• 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

    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

    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

    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.

  • First American report reveals dynamic regional housing shifts

    First American report reveals dynamic regional housing shifts

    First American’s latest report underscores just how dynamic our regional housing markets have become. While national consumer house-buying power slipped by 0.3% this month, it’s actually up 6.8% over the past year—thanks to evolving income levels and mortgage rate shifts. Median income is showing a 3.2% annual rise, yet home prices sit a remarkable 66.7% above their 2006 peak, with notable regional differences shaping the landscape.

    When working across luxury and commercial real estate, I see firsthand how these trends influence acquisition strategies and investment planning. Understanding regional price variations isn’t just data—it’s vital context for structuring deals, especially when layering in transformative business elements like telehealth. In my approach, integrating profit centers such as telehealth into real estate portfolios helps clients navigate these market shifts and maximize value, no matter where they’re anchored.

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  • Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in the Las Vegas metro area

    Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in the Las Vegas metro area

    In my work across the Las Vegas metro area, I’m seeing firsthand how home values are evolving. The latest numbers show U.S. home values averaging $371,757, up 1.1% over the past year—driven by limited supply, though rising mortgage rates have started to slow that growth. In our local market, some cities are experiencing declines, but it’s worth noting that over the past five years, select areas have still achieved gains exceeding 20%. Navigating these shifts is part of what I do every day—whether structuring luxury residential or commercial deals, or integrating new profit centers like telehealth into business operations. Staying ahead of these trends helps my clients maximize the potential in every transaction.

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  • Governor Joe Lombardo, City of Las Vegas Announce Historic Federal Land Sale to Support Up to 6,000 New Homes in Southern Nevada

    Governor Joe Lombardo, City of Las Vegas Announce Historic Federal Land Sale to Support Up to 6,000 New Homes in Southern Nevada

    Exciting momentum in northwest Las Vegas: Governor Joe Lombardo and the City of Las Vegas have just announced a landmark federal land sale set to bring up to 6,000 new homes to Southern Nevada. This is more than a residential expansion—it's a $3–4 billion infusion into the local economy, promising 1,000 new jobs and a vibrant mix of housing, infrastructure, parks, trails, and commercial spaces. As someone who navigates global luxury and commercial real estate, I see opportunities here for innovative business integrations—especially for those ready to leverage new community assets. Developments like this always spark new ways to add value, from lease-to-suit strategies to bolting on profitable, future-forward amenities. The fabric of Las Vegas continues to evolve, and it’s inspiring to watch this city invest in both its people and its possibilities.

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  • Las Vegas Valley Needs More Apartments | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Las Vegas Valley needs ~5K new apartment units each year for the foreseeable future if it wants to become more affordable for renters.
    At the current construction pace, Las Vegas could need >100 yr to close its housing shortage, showing how far supply trails renter demand.
    Population growth and strong rental demand have outpaced new apartment supply, a mismatch that has pushed rents higher and intensified competition for available units.
    Local officials and housing advocates have called for policy changes and incentives that encourage apartment development and help narrow the gap between supply and demand.
    The broader takeaway: sustained investment in new apartments is needed so Las Vegas stays accessible and affordable for renters as growth continues.

  • Miami HOA Fees Are Climbing | Carol Strom real estate broker. Founder of USAfitpros.com 50 state Telehealth and Labs bolt-on virtual LegitScript business

    Miami ranked fifth nationally, with a median monthly HOA fee of $410 across HOA-paying homeowners, while Miami-Dade condo fees jumped ~60% from 2019 to 2023.
    In Miami, some towers topped $1K monthly dues, and insurance alone added $350 to $400 per unit each month in typical high-rises.
    A reserve study in a cluster of Brickell buildings triggered a $21M special assessment, highlighting how post-2021 reserve rules reshaped older condo budgets.
    Older buildings absorbed more pressure: a 2018 tower with $1.6K dues often sold easier than a 1980s building charging $900 monthly fees.
    Sellers in some of Miami's oldest condo stock discounted prices ~15% to ~25% below their 2022 peak as 1985-2005 buildings saw slower sales.