using owners’ birth dates, while 60% cited existing knowledge of financial information and 55% cited Social Security numbers.

Deepfake technology is now part of the picture as well: 58% of respondents rated deepfake images or voices as at least somewhat common, although ALTA asked about the technology for the first time this year, so the survey cannot show whether its use is increasing.

If the sale goes through, catching the criminal may not fix it

ALTA’s data includes both successful and unsuccessful attempts. But when the fraud gets through, the financial consequences can be substantial.

Among firms that encountered at least one seller impersonation attempt, 25% also reported a paid claim tied to the fraud. Among the subset that reported a claim and disclosed its average cost, half said their average claims exceeded $100,000.

The FBI does not separately track losses from quitclaim deed fraud. But from 2019 through 2023, 2,301 victims across Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island reported more than $61.5 million in losses in the broader real estate fraud category.

“Folks across the region are having their roots literally pulled out from under them and are being left with no place to call home. They’re suffering deeply personal losses that have inflicted a significant financial and emotional toll, including shock, anger, and even embarrassment,” said Jodi Cohen, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston division.

A completed fraudulent sale can also create competing legal problems for the original owner and an unsuspecting buyer.

Florida real estate attorney Romy B. Jurado represented a client in a related case in which criminals allegedly manipulated control of an LLC that owned real estate and then caused properties to be sold to third-party buyers. The FBI became involved and arrests followed, she says, but by then the properties had already changed hands.

“Catching the criminal and recovering the property or money are entirely different issues,” Jurado says.

How homeowners can protect themselves

The FBI recommends that owners regularly monitor public property records and enroll in deed or title notification programs offered by county clerks or registrars where available. Owners of vacant properties can also set online alerts for their addresses and pay attention to unexpected changes in tax or utility bills.

Those measures may help homeowners discover suspicious activity sooner, but they do not necessarily stop someone from trying.

“Preventing the fraud you described is hard,” Jacobson says. Many local recording offices allow owners to request notice when a document is recorded against their property.

That may be especially important in a scam built around keeping the real owner out of the transaction entirely: By the time they realize someone has been pretending to be them, the fake seller may already have found a real buyer.

That’s why the FBI also urges proactive action.

“We are urging the public to heed this warning and to take proactive steps to avoid losing your property,” Cohen added. “Anyone who is a victim of this type of fraud should report it to us.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/seller-impersonation-fraud-home-title-scam-alta-survey/.

Seller impersonation fraud more than doubled since 2024

Jonathan Delozier — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The share of firms reporting an attempt in the prior month rose from 19% to 45%

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/seller-impersonation-fraud-more-than-doubled-since-2024/.

South River CEO Tyler Plack on reverse mortgage technology and origination strategies

Neil Pierson — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The newly appointed CEO explains how tech is reshaping reverse lending, including a 75% reduction in QC findings at South River

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/tyler-plack-south-river-ceo-reverse-mortgage/.

The Fed is likely to raise interest rates as inflation persists. What that means for consumers

TCS Property Management — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to raise its benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point at its September meeting.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/14/fed-rate-hike-anticipated-what-it-means-for-your-money.html.

Two Rentals, $3,000 Each: The Guide to Closing with Close-to-Nothing

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

You don’t have to live near your rental, or bring a huge check to closing, to build a real estate portfolio. Today’s guest closed both her deals with only $3,000 […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-770.

Vesta adds Mezzo integration to expand lender access to verification providers

HousingWire Automation — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

For lenders under margin and efficiency pressure, the integration aims to reduce the IT burden of adding vendors

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/vesta-mezzo-integration-one-to-many-verification-architecture/.

Renters Cost Burdened in Bustleton and East Germantown: Growing Affordability Crisis

TCS Property Management — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Renters in Bustleton and East Germantown are increasingly cost-burdened, according to new data from the Philadelphia Federal Reserve’s neighborhood housing affordability tracker. The findings highlight a growing challenge for tenants in two of Northeast Philadelphia’s most established rental markets.

The Data

The Philadelphia Fed’s analysis, covering the period from January through June 2026, found that:

52% of renters in Bustleton spend more than 30% of their household income on rent and utilities, the threshold for being considered cost-burdened
48% of renters in East Germantown exceed the same threshold
The median rent in Bustleton rose to $1,650 per month, up 5.8% year-over-year
The median rent in East Germantown rose to $1,420 per month, up 4.9% year-over-year
Median household income in both neighborhoods grew by only 2.1% over the same period

The gap between rent growth and wage growth is the core issue. When housing costs rise faster than incomes, a growing share of households cross the 30% cost-burden threshold, leaving less money for food, transportation, healthcare, and savings.

Why Bustleton and East Germantown

Both neighborhoods have seen increased demand from renters displaced from more expensive areas of the city. Bustleton, with its strong transit access via the Roosevelt Boulevard corridor and relatively affordable single-family homes, has attracted families looking for suburban-style living at city prices.

East Germantown, benefiting from spillover demand from Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill, has seen investor activity increase as buyers seek properties that can be converted to rentals. The neighborhood’s historic housing stock and tree-lined streets make it attractive to renters, but the increased competition has pushed rents upward.

The Single-Family Rental Factor

Single-family rentals make up a significant portion of the rental stock in both neighborhoods. In Bustleton, approximately 60% of rental units are single-family homes, and in East Germantown, the figure is closer to 55%. This means SFR operators have a direct impact on affordability in these communities.

For SFR operators, the cost-burden data raises important questions about pricing strategy:

Rent increases: Pushing rents at market rates may be economically optimal for individual properties but contributes to community-level affordability stress
Tenant retention: Retaining tenants at modest increases reduces turnover costs and helps stabilize the community
Long-term sustainability: Neighborhoods where renters are severely cost-burdened tend to see higher eviction rates, higher turnover, and eventually declining property values

What’s Being Done

Several initiatives are targeting housing affordability in Northeast Philadelphia:

The Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation has expanded its homeowner repair program, which helps long-time residents stay in their homes rather than selling to investors
Council members in the districts covering Bustleton and East Germantown have proposed tax abatement programs for landlords who keep rents below market for income-qualified tenants
Community development corporations in both neighborhoods are exploring community land trust models to create permanently affordable rental units

Outlook

Without meaningful income growth or new affordable supply, the cost burden in Bustleton and East Germantown is likely to worsen. For SFR operators, the data suggests a balanced approach: rent increases should be moderate, tenant retention should be prioritized, and operators should be aware of the community impact of their pricing decisions.

Construction robots are tackling America's housing shortage, but we're a long way from humanoid homebuilders

TCS Property Management — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

America’s housing market is short inventory and workers, pressuring home affordability. Constructions robots are reality, but to date not humanoid homebuilders.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/12/housing-shortage-home-construction-robots.html.

DSCR loans are booming amid fragmented underwriting standards

Flávia Furlan Nunes — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

After rampant fraud in Baltimore made headlines, underwriting guidelines and elevated fraud risks have the market on high alert

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/dscr-loans-volume-growth-fraud-risks-underwriting/.

EXCLUSIVE: Konya Hendricks Schuh Has ‘Bigger’ Renovations in Store for ‘Betting on Beloit’ Season 2

Hannah Chambers — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Beloit was once voted the “worst city” in Wisconsin, but Konya Hendricks Schuh is working to change that, one renovation at a time.

“Betting on Beloit,” the A&E reality show that follows Konya and her close-knit crew as they seek to transform the city they’ve long seen potential in, is back for a second season of purchasing and renovating homes in the city’s historic district to attract homebuyers.

Konya is the daughter of the richest self-made woman in America, billionaire Diane Hendricks, who has long been on a mission to revitalize the town in which the family has built their hugely-successful business, ABC Supply.

Together, they joined forces in season one to restore local historic homes, but they have bigger plans ahead. They’re joined by Konya’s husband, Matt Schuh—a plumbing contractor and former home builder. Her good friend and project manager, Pete Woodkey, realtor nephew, Connor Fox, and designer friends, Kristin Wagner and Mitch Conklin, are in on the efforts, too.

“In the beginning, we were tackling one house at a time,” Konya exclusively tells Realtor.com®. “But now, in season two, because we’re deeper in, I’m really seeing full blocks in the neighborhood really transform.”

“Betting on Beloit” has returned for a second season of renovations aimed at transforming the Wisconsin town. (Courtesy of A&E Networks)

Although Konya maintains that renovating individual homes is a “pretty minute part of a bigger story,” the impact the show has had in its first 12 episodes is already felt around town.

“There’s so much pride and momentum happening right now in Beloit, and you can see it. You can feel the energy,” she says.

Owning a handful of businesses in the area—including commercial buildings such as hotels and restaurants—Konya notes that her family has “a lot of gratitude to the city and the people of Beloit,” and that this effort is a way to invest in the community around them.

Konya is personally interested in making sure the population has access to “every stage” of housing, “from affordable housing all the way to executive housing.”

And although the family has seen financial success through their various business endeavors, their efforts to breathe new life into Beloit have not yet brought in any dough.

Konya Hendricks Schuh and her close-knit crew do not make profit on the flips, viewing it as an investment in the community. (Courtesy of A&E Networks)

“We would love to become profitable at some point, just so we can reinvest in the mission,” Konya says. “But we are still losing dollars on these houses.”

With that said, she notes their losses are “becoming a bit smaller,” as they’ve become “more sophisticated” in their operation.

Last season marked Konya’s first foray into reality television, and she learned a lot from the experience.

“I really enjoyed it,” she says. “I want to change the narrative about Beloit. The fact that it’s on television is just so great, because I get to share my pride in our city with a broader audience. It’s been a great experience for me so far, and I feel really supported.”

As the gang learns from their mistakes, “Betting on Beloit” is scaling up for season two, with higher stakes and pricier properties.

Season one marked Konya’s first television experience, and she’s enjoyed seeing the pride in the town as a result. (Courtesy of A&E Networks)

“We tackle a lot bigger projects in season two,” Konya teases. “It’s just a continuation of building on season one and building on our mission.”

A passionate designer, Konya puts a lot of love into each renovation, but must carefully toe the line between putting her signature “traditional, tailored, and elevated” style into each project and creating a space that will attract a variety of buyers.

“We always pay really close attention to [trends] for resale, because ultimately, these houses are not for me, and they’re for another buyer, so I try not to do anything too off-the-wall,” Konya explains. “My overall aesthetic, I consider it very timeless, so I think that works well for listing it for sale.”

Although a timeless aesthetic is the goal, Konya believes that “homes should not be one size fits all.”

“I feel like there’s a lot more individualism in home design right now,” she says. “Just that warmth… it feels less sterile than trends were going for a while. Homes feel a bit more collected and warm.”

“Betting on Beloit” airs Saturdays at 12:00 p.m. ET on A&E.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/reality-tv/konya-hendricks-schuh-betting-on-beloit-season-2/.

Housing market faces headwinds as mortgage rates move above 7%

Logan Mohtashami — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mortgage spreads continue to soften the blow amid Iran conflict

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-market-faces-headwinds-as-mortgage-rates-move-above-7/.

Rare $18M Salmon-Pink 1938 Colonial Listing Hits the Palm Beach Market

Larissa Runkle — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In a town dominated by traditional Spanish architecture, 198 Via Marina breaks all the rules. Drenched in vivid salmon pink, this 1938 Georgian-Colonial estate is a rare, vibrant departure from Palm Beach’s classic design landscape.

Located at 198 Via Marina, the 1938 residence has four bedrooms and was recently listed for $18 million. The property is represented by Jim McCann of Premier Estate Properties, Inc.-Palm Beach.

The timing of this eccentric home’s construction was no accident. By the mid-1930s, Palm Beach had turned away from Mediterranean Revival designs toward Georgian and Colonial-style homes, and this house landed squarely in that shift.

The bright pink home is just two blocks from the water (Realtor.com)

Views from inside the foyer (Realtor.com)

A sunroom overlooking the pool (Realtor.com)

At 4,660 square feet, the house includes a primary suite, a separate guest suite, two additional bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms across three levels linked by an elevator.

Every room of the house feels like its own independent space. The entry hall is a soft celadon green, its walls divided into panels and banded in white classical ornament and round medallions. Parquet floors are bold in rust and black hues, and geometric patterns repeat throughout the home in its various tile, marble and wood finishes.

A curved staircase with white wrought-iron scrollwork rises from the foyer, a second set of stairs serves the kitchen wing, and built-in bookshelves line the library.

A Barbie-pink formal dining room comes with a crystal chandelier, and the kitchen is outfitted with modern appliances and extensive custom cabinetry.

Beyond the formal rooms are a gallery, a sunroom and a den, along with a 34-foot terrace that runs along the west side. Upstairs, the primary suite has its own balcony and a sitting room, and a covered balcony spans the rear facade.

Unusually for a town built on sand, a 1,802-square-foot basement sits below, holding a gym and air-conditioned storage. A detached office and a three-car garage occupy the rear of the lot.

The kitchen comes with marble countertops and ample storage space (Realtor.com)

The pool is accessible from both the main house and guest suite (Realtor.com)

A small courtyard completes the outdoor offerings on this 0.4 acre lot (Realtor.com)

Outdoors, an inground pool anchors a nearly half-acre lot on a leafy street that’s just two blocks from the water.

The asking price marks a considerable leap from the last time the home traded hands in April 2021 for $2.1 million, but the listing hints at why. Rather than leading with the house, it emphasizes the parcel’s notably high elevation and location, describing the property as a canvas for a new custom residence and pointing to its inherent land value.

In a market where Palm Beach buyers regularly pay for the sand rather than the structure, the 1938 house may be the least of what is on offer.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/198-via-marina-palm-beach-pink-colonial/.

Rare 1962 Hillside Midcentury Modern Gem Has Ties to Deep ‘Architectural Lore’ in Glendale

Hannah Chambers — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

California is filled with midcentury modern gems, from actress Dakota Johnson’s “extraordinatory” Los Angeles retreat to unique estates designed by renowned architects such as Richard Neutra.

But a home doesn’t need to be tied to a household name to hold a fascinating legacy.

Enter 1225 Oberlin Drive, a newly listed glass-walled Hillside dwelling designed by USC School of Architecture graduate Charles W. Walton.

The home has an asking price of $1.289 million—a sharp increase from the $329,500 it last sold for in 2002.

The 1962 home is a rare residential property from the underrecognized architect, whose work in Glendale, CA, focused primarily on libraries, schools, civic buildings, and commercial projects. Locally, he was known for his work on the Brand Library and Art Center, a modernist addition created with Raymond Jones.

The 1,305-square-foot home was designed to feel more spacious than it actually is, leveraging structure, glass, and elevation to incorporate the surrounding landscape into the property.

The 1,305-square-foot home looks more spacious than it really is, thanks to Charles W. Walton’s intentional design. (Cameron Carothers)

A funky blue fireplace adds interest to the living room. (Cameron Carothers)

Heavy timber beams reduce the need for load-bearing walls, opening up the layout of the home. (Cameron Carothers)

The dreamy city views can be seen from much of the house, and add to the expansive feel of the home. (Cameron Carothers)

The kitchen was recently updated with Walton’s original vision in mind. (Cameron Carothers)

There’s less of a need for cluttered load-bearing walls in this home, where exposed timber quite literally does the heavy lifting while tongue-and-groove ceilings and glass panels in place of walls keep spaces open.

A source close to the property explains there’s a “tantalizing mystery attached” to the home, as it “is said to have been conceived by Walton as a kind of prototype for a larger housing initiative.”

Speculating that 1225 Oberlin may have been intended to be “the first of many” houses just like it, the source explains Walton could have been looking for a way to easily repeat Modernist homes, around the same time that legendary real estate developer Joseph Eichler successfully brought the style of architecture to the masses.

“Documentation confirming Walton’s larger plan has yet to surface,” the source continues. “So for now, it remains architectural lore.”

The entrance leads to an open living and dining area, which boasts a funky blue fireplace and a wall of windows flaunting impressive city views. The room is extended by an oversized covered deck, which effectively extends the living space to the outdoors.

An oversized covered porch blends the interior and exterior living space. (Cameron Carothers)

The home’s design allows it to be part of its surroundings. (Cameron Carothers)

A lower level beneath the main story of the home can be used for storage or an indoor gym. (Cameron Carothers)

The home has an asking price of $1.289 million. (Cameron Carothers)

To the right, a beautifully renovated ergonomic kitchen maintains the original 1960s charm of the home, but has introduced thoughtful new features. European-style cabinets and chef-grade appliances have brought the room to the present day without losing Walton’s original vision.

It’s worth noting the restoration of midcentury modern homes has become a tall order in recent years, with homeowners embarking on challenging quests to preserve the authenticity of the structures.

Between high demand for this architectural style and a struggle to source comparative materials, an intentionally updated modernist home is quite a find.

This particular home also has three bedrooms, although the listing notes the third room is a flexible space that could be suitable as an office, a den, or extension of the home’s public space.

The home’s lower level can also serve a multitude of purposes, from storage space to a home gym. There’s also additional exterior space on this level, ideally suited for gardening or other outdoor activities.

1225 Oberlin Drive includes three bedrooms. (Cameron Carothers)

The listing notes that the third bedroom could also be a suitable space for a den or an office. (Cameron Carothers)

The home includes two bedrooms. (Cameron Carothers)

The home is situated in the Adams Hill neighborhood of Glendale. (Cameron Carothers)

Additional amenities include an oversized single-car garage.

1225 Oberlin sits within the eclectic Glendale neighborhood of Adams Hill.

With winding roads and steep slopes, the area’s topography can be a challenge, but has lended itself to a very interesting mix of architectural styles ranging from charming tudors and English cottages to Spanish Colonial Revivals, which makes Adams Hill stand out from other pockets of Glendale that typically stick to a cohesive style.

It’s no surprise the area is home to creatives in a range of notable professions.

The street the hillside gem is on is also home to another experimental dwelling: architect Richard Banta’s H-shaped residence, also completed in 1962.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/hillside-modernist-gem-glendale-architectural-lore/.

Rare 2-Acre Private Island Retreat on Minnesota’s Lake Minnetonka Is Listed for the First Time in 50 Years

Kellie Speed — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

An extremely “rare opportunity” to buy a private island on Lake Minnetonka has just hit the market for $7,250,000.

Located in Shorewood, MN, the 2-acre legacy compound on Gale Island, surrounded by 1,841 feet of luxurious lakeshore, features several structures:

The waterfront barbecue gazebo, built in 1957, has a lower level for storage and a stone patio overlooking the lake.
A three-bedroom summer house with a stone fireplace, built in 1874, with a north addition completed in 1913 and later remodeled from 2006–07.
A three-bedroom main house, built in 1950, featuring a kitchen remodeled in 1990 and a family room and dining room added in 2001.
The guest cabin, built in 1954 and remodeled in 2009–10, offering two bedrooms, a kitchenette, and a sitting room.
A three-story waterfront tower featuring hidden beds and a kitchenette.
A log cabin, built in 1953, located across the channel and accessed by a bridge, features a stone fireplace and is currently being used for storage.

“Lake Minnetonka is the lake in Minnesota,” says listing agent Jeffrey Dewing of Coldwell Banker Realty. “It’s a very storied and sought-after destination, and it’s very rare for an island to come to market. This one has been in the same family for 53 years, which makes it even rarer.”

The three-bedroom summer house on Gale Island was built in 1874. (360-VIP)

The summer house features a stone fireplace. (360-VIP)

The log cabin, built in 1953, is located across the channel and accessed by a bridge. (360-VIP)

It is also located just a short boat ride from Excelsior and Wayzata, which have lots of restaurants, shopping, and a vibrant scene.

“The property will likely be used as a secondary residence based on logistics, but it potentially could be a year-round property,” says Dewing. “There are three main cabins that were used by different family members, so it is beautifully suited for multigenerational living.”

A sitting room in one of the residences. (360-VIP)

The log cabin sits across the channel. (360-VIP)

The property features a boat dock. (Spacecrafting)

Dewing says the buyer pool he is seeing has been unique.

“It could be acquired by another family and used like this was for a family retreat, or it could be used in a multitude of different ways,” he says. “There have been weddings on the island, and it has such a fun history.”

The island was originally purchased from the federal government in 1871 by Harlow A. Gale, a Minneapolis real estate developer, and remained in the Gale family for nearly a century. It was later owned by St. Olaf College and used as a retreat before returning to private ownership.

“There aren’t many island estates like this that become available,” notes Dewing. “It’s an incredibly unique opportunity.”

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/rare-gale-island-lake-minnetonka-estate-for-sale/.

Sausalito’s Highest-Priced Home Hits the Market for $10 Million With a Dedicated Wellness Floor

Hannah Chambers — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As San Francisco’s booming tech industry prioritizes return-to-office mandates, demand for luxury homes has surged in and around the city by the bay.

A newly-listed $9.9 million Sausalito, CA residence is currently the highest-priced home for sale in the town—and with an entire wellness floor, it may just be the nearby escape professionals are looking for.

In a video tour of the property, listing agent Tyler Stewart of Health Real Estate notes that in addition to “epic views”, the luxury residence offers privacy, convenience to San Francisco, “and a lifestyle that allows you to connect when you want, and pause and breathe when you don’t.”

Perched above Richardson Bay, just seven minutes north of the city, and a stone’s throw south of beaches and trails, 234 Currey Lane is in a spot the current homeowners liken to “being away without actually going anywhere.”

The recently renovated, 4,800-square-foot home underwent a two-year transformation led by an elite Bay Area team: architectural firm Ike Baker Velten and interior designers The Wiseman Group, both recognized on the Architectural Digest AD100 list.

The brief was to create a home that felt “sophisticated without feeling pretentious.”

The $10 million home, just seven minutes from San Francisco, is the most-expensive listing in Sausalito. (Hunter Boucher)

The most unique element of the property is a wellness-dedicated level, located within a fully-rebuilt solarium. (Hunter Boucher)

The wellness floor includes a sauna and a steam shower, as well as a dedicated fitness space. (Hunter Boucher)

An office includes a private deck. (Hunter Boucher)

Picturesque outdoor spaces throughout the property blend indoor and outdoor living. (Hunter Boucher)

The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home spans three levels, each with its own dedicated purpose.

The main level is all about living and entertaining, with expansive windows boasting panoramic views of the bay and the lush surrounding landscape at every turn. This floor is home to a beautifully-updated kitchen with custom cabinetry and stonework, Miele appliances, Waterworks fixtures, and a full butler’s pantry.

The living and dining rooms are sprawling, with the open floor plan creating a seamless natural flow between dedicated spaces. There’s also a custom stone fireplace, which serves as a stunning visual feature and a way to stay cozy within the area’s mild climate.

The layout is rooted in convenience, with easy access to two of the home’s bedrooms, as well as the two-car garage and mudroom.

The upper level is an entirely-private retreat dedicated to the sprawling primary suite, which includes a separate lounge and reading space, a custom dressing area, and a spa-inspired bathroom.

The newly-renovated kitchen boasts jaw-dropping views of the Richardson Bay. (Hunter Boucher)

A custom stone fireplace anchors the sprawling living and dining space. (Hunter Boucher)

Exposed beams and French oak floors are found throughout the home. (Hunter Boucher)

Two bedrooms are located on the first level, as well as a full-bath and easy access to the two-car garage. (Hunter Boucher)

Custom cabinetry has been installed throughout the house. (Hunter Boucher)

A free-standing tub takes center stage in the en suite, anchored by two separate vanities set against sizable windows.

The outdoor space is as much a part of the suite as the interior, as this floor also hosts multiple private view decks, highlighting the resort-inspired philosophy of the residence.

It’s easy to understand why the current homeowners refer to the upper level as their favorite part of the home, as they’ve spent their time at the home “waking up to boats moving across the water and a view that never looks quite the same twice.”

The lower level—the dedicated work and wellness floor—is perhaps the most unique feature of the home, a fully-rebuilt solarium with a copper roof that provides easy access to the kinds of experiences most people need to leave the house for.

The flexible multi-use layout includes an office with its own deck.

The primary suite is a favorite spot of the current homeowners, who loved waking up to the stellar view each morning. (Hunter Boucher)

The primary bathroom is spa-like, featuring access to a private viewing deck. (Hunter Boucher)

A separate dressing room space and lavish closets add to the appeal of the primary suite, which has its own floor. (Hunter Boucher)

The view changes all day long, thanks to the Bay Area’s unique climate. (Hunter Boucher)

The wellness level has room for fun, too, with a wet bar, wine storage, and recreation space. (Hunter Boucher)

With a sauna and steam shower, the fitness area is well-suited for an exercise regimen that includes a lavish wind-down.

There’s also plenty of room for fun to be had, as the lower level contains a media lounge, recreation area, a wet bar, and wine storage and refrigeration.

The entire home underwent a transformation that transcended cosmetic updates, working from the inside out to tackle the electrical and networking infrastructure and install enterprise-grade indoor/outdoor Wi-Fi, a property-wide audio system, and four-zone HVAC. There’s also an integrated fire-suppression system.

The remodel also included new and upgraded windows and doors, a deck rebuild, new French oak flooring, and work to the kitchen.

This article was originally published at https://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/highest-priced-sausalito-home-wellness-floor/.

Fishtown and Northern Liberties Rent Prices Plateau as New Supply Hits the Market

TCS Property Management — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Fishtown and Northern Liberties rental markets — long among Philadelphia’s most expensive neighborhoods — are showing clear signs of a plateau as new housing supply finally catches up with demand.

The Numbers

Median rent data for August 2026 tells the story:

Fishtown median one-bedroom rent: $1,890 (up 1.2% YoY, down from 6.5% growth the prior year)
Northern Liberties median one-bedroom rent: $2,050 (up 0.8% YoY, down from 7.2% growth the prior year)
Fishtown median two-bedroom rent: $2,400 (flat YoY)
Northern Liberties median two-bedroom rent: $2,650 (up 1.5% YoY)
Vacancy rate in both neighborhoods: 6.1% (up from 4.3% a year ago)

The dramatic slowdown in rent growth follows several years of 6-8% annual increases driven by the neighborhoods’ popularity with young professionals and proximity to Center City.

What Changed

Three factors are contributing to the plateau:

New Apartment Supply

More than 800 new apartment units have been delivered in the Fishtown/Northern Liberties submarket in the past 18 months, with another 400 under construction. This new supply — much of it in mid-rise buildings along Frankford Avenue and Girard Avenue — is absorbing demand that previously went to single-family rentals.

Price Sensitivity

Rents in these neighborhoods have reached a level where many renters are price-sensitive. At $2,000+ per month for a one-bedroom, renters are increasingly comparing Fishtown and Northern Liberties to Center City and University City, where similar prices offer proximity to employment centers.

Remote Work Normalization

The post-pandemic shift to hybrid and remote work has reduced the premium that some renters place on proximity to Center City. With commute days reduced to 2-3 per week, neighborhoods further from downtown — like Manayunk, East Falls, and Mount Airy — are becoming more competitive alternatives.

Impact on Single-Family Rentals

Single-family rentals in Fishtown and Northern Liberties face a particular challenge: they compete with new apartment buildings that offer amenities (gyms, rooftops, package rooms) that older single-family homes cannot match. SFR operators in these neighborhoods need to differentiate on what single-family homes offer that apartments cannot: private outdoor space, dedicated parking, more square footage, and a sense of home rather than a unit.

Key strategies for SFR operators:

Emphasize outdoor space: Yards, decks, and patios are major differentiators. Invest in making these spaces usable and attractive
Highlight parking: Dedicated off-street parking is a significant value-add in these neighborhoods
Upgrade interiors: Modern kitchens and bathrooms help justify premium rents
Flexible lease terms: Offering 18-month or 24-month leases can lock in tenants and reduce turnover

Outlook

The plateau is likely to persist through 2027 as more apartment supply comes online. SFR operators should plan for modest rent growth (1-3% annually) rather than the 6-8% increases of recent years. Properties that are well-maintained and well-marketed will continue to command premium rents, but the rising tide that lifted all boats is receding.

Philadelphia Housing Market in September 2026: Cools as Inventory Rises

TCS Property Management — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia’s housing market is showing clear signs of cooling as the city heads into fall 2026, with new listings up 18% year-over-year and median days on market rising to 34 days, up from 21 days a year ago.

Inventory Trends

The increase in available homes is the most significant shift in the Philadelphia market in over two years. After a prolonged period of tight inventory that favored sellers, buyers are finding more options and more room to negotiate.

Key market statistics for August 2026:

Median sale price: $245,000 (up 2.1% year-over-year)
Active listings: 3,840 (up 18% year-over-year)
Median days on market: 34 (up from 21)
Sale-to-list price ratio: 96.8% (down from 99.2%)

Neighborhood Breakdown

The cooling is not uniform across the city. Center Center and University City remain competitive, with homes still receiving multiple offers. However, neighborhoods in the Far Northeast and parts of West Philadelphia are seeing the most inventory growth and the longest days on market.

Fishtown and Northern Liberties continue to command premium prices, with median sale prices above $400,000, while South Philadelphia remains relatively affordable with a median around $280,000.

Impact on Renters

The cooling sales market has implications for the rental market as well. Some would-be sellers who cannot find buyers at their target price are choosing to rent their properties instead, adding to the rental inventory. This could put modest downward pressure on rental rates in certain neighborhoods, particularly for single-family homes.

What This Means for Property Managers

For property managers operating in Philadelphia, the shifting market creates both opportunities and challenges:

Acquisition opportunities: Investors may find better deals as seller expectations adjust to the new market reality.
Tenant retention: With more rental options becoming available, retention strategies become more important.
Pricing strategy: Rent pricing should be monitored closely, as the sales market cooling could ripple into rental rates.

The fall market typically sees a seasonal slowdown, but the combination of rising inventory and softening prices suggests this year’s slowdown may be more pronounced than usual.

High-ROI, Value-Add Renovations for Any Investor (and How Much They’ll Cost)

The BiggerPockets Podcast — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Investors have used the same proven formula for decades: Buy a discounted property, renovate it, and increase its value by tens or sometimes even hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1329.

How the Government Pays You to Buy a Short-Term Rental

Garrett Brown — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

I spent eight years touring as a producer, with platinum records on the wall and almost nothing in the bank, which sounds like the setup to a country song but […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/how-the-government-pays-you-to-buy-a-short-term-rental.

Park Street Homes expands urban infill homebuilding model

John McManus — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Park Street blends standardized construction controls with reflective design for established neighborhoods and scattered lots

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/park-street-urban-infill-scale/.

RXR CEO Scott Rechler on rebuilding lower Manhattan after 9/11

TCS Property Management — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Scott Rechler, RXR CEO and chairman and National September 11th Memorial trustee and vice chair, joins ‘Squawk Box’ to discuss the September 11th attacks 25 year later, rebuilding lower Manhattan, and more.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/11/rxr-realty-ceo-scott-rechler-on-rebuilding-lower-manhattan-after-911.html.

Should You Keep or Sell a Rental Property That Needs Work? (Rookie Reply)

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Your first rental cash flows just fine, but it needs some work, and in order to scale your portfolio, the next big decision hits: Should you hold and repair, or […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-769.

The Agency hires Jim Lonergan to lead Midwest expansion

HousingWire Automation — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The longtime Anywhere Real Estate franchise growth executive will also oversee South Central U.S. sales and Canada

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/agency-hires-lonergan-expansion/.

Zillow faces shareholder lawsuit over Redfin deal

Brooklee Han — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Derivative suit cites $100 million deal, $81 million in insider sales claims, and a stock drop from $77.05 to $32.19

This article was originally published at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/zillow-shareholder-lawsuit-redfin-deal/.

Rental Market Q3 2026 Outlook: Single-Family Rentals Post Strong Quarter

TCS Property Management — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The single-family rental (SFR) sector posted another strong quarter in Q3 2026, with national rents rising 4.2% year-over-year and occupancy rates holding steady at 95.1%, according to data from the latest SFR market report.

Inventory Shortage Drives Rent Growth

The fundamental driver behind the rent increases continues to be a persistent shortage of available single-family homes for rent. New construction of build-to-rent communities has not kept pace with household formation, particularly in Sun Belt markets where migration patterns have shifted demand southward.

“The supply-demand imbalance in SFR is structural, not cyclical,” said one market analyst. “Until build-to-rent construction closes the gap, we expect rents to continue outpacing inflation.”

Institutional Investors Expand

Institutional investors continued to expand their SFR portfolios in Q3, with several large operators announcing acquisitions in secondary markets including Indianapolis, Columbus, and San Antonio. These markets offer attractive yield spreads compared to the more saturated primary SFR markets of Atlanta, Dallas, and Phoenix.

However, the share of SFR homes owned by institutional investors remains under 5% nationally, a figure that industry trade groups have highlighted in response to legislative scrutiny.

Build-to-Rent Pipeline

The build-to-rent (BTR) construction pipeline showed signs of acceleration, with starts up 12% year-over-year. BTR communities — purpose-built single-family rental neighborhoods — are increasingly viewed as a solution to the inventory challenge, offering economies of scale for operators while providing renters with single-family living at a lower price point than homeownership.

Key trends in the BTR pipeline include:

A shift toward smaller lot sizes to improve affordability
Increased amenity offerings (dog parks, pools, fitness centers)
Focus on secondary markets with lower land costs

Outlook for Q4 and Beyond

Looking ahead, industry watchers expect the tight market conditions to persist through the remainder of 2026. The combination of elevated mortgage rates keeping would-be buyers in the rental pool, coupled with limited new supply, suggests rent growth will remain positive.

For property managers operating in the SFR space, the environment underscores the importance of tenant retention strategies. With replacement costs rising, retaining quality tenants at below-market renewals may prove more profitable than chasing top-of-market rents with higher turnover.

30-year fixed mortgage rate tops 7% for the first time in over a year

TCS Property Management — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage crossed over 7% for the first time in more than a year, as home prices continue to rise and sales drop.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/30-year-fixed-mortgage-rate-crosses.html.

Average 30-year fixed mortgage rate tops 7%

TCS Property Management — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

CNBC’s Diana Olick reports on the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rising to 7.07%, up 10 basis points since yesterday and 16 basis points this week

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/10/average-30-year-fixed-rate-tops-7-percent.html.

Compass CEO: Housing market seeing highest percentage of price drops in over a decade

TCS Property Management — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Compass CEO Robert Reffkin joins ‘Squawk on the Street’ to discuss the housing market following latest readings on home sales data, current state of home prices and more.

This article was originally published at https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/09/10/compass-ceo-housing-market-seeing-highest-percentage-of-price-drops-in-over-a-decade.html.

We Asked Brokers: Where Is the Biggest Buyer’s Market Today?

On The Market Podcast Presented by Fundrise — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Are the price cuts deeper than you think? Do buyers have even more power than we’ve been led to believe? National housing data tells us one thing, but local-level expertise […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/on-the-market-459.

What Rent Data From All 50 States Says Landlords Get Wrong

Garrett Brown — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

My three long-term rentals sit in Conroe, Texas. New construction, boring on purpose, and they mostly leave me alone so I can go handle whatever broke at a glamping site […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/what-rent-data-from-all-50-states-says-landlords-get-wrong.

West Philadelphia Rental Demand Surges as University City Expansion Continues

TCS Property Management — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

West Philadelphia’s rental market is experiencing a surge in demand as the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University continue expanding their campuses and academic footprints, creating ripple effects through the surrounding residential neighborhoods.

The Expansion Effect

Penn’s Schuylkill River Yards development and Drexel’s Innovation Neighborhood are bringing thousands of new students, faculty, and staff to the University City area. The combined projects are expected to add approximately 12,000 new academic and research jobs over the next five years, with many of those workers seeking housing within walking or transit distance of campus.

The impact on the rental market is already visible:

Median rent in University City proper: $2,100/month (up 7.5% year-over-year)
Median rent in Powelton Village: $1,800/month (up 6.2% YoY)
Median rent in Mantua: $1,450/month (up 8.8% YoY)
Median rent in Walnut Hill: $1,380/month (up 7.1% YoY)

The highest growth rates are in the neighborhoods just beyond University City’s core — Mantua, Walnut Hill, and Spruce Hill — where renters priced out of University City are moving.

Single-Family Rentals in the Mix

Single-family rentals are a significant part of West Philadelphia’s housing stock, particularly in the neighborhoods west of 40th Street. Many of these homes are large Victorian and twin-style houses that can accommodate group rentals — a common arrangement for graduate students and young professionals.

For SFR operators, West Philadelphia offers several advantages:

Strong demand: University-driven demand is consistent and predictable
Higher density potential: Large homes can be rented by-the-room to graduate students, increasing per-square-foot yield
Transit access: The Market-Frankford Line and multiple trolley routes provide easy access to Center City
Historic character: The housing stock has architectural appeal that differentiates from new apartment construction

However, there are challenges:

Seasonal vacancy: Student-driven demand creates August-to-August leasing cycles with potential summer vacancies
Higher turnover: Student and early-career renters move more frequently than family renters
Property wear: Higher occupancy density and younger tenants can mean more maintenance
Regulatory risk: Philadelphia’s rental license and lead dust testing requirements add compliance costs

Neighborhoods to Watch

Mantua

Mantua is the neighborhood closest to the expansion zone that still has relatively affordable acquisition prices. Single-family homes can be purchased for $180,000-$250,000, and rents of $1,400-$1,700 per month produce cap rates of 7-8%. The neighborhood is benefiting from spillover demand from University City and from city investment in the Mantua Greenway project.

Walnut Hill and Spruce Hill

These neighborhoods, west of Penn’s campus, have long been popular with graduate students and faculty. Properties here are more expensive ($300,000-$450,000) but offer stable tenancies and lower turnover. Cap rates are lower (5-6%) but the trade-off is more predictable cash flow.

Cedar Park

Cedar Park, centered around the 50th and Baltimore commercial corridor, is an emerging market with a growing restaurant and cafe scene. Single-family homes are still relatively affordable ($250,000-$350,000) and the neighborhood is attracting young professionals who work at Penn or Drexel but want more space than University City apartments offer.

Strategic Considerations

For SFR operators looking at West Philadelphia, the key is matching the property and rental strategy to the target tenant profile:

Graduate student group houses: Buy larger properties (4-6 bedrooms) near campus, rent by the room, and manage the higher turnover
Faculty and staff rentals: Buy well-maintained 2-3 bedroom homes in Spruce Hill or Walnut Hill, rent to stable professional tenants
Young professional rentals: Buy in emerging areas like Cedar Park, offer modern amenities and flexible lease terms

The University City expansion is a multi-year driver of rental demand that shows no sign of slowing. Operators who position themselves now will benefit from the sustained demand as the expansion continues through 2030.

8 Ways to Get More Passive Income from Your Rental Properties

Real Estate Rookie Podcast — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Every hour you spend chasing rent or coordinating a repair is an hour you could’ve spent growing your real estate portfolio or doing the things you actually enjoy. The fix? […]

This article was originally published at https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-768.

South Philadelphia Housing Market Shows Signs of Cooling as Inventory Rises

TCS Property Management — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

South Philadelphia’s housing market is showing clear signs of cooling, with rising inventory and longer days on market giving renters and buyers more negotiating room than they’ve had in years.

Market Data

The latest data from the Philadelphia MLS for South Philadelphia neighborhoods:

Active listings: 620 (up 22% year-over-year)
Median sale price: $280,000 (up 1.8% YoY, down from 8.5% the prior year)
Median days on market: 28 days (up from 18 days a year ago)
Sale-to-list price ratio: 97.2% (down from 99.5%)
Price reductions: 31% of listings have had at least one price cut (up from 12%)

The data points to a market that has shifted from strongly favoring sellers to something closer to balanced. While prices are not declining, the pace of appreciation has slowed dramatically and sellers are making more concessions.

Neighborhood Variation

The cooling is not uniform across South Philadelphia:

East Passyunk and Passyunk Square

These neighborhoods remain the most competitive in South Philadelphia, driven by the thriving commercial corridor along East Passyunk Avenue. Median sale prices are above $320,000, and well-priced homes still receive multiple offers. However, even here, days on market have increased from 12 to 19 days.

Girard Estate and Packer Park

These more residential neighborhoods are seeing the most inventory growth. Homes priced above $350,000 are sitting longest, as buyers at that price point increasingly consider alternatives in Fishtown or University City. Price reductions are most common in this segment.

Newbold and Point Breeze

Point Breeze continues to see investor activity, but the pace has slowed. The neighborhood has been one of the hottest in the city for appreciation, but the combination of rising interest rates and investor fatigue is reducing competition. This is creating opportunities for SFR operators to acquire properties at more reasonable prices.

What’s Driving the Cooling

Several factors are converging:

Mortgage rates: Rates above 6.5% have reduced buyer purchasing power, particularly for first-time buyers who dominate the South Philadelphia market
Investor pullback: The investor share of purchases in South Philadelphia has dropped from 28% to 19% as cap rates compress and financing costs rise
New construction: Several townhouse developments in South Philadelphia have delivered new supply, giving buyers alternatives to existing stock
Seasonal patterns: The fall market typically sees slower activity, but the magnitude of the slowdown this year is above seasonal norms

Implications for SFR Operators

The cooling market creates a window of opportunity for SFR operators:

Acquisition Opportunities

With more inventory and fewer competing investors, properties that were difficult to acquire a year ago are now accessible. Properties in Point Breeze and Newbold that might have sold for $320,000-$350,000 in 2025 are now available closer to $280,000-$310,000, improving potential cap rates.

Rent Growth Moderation

The sales market cooling will ripple into the rental market. Some homeowners who cannot sell at their target price are choosing to rent their properties, adding to rental inventory. This could moderate rent growth in South Philadelphia to 2-3% annually, down from 5-7% in recent years.

Tenant Retention Priority

With more rental options becoming available, tenant retention becomes more important. SFR operators should focus on maintaining quality properties and offering fair renewal terms rather than pushing for maximum rent increases.

Outlook

The South Philadelphia market is not heading for a correction — the fundamentals of location, transit access, and neighborhood amenities remain strong. But the era of rapid price appreciation and landlord-favorable conditions is pausing. For SFR operators, this is a time to acquire strategically, manage conservatively, and build for the long term.

7 Proven Tenant Retention Strategies for Single-Family Rental Properties

TCS Property Management — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Tenant turnover is the single largest controllable expense in single-family rental property management. Every vacancy costs thousands in lost rent, marketing, make-ready repairs, and leasing fees. Reducing turnover by even a few months per tenancy can dramatically improve net operating income.

1. Respond to Maintenance Requests Quickly

Speed of maintenance response is the number one factor in tenant satisfaction. Tenants who wait days for a response to a maintenance request are far more likely to move at lease end. Aim for a 24-hour response time on all non-emergency requests and same-day response for emergencies.

Consider implementing an online maintenance portal where tenants can submit requests and track progress. Transparency reduces frustration and builds trust.

2. Offer Multi-Year Lease Terms

Most SFR leases default to 12 months, but offering 18- or 24-month lease terms can lock in good tenants and reduce turnover frequency. Consider offering a small rent discount — perhaps $25-50 per month — as an incentive for longer commitments.

3. Make Proactive Improvements

Don’t wait for tenants to complain. Proactively replacing aging appliances, upgrading to smart thermostats, or adding a ceiling fan shows tenants you care about their comfort. These improvements also increase the property’s value and rental potential.

4. Build a Relationship, Not Just a Transaction

Tenants who feel personally valued are less likely to leave. Simple gestures matter:

A handwritten welcome card at move-in
A small holiday gift (gift card, potted plant)
A check-in call at the six-month mark
Remembering details about their family or situation

5. Price Renewals Fairly

Aggressive rent increases at renewal are the fastest way to lose a good tenant. Market research shows that the cost of turnover typically exceeds the additional rent from a large increase. A modest increase — in line with inflation — keeps tenants while still growing revenue.

If the market supports a larger increase, consider phasing it: a smaller increase now with a commitment to hold steady, or a graduated increase over the next two renewal cycles.

6. Maintain Curb Appeal

The exterior of the property is what the tenant sees every day. A well-maintained lawn, clean gutters, functioning exterior lights, and a fresh-looking front door all contribute to a sense of pride in the home. Tenants who are proud of where they live stay longer.

Include lawn care in the rent where feasible — it ensures consistency and removes a common friction point.

7. Make Move-Out Frictionless

When a tenant does decide to leave, make the process smooth. A positive move-out experience leads to positive reviews and referrals, which reduce marketing costs and time-to-fill for the next tenancy. Provide a clear move-out checklist, conduct a joint walkthrough, and return security deposits promptly.

The Bottom Line

Every strategy here shares a common theme: treating tenants as valued customers rather than transactions. In a competitive rental market, the property managers who retain tenants are the ones who earn trust through consistent, responsive, and respectful service.

National Housing Affordability Hits Two-Decade Low as Mortgage Rates Stay Elevated

TCS Property Management — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Housing affordability across the United States fell to its lowest level in two decades in August 2026, as mortgage rates remained elevated above 6.5% and median home prices showed little sign of meaningful decline.

The Affordability Math

The National Association of Realtors’ affordability index dropped to 92.3, meaning a family earning the median income no longer qualifies for a mortgage on a median-priced home. A score below 100 indicates that the median-income family cannot afford the median-priced home.

To put this in perspective:

Median existing-home price: $412,000
30-year fixed mortgage rate: 6.7%
Monthly payment (principal + interest): $2,660
Required qualifying income: $112,000
Median household income: $78,500

The gap between what homes cost and what families earn has been widening for years, but the persistence of elevated mortgage rates has pushed the affordability crisis to new extremes.

Regional Variations

The affordability crisis is not evenly distributed. In the Northeast and West Coast, the situation is most acute. In the South and Midwest, median prices remain below $300,000, making homeownership more attainable for middle-income families.

However, even in relatively affordable markets, the combination of rising property taxes, insurance costs, and HOA fees has eroded the total cost of ownership beyond what many households can sustain.

The Rental Market Connection

The affordability crisis in for-sale housing is driving demand in the rental market, particularly for single-family rentals. Families who would traditionally be first-time homebuyers are remaining renters, either by choice or necessity.

This dynamic has kept rental demand strong even as the sales market has cooled. Single-family rentals, which offer many of the benefits of homeownership (space, yards, garages) without the down payment barrier, have been particular beneficiaries of this trend.

Policy Responses

Several policy initiatives are being debated at the federal and state level:

Down payment assistance programs expanded in several states
Zoning reform efforts to allow more missing-middle housing
Mortgage rate buydowns proposed as a federal stimulus measure
Tax credits for first-time homebuyers in select markets

However, most of these initiatives address demand-side pressures rather than the fundamental supply shortage that underlies the affordability crisis.

What This Means for SFR Operators

For single-family rental operators and property managers, the affordability crisis is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it drives demand for rental properties as homeownership remains out of reach. On the other, it creates political pressure for rent control, tenant protections, and scrutiny of institutional landlords.

The most sustainable approach is to focus on providing quality housing at fair prices, maintaining properties well, and building positive tenant relationships. Operators who are seen as part of the solution rather than part of the problem will be better positioned for the long term.

Northeast Philadelphia Investor Opportunities: SFR Hotspot with 7% Cap Rates

TCS Property Management — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Northeast Philadelphia is emerging as one of the city’s most attractive markets for single-family rental investors, offering a combination of affordable acquisition prices, strong rental demand, and cap rates that are increasingly rare in Philadelphia’s more hyped neighborhoods.

The Northeast Philadelphia Opportunity

While investors have spent years competing for properties in Fishtown, Point Breeze, and Graduate Hospital, Northeast Philadelphia has quietly built a strong rental market with fundamentals that favor SFR operators:

Median home price: $210,000 (compared to $350,000+ in trending neighborhoods)
Median rent: $1,450/month for a 3-bedroom single-family home
Gross rent multiplier: 14.5x (compared to 18-22x in Fishtown or Point Breeze)
Cap rates: 7.0-8.5% (compared to 4.5-5.5% in premium neighborhoods)
Vacancy rate: 4.8% (healthy, indicating balanced supply and demand)

Neighborhood Breakdown

Mayfair

Mayfair is the most established rental market in Northeast Philadelphia, centered around the Frankford Avenue commercial corridor. The neighborhood offers:

Median home price: $230,000
Median rent: $1,550/month
Cap rate: 7.2%
Tenant profile: Working families, transit commuters

Mayfair’s advantages include strong transit access via the Market-Frankford Line at Frankford Transportation Center, a walkable commercial corridor, and a stable housing stock of brick rowhomes and twins.

Holmesburg

Holmesburg, located along the Delaware River, offers the most affordable acquisition prices in the Northeast:

Median home price: $180,000
Median rent: $1,350/month
Cap rate: 8.0%
Tenant profile: Working families, older renters

The neighborhood is less transit-accessible than Mayfair but offers more space and larger lots. The proposed extension of the Roosevelt Boulevard transit line could improve access and drive appreciation.

Torresdale

Torresdale offers a mix of single-family homes and larger properties along the Delaware River:

Median home price: $250,000
Median rent: $1,600/month
Cap rate: 7.0%
Tenant profile: Families, professionals seeking suburban-style living

Torresdale’s larger lots and suburban feel make it attractive to families who want space but can’t afford the suburbs. The neighborhood has some of the best single-family housing stock in Northeast Philadelphia.

Why the Northeast Makes Sense Now

Several factors are converging to make Northeast Philadelphia attractive to SFR investors:

Price-to-Rent Ratios

The fundamental math favors the Northeast. A property that costs $230,000 and rents for $1,550/month generates a gross yield of 8.1%. After expenses (taxes, insurance, maintenance, management), the net yield is approximately 5.5-6.0%. Compare this to Fishtown, where a $400,000 property rents for $2,400/month — a gross yield of 7.2% and a net yield of 4.0-4.5%.

Stable Tenant Base

Northeast Philadelphia has a stable population of working families who rent long-term. Turnover is lower than in student-dominated or young-professional neighborhoods, and tenants tend to take care of properties they consider home.

Infrastructure Investment

The city is investing in Northeast Philadelphia infrastructure, including road improvements along Roosevelt Boulevard, park upgrades, and commercial corridor revitalization. These investments support property values over the long term.

Lower Competition

Because the Northeast has not been “discovered” by the investor community the way South Philadelphia and Kensington have, there is less competition for properties. Investors can acquire properties at or below asking price, rather than competing in bidding wars.

Risks to Consider

The Northeast is not without risks:

Slower appreciation: Property values may appreciate more slowly than in trendier neighborhoods
Higher maintenance: Older housing stock may require more upkeep
Property taxes: Philadelphia’s property tax reassessment could affect some neighborhoods
Economic sensitivity: The tenant base is more sensitive to economic downturns and job losses

The Bottom Line

For SFR operators seeking cash flow rather than appreciation, Northeast Philadelphia offers some of the best fundamentals in the city. The combination of affordable prices, strong rents, and lower competition makes it a market worth serious consideration.

Build-to-Rent Communities Expand as Institutional Capital Targets Secondary Markets

TCS Property Management — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Build-to-rent (BTR) communities — purpose-built neighborhoods of single-family rental homes — are seeing record investment as institutional capital flows into secondary markets across the Sun Belt.

The BTR Boom by the Numbers

New BTR starts were up 12% year-over-year in Q3 2026, with more than 18,000 homes under construction nationally. The top markets for BTR development include:

Indianapolis: 1,840 homes under construction
Columbus, OH: 1,520 homes
San Antonio: 1,380 homes
Huntsville, AL: 920 homes
Boise, ID: 840 homes

These secondary markets offer yield spreads of 150-300 basis points over primary SFR markets like Atlanta, Dallas, and Phoenix, where land acquisition costs have made new BTR development economically challenging.

Why Institutional Investors Are Betting Big

The thesis behind BTR is straightforward: the structural shortage of single-family homes for sale has created a large, durable pool of renters who want single-family living but cannot or choose not to buy. BTR communities offer institutional investors the scale economies of multifamily with the rent premiums of single-family product.

Key advantages driving the BTR model:

Operational efficiency: A single management team can oversee 200+ homes in one community
Lower turnover: SFR tenants stay 3+ years on average versus 12-18 months in apartments
Amenity appeal: Shared amenities (dog parks, pools, fitness centers) attract premium renters
Build-to-suit design: Homes are designed for rental durability, not homeowner aesthetics

Challenges and Risks

Despite the momentum, BTR faces headwinds. Rising construction costs, labor shortages, and permitting delays have pushed project timelines out by 6-9 months in many markets. Some developers are also encountering community resistance, with neighborhood groups opposing high-density rental projects.

Additionally, the yield advantage of secondary markets may compress as more capital chases the same opportunities. Markets like Indianapolis and Columbus are already seeing increased competition for land, which could erode the cost advantages that made them attractive in the first place.

What This Means for SFR Operators

For traditional SFR operators who acquire existing homes rather than build, the BTR boom is a mixed signal. On one hand, it validates the strong demand for single-family rentals. On the other, it introduces new competition in markets where BTR communities are being built.

The most successful operators will differentiate on service quality, local market knowledge, and tenant relationships — areas where national BTR platforms often struggle to match local operators.

Germantown Housing Market Revival: What's Driving the Neighborhood's Resurgence

TCS Property Management — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Germantown is experiencing a housing market revival that is reshaping one of Philadelphia’s most historically significant neighborhoods, bringing both opportunity and concern.

The Revival in Numbers

Germantown’s housing market data for 2026 shows a neighborhood in transition:

Median sale price: $195,000 (up 11% year-over-year)
Median rent: $1,300/month (up 6.5% YoY)
Active listings: 145 (up 8% YoY)
Median days on market: 25 days (down from 35 days a year ago)
Investor share of purchases: 24% (up from 16%)

The numbers tell a story of a neighborhood heating up. Sale prices are rising faster than the city average, days on market are falling, and investors are taking notice.

What’s Driving the Revival

Historic Housing Stock

Germantown has some of the most architecturally significant housing stock in Philadelphia, including stone Victorian homes, Federal-style rowhouses, and early 20th-century twins. These properties offer character and space that cannot be replicated in new construction, and they are available at a fraction of the cost of similar homes in Mount Airy or Chestnut Hill.

Transit Access

Germantown is served by three regional rail stations (Germantown, Wayne Junction, and Tulpehocken) and multiple bus routes, providing direct access to Center City in 25-30 minutes. The recent improvements to Wayne Junction as a transit hub have made the southern end of Germantown particularly attractive to commuters.

Relative Affordability

With a median sale price of $195,000, Germantown remains one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Philadelphia with historic housing stock and transit access. Buyers and renters who are priced out of Mount Airy, Chestnut Hill, and West Oak Lane are increasingly looking to Germantown as an alternative.

Commercial Corridor Investment

The Germantown Avenue and Chelten Avenue commercial corridors are seeing new investment, with several new restaurants, cafes, and retail businesses opening in the past year. The city’s Rebuilding Community Infrastructure program has funded streetscape improvements along Germantown Avenue.

The Single-Family Rental Opportunity

For SFR operators, Germantown offers a compelling proposition:

Acquisition prices: $150,000-$250,000 for single-family homes
Rents: $1,200-$1,600 per month depending on size and condition
Cap rates: 7.5-9.0%
Value-add potential: Many historic homes need updating, creating opportunities to buy below market, renovate, and increase rents

The value-add strategy is particularly attractive in Germantown. An investor can purchase a $180,000 property, invest $30,000-$40,000 in renovations, and increase the rent from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. The total investment of $210,000-$220,000 with $1,500/month rent produces a gross yield of 8.2% and a cap rate of approximately 6.5% after expenses — well above what’s achievable in most Philadelphia neighborhoods.

The Displacement Concern

The revival is not universally welcomed. Long-time Germantown residents, particularly in the lower-income areas of the neighborhood, are concerned about displacement. Rising property values lead to rising property taxes, and rising rents can push out tenants who have lived in the neighborhood for decades.

Community groups are advocating for:

Inclusionary zoning requirements for new development
Property tax circuit breakers for long-time homeowners
Community land trusts to create permanently affordable housing
Right of first refusal for tenants when properties are sold

SFR operators should be aware of these dynamics and consider how their investment strategy affects the community. Operators who work with existing tenants, make fair renewal offers, and invest in property improvements without displacing residents will face less community opposition and build better long-term relationships.

Outlook

Germantown’s revival is in its early stages and is likely to continue for several years. The neighborhood’s fundamentals — historic housing, transit access, and affordability — are durable. For SFR operators, the window to acquire at attractive prices is open now but may not remain open indefinitely as more investors discover the market.

Rental Regulation Roundup: Key Legislative Changes Affecting SFR Operators in 2026

TCS Property Management — Sun, 06 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

State and local governments across the country have been unusually active on rental regulation in 2026, with several jurisdictions enacting measures that directly impact single-family rental operators.

Rent Stabilization Measures

Several states and cities have moved toward some form of rent stabilization:

Colorado enacted a statewide rent increase cap of 7% annually plus inflation, following a similar Oregon model
Minneapolis implemented a 3% annual rent increase cap for properties built before 2004
New Jersey expanded its existing rent stabilization framework to cover additional municipalities

For SFR operators, these measures typically include exemptions for new construction (often 15 years) and single-family homes that are not owned by institutional investors. However, the definition of “institutional investor” varies and is tightening in several jurisdictions.

Eviction Procedure Changes

Several states updated eviction procedures in ways that lengthen timelines and add requirements:

Washington state now requires a 60-day notice for lease non-renewal, up from 30 days
Oregon mandates a 90-day notice for no-cause evictions
California expanded just-cause eviction protections to cover more property types
New York City added additional documentation requirements for owner-use evictions

SFR operators should review their lease templates and notice procedures to ensure compliance with these updated requirements.

Source-of-Income Protections

Source-of-income discrimination bans — which prevent landlords from refusing tenants based on their use of housing vouchers — were enacted or expanded in 14 jurisdictions in 2026. These laws typically require landlords to treat voucher holders the same as other applicants, though they do not require landlords to participate in voucher programs.

Operators should ensure their screening criteria are based on objective financial standards rather than the source of a tenant’s income.

Licensing and Registration Requirements

Several cities have added or strengthened rental licensing requirements:

Philadelphia requires annual rental licenses and lead dust testing for properties built before 1978
Columbus, OH enacted a citywide rental registration requirement
Charlotte, NC implemented a rental property inspection program

These requirements add administrative burden and cost, but non-compliance can result in fines or inability to legally collect rent.

How to Stay Ahead

The regulatory landscape is changing rapidly. SFR operators should:

Subscribe to local apartment association newsletters for jurisdiction-specific updates
Review lease templates annually with legal counsel
Maintain compliance calendars for licensing and inspection deadlines
Document screening criteria and tenant communication to demonstrate fair practices

SFR Consolidation Trends: Industry Consolidation Accelerates as Smaller Portfolios Change Hands

TCS Property Management — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The single-family rental industry is experiencing a wave of consolidation as mid-sized portfolios (50-500 homes) change hands at a record pace, driven by private equity appetite and the operational advantages of scale.

The Consolidation Wave

Through the first three quarters of 2026, there were 47 announced transactions involving SFR portfolios of 50 or more homes, compared to 28 in the same period of 2025. The average transaction size was 180 homes, with total deal volume exceeding $3.2 billion.

Key drivers of the consolidation:

Cost of capital: Larger operators can access cheaper debt, giving them an acquisition advantage
Technology investment: Property management software and IoT systems require scale to justify
Regulatory burden: Increasing compliance costs favor operators who can spread them across more units
Insurance: Larger portfolios can self-insure or negotiate better rates

Who’s Buying and Who’s Selling

The buyers are primarily three groups: publicly traded SFR platforms, private equity firms with dedicated SFR strategies, and regional operators looking to expand geographically. The sellers are often individual investors or partnerships that built portfolios in the 2010s and are now looking to exit.

Many sellers cite three reasons for exiting now:

Property values have appreciated significantly since acquisition
Rising interest rates make refinancing less attractive
Operational complexity has increased with regulation and tenant expectations

Impact on Local Markets

When a large portfolio changes hands, the impact on local rental markets can be significant. New owners often raise rents to market levels, invest in property improvements, and implement standardized management practices. While this can improve property conditions, it can also reduce affordability for existing tenants.

In markets like Atlanta, Phoenix, and Charlotte — where institutional ownership of SFR is highest — community advocates have raised concerns about the pace of consolidation and its effect on renters.

Opportunities for Independent Operators

Consolidation also creates opportunities for independent, local SFR operators. As large platforms standardize their operations, they often create service gaps that local operators can fill:

Personalized tenant relationships
Faster maintenance response
Flexibility on lease terms
Knowledge of neighborhood-specific dynamics

Independent operators who focus on service quality and local expertise can compete effectively against national platforms, particularly in markets where tenants value responsiveness and personal attention over branded amenities.

Philadelphia Fall Rental Market: Where Rents Are Heading and Which Neighborhoods to Watch

TCS Property Management — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia’s rental market is entering the fall season with notable shifts in neighborhood-level pricing, inventory, and tenant demand patterns that create opportunities for single-family rental operators.

Citywide Rental Trends

The median rent for a single-family home in Philadelphia held at $1,850 per month in August 2026, essentially flat compared to July but up 3.8% year-over-year. The seasonal pattern is typical — rents plateau in fall as leasing activity slows — but the year-over-year growth is modest compared to the 6-8% annual increases seen in 2024 and 2025.

Key citywide metrics:

Median SFR rent: $1,850/month (up 3.8% YoY)
Average days to lease: 22 days (up from 14 in August 2025)
Vacancy rate: 5.2% (up from 4.1% a year ago)
New SFR listings: 340 (up 9% YoY)

The slight uptick in vacancy and days-to-lease suggests the market is loosening, giving renters more options and slightly more negotiating power.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Fishtown and Northern Liberties

Fishtown and Northern Liberties remain the most expensive neighborhoods for single-family rentals, with median rents of $2,400-$2,800 per month. However, the pace of rent growth has slowed considerably — just 1.5% year-over-year — as new apartment development in the area has drawn some demand away from SFR.

For SFR operators, these neighborhoods remain attractive for acquisition due to strong tenant demand and low turnover, but cap rates have compressed to 4.5-5.0%, making it difficult to achieve positive leverage with current mortgage rates.

Neighborhood Spotlight: West Philadelphia

West Philadelphia is seeing the most interesting dynamics in the city. As Penn and Drexel continue to expand their footprints, demand for quality single-family rentals near campus has increased. Median rents in the $1,400-$1,700 range represent good value for tenants and attractive yields for investors who can find properties near transit.

The key risk in West Philadelphia is the student-dominated demand pool, which can create seasonal vacancy patterns and higher turnover. Operators should consider lease terms that align with the academic calendar.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Far Northeast

The Far Northeast offers the most affordable single-family rentals in the city, with median rents of $1,200-$1,500. The area has seen increased inventory as some homeowners who couldn’t sell at their target price have converted to rentals.

For SFR operators, the Far Northeast offers higher cap rates (7-8%) but also higher turnover and more management-intensive tenancies. The trade-off is yield versus operational burden.

Outlook for Q4

The fall market typically sees a 10-15% seasonal decline in leasing activity. With inventory already rising and vacancy ticking up, operators should focus on tenant retention heading into Q4 rather than pushing for aggressive rent increases. A tenant retained at a modest increase is worth more than a vacancy in a softening market.

Philadelphia Property Tax Reassessment: What SFR Owners Need to Know

TCS Property Management — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia’s 2026 property tax reassessment cycle is underway, and many single-family rental owners are receiving notices with assessment increases that could affect their cash flow and investment strategy.

Understanding the Reassessment

The Office of Property Assessment (OPA) conducts reassessments to bring assessed values in line with actual market values. In 2026, the reassessment affects properties in several neighborhoods that have seen significant price appreciation since the last cycle.

Key facts about the 2026 reassessment:

Notices were mailed in August 2026
New assessed values take effect for the 2027 tax year (bills due March 2027)
The citywide average increase is approximately 12%
Some neighborhoods are seeing increases of 20-35%

Neighborhoods Most Affected

The neighborhoods with the largest assessment increases are those that have experienced the most market appreciation:

Fishtown: Average increase of 28%
Point Breeze: Average increase of 31%
Passyunk Square: Average increase of 24%
East Kensington: Average increase of 26%
Graduate Hospital area: Average increase of 22%

These neighborhoods have seen significant investment and price appreciation over the past several years, and the reassessment is catching up to market reality.

Impact on SFR Cash Flow

For a property assessed at $200,000 with a 28% increase, the new assessment would be $256,000. At Philadelphia’s residential tax rate of 1.3998%, the annual tax bill would increase from $2,800 to $3,583 — an increase of $783 per year, or about $65 per month.

For SFR operators with multiple properties in affected neighborhoods, the cumulative impact can be meaningful. A 10-property portfolio in Fishtown could see tax increases totaling $7,000-$8,000 annually.

Appealing Your Assessment

Property owners have the right to appeal their assessment. The appeal deadline is October 7, 2026. To succeed, you need to demonstrate that the assessed value exceeds the actual market value of the property.

Steps to appeal:

Review the assessment notice and compare to your property’s market value
Gather comparable sales data (the OPA website provides recent sales records)
Document any property conditions that reduce value (deferred maintenance, code violations)
File the appeal with the Board of Revision of Taxes by October 7
Prepare to present your case at a hearing (typically scheduled 2-4 months after filing)

Many SFR owners use property tax appeal services that work on contingency, charging a percentage of the first year’s tax savings. This can be worthwhile for properties with large assessment increases.

Strategic Considerations for SFR Operators

The reassessment has several strategic implications:

Rent pricing: Some of the tax increase can be passed through to tenants, but market conditions will dictate how much
Acquisition underwriting: Future tax increases should be factored into acquisition models for properties in appreciating neighborhoods
Portfolio review: Properties with the largest assessment increases may warrant a deeper cash flow analysis to ensure they remain profitable

Philadelphia Zoning Reform Could Unlock New SFR Development Opportunities

TCS Property Management — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia is considering the most significant zoning reform in decades, with proposed changes that could unlock new development opportunities for single-family rental operators along transit-rich corridors.

The Proposed Changes

The Philadelphia City Planning Commission has put forward a zoning reform package that would:

Allow duplexes and triplexes by-right in areas currently zoned for single-family only
Reduce minimum lot sizes from 5,000 to 3,500 square feet in targeted corridors
Elimate parking minimums within a half-mile of transit stations
Streamline the permitting process for projects under 4 units

The reforms are modeled on similar changes adopted in Minneapolis, Portland, and Charlotte, all of which saw increases in small-scale housing production after reform.

Corridors Most Likely to Benefit

The proposed reforms target transit-rich corridors where higher density is already being encouraged through the city’s comprehensive plan. For SFR operators, the most interesting corridors include:

Broad Street corridor (North Philadelphia): Close to the Broad Street Line, currently dominated by single-family homes on large lots
Germantown Avenue corridor: Served by multiple bus routes and regional rail, with existing single-family stock that could be expanded
Frankford Avenue corridor: Near the Market-Frankford El Line, with strong demand from younger renters

These corridors currently have zoning that restricts development to single-family homes, but the proposed changes would allow 2-4 unit buildings by-right, dramatically increasing development potential.

What This Means for SFR Development

If passed, the zoning reform would create new opportunities for SFR operators to build or convert properties into small multi-unit buildings that offer single-family-style living at a lower price point.

Potential development models include:

Duplex conversions: Converting large single-family homes into two units, each with separate entrances
Triplex new construction: Building three-unit buildings on lots that currently have a single home
Detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs): Adding a small rental unit on an existing single-family lot

These models can achieve higher per-square-foot rents than single-family homes while serving the strong demand for smaller, more affordable rental units.

Timeline and Outlook

The zoning reform package is expected to go before City Council in late 2026, with a vote possible before the end of the year. If approved, the changes would take effect in early 2027.

SFR operators who are positioned to move quickly after the reforms take effect — with land assembled, financing in place, and contractor relationships established — will be best positioned to capitalize on the new development opportunities.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for Single-Family Rental Properties

TCS Property Management — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Preventive maintenance is the single most effective way to protect property value, avoid costly emergency repairs, and keep tenants satisfied. This seasonal checklist covers the essential tasks every SFR operator should schedule throughout the year.

Fall (September-November)

Fall is the critical season for preparing properties for winter weather. Missing fall maintenance tasks leads to the most expensive emergency repairs of the year.

HVAC inspection: Schedule a professional heating system tune-up before cold weather arrives. Replace furnace filters and test all heating components.
Gutter cleaning: Clear all gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. Clogged gutters cause ice dams and water damage.
Weather stripping: Inspect and replace weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent heat loss and drafts.
Pipe insulation: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (basements, crawl spaces, garages) to prevent freezing.
Roof inspection: Check for missing or damaged shingles and flashing. Address any issues before winter weather makes repairs impossible.
Chimney cleaning: If the property has a working fireplace, schedule a chimney sweep and inspection.
Lawn winterization: Apply winter fertilizer, aerate if needed, and mark sprinkler heads for snow removal.

Winter (December-February)

Winter maintenance is focused on monitoring and responding quickly to issues.

HVAC filter replacement: Replace filters monthly during heavy heating season.
Ice dam monitoring: After significant snowfall, check for ice dams forming on roof edges and address promptly.
Plumbing checks: Monitor for signs of pipe freezing — reduced water pressure, frost on pipes, unusual odors.
Snow removal: Ensure snow removal responsibilities are clear in the lease and that walkways are kept safe.
Pest inspection: Winter drives rodents indoors. Check for signs of entry and seal any gaps.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is the season for addressing winter damage and preparing for the rental season.

HVAC transition: Switch from heating to cooling. Schedule AC tune-up and refrigerant check.
Exterior inspection: Walk the entire property checking for winter damage — cracked siding, damaged screens, loose gutters, cracked walkways.
Landscaping restart: Prune trees and shrubs, apply pre-emergent, start mowing schedule, and check irrigation systems.
Roof and gutter check: Inspect for any winter damage to roofing and gutters.
Pest treatment: Schedule spring pest control treatment for ants, termites, and other seasonal pests.
Lease renewal review: Review upcoming lease expirations and begin renewal discussions 60-90 days ahead.

Summer (June-August)

Summer maintenance focuses on cooling systems, exterior upkeep, and preparing for the peak leasing season.

AC maintenance: Replace filters monthly. Monitor for reduced cooling performance and refrigerant leaks.
Lawn and landscape: Maintain mowing, watering, and weed control. Check for drought stress.
Exterior painting: Summer is ideal for touching up or repainting exterior trim and siding.
Deck and fence inspection: Check for rot, loose boards, and structural issues. Reseal or stain as needed.
Window screen repair: Replace torn screens and ensure all windows open and close properly.
Lease turnover preparation: Prepare for summer move-outs with make-ready checklists and contractor scheduling.

The Business Case for Preventive Maintenance

Properties on a consistent preventive maintenance schedule have 40-60% lower repair costs over a five-year period compared to reactive maintenance. The math is simple: a $150 gutter cleaning prevents a $5,000 ice dam repair. A $200 HVAC tune-up prevents a $4,000 furnace replacement.

For SFR operators managing multiple properties, a shared maintenance calendar across the portfolio ensures no property is overlooked and that contractor scheduling is efficient.

Screening Tenants for Single-Family Rentals: A Complete Tenant Screening Guide

TCS Property Management — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Tenant screening is the single most important process in single-family rental management. A good screening process prevents costly evictions, reduces turnover, and protects your property. A poor one — or worse, no screening at all — can lead to thousands in lost rent and property damage.

The Essential Screening Components

A complete tenant screening process includes five components:

1. Credit Report

Pull a full credit report, not just a score. Look for:

Payment history: Are there recent late payments, collections, or charge-offs?
Debt-to-income ratio: How much of their monthly income goes to debt service?
Eviction history: Many credit reports now include prior eviction filings
Bankruptcies: Chapter 7 or 13 filings and their discharge status

A credit score of 620 is a common minimum for SFR, but the full report tells a more nuanced story than the number alone.

2. Income Verification

Verify income independently — never rely on pay stubs alone, which are easily fabricated.

Request two recent pay stubs AND employer verification
For self-employed applicants, request two years of tax returns and bank statements
Require gross monthly income of at least 2.5-3x the monthly rent
Verify employment by calling the employer directly (not the number on the pay stub)

3. Rental History

Contact at least two previous landlords — not the current one, who may have an incentive to encourage the tenant to leave.

Ask specific questions:

Did the tenant pay on time?
Were there any lease violations?
Did they provide proper notice before moving?
Would you rent to this tenant again?
Did they leave the property in good condition?

4. Background Check

A criminal background check is legal in most jurisdictions, but the rules are strict. You cannot have a blanket policy denying all applicants with a criminal record — you must consider the nature, severity, and recency of the conviction in relation to the rental.

5. Identity Verification

Verify the applicant’s identity with a government-issued photo ID and confirm the Social Security number matches the credit report.

Fair Housing Compliance

The most critical aspect of screening is consistency and compliance with fair housing laws. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. Many states and cities add additional protected classes.

Best practices for compliance:

Written screening criteria: Document your criteria and apply them uniformly to every applicant
Adverse action notices: If you deny an applicant based on credit or background check results, provide a written adverse action notice with the reason and the reporting agency’s contact information
No exceptions: Never make an exception to your screening criteria for one applicant that you wouldn’t make for another
Objective standards: Use income ratios, credit score minimums, and rental history requirements — not gut feelings

Common Screening Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the income verification: Trusting pay stubs without employer confirmation
Only contacting the current landlord: The current landlord may not be honest
Inconsistent application of criteria: Making exceptions for some applicants but not others
Not documenting the decision: Keep records of why each applicant was approved or denied
Rushing the process: A bad tenant costs far more than an extra week of vacancy

Setting Up a Screening Workflow

For SFR operators with multiple properties, a standardized screening workflow ensures consistency and saves time:

Online application form with required fields and consent for background/credit check
Automated credit and background check through a screening service
Manual income verification and landlord reference calls
Standardized approval/denial decision matrix
Documented adverse action notices for denied applicants

This workflow can be managed with property management software or a simple standardized process with a screening service like TransUnion SmartMove or Experian RentBureau.

Security Deposit Best Practices: Legal Compliance for SFR Landlords

TCS Property Management — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Security deposits are one of the most common sources of landlord-tenant disputes and litigation. Getting the details right — from collection to storage to return — is essential for protecting your business and staying on the right side of the law.

Security Deposit Limits by State

States regulate security deposit maximums, and the limits vary widely. Some of the most relevant limits for SFR operators:

Pennsylvania: Two months’ rent for the first year, one month for subsequent years
New Jersey: One and a half months’ rent
New York: One month’s rent (recently reduced from two months)
Ohio: No statutory limit
Georgia: No statutory limit (but local ordinances may apply)
Texas: No statutory limit
California: One month’s rent (or two months if the landlord is a corporation or LLC)

Always check the specific state and local rules for your properties, as cities frequently add their own requirements on top of state law.

Where and How to Store Deposits

Many states require that security deposits be held in a separate account and, in some cases, that interest be paid to the tenant. Key requirements:

Separate account: Don’t commingle deposits with operating funds. Keep them in a dedicated escrow or trust account.
Interest-bearing accounts: States like New Jersey and Pennsylvania require deposits to be held in interest-bearing accounts, with interest paid to the tenant annually or at lease end.
Bank notification: Some states require the landlord to provide the tenant with the name and address of the bank where the deposit is held.

Documenting Property Condition

The most important step in protecting your security deposit rights is thorough documentation of the property’s condition at move-in and move-out.

Move-in inspection:

Conduct a joint walkthrough with the tenant
Use a standardized inspection form with the tenant’s signature
Take date-stamped photos of every room, including walls, floors, ceilings, and appliances
Note any pre-existing damage on the form
Give the tenant a copy of the completed form

Move-out inspection:

Conduct the inspection as soon as possible after the tenant vacates
Use the same form as the move-in inspection for direct comparison
Take date-stamped photos of any damage
Compare move-out condition to move-in condition to identify tenant-caused damage

What You Can and Cannot Deduct

This is where most disputes arise. The general rule: you can deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear, but not for normal wear and tear.

Deductible:

Broken or damaged windows and screens
Holes in walls beyond normal picture hanging
Stained or burned carpet
Missing or damaged appliances provided by the landlord
Excessive cleaning required (beyond normal turnover cleaning)
Unpaid rent or utility charges owed by the tenant

Not deductible (normal wear and tear):

Fading or minor scuffs on paint
Minor nail holes from picture hanging
Worn carpet in high-traffic areas
Fading or minor scratches on hardwood floors
Normal dirt that can be cleaned with standard cleaning

Return Timeline and Requirements

Every state has a specific deadline for returning the security deposit and any itemized deductions. Missing this deadline can result in the landlord forfeiting the right to make any deductions and, in some states, owing the tenant double or triple the deposit amount.

Common return deadlines:

Pennsylvania: 30 days
New Jersey: 30 days
New York: 14 days
Ohio: 30 days
Georgia: One month
Texas: 30 days

The return must include an itemized list of deductions with receipts for repairs. Vague descriptions like “cleaning and repairs” are not sufficient — be specific and document every cost.

Best Practices Summary

Know your state and local deposit limits and storage requirements
Always conduct documented move-in and move-out inspections with photos
Keep deposits in a separate account
Only deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear
Return deposits within the legal deadline with itemized deductions and receipts
When in doubt, return more rather than less — fighting over small deductions often costs more in time and potential litigation than the deduction is worth

Mortgage Rates and Housing Market Trends for SFR Investors in 2026

TCS Property Management — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy remains the single most important macroeconomic factor for the single-family rental market. With mortgage rates hovering above 6.5% throughout 2026, the housing market continues to favor renters over buyers — and that dynamic is reshaping the SFR landscape.

Current Rate Environment

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has remained between 6.5% and 7.0% for most of 2026, with minimal movement despite expectations of Fed rate cuts. The persistence of elevated rates reflects several factors:

The Fed has cut the federal funds rate by only 50 basis points in 2026
Long-term bond yields have stayed high due to inflation concerns
Mortgage spreads remain elevated compared to pre-2022 norms
Lender caution in the secondary mortgage market keeps rates sticky

Impact on Home Purchase Affordability

At current rates, the monthly payment on a median-priced home ($412,000) with a 20% down payment is approximately $2,120 for principal and interest alone. Adding property taxes, insurance, and maintenance brings the total cost of ownership to roughly $2,800 per month.

For comparison, the median rent for a single-family home nationally is $2,050 per month. This gap — combined with the $82,400 down payment required — keeps many would-be buyers in the rental market, directly benefiting SFR operators.

What Fed Rate Cuts Would Mean

If the Fed continues cutting rates in late 2026 and into 2027, the impact on the SFR market would be mixed:

Potential headwinds:

Lower mortgage rates could pull some renters into homeownership, reducing demand
Property acquisition costs would rise as more buyers compete
Cap rates could compress as property values rise faster than rents

Potential benefits:

Refinancing existing portfolio debt at lower rates improves cash flow
Acquisition financing becomes cheaper, improving leveraged returns
Construction loans for build-to-rent projects become more viable

Historically, modest rate cuts (50-100 basis points) have had limited impact on SFR demand because the purchase affordability gap remains large even after small rate reductions.

The Lock-In Effect Persists

A significant factor keeping inventory low and supporting the rental market is the “lock-in effect” — existing homeowners with mortgage rates below 4% are reluctant to sell and take on a new mortgage at 6.5%+. This effect has kept for-sale inventory constrained and sustained rental demand.

Even with modest rate cuts, the lock-in effect will persist until rates fall meaningfully below 5%, which most economists do not expect until 2028 at the earliest.

Strategic Implications for SFR Operators

The current rate environment supports several strategies:

Hold and optimize: With demand strong and acquisition expensive, focus on optimizing existing portfolios through rent growth and operational efficiency
Selective acquisition: Properties in secondary markets with strong rental demand and reasonable cap rates (7-8%) remain attractive
Fixed-rate debt: Lock in long-term fixed-rate debt on acquisitions to protect against future rate volatility
Tenant retention: With demand likely to remain strong, focus on retaining quality tenants rather than maximizing rent on every turnover

The National Housing Supply Shortage: Why It's Getting Worse Before It Gets Better

TCS Property Management — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The United States faces a housing supply shortage of approximately 4.5 million units, according to the latest estimates from the National Association of Realtors and the Joint Center for Housing Studies. The gap is widening, not closing, and the implications for the rental market — particularly single-family rentals — are profound.

The Scale of the Deficit

The 4.5 million unit deficit represents the gap between current housing supply and the number of homes needed to meet demand based on population growth, household formation, and replacement of aging stock. To close this gap over a decade, the U.S. would need to build approximately 450,000 additional units per year on top of current construction rates.

Current construction rates:

Total housing starts in 2025: 1.42 million units (annualized)
Single-family starts: 980,000 units
Multifamily starts: 440,000 units
Additional units needed annually to close the gap: 450,000

Even if construction accelerated by 30%, it would take a decade to close the deficit.

What’s Driving the Shortage

Several structural factors are constraining housing supply:

Zoning and Land Use Restrictions

Single-family-only zoning, minimum lot sizes, and parking requirements prevent the construction of denser housing types in the areas where demand is highest. Cities like Minneapolis, Portland, and Charlotte have reformed zoning to allow more missing-middle housing, but most of the country has not.

Construction Labor Shortage

The construction industry faces a labor shortage of approximately 500,000 workers, driven by an aging workforce, reduced immigration, and declining interest in trades careers. This shortage increases labor costs and extends project timelines.

Material Costs

Construction material costs have risen 35% since 2020 and show no sign of returning to pre-pandemic levels. Lumber, steel, concrete, and electrical components all remain elevated, making new construction more expensive.

Financing Constraints

High interest rates have made construction financing expensive. Many projects that would have been viable at 4% interest rates do not pencil at 7%+, reducing the pipeline of new housing.

Regional Variation

The shortage is not evenly distributed. The most acute deficits are in:

Sun Belt metros (Atlanta, Dallas, Phoenix, Charlotte): High in-migration has outpaced construction
Northeast corridors (Boston, New York, Philadelphia): Restrictive zoning and limited land constrain supply
West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle): The most severe shortages due to extreme zoning restrictions

Markets in the Midwest and Great Plains generally have more balanced supply, though even these areas are seeing tightening in desirable submarkets.

What This Means for the SFR Market

The persistent supply shortage has several implications for single-family rental operators:

Sustained rental demand: With homeownership out of reach for millions of households due to the supply-driven price increases, rental demand — particularly for single-family product — will remain strong for years.

Rent growth: The supply shortage supports continued rent growth, though at moderating rates (3-5% annually rather than the 6-8% seen in 2024-2025).

Property value support: The supply shortage provides a floor under property values, making SFR a relatively safe long-term investment.

Build-to-rent opportunity: The shortage of for-sale housing creates an opportunity for build-to-rent developers who can deliver single-family living at rental price points.

The Long-Term Outlook

Most housing economists expect the supply shortage to persist through at least 2030. Zoning reform, construction labor development, and material cost normalization are all slow-moving factors. For SFR operators, this means the fundamental demand drivers for single-family rentals will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Insurance Costs SFR Operators Face: Strategies to Manage Rising Premiums

TCS Property Management — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Property insurance costs have become one of the most significant threats to SFR operator profitability, with premiums rising 25-40% over the past two years and some markets seeing even sharper increases. For operators with thin margins, these increases can be the difference between a profitable and unprofitable property.

What’s Driving Insurance Cost Increases

Several factors are converging to push property insurance premiums higher:

Catastrophic Weather losses

Climate-related weather events — hurricanes, wildfires, hailstorms, and flooding — have caused record insurance losses. Insurers are raising premiums broadly to cover the increased risk, even in areas not directly affected by catastrophic events.

Reinsurance market hardening

Reinsurers — the companies that insure insurance companies — have raised their rates significantly, and these costs are passed through to policyholders. The reinsurance market has hardened particularly for property coverage in coastal and wildfire-prone areas.

Inflation in repair costs

Construction cost inflation means that claims are more expensive to settle. A roof replacement that cost $8,000 in 2020 now costs $12,000-$14,000, and insurers are pricing accordingly.

Litigation costs

Increased litigation around insurance claims, particularly in states like Florida and Louisiana, has driven up legal defense costs and settlement amounts.

Geographic Impact

The insurance cost increases are not uniform. The most severe increases are in:

Florida: 40-60% average increase, with some carriers withdrawing entirely
Louisiana: 35-55% increase
Texas: 25-35% increase (hail and storm exposure)
California: 20-30% increase (wildfire risk)
Gulf Coast generally: 30-50% increase

Even in lower-risk markets like the Northeast and Midwest, premiums are up 15-25% as insurers spread their increased risk costs across all policies.

Strategies to Manage Insurance Costs

1. Shop Annually

Loyalty to a single insurance carrier rarely pays in this market. Get competitive quotes every year from at least three carriers. Insurance brokers who specialize in investment property can access markets that direct-to-consumer carriers don’t offer.

2. Increase Deductibles

Moving from a $1,000 to a $2,500 or $5,000 deductible can reduce premiums by 15-25%. For SFR operators with multiple properties and cash reserves, the risk of a higher deductible is manageable and the premium savings are significant across a portfolio.

3. Bundle Properties

If you have multiple properties, ask about a portfolio policy that covers all properties under one master policy. These policies often offer better rates than individual policies and simplify claims management.

4. Invest in Risk Mitigation

Some insurers offer discounts for properties with:

Impact-resistant roofing (particularly in hail-prone areas)
Security systems and smart smoke detectors
Water leak detection systems
Updated electrical and plumbing systems

The cost of these improvements can be offset by premium savings over 2-3 years.

5. Consider Self-Insurance for Smaller Claims

For operators with sufficient cash reserves, consider self-insuring for smaller claims by carrying a higher deductible and funding a dedicated repair reserve. This eliminates small claims that drive up premiums over time.

6. Pass Through to Tenants

In some markets, lease structures allow for insurance cost pass-throughs via CAM charges or separate insurance line items. While this is more common in commercial leases, some SFR operators are building insurance cost adjustments into their renewal pricing.

The Outlook

Most insurance industry analysts expect premium increases to moderate in 2027 but not reverse. The new baseline for property insurance is likely 20-30% higher than pre-2022 levels permanently. SFR operators should plan for insurance costs as a growing percentage of operating expenses and adjust their acquisition underwriting accordingly.