Medicare Hospice Fraud: Federal prosecutors allege Los Angeles hospice operator Oren Shachar paid for identities of recently deceased beneficiaries, then allegedly used the data for fabricated hospice enrollments and backdated records—another reminder that real-estate buyers aren’t the only ones facing fraud risks. Homebuying Strategy: A new report highlights how to buy before selling—listing early, planning for fast markets, and avoiding cash crunches when homes move quickly. Rental Scam Alert: A Connecticut agent warns renters after TikTok ads used her listing photos to sell a fake rental at a suspiciously low price, urging people to verify listings and insist on in-person viewing. AI Search Reality Check: Marketers are rethinking “traffic” as AI answers reduce clicks but can change conversion rates—useful context for anyone selling homes online. Ontario New-Home Boost: Ontario’s HST rebate expansion is credited with a big jump in new home sales in Q2, with thousands of purchases tied to the rebate. Existing Home Sales Softening: U.S. existing-home sales fell 1.7% in July as mortgage rates rose, while prices kept climbing for the 37th straight month. Cottage Cooling (UK): Zoopla says cottage interest is down 32% since 2023, with prices slipping in key rural hotspots. Local Market Watch: New Orleans-area closed sales rose in the first half of 2026, though buyers appear concentrated at the higher end. Home Safety Costs: A guide breaks down gutter guard pricing and why clogged gutters can turn into expensive home damage.