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Proof launches new secure digital identity tool Certify 

Proof’s new product, Certify, allows users to embed their identity in everything they do online, creating verifiable records.

Realtor.com launches AI-powered home search tool 

Consumers can now type their exact home parameters into Realtor.com and receive listings that meet their needs and wants.

The dream of homeownership isn’t dead, but it needs to evolve 

Americans collectively hold almost $35 trillion in housing wealth, a nearly 80% increase since early 2020 (Federal Reserve). Yet, despite this unprecedented equity accumulation, many homeowners feel less financially secure than ever. A recent Hometap survey found that almost half (54.5%) of homeowners report feeling financially stressed, with 46% citing rising housing costs as their top concern. This contradiction is at the heart of today’s housing market, where aspiring buyers face soaring entry costs and existing homeowners face both high costs to stay in their homes and frustration that their wealth is trapped in their properties.

Tech Pulse: eXp’s digital twin trend; lenders urged to build AI compliance 

Executives from eXp Realty discuss the use of digital twins, while a new survey offers the chance to weigh in on AI implementation.

Powell’s Jackson Hole speech stirs cautious optimism for housing 

Experts say even modest rate relief could revive affordability and buyer demand, although uncertainty around jobs and tariffs clouds the outlook.

USDA is automating its loan application uploading 

USDA recently announced a $49 million contract with Phoenixteam to modernize its mortgage underwriting system, GUS

Pittsburgh, Cleveland top global metro affordability list 

Homebuyers can purchase nearly six homes in Cleveland or Pittsburgh for the price of one in San Francisco, according to data.

Homebuyers seek independent research, but still want a real estate agent 

Cotality data shows that 73% of homebuyers are conducting their own research, but 88% still want a human agent advising them

Redfin: Home purchase cancellations hit 8-year high 

Texas and Florida, the nation’s top states for new home construction, also had some of the highest cancellation rates.

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Updated 10 months ago