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Orange County, FL Real Estate News

By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Over the past few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge for homebuyers. Between rapidly rising home prices and higher mortgage rates, many have felt stuck between a rock and a hard place.But, something pretty encouraging is happening. While affordability is still tight, mortgage rates have shown signs of stabilizing in recent months. And that may finally make it a bit easier to plan your move.Mortgage Rates Have Stabilized – For NowOver the past year, mortgage rates have had their share of ups and downs, making it tough for buyers to know what to expect. But recently, rates have started to level out and have settled into a more narrow range (see graph below):As the graph shows, rates have stayed within that half-percentage-point since late last year. Yes, there’s been move...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Now that summer’s here, you’re probably planning your next getaway. But what if you didn’t have to?Buying a vacation home means having a built-in escape you can use year after year. It gives you the chance to generate rental income and have a go-to retirement destination in the future.If you’re dreaming of owning your own slice of paradise, let’s connect and see if we can make it happen this summer.​ Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The author does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or ...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
If you’ve been putting off buying a home because you thought getting approved would be too hard, know this: qualifying for a mortgage is starting to get a bit more achievable, but lending standards are still strong.Lenders are making it slightly easier for well-qualified buyers to access financing, which is opening more doors for people ready to make a move.So, if strict requirements were holding you back, this shift could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, without repeating the risky lending practices that led to the housing crash back in 2008.Lenders Are Opening More DoorsBanks are offering credit to more people in an effort to boost activity in the housing market, including buyers who have lower credit scores or smaller down payments. And that means more people are getting a...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are down compared to last year, you might be thinking – is it even a good time to sell?  Here’s the thing. Sure, the pace of the market has cooled compared to the frenzy we saw just a few years ago, but that’s not a red flag. It’s a return to normal. And normal doesn’t mean nothing’s happening. Buyers are still out there – and homes are still selling. Why? Because real life doesn’t pause for perfect conditions. There are always people who need to buy – and this year is no exception. Buyers who are in the middle of a big change in their lives, a new marriage, a growing family, or a new job still need to move, no matter where mortgage rates are. And they may be looking for a home just like yours. Every Minute 8 Homes Sell Let’s break it down usi...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Remember the chatter in the headlines about all the homes big institutional investors were buying? If you were thinking about buying a home yourself, you may have wondered how you’d ever be able to compete with that. Here’s the thing. That’s not the challenge so many people think it is – especially right now.Let’s break down what’s really going on and why the recent shift in the approach investors are taking could tip the scales in your favor.Large Investors Are Pulling BackThe truth is institutional investors never represented as big a share of the housing market as people think. And now, they’re backing off even more.Today, big real estate investors aren’t buying as many homes. In fact, they’re actually selling more than they’re buying.According to data from Parcl Labs, 6 out of 8 of ...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
The right agent doesn’t just list your house – they help you sell smarter, faster, and with fewer surprises.With an agent’s help, you’ll know what’s happening in your local market and how to price your house right. You’ll feel confident filling out complex legal documents and at the negotiation table. And that’s priceless.Let’s connect so you have that expertise on your side.​ Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The author does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herei...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Multi-generational living is on the rise. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17% of homebuyers purchase a home to share with parents, adult children, or extended family. That’s the highest share ever recorded by NAR (see graph below): And what’s behind the increase? Affordability. NAR explains: “In 2024, a notable 36% of homebuyers cited “cost savings” as the primary reason for purchasing a multigenerational home—a significant increase from just 15% in 2015.” In the past, caregiving was the leading motivator – especially for those looking to support aging parents. And while that’s still important, affordability is now the #1 motivator. And with current market conditions, that’s not really a surprise. Pooling Resources Can Help Make Homeownership Possible With today...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
As the market shifts, nearly 44% of today’s sellers are offering concessions. That includes throwing in perks for buyers like repair credits or help with closing cost. But here’s the key.Concessions aren’t losses. They’re tools. And the homeowners who understand that are winning – big time.The savviest sellers are using concessions to bridge gaps, sweeten offers, and get across the finish line.Because, with home prices up roughly 55% over the past five years, there’s plenty of room to negotiate and still come out ahead.Want to go over which levers are worth pulling in our market? Let’s chat. That way you know what’s working for sellers in your local area, whenever you’re ready to make your move. Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (4...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is actually a good thing.It’s what you should expect. It’s just that our expectations have been skewed by the intense seller’s market over the past few years.But what you need to remember is: there’s still plenty of opportunity to be had if you’re thinking about selling – whether that’s next month or next year. You just need to stay up to date on what’s happening in the market, and have a strategy that matches the moment. Here's your update.1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.According to the latest data, the number of homes for sale is rising back toward more normal levels (see graph below):But inventory growth is going ...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Fear of a recession is back in the headlines. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling sometime soon, that may leave you wondering if you should reconsider the timing of your move.A recent survey by John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) shows 68% of people are delaying plans to buy or sell due to economic uncertainty.But it may not be for the reason you think. Not everyone is holding off because they’re worried. Some buyers are waiting because they’re hopeful. According to Realtor.com:“In 2025Q1, 3 in 10 (29.8% of) surveyed homebuyers said a recession would make them at least somewhat more likely to purchase a home . . . This reflects a common dynamic where some buyers see a downturn as an opportunity. If the economy enters a recession, the F...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
A growing number of homeowners are overestimating today’s market. ​And that’s why the number of sellers dropping their price is back at normal levels.​A lot of the time this is happening because they’re not paying attention to current conditions. The best way to avoid that mistake? Lean on the expertise of an agent.If you want a proven pricing strategy that works for today's market, let's connect. Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The author does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opi...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Life can feel a bit unpredictable these days. What’s happening with inflation? The economy? The housing market? But in the middle of all that uncertainty, there’s one thing a lot of people still crave – a place to call their own. Because when everything else feels up in the air, home can be the thing that grounds you. As the experts at 1000WATTput it: “Homeownership isn’t primarily financial anymore. . . Across all demographics, emotional and lifestyle factors consistently outrank wealth-building as motivators.” Here’s what owning a home can mean for you, especially right now. Freedom To Make It Yours When you're a homeowner, you don’t need to ask permission to paint a wall, hang a gallery of your favorite art, or redo the floors. You have the freedom to create a space that reflects wh...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
There is no question that families and households are increasingly finding multigenerational living an appealing option. In fact, numerous statistics uphold that multigenerational housing is an escalating trend being driven by financial considerations and the desire for closer family ties. In fact, the number of multigenerational households surged to an all-time high of 17% last year, according to a “Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report ” by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). This primarily motivated by the need for cost savings, with families combining incomes to afford home ownership. Another recent NAR report revealed that, nearly one-fifth (19%) of Gen Xers and 16% of Younger Boomers purchased multigenerational homes in 2024, further exemplifying shifting resi...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Are you thinking about buying a home, but not sure if now’s the right time? A lot of people are waiting and wondering what the market’s going to do next. But here’s something only the savviest buyers realize:This summer might actually be the best time to buy in years. Here are three big reasons why.1. You Have More Negotiating PowerAfter several years of sellers having all the leverage, things are starting to shift. Check out the graph below. It uses data from Redfin to show that right now, there are more sellers active in the market than buyers:Take a look at what happened back in 2021 through roughly 2023. In that time period, there were far more buyers (the blue line) looking to buy than homes for sale (the green line). That’s what drove the intense competition, bidding wars, and the...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here’s something to consider.While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can’t handle anymore, or being 1,000 miles from your family. And those real-life needs are pushing more sellers off the fence despite today’s rates.Data shows the share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% is dropping as more people move. And, as a result, the share of homeowners taking on a mortgage rate above 6% is rising, too (see graph below):The Biggest Reasons People Are Moving Right NowWhy are some homeowners willing to take on a higher rate? A survey from Realtor.com helps shed ligh...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
There’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more competitive.And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down payment assistance. Most first-time buyers qualify and the typical benefit is $17,000.To learn more about your loan options or down payment assistance programs, connect with a trusted lender and check out downpaymentresource.com.  Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Selling your house without an agent as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) may be something you’ve considered. But you should know that, in today’s shifting market, more homeowners are deciding that’s just not worth the risk.According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number of homeowners selling without an agent has hit an all-time low (see graph below): And for the small number of homeowners who do decide to sell on their own, data shows they’re still not confident they’re making a good choice. A recent survey finds three out of every four homeowners who don’t plan to use an agent have doubts about whether that’s actually the right decision. And here’s why. The market is changing – not in a bad way, just in a way that requires a smarter, more strategic a...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Have you been holding off on downsizing? If so, you should know your equity could make your move possible.Homeowners today have so much equity that a record number are buying their next house in all cash. And that has some big benefits like making their offer more appealing, potentially closing faster, and not having a mortgage payment.To find out how much equity you have in your current house, let's connect. Because it may be enough to fuel your move. Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The author does not guarantee or warran...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
When your house doesn’t sell, it doesn’t just feel frustrating – it feels personal. You put time, money, and emotional energy into this move. You told your friends and family it was happening. And now that your listing has expired without a buyer? You’re left feeling stuck, and maybe even a little embarrassed.And here's what most agents won’t tell you. Over 70% of homeowners who re-list with a different agent sell their house. Re-list with the same agent? That stat drops to only 50%, according to the latest data from REDX. That’s like leaving the fate of your sale to a coin toss. And that’s not good enough.REDX data also shows that only 1 in 3 homeowners with expired listings actually make that change. That means most sellers either give up or repeat the same mistakes, so they get the s...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
After years of it feeling almost impossible to find a home you want to buy, things are changing for the better. Nationally, inventory is growing, and that gives you more options for your move. But here’s what you need to know. That level of growth is going to vary based on where you live. And that’s why you need an agent’s local market expertise.Here’s a quick rundown of the current inventory situation, so you know what’s happening and what to expect.Significant Growth Across the NationNationally, the number of homes for sale is rising – and that’s true in all regions of the country. That’s shown in this data from Realtor.com. In each of the four regions, inventory is up at least 19% compared to the same time last year. In the West, it’s actually up almost 41% year-over-year (see graph ...
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