In addition to banks and online lenders, homebuyers should check out options from a credit union, which tends to offer better rates for both borrowing and saving.

While many Fla. brokers note that at least one agent speaks Spanish, a deaf Maryland Realtor found success serving customers who prefer sign language.

More Orlando-area owners are being told that state-owned Citizens Ins. is their only option. In a three-county area, the number of policies rose 159% year-to-year.

The spring season will likely draw sellers and buyers to the market, but after that, U.S. metros will probably go different directions for buyers’ and sellers’ markets.