HOW’S FLORIDA DOING? Gov. Charlie Crist promised to make Florida government more accessible to the public, and a new Web site seems to do just that. Florida Performs compiles data from a variety of sources and provides a synopsis of Florida’s current state of affairs. And it appears to be balanced, citing the bad news [...]

FLORIDA HOME SALES – In third quarter 2007, Florida’s housing sector in many markets continued to report high inventory levels of homes for sale, median prices edging down and sales activity levels reflecting the impact of mortgage disruptions. Statewide sales of single-family existing homes totaled 31,910 for the quarter, a decrease of 29 percent compared [...]

FORECLOSURES – Created to combat a rising flood of mortgage foreclosures, the Hope Now alliance began a nationwide mail campaign Monday to 300,000 homeowners, offering help to those who may be having trouble meeting their mortgage payments.  Hope Now alliance, is backed by the Bush, is a partnership of mortgage companies and nonprofit housing counselors.  It [...]

ANOTHER HOME BUILDER IN TROUBLE - Homebuilder TOUSA Inc. of Hollywood, Florida says it may not survive the housing slump. The company’s announcement comes less than a week after Fort Lauderdale-based Levitt and Sons filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection from its creditors. (see Florida Real Estate News – 11/12/07.)
MORTGAGE RATES – Rates on 30-year mortgages were [...]