Mortgage rates briefly fell below 6% on Friday for the first time in nearly three years — driven by President Donald Trump’s proposed $200 billion push in the secondary market. If they stay that low, they are expected to spur refinance activity.  Historically, a 22–basis-point decline in the 30-year fixed mortgage rate, such as the one reported by Mortgage News Daily earlier on Friday, has been...

Residential construction fell to its lowest point since May 2020, according to an October U.S. Census Bureau report that was delayed by last year’s government shutdown. Widening air pockets of demand over the past year led to an overbuild of speculative homebuilder inventory in — formerly booming — Sun Belt and Mountain West markets. Builders hit the brakes on new production to reset the...

There’s something about a backyard pool that instantly shifts the mood. Even in the middle of winter — or during a long workday — it’s hard not to linger on sparkling pools and imagine you’re somewhere else entirely, enjoying warm air, quiet afternoons, and nothing on the schedule. From resort-style setups to classic family pools surrounded by trees, these private backyard pools tap into...

The 1990s were a fascinating moment in American home design. Houses were getting bigger, technology was becoming central to daily life, and ideas of comfort and success were shifting fast. “Nice” homes weren’t minimalist or restrained: they were expressive, layered, and eager to show what they had. Many of the features that defined the decade were meant to signal modernity, progress, and a...

If your floors could use a refresh this year, let these five expert-backed trends influence your...

This year's wallpaper trends are more than just pretty prints—they're made to enhance the story of your...

A shower-tub combo may not sound glamorous, but it remains one of the most practical features a home can have. Many homeowners choose to keep at least one tub for bathing young children, accommodating different needs over time or appealing to a wider range of future buyers. A combo...

Image CEO Dave Sedgwick discusses building multiple growth engines and staying on...

Image CEO Paul McDowell says capital deployment is increasingly targeted toward dedicated use...

The Institute aims to introduce new individuals and leaders with fresh ideas, creativity, and innovation to commercial real estate and...