ERA Real Estate expands presence in NOLA with veteran-owned firm

Slidell-based firm Top Agent Realty is now part of ERA Real Estate. Military veteran Stephen Molero purchased the firm in 2013 and serves consumers throughout Southeastern Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Continue reading

NYC real estate news site Brick Underground to close unless sold

The site started as an objective resource for renters and buyers moving to or living in New York City. Staff holds out hope for a sale this month. Continue reading

Flagstar mortgages could help NYCB shore up its balance sheet

Troubled New York Community Bancorp is reportedly ready to pledge about $5 billion in home loans originated by Flagstar Bank as collateral for risk transfer that would bolster its capital. Continue reading

CoStar to spend a billion dollars on marketing in fight for portal crown

The company plans to advertise during the Super Bowl and other major cultural events in what it describes as the “biggest marketing campaign in real estate history.” Continue reading

Mortgage rates lead to biggest pending sales drop since October

Rising interest rates and harsh winter weather have dampened homebuyer activity, leading to the biggest drop in pending sales since October. However, there’s optimism for a rebound as spring approaches, fueled by increasing home tours and new listings. Continue reading

Nir Meir charged with larceny alongside HFZ, Omnibuild execs

HFZ, Meir and executives from both HFZ and Omnibuild allegedly defrauded subcontractors, investors and the City of New York. Continue reading

A softer rental market isn’t enough to help hopeful homebuyers

The rental market is stabilizing with fewer landlords planning rent increases, according to Realtor.com’s latest survey. But the rent slowdown won’t significantly ease financial burdens for renters who are struggling to save for a down payment or quali… Continue reading

Treasury releases proposed rule for reporting all-cash luxe sales

Real estate professionals who handle closings and settlements will be required to report information to the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network when an all-cash residential sale is made to shell companies, legal entities and trusts. Continue reading