Mortgage & affordability pressure: The U.S. median existing home price hit a record $440,600 in June as sales cooled, with analysts warning stalled inventory could push prices higher. Buyer protection & transparency: A Greater Boston buyer agency is pushing back on “private” listings and reduced property info, arguing it undermines fair access to key details. Deposit help policy idea: UK ministers are considering letting younger people take a pension year early as a lump sum for housing deposits, trading it for a smaller pension later. Local market snapshot: Perth’s top-end suburbs are still moving fast even as broader affordability concerns rise, with some luxury areas selling in about two weeks. Transaction risk at offer stage: A South Africa-focused buyer warning highlights how fraud risk spikes after an offer to purchase is accepted, especially around deposits. International buyer demand shifts: Argentine interest in Uruguay property is easing as Argentina’s recovery narrows the price gap. Property deal spotlight: A Sarasota waterfront home sold for $17M, the priciest mainland sale in Harbor Acres this year. Homebuying process tech: UK firms PropertyStream and Offr launched TRANSACT to digitize the sale journey and reduce failed deals. Energy upgrades for buyers: Heat pumps are becoming cheaper in 2026 thanks to grants, efficiency gains, and better installation approaches.