Daily News Updates:

U.S. and U.K. Finalize Landmark Trade Agreement

President Trump announced a comprehensive trade deal with the United Kingdom, marking the first major agreement since the implementation of his "Liberation Day" tariffs. The deal aims to ease tariffs on U.K. goods, including a 10% levy on general imports and 25% on steel, aluminum, and automobiles. In return, the U.K. is expected to reduce its 2% digital services tax affecting U.S. tech giants like Amazon and Meta.

Wall Street Rallies on Trade Optimism and Tech Sector Gains

U.S. stock markets surged as investors reacted positively to the U.S.-U.K. trade agreement and the administration's plans to repeal restrictions on AI chip exports. Semiconductor stocks, including AMD, Nvidia, Broadcom, and Intel, experienced significant gains. Additionally, AppLovin's stock soared 13% after surpassing earnings expectations and announcing the sale of its mobile gaming business for $400 million.

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rate Amid Economic Pressures

The Bank of England reduced its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.25%, citing economic strains from U.S. tariffs. The move reflects concerns over slowing growth and aims to stimulate the U.K. economy in the face of external trade challenges.

Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Finalists Announced

Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) unveiled finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 awards. Notable nominees include Peter Kirk of Sermo in New York and Neil Sethi of NexaMotion Group in the East Central region, recognized for their innovative contributions to their respective industries.

U.S. Mortgage Rates Continue Upward Trend

The average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage in the U.S. increased to 6.818%, reflecting ongoing inflationary pressures and market volatility. This marks the highest rate observed in recent months, impacting home affordability nationwide.

Viatris Reports Strong Q1 Performance and Reaffirms Outlook

Pharmaceutical company Viatris reported first-quarter revenues in line with expectations, demonstrating the strength of its base business. The company also highlighted significant progress in its product pipeline and reaffirmed its financial outlook for 2025.

Vitruvian Partners Acquires Great Rail Journeys

Private equity firm Vitruvian Partners acquired Great Rail Journeys, the parent company of U.S.-based Vacations By Rail®, amid a surge in rail travel popularity. The acquisition aims to capitalize on the growing demand for scenic and sustainable travel options.

US Foods Reports Q1 Earnings

US Foods Holding Corp. announced its first-quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings, reflecting steady performance in the foodservice distribution sector. The company continues to focus on growth strategies and operational efficiencies to navigate the evolving market landscape.

Real Estate Investing

Market Snapshot:

Jacksonville, Florida

The Jacksonville real estate market in 2025 presents a promising blend of affordability, growth potential, and economic momentum. The median home price is currently $304,661, reflecting a modest 0.2% decrease YoY. While that might appear as stagnation, it's a healthy correction after years of pandemic-driven price surges. Homes are spending an average of 57 days on market, giving buyers more breathing room compared to ultra-competitive metros like Tampa or Miami.

Inventory has increased by 10.7% over the past 12 months, with more new builds hitting the market in suburban areas like Oakleaf Plantation and Northside, where land availability remains abundant. The rise in listings pushes the months’ supply to 6.3 months, officially tipping the scale toward a buyer’s market.

High mortgage rates have softened demand slightly, but rental demand remains elevated, especially for 3-bed homes under $350,000. Jacksonville's proximity to major logistics hubs, a growing port, and a steady influx of retirees from the Northeast keeps housing demand resilient.

Deal Of The Day:

Duplex in Avondale Historic District

• Location: Avondale, Jacksonville

• Price: $470,000

• Units: 2 (2-Bed, 1-Bath each)

• Monthly Rental Income: $3,200

• Cap Rate: 8.0%

This classic brick duplex located in the desirable Avondale Historic District offers immediate cash flow and long-term upside. The property is fully occupied with long-term tenants paying $1,600/month each. That’s $38,400/year in gross income.

The neighborhood is a blend of old-world charm and urban convenience, just minutes from Riverside Park and St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Zoned for residential income, it also qualifies for historic preservation grants, which could lower renovation costs by up to 30%. Given the area’s rising rents and limited rental inventory, this property is an ideal value-add hold.

Deal Rating: 8.2/10

Investment Strategy:

Seller Carryback Financing

This lesser-used strategy involves having the seller act as the lender, allowing the buyer to make monthly payments to them directly instead of a bank. It’s ideal when traditional financing is difficult or when interest rates are high.

Why it works:

• Lower down payments (sometimes as low as 10%)

• More flexible terms than banks

• Win-win: Seller gets monthly income; buyer avoids high bank rates

Example: An investor buys a $320,000 triplex in Arlington using $32,000 down and agrees to pay the seller 5% interest over 10 years. This saves over $200/month compared to bank financing at 6.5%.

Current Interest Rates:

Jacksonville, Florida

• 30-Year Fixed Residential: 6.8%

• 15-Year Fixed Residential: 6.5%

• 5/1 ARM: 6.3% (ideal for short-term holds)

• Commercial Rates: Starting at 6.5%

Rates in Jacksonville are closely mirroring national trends, with slight lender-by-lender variation. Adjustable-rate mortgages are gaining popularity again among flippers or investors planning a refinance once rates dip. Local banks like VyStar and Fidelity are offering incentives like appraisal credits or lower origination fees for investment properties.

For multifamily investors, rates on 5+ unit buildings are averaging 6.5%-6.9%, with some creative financing options emerging via DSCR loans and bank portfolio products.

Real Estate Tip:

Don’t Ignore Title and Survey Reviews

A surprising number of new investors overlook the importance of reviewing title history and ordering a boundary survey before closing. Unpaid liens, unresolved easements, or encroachments can derail a project or prevent future improvements.

Example: A Jacksonville investor bought a home near Springfield only to discover an unrecorded utility easement running through the backyard, limiting plans for a detached ADU. A $450 boundary survey could’ve revealed it upfront.

Make title and survey reviews a mandatory step in your due diligence — the upfront cost is small compared to potential setbacks.

Is Jacksonville the Next Investor Hotspot?

Forget the usual Florida suspects—Jacksonville is becoming the go-to city for savvy investors. With lower acquisition costs, higher cap rates, and a booming logistics infrastructure, it’s emerging as a prime alternative to overvalued markets.

Unlike Orlando or Miami, Jacksonville still offers entry points under $300,000 in growing neighborhoods. Renters are flocking to areas like Baymeadows and Southside, where new apartment complexes can’t keep up with demand.

And it’s not just the housing market. Retail, industrial, and even office real estate are getting renewed interest, especially with remote workers relocating from higher-tax states. Jacksonville’s cost of living is 9% below the national average, giving it an edge for long-term growth.

As an investor, you should pay attention when multiple growth levers are pulling in the same direction: job growth, infrastructure investment, rental demand, and affordability. Jacksonville checks every box.

Economic Conditions

What’s Powering Jacksonville’s Property Market?

Jacksonville's economy is thriving in 2025, led by three sectors: logistics, finance, and healthcare. With CSX Corporation, Mayo Clinic, and Bank of America employing thousands locally, the job market remains healthy. The unemployment rate sits at 3.6%, slightly below the national average.

The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) continues expanding, making it a major economic engine. Its cargo capacity has grown 28% since 2020, attracting industrial development and housing demand in surrounding areas like Oceanway and North Jacksonville.

Wage growth is also outpacing inflation, especially in healthcare and logistics. Median household income has risen to $72,900, up 4.4% YoY, which supports stronger rental collections and higher consumer spending.

Even with rising insurance premiums—particularly for flood zones—investor interest remains strong due to Florida’s no state income tax and Jacksonville's relative affordability compared to Miami or Tampa.

Market Rating: 7.9/10

Key Takeaways:

• Jacksonville’s median home price is $304,661, with increasing inventory favoring buyers.

• Deal of the Day: $425K duplex in Avondale yields 8.1% cap rate and strong cash flow.

• Tip: Never skip title and survey reviews — it can save you thousands in future headaches.

• Strategy: Use seller carryback financing to avoid high-interest loans and negotiate flexible terms.

• Interest Rates: 30-year fixed at 6.6%, with better options for short-term holds and commercial plays.

• Economic Outlook: With a 3.6% unemployment rate and booming logistics sector, Jacksonville offers robust fundamentals.

• Article: Jacksonville is flying under the radar but may be Florida’s top sleeper market for 2025.

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That’s All For Today

I hope you enjoyed today’s issue. If you have any questions regarding today’s issue or future issues feel free to ask. Come back tomorrow for information on how to grow your income and wealth. I hope to see you.

^_Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects the opinions of its editors and contributors. The content provided, including but not limited to real estate tips, stock market insights, business marketing strategies, and startup advice, is shared for general guidance and does not constitute financial, investment, real estate, legal, or business advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investment, real estate, and business decisions involve inherent risks, and readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence and consult with qualified professionals before taking any action. This newsletter does not establish a fiduciary, advisory, or professional relationship between the publishers and readers.