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  • Miami, FL Buyers Gain Negotiating Power | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Miami, FL Buyers Gain Negotiating Power | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Interesting shift in Miami’s residential market: homes are now selling for about 5% below asking price on average, making Miami one of the nation’s leading discount markets. For buyers, this means leverage—more room to negotiate, and a clear trend where sellers are open to deals below list rather than above. Among the top 50 U.S. housing markets, 38 are now seeing homes sell under asking, but Miami stands out with the largest average discount, even compared to other high-markdown cities. That’s well above the usual 2% to 3% range seen in the broader Southern region, highlighting the unique advantage for Miami buyers right now.

    For those exploring Miami’s luxury and commercial real estate, these conditions define a true buyers’ environment. Negotiation is not only possible—it’s expected. My own approach always centers on maximizing client advantage, and in this climate, that means leveraging every opportunity on the table. If you’re evaluating Miami, know that sellers are more flexible than we’ve seen in years, and the market is rewarding strategic negotiation.

  • Addressing Urban Challenges Beyond Average Renter Costs

    Addressing Urban Challenges Beyond Average Renter Costs

    When we talk about renter cost burdens in US cities, the averages don’t always tell the full story—especially for those navigating the luxury and commercial property markets. From 2019 to 2022, apartment renter cost burdens climbed in most metros, with Sun Belt cities seeing some of the sharpest increases. Right now, half of renters are allocating more than 30% of their income to rent. Yet, even as average figures appear stable, there’s a rise in severe rent burdens that points to deeper, often overlooked affordability challenges. In my experience structuring lease-to-suit and commercial deals, I’ve seen firsthand how these hidden pressures can impact both residential and business tenants. It’s a reminder that sustainable real estate solutions must look beyond headline numbers to address the true economic realities shaping our urban communities.

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  • Las Vegas Luxury Communities to Watch | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Las Vegas Luxury Communities to Watch | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Luxury wellness living is taking center stage in Las Vegas, as builders respond to discerning buyers seeking more than just stunning architecture. Recently, I’ve seen a shift: new communities are weaving together high-end amenities and wellness-focused design, targeting homeowners just under—and well above—the $1M mark. One upcoming project is especially noteworthy, set to deliver around 400 units anchored in a holistic approach to health and longevity. Here, 'resort-style living' isn’t just a slogan; it’s a daily reality, with hospitality-inspired spaces that make home feel like a permanent vacation—no traditional HOA vibe required. Think beyond the fitness center: these homes will offer longevity labs, red-light saunas, cold plunges, sleep optimization, energy therapies, and even AI-powered health tools. Price points range from $700K to $15.7M, with most homes expected to top $2M. Layouts span two to five bedrooms, each with multi-car garages—an ideal fit for those who want every detail elevated. As someone who integrates telehealth profit centers and advanced wellness technologies into every property and business, I’m energized to see the market embracing spaces designed for sustained well-being. This is the future of luxury real estate—where home is your sanctuary and your health partner, all in one.

  • US Cities Enjoy Significant Rent Relief by Late 2026

    US Cities Enjoy Significant Rent Relief by Late 2026

    Rental affordability is shifting in some unexpected US markets. Cities like Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Las Vegas have experienced rental price drops between 7% and 12%, shaped by tech talent migration, remote work, housing oversupply, and cooling economic growth. For those of us navigating both luxury and commercial real estate, these changes highlight how fluid the rental landscape can be—even in cities traditionally seen as stable or emerging hubs. I track these shifts closely, especially as they impact multi-use investment strategies and new business models combining real estate with value-add services like telehealth. Whether you’re looking at residential, commercial, or land lease-to-suit opportunities, understanding these trends is key to maximizing value in evolving markets.

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  • Best Places to Invest in Real Estate With No State Income Tax

    Best Places to Invest in Real Estate With No State Income Tax

    When evaluating real estate investments, zero state income tax states like Florida, Texas, Tennessee, and Nevada stand out for maximizing your net rental income. I’ve seen firsthand how these markets—especially with their expanding populations, robust job growth, and landlord-friendly environments—create real advantages for investors looking to grow portfolios. Of course, it’s critical to weigh local tax and insurance realities alongside these benefits. My approach always looks beyond the surface, layering in profit centers like telehealth for added value and resilience. Whether it’s luxury, commercial, or land lease-to-suit, aligning investment strategy with evolving market dynamics is key to sustaining returns.

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  • Moderated Costs Open New Opportunities for Apartment Development

    Moderated Costs Open New Opportunities for Apartment Development

    Even as construction costs begin to ease, the path to new multifamily developments is still far from simple. In my work across luxury and commercial real estate, I’m seeing firsthand how high interest rates, ongoing permitting delays, and tight capital requirements continue to shape the landscape. Only developers with significant resources and access to strong markets are able to advance projects, which means the pipeline for new apartments remains lean. This creates both challenges and opportunities for investors and businesses seeking to expand or diversify their portfolios. Strategic innovation—like integrating telehealth profit centers into properties—is becoming essential for maximizing value in a market where every edge counts.

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  • United States: Home Price Growth Seen at 1.2% in 2026 | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    United States: Home Price Growth Seen at 1.2% in 2026 | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Looking ahead to 2026, the US real estate landscape is positioning itself for more moderate growth—home prices are forecasted to rise about 1.2%, ushering in a more balanced, buyer-friendly market. Existing-home sales are expected to reach 4.10 million, up roughly 1% year-over-year, with momentum projected to pick up in the latter half of the year. Mortgage rates are anticipated to remain in the low-6% range, and with incomes strengthening and price growth softening, typical buyer payments could drop by about 2% annually. Renters may also find some relief, as rents are projected to fall around 1%, thanks to continued multifamily supply supporting the market.

    For my clients—whether you're considering a luxury residence, commercial venture, or a unique lease-to-suit opportunity—these trends signal a shifting landscape where strategic vision is key. In my work, I see the value not just in bricks and mortar, but in the holistic business opportunities that can be built around these assets. From integrating profit centers like telehealth into your portfolio to navigating the subtleties of private listing networks (which, for now, show limited impact on broader sales), it's never just about the transaction—it's about positioning for long-term success. As always, visibility and adaptability remain your best allies in a changing market.

  • Miami Homes Are Selling Below Asking | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Miami Homes Are Selling Below Asking | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    In Miami’s current real estate landscape, homes are closing at an average of 5% below asking price—placing the city among the nation’s top discount markets. This trend isn’t limited to Miami alone: out of the 50 largest US housing markets, 38 saw homes selling below list, but Miami’s markdown stands out as the most significant among major cities. For buyers, that translates to real leverage. While buyers across the South are typically seeing discounts in the 2% to 3% range, Miami’s deeper cuts highlight a distinctly buyer-friendly environment.

    When I help clients structure luxury or commercial deals in Miami, these data points underscore the negotiation space available in today’s market. It’s prime time for strategic purchasers to enter the conversation with confidence—knowing sellers are often open to offers below list. Whether you’re acquiring a premium residence or a building suited for business with a built-in telehealth profit center, understanding these market shifts means you can negotiate from a position of strength. That’s how we maximize value in Miami’s evolving real estate scene.

  • Best Cities to Buy Multi-Family Homes for Investment in 2026

    Best Cities to Buy Multi-Family Homes for Investment in 2026

    For those considering multi-family investment opportunities in 2026, three cities stand out in terms of growth and income potential: Washington, D.C. with a 7.04% cap rate, Las Vegas at a 7.07% cap rate plus an appealingly low 0.50% property tax, and Denver, where a booming economy is paired with a 0.44% property tax. These markets have been on my radar not just for their returns, but for their strategic alignment with the evolving needs of investors who value long-term income streams and innovative value-adds. My approach always emphasizes how integrated business solutions—like pairing real estate with telehealth profit centers—can further enhance property value and operational resilience. If you’re navigating where to focus next, these cities offer strong fundamentals and are well-suited for forward-thinking investment models.

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  • US Mortgage Applications Stall | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    US Mortgage Applications Stall | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Mortgage activity in the US has leveled off, with borrowing costs holding steady and leaving both buyers and refinancers with little urgency to jump in. Purchase applications dipped 2% seasonally adjusted, and 3% unadjusted, reflecting a pause as affordability concerns and economic uncertainty weigh on the market. Refinancing nudged up just 2%, maintaining a 42% share—though those with larger loan amounts are still holding back. The bright spot? VA applications now account for 12.6% of the mix, offering a modest lift. Meanwhile, the 30-year conforming rate sits close to 7%, and with no expected central bank rate cuts through 2026, patience is clearly the word of the day.

    In my own work connecting luxury and commercial clients with holistic, future-ready property solutions, I see how these macro trends ripple through every transaction. Whether you're expanding your business footprint or enhancing your asset with added value like telehealth integration, timing and adaptability are key. In a market where the numbers aren't moving, the best opportunities often lie in strategy and innovation.