Home buyers are unexpectedly finding more competition this spring in landing their dream home. Bidding wars are increasingly being reported in markets across the country, from California to Florida, The Wall Street Journal reports.

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5 Countries Where Housing Prices Are Soaring

Worldwide, real estate prices have made large gains over the last five years, which has raised fears in many countries about brewing housing bubbles.
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Open houses are still an important component of marketing a home for-sale to many real estate professionals, according to a recent Inman News poll of real estate agents and brokers.
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Nearly 70 percent of real estate agents recently polled predict home prices will rise by the end of this year, particularly among homes in the low and mid-price ranges, according to the RE/MAX Market Insights, an online survey of more than 1,000 RE/MAX agents.
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Many home buyers complain that one of the biggest hurdles they face is qualifying for financing. So what are some ways that home shoppers can ensure they qualify for a better mortgage deal — particularly one that takes advantage of the near record-breaking low mortgage rates?
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Most real estate practitioners recognize that they face competition from all directions.  As such, and because the Internet is now one of the best avenues for flagging prospective clients, it is critical that agents devote the appropriate amount of time and attention to promoting and branding their Web site.
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