Localize to expand its AI tools for agents to more markets in 2023

A company that powers the home search for buyers using artificial intelligence, generating leads for agents, will enter new markets this year CEO Omer Granot said on Wednesday at Inman Connect New York. Continue reading

Alpaca partner Ryan Freedman is on hunt for real estate disruptors

“Reducing friction was yesterday’s play,” Alpaca VC general partner Ryan Freedman told Inman in a wide-ranging interview. He stressed the need for a full suite of industry services. Continue reading

Investors highlight the untapped potential in financing home equity

A slate of new companies backed by institutional investors is offering ways for owners to tap home equity. They made their pitch on Tuesday at Inman Connect New York. Continue reading

Ben Kinney tells agents to channel ‘Braveheart,’ lead in tough times

“There are casualties in every war, but casualties come from egos and lack of action,” Ben Kinney told an audience at Inman Connect New York on Tuesday. Continue reading

RealPage hit with second class-action suit alleging rent price fixing

Tenants in Florida claim the company oversaw a “cartel” that unfairly drove up the cost of rent in markets across the Sunshine State. The claim comes on the heels of a similar suit in California. Continue reading

Coldwell Banker reportedly closing offices in Chicago

The move follows layoffs by parent company Anywhere, which said the company would be looking for more ways to cut costs, including office space. Continue reading

In reversal from 2021, it costs more to buy than rent in 95% of US

Last year, it was more expensive to rent than own. High home prices and mortgage rates that doubled in 2022 changed that, according to a new report from property data firm Attom. Continue reading

The country moved closer to a balanced market in December

Inventory rose 69 percent, and sales fell 38 percent to close out 2022 as the nation moves away from the frenzied seller’s market and closer to balance, according to a new market report from RE/MAX. Continue reading

Opendoor in 2023: The iBuying king and a business model in turmoil

Opendoor faces a fight for survival after “an abrupt strategy pivot” sent Opendoor into 2023 “without a proven business model.” Here are the five biggest challenges facing the king of a troubled business model. Continue reading