Affordable housing

Building on a prior initiative, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta is making available $5 million in grants to support efforts to assist owners of heirs' property.

The government agency also finalized a rule that will bring virtual home buyer counseling services to consumers.

Changes to the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards include allowing the building of two-to-four family units on a permanent basis.

California lawmakers have sent a bill to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk that would expand a state-backed down payment assistance program to undocumented immigrants who are looking to buy a home.

Middle-income homeowners are feeling the pressure of rising property prices, but aid efforts from federal agencies are stepping in to create new funding sources and provide additional support.

Vice President Kamala Harris' pledge to deliver 3 million homes has drawn applause from homebuilders, lenders and affordability advocates, but experts are uncertain how her administration would pull it off.

Without considering the potential of building equity in a property, in 48 of 50 markets renting was better; appreciation flips that to 29 cities in favor of buying, First American said.

The possibility of moving stalled housing bills forward combined with promises of down payment assistance is offering hope to housing advocates.

Borrowing costs have fallen to their lowest level in more than a year as inflation metrics drop to 2021 levels, seemingly vindicating the Federal Reserve's decision to maintain their restrictive monetary policy.

The administration will release $100 million in grant funds focused on slashing red tape at the state and local levels, and will advance other programs to increase home construction.