In South Florida, 69% of all home sales this summerwere cash, with a statewide rate of 66% according to data fromRealtyTrac.

It doesn't take a Harvard MBA to figure this must impactlenders, who obviously aren't writing loans on these homes. Talk tosome Florida credit unions, and they'll confirm the trend ishitting not only the mortgage department, but members who havesquirreled away down payments as they anticipate buying their firsthome.

The story keeps repeating itself: potential homebuyers findtheir dream home, offer full price, and sometimes within hourslearn the seller has rejected their bid in favor of an even lowerall-cash offer that will speed the closing.