MANATEE — Two U.S. representatives have filed a bill that would suspend a controversial real estate appraisal code that some contend is stifling the housing market’s recovery.
The bill, filed by Reps. Travis Childers, D-Miss., and Gary Miller, R-Calif., would suspend the Home Valuation Code of Conduct for up to 18 months. The code, which took effect May 1, bans real estate agents, lenders and others from directly hiring appraisers to prevent influencing their appraisals and result in more accurate home values.
But homebuilders and Realtors contend it’s led to a spike in abnormally low appraisals that have delayed or derailed sales contracts. Appraisers dispute that, saying their appraisals accurately reflect an unprecedented fall in home values.
Forks and Corks returns to Ringling in March
SARASOTA — The Sarasota-Manatee Originals will host the third annual Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival on March 26-28 at the Ringling Museum of Art.
The event will feature food samples from more than 35 restaurants, wine samplings from up to 75 wineries, educational seminars, live entertainment and a charity auction to benefit a local food bank.
— Herald staff reports
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