Real Estate News: Real Estate Investing Podcast

For decades, homeownership has been one of America's most trusted paths to building wealth. But what happens when that equity doesn't deliver the financial security retirees expect? In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new research showing that older homeowners may be selling their homes for less than younger sellers, often due to deferred maintenance, outdated properties, and the growing appeal of quick cash offers.   With Americans over 70 now holding trillions in housing wealth, this emerging trend could create both financial challenges for retirees and new opportunities for real estate investors. Kathy explores what's driving the discount, why today's buyers are more selective, and how this demographic shift could reshape the housing market in the years ahead. Sources:  https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/09/business/retirement-home-equity-selling-your-house.html   https://www.housingwire.com/articles/retirees-home-equity-financial-shortfalls/ 

Where do buyers have the most negotiating power in today's housing market, and where are sellers still firmly in control? In this episode of The Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new data from Zillow ranking more than 250 U.S. housing markets by buyer and seller strength. From red-hot Northeast metros to cooling markets in Florida, Texas, and parts of the Sun Belt, investors will learn where inventory is tight, where price cuts are growing, and where new opportunities may be emerging in 2026. If you're looking for appreciation, cash flow, or stronger negotiating leverage, this market update will help you spot where housing trends are shifting next. Go to www.Realwealth.com/TopCities for a FREE PDF! Source: https://www.resiclubanalytics.com/p/housing-market-power-balance-zillow-updated-ratings-250-markets-spring-2026-sellers-buyers 

Congress may be backing off one of the most controversial proposals aimed at institutional real estate investors. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down how lawmakers are revising the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, why build-to-rent communities may now get a major exemption, and what new limits could still apply to large investors buying single-family homes. Plus, new data from Realtor.com reveals how much of the housing market institutional investors actually control—and why this debate matters for rental housing, supply, and your investing strategy.

As Kevin Warsh officially takes over the Federal Reserve, real estate investors are watching closely. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down what Warsh's confirmation could mean for interest rates, mortgage costs, inflation, and the housing market as consumer prices heat up and rate cut expectations begin to fade.

Home prices are gaining momentum across much of the country. In this episode of The Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest Intercontinental Exchange Mortgage Monitor, showing home prices rising in 90% of U.S. markets, first-time buyers returning in force, refinance activity hitting a four-year high, and loan closings moving at record speed. What does it mean for real estate investors as mortgage rates move higher? Tune in for the latest housing market insights. Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com     Source: https://mortgagetech.ice.com/resources/data-reports/may-2026-mortgage-monitor 

A major labor proposal out of Washington could impact how millions of real estate agents do business. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down why the National Association of REALTORS is backing a new federal framework for independent contractor classification, what the five-factor "economic reality" test means, and why NAR is pushing for an explicit exemption for real estate professionals. For investors, this could affect brokerage models, agent compensation, and transaction costs across the housing market. Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com  Source: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/nar-backs-labor-dept-proposal-to-clarify-independent-contractor-rules  

Artificial intelligence and blockchain may soon change one of the slowest parts of real estate: the closing process. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down CNBC's latest report on how blockchain-based real estate technology is moving from concept to reality. Learn how AI-powered closings, digital property records, and faster transactions could impact investors, title companies, and the future of real estate deals. Want to learn more? Visit www.Newforinvestors.com.  Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/07/startup-propy-real-estate-deals-blockchain.html  

In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the April jobs report after the U.S. economy added 115,000 jobs and unemployment held steady at 4.3%. Hiring beat expectations, but beneath the headline, signs of economic strain are emerging—from rising part-time employment to slowing wage growth and sector-specific layoffs. Kathy unpacks what the latest labor data, rising gas prices, and growing global uncertainty could mean for inflation, mortgage rates, and real estate investors in the months ahead. Want to learn more? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com Source: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/live/2026/05/08/business/jobs-report-economy  

A new study suggests capital gains taxes may be quietly keeping homes off the market, and it could have major implications for real estate investors. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down how capital gains taxes work, when homeowners may qualify for tax exclusions, why rental property owners can face depreciation recapture, and how what some are calling an "exit tax" may be contributing to today's housing inventory shortage. Plus, Kathy explains why strategies like a 1031 exchange remain an important tool for investors looking to defer taxes and reposition their portfolios in today's market. Want to learn more about investing in turn key rental properties? Visit www.Realwealth.com/Schedule to work with one of our investment counselors.  Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/exit-tax-vacant-homes-selling-cost/ 

America has reached a historic economic milestone. For the first time since World War Two, U.S. public debt has grown larger than the nation's entire economy. In this episode of The Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down what public debt actually means, why federal interest payments have now topped one trillion dollars a year, and how rising debt could affect taxes, consumer spending, Treasury yields, mortgage rates, and the housing market. Most importantly, what should real estate investors be watching next as Washington's debt continues to grow?

Kathy Fettke breaks down a surprising trend in commercial real estate—AI and automation aren't reducing warehouse demand… they're expanding it. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy unpacks new April 2026 data from CommercialCafe and Yardi Research showing how robotics, faster delivery expectations, and growing power demands are reshaping the industrial market. You'll learn why modern warehouses are commanding premium rents, why Dallas and Atlanta are attracting billions in industrial investment, and why older warehouse stock may face growing obsolescence. If you invest in commercial real estate, industrial properties, logistics hubs, or simply want to understand where institutional capital is flowing next--this is an episode you won't want to miss. Want to learn more? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com.  Source: https://www.commercialcafe.com/blog/national-industrial-report/ 

Could someone steal your rental property without ever stepping foot inside it? In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the alarming rise in deed theft, title fraud, and tax lien scams targeting property owners across the U.S. From fake quitclaim deeds to fraudulent loans and rental scams, criminals are finding new ways to go after equity-rich investors—especially those with paid-off rentals, vacant homes, out-of-state properties, or assets held in LLCs. Kathy shares the latest cases, including the attempted theft of Graceland, warning signs every landlord should know, and practical steps investors can take right now to protect their properties, equity, and long-term wealth. If you own rental property, this is one episode you don't want to miss. 

Could a major policy shift in Washington make housing more affordable and unlock new supply? In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down a major move by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to roll back a 2024 building code requirement tied to FHA and USDA financing. The agencies say the rule was adding as much as $20,000 to $31,000 to the cost of building a new home. Now that mandate has been rescinded. What does this mean for homebuilders, first-time buyers, lenders, and real estate investors? Kathy explores how this policy change could impact housing supply, build-to-rent opportunities, rural development, affordability, and the future of entry-level housing. If you invest in real estate or follow housing policy, this is one update you will want on your radar.

In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down a new Zillow report showing that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. homes are selling within just seven days. She explains why some listings are moving fast and selling above asking price, while others sit on the market for weeks. Kathy also covers what this market split means for real estate investors, why Midwest cities are outperforming many Sun Belt markets, and how pricing, condition, and location matter more than ever in 2026. If you're watching housing trends, buyer demand, and where opportunity may be shifting, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Source: https://www.zillow.com/research/homes-sell-7-days-above-asking-36274/ 

Why are today's buyers skipping starter homes and aiming straight for forever homes? In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down a new BMO survey showing Americans now expect to buy their first home at age 40. Kathy explains what this shift means for real estate investors, including rising demand for multi-generational homes, flexible floorplans, ADUs, rental income potential, and properties in more affordable markets. If the starter home era is fading, smart investors need to know what comes next. Learn how changing buyer behavior could shape housing demand in 2026 and beyond. Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/housing-market-shifts-as-homebuyers-upsize-to-forever-homes-bmo-real-financial-progress-index-302749561.html 

Baby boomers are now the largest force in the U.S. housing market, while first-time buyers have fallen to a record low. Kathy Fettke breaks down new National Association of Realtors data showing how high mortgage rates, rising costs, and home equity are creating a major divide between today's buyers.  In this episode, learn why boomers now make up 42% of home buyers, why younger households are struggling to enter the market, and what this means for home prices, rental demand, and real estate investors in 2026.

Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest 2026 rent trends using new data from Apartments.com and CoStar Group. National rent growth has slowed, but select states and affordable markets are still showing strength. Learn where rents are rising, where costs remain low, and what today's shifting rental market means for real estate investors and landlords looking for cash flow and long-term opportunity.

Pending home sales rose in March, even as mortgage rates moved higher and gas prices climbed. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest housing data from Realtor.com and the National Association of Realtors, including what stronger contract activity could mean for spring closings. She also covers rising inventory, falling list prices, regional market shifts, and why the South may be best positioned for growth in 2026. If you're a real estate investor watching rates, demand, and opportunity this spring, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Kathy Fettke breaks down why UBS says the latest Trump housing plan may not be enough to solve America's affordability crisis. With the U.S. still short roughly 10 million homes, policymakers are pushing deregulation as a path to faster building—but will it actually work? In this episode, Kathy explains why Texas-style growth may come with risks, how ResiClub data shows supply can also create volatility, and why markets like Austin and Dallas are now correcting after the pandemic boom. She also covers the lock-in effect, tight inventory, mortgage rate pressure, and what real estate investors should watch next. If you want to understand where housing policy meets opportunity, this episode is for you.

Opportunity Zones are back—and this time, they're permanent. Kathy Fettke breaks down new guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service that could reshape where real estate capital flows for the next decade. With new designations starting in 2027—and added incentives for rural markets—investment may begin shifting beyond major cities. Kathy explains what's changing, the tight 2026 nomination window, and how investors can position early to take advantage of these deals. 

Liability insurance costs are rising fast—and real estate investors are starting to feel it. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down a growing trend impacting the industry, especially in commercial real estate. From office to retail to large multifamily properties, landlords are seeing premiums surge—some as much as 4x since 2020. What's driving it? More lawsuits. Bigger jury awards. And a rise in so-called "nuclear verdicts" over $10 million. Insurance companies are responding with higher rates, tighter underwriting, and more exclusions—making it harder and more expensive to stay protected. If you're a real estate investor, this shift could impact your cash flow, deal analysis, and long-term risk. Learn what's happening, why it matters, and how to protect your portfolio. Source: https://www.credaily.com/briefs/liability-insurance-costs-surge-for-landlords-nationwide/ 

Self-storage has been one of the hottest asset classes—but a shift is underway. Cities across the U.S. are pushing back with zoning restrictions, moratoriums, and outright bans. In this episode, we break down what's driving the crackdown, where development is being limited, and what it means for real estate investors.

Real estate fraud is on the rise again. A new FBI report shows more than $275 million was lost to scams in 2025, impacting over 12,000 victims. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down how these scams are happening, why AI is making them harder to detect, and what real estate investors can do to protect their money—especially when it comes to wire transfers. Source: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/online-real-estate-fraud-climbed-to-275m-in-2025-fbi-says 

The U.S. housing shortage has reached a staggering 10 million homes, according to a new White House report. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what's driving the supply gap, from post-2008 underbuilding to rising regulatory costs, and why affordability continues to worsen. We also explore how potential policy changes could impact new construction, mortgage access, and long-term economic growth. For real estate investors, the takeaway is clear: limited supply continues to support home prices and rents — even in a higher-rate environment. Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/the-u-s-is-short-10-million-houses-a-new-white-house-report-lays-out-a-blueprint-to-fix-that

Storage units are no longer just for storage. They're becoming income-generating spaces. A new study from SpareFoot shows that 28% of renters are using storage units for side hustles, earning an average of $646 per month. From reselling to small-scale production, renters are turning these spaces into business hubs. For real estate investors, this trend signals growing demand for flexible, low-cost space. It also highlights the evolving role of self-storage as more than just a passive asset. In this episode, we break down what's driving this shift, how it impacts occupancy and pricing, and what self-storage owners should watch moving forward.

Core inflation is still running hot—and rising energy prices could add even more pressure. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest PCE data, showing inflation at 3%, above the Fed's target. But this report came before the recent surge in oil prices tied to geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, consumer income is slipping and economic growth has been revised lower—raising concerns about a potential stagflation environment. What does this mean for interest rates, the Fed, and real estate investors? Kathy explains what to watch next and how to navigate a market facing rising uncertainty. Want to learn more? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/09/core-inflation-was-3percent-in-february-as-expected-key-fed-gauge-shows.html 

Homeowners are still renovating in 2026—even with higher costs and economic pressure. But the reason why is changing. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new data from Block Renovation showing a major shift toward functionality over resale. More families are choosing to stay put and redesign their homes to fit how they live today. One of the biggest drivers? Multigenerational living. With more households bringing aging parents, adult children, or caregivers under one roof, demand is rising for flexible spaces and accessory dwelling units, or ADUs. We'll also cover how homeowners are funding these projects, the growing role of AI in renovation planning, and why trust in contractors remains a major challenge. For real estate investors, this trend signals a shift in housing demand. It's no longer just about square footage—it's about adaptability, functionality, and long-term livability. Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/block-renovations-how-america-renovates-2026-report-finds-functionality-multigenerational-living-and-ai-are-shaping-renovations-today-302735081.html 

The March Jobs Report is in, and while the headline numbers look solid, a closer look shows signs the labor market may be slowing. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, host Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, including job growth, unemployment, and wage trends. You'll also hear thoughts from Zillow's chief economist, Orphe Divounguy, who says the report may not be as strong as it appears. We cover what's really happening beneath the surface—from slowing hiring and rising discouraged workers to cooling wage growth—and what it could mean for inflation, interest rates, and the Federal Reserve's next move. Tune in to understand what this jobs report means for the housing market—and your investment strategy. Sources: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7446618198294257665/?originTrackingId=XyTXb0TWbkdYLftj6Luhug%3D%3D  https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm

A new proposal from lawmakers could pause AI data center development across the U.S.—and it may have bigger implications for real estate than you think. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the push for a nationwide moratorium on AI data centers and why it's sparking concern across both political parties. These facilities are driving demand for land, power, and infrastructure. But they also consume massive amounts of electricity—raising concerns about higher utility costs, environmental impact, and strain on local grids. Kathy explains how rising energy demand could impact operating costs, rental affordability, and long-term property values. She also looks at which markets could benefit from data center growth—and which ones may face new restrictions. This is a fast-moving story at the intersection of technology, policy, and real estate. And it's one investors can't afford to ignore. Source: https://apnews.com/article/data-centers-ai-electricity-sanders-aoc-65651bd28c3d911d18eeb46cd54f4c75 

Washington State has passed a new millionaire tax, and it could have major implications for real estate investors across the country. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the new 9.9% tax on income over $1 million, why it's already facing legal challenges, and how it could influence investor behavior. But that's not all. Washington lawmakers also approved a sweeping package of housing bills designed to increase supply. From allowing more housing in commercial zones to making it easier to build accessory dwelling units, these changes could reshape the state's housing market. Will higher taxes push investors to other states? Could loosening zoning laws help solve the housing shortage? And will other states follow Washington's lead? Tune in as Kathy explains what this means for your portfolio, your strategy, and the future of real estate investing. Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/washington-state-millionaire-tax/ 

Private hiring came in stronger than expected in the latest ADP Jobs Report—but the details reveal a more uneven economy. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the March ADP Jobs Report, where private sector employers added 62,000 jobs and annual pay rose 4.5%. Most of the job growth came from healthcare and construction, while sectors like manufacturing and transportation saw losses. Small businesses led hiring, while larger companies pulled back. What does that mean for real estate investors? Strong construction hiring could help ease housing supply. But uneven job growth and rising costs may keep inflation elevated—and mortgage rates higher for longer. Kathy explains what this mixed labor market means for home prices, interest rates, and investment strategy moving forward. Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/01/private-sector-hiring-totaled-62000-in-march-better-than-expected-adp-says.html   

In this episode of Real Estate News, host Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest mortgage data and what it means for today's housing market. A new report from Intercontinental Exchange shows that mortgage delinquencies are edging higher, with serious delinquencies rising and cure rates slowing. At the same time, foreclosure activity is beginning to increase off recent lows—an early signal investors should be watching. While overall delinquency levels remain below pre-pandemic norms, the data suggests that more borrowers are struggling to catch up once they fall behind. In this update, Kathy explains what's driving these trends, how they could impact housing supply, and what real estate investors should keep an eye on in the months ahead. Source: https://mortgagetech.ice.com/resources/data-reports/first-look-at-february-2026-mortgage-data 

State laws are starting to challenge one of the biggest changes in real estate. In this episode, we break down how new legislation in Mississippi and Alabama is pushing back on the National Association of Realtors' buyer agent agreement rule. And more states may be next. What does this mean for homebuyers, agents, and real estate investors? You'll learn when a buyer agreement is actually required, how rules now vary by state, and why this shift could change how deals get done across the country. If you're buying property or working with an agent, this is something you need to understand. Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/states-override-nar-buyer-agreement/?cx_testId=47&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=0&cx_experienceId=EXAPB9I50LOS&cx_experienceActionId=showRecommendations3CFZNF3TCS4I3#cxrecs_s

Cash homebuyers just caught a break. A federal judge has blocked a new Treasury rule that would have required disclosure of buyers in all-cash real estate transactions nationwide. The rule aimed to crack down on money laundering, but critics argued it went too far—raising concerns about privacy, compliance costs, and government overreach. In this episode, we break down what the ruling means, why it matters for investors, and what could come next if regulators try again. Source:  https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/capital-markets/fincen-all-cash-home-buying-rule-133773 

Mortgage rates are rising again—and it's starting to impact buyer demand. In this episode, we break down why the average 30-year mortgage rate has climbed to 6.43%, the highest level in five months, and what's driving the increase. From rising Treasury yields to global tensions pushing energy prices higher, several forces are keeping borrowing costs elevated. We'll also look at the latest data from the Mortgage Bankers Association, which shows a sharp drop in mortgage applications and refinance activity. That's a sign more buyers are stepping back as affordability challenges grow. Are you looking for an investor friendly lender? Visit www.Realwealth.com/Lender to learn more.  Source: https://www.axios.com/2026/03/25/mortgage-rates-iran-war-housing-market 

Foreign investment is pouring into the U.S. housing market—and it's coming from Japan. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down why Japanese homebuilding companies are buying American builders in billion-dollar deals, and what it means for the future of housing. According to Realtor.com, the U.S. is facing a housing shortage of millions of homes, while Japan is dealing with a shrinking population and slowing demand. That imbalance is creating a major opportunity. You'll learn why global capital is flowing into U.S. real estate, how these deals could accelerate homebuilding, and why smaller builders may become acquisition targets. Kathy also explains what this trend means for investors, including how consolidation could reshape the housing industry and impact supply.

The U.S. housing market is shifting, and buyers are starting to gain the upper hand. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new data showing that sellers now outnumber buyers by nearly 50%—the largest gap on record. This shift is creating more opportunities for negotiation, but it's also a sign of deeper challenges in today's market. You'll learn what's driving this imbalance, including high mortgage rates, affordability constraints, and growing economic uncertainty. Kathy also explains why some markets—especially in the South—are seeing a surge in inventory, while parts of the Northeast remain competitive for sellers. For investors, this changing dynamic could mean better deals, more inventory to choose from, and a need to stay hyper-focused on local market conditions. If you've been waiting for a shift in the housing market, this may be it—but timing, strategy, and location matter more than ever.

A liquidity crunch may be building beneath the surface of the commercial real estate market—and most investors aren't paying attention. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what liquidity is, why it matters, and how tightening credit conditions could impact real estate in 2026 and beyond. With billions in commercial loans coming due and lending standards tightening, refinancing is becoming more difficult and expensive. You'll learn how reduced liquidity is affecting banks, private credit, and deal flow—and what it could mean for pricing, distressed opportunities, and your investment strategy.

Home builder confidence improved slightly in March, but the housing market is still facing pressure. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest data from the National Association of Home Builders, including a small uptick in builder sentiment that still remains in negative territory. With 64% of builders offering incentives and more cutting prices, it's clear that affordability challenges are continuing to weigh on demand. We'll also look at rising mortgage rates, renewed inflation concerns, and growing uncertainty in Washington as a major housing bill faces pushback. What does all of this mean for the spring housing market—and for real estate investors? Tune in to find out what signals builders are watching right now, and where the market could be headed next.

The Federal Reserve is holding interest rates steady — and now expects just one rate cut in 2026. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what's behind the Fed's decision, including rising inflation risks, higher energy prices, and growing global uncertainty. While inflation has cooled, it may take longer to reach the Fed's target. What does this mean for real estate investors? Kathy explains how inflation impacts Treasury yields and mortgage rates — and why borrowing costs could stay higher for longer, affecting affordability and housing demand.

President Trump has signed new executive orders aimed at improving housing affordability by addressing both supply and mortgage lending. Federal agencies are being directed to review regulatory barriers that may be slowing home construction and limiting access to credit for qualified buyers. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what these housing executive orders actually do—and what they don't. Plus, how changes to permitting, development costs, and mortgage access could impact real estate investors if implemented.

Spring housing demand is arriving earlier than expected — and some of the fastest-moving markets in the country are in the Midwest. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new data from HousingWire showing buyers are absorbing homes faster than new listings are hitting the market. Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois are leading the nation in housing demand, with homes selling quickly as inventory remains tight. Kathy also explains why absorption rates are becoming one of the most important indicators of housing market momentum — and what these trends could mean for real estate investors heading into the spring buying season.

Economic growth is slowing, but inflation is still running above the Federal Reserve's target. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest data from the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures index, along with a sharp downward revision to U.S. GDP growth. Stocks rallied after the report came in largely as expected, but economists say the mixed signals create a complicated outlook for the Federal Reserve and interest rates. We'll also look at how rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions could impact inflation in the months ahead—and what it could mean for mortgage rates and real estate investors.

The U.S. Senate has passed a major bipartisan housing bill aimed at boosting housing supply and improving affordability. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes incentives for new construction, efforts to reduce regulatory delays, and restrictions on large institutional investors buying single-family homes. But one provision is raising concerns across the housing industry. Critics warn a seven-year sell requirement for large investors could impact build-to-rent communities and future rental housing supply. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the bill does, why it's controversial, and what real estate investors should be watching next as the legislation moves to the House.

A Michigan mortgage lender is facing a federal class action lawsuit over alleged robo-calls that used artificial voice technology. The case claims the company contacted consumers without permission, potentially violating the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke explains what the lawsuit could mean for mortgage lenders, real estate professionals, and investors as artificial intelligence becomes more common in marketing.

New Census data shows where Americans are moving — and how those migration trends could reshape housing markets across the country. U.S. population growth slowed to about 0.5% between 2024 and 2025, largely due to a drop in international migration. But domestic migration is still shifting demand toward states in the South and Sun Belt, including North Carolina, Texas, South Carolina, and Tennessee. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest population trends and what they could mean for housing demand and real estate investors.

Retirement account balances are rising — but so are withdrawals. New data from Fidelity shows the average 401(k) balance climbed more than 11% in 2025 as the stock market posted another strong year. But at the same time, a growing number of Americans are tapping their retirement savings early. Hardship withdrawals and 401(k) loans both increased last year, signaling that many households are still feeling financial pressure despite market gains. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest retirement savings data and what it reveals about the financial health of American workers. She also explains why relying on stock market retirement accounts alone may leave investors vulnerable during periods of economic stress. For many investors, income-producing real estate offers a different approach to building long-term wealth — providing potential cash flow, inflation protection, and the ability to hold a hard asset that can appreciate over time. Learn what the latest 401(k) trends mean for retirement security — and why diversification may matter more than ever.

The latest jobs report delivered a surprise. The U.S. economy lost 92,000 jobs in February, and the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the weaker labor market could mean for the economy, mortgage rates, and housing demand. A slowing job market can cool housing demand, but it could also increase the chances that the Federal Reserve eventually lowers interest rates — something that could help bring buyers back into the market. Here's what real estate investors should be watching next.

Tensions between the United States and Iran are adding new uncertainty to the global economy — and that could have real implications for real estate investors. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down how escalating conflict in the Middle East could impact oil prices, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's path for interest rates. Kathy explains the key economic signals investors should be watching right now — including oil prices, mortgage rates, and consumer confidence — and what different economic scenarios could mean for the housing market. While geopolitical events can create volatility, long-term real estate fundamentals still come down to smart market selection, strong cash flow, and conservative financing. This episode will help investors understand the bigger economic picture and how global events can shape the housing market here in the United States. Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-conflict-poses-new-risk-us-economic-resilience-2026-03-02/ 

As the 2026 rental season approaches, demand is already building — and it's happening earlier than usual. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new data from RentCafe showing which U.S. cities are seeing the biggest surge in renter activity. From Cincinnati taking the top spot to strong momentum in Atlanta, Minneapolis, and several Midwest markets, this early engagement offers clues about where competition — and opportunity — may heat up next. You'll hear which regions are leading the country, why the Midwest and South are gaining strength, and what rising search and "saved listing" activity could signal for rental property investors.

Mortgage rates have officially dropped below 6% for the first time in more than three years. The average 30-year fixed rate is now 5.98%, according to Freddie Mac — a key psychological and financial shift for the housing market. In this episode, Kathy breaks down what lower rates mean for buying power, inventory levels, and home prices. Zillow reports that the median-income household has gained more than $30,000 in purchasing power compared to last year, putting over 80,000 additional homes within reach. But with prices still up roughly 50% since 2020 and rising for the 31st straight month, affordability remains a challenge. Will sub-6% rates bring buyers back into the market? Could it loosen the lock-in effect and increase listings? And what does this mean for real estate investors in 2026? We'll explain what's changing — and what isn't.