Real estate agents can help buyers make more informed decisions by focusing on the full monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and association fees, rather than the listing price alone. Discussing those costs early can prevent surprises, narrow the home search and demonstrate the value of an ag

First-time buyers can make a clearer buy-or-wait decision by weighing their finances, local market conditions, housing costs and future plans.

Florida has 42,601 empty lots listed for sale, the most in the nation. Zillow estimates that building one home on each listed U.S. lot could reduce the housing shortage by 6.3%.

The 30-year fixed rate reaches 6.66% as bond yields respond to Iran conflict. That's still slightly below the average of 6.72% a year ago.