Real Estate News: Real Estate Investing Podcast

The Federal Reserve's latest stress test found that America's largest banks could withstand a severe recession, a 30% drop in home prices, and a 39% decline in commercial real estate values while continuing to lend. Kathy Fettke explains what the results mean for real estate investors and why a resilient banking system matters for the housing market.

Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsForInvestors.com

Source: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/bcreg20260624a.htm

Americans are saving more for retirement than ever before, according to Vanguard's latest "How America Saves" report. But even with record 401(k) balances, many workers may still be far from generating enough income to replace a paycheck. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the numbers and explains what they could mean for real estate investors looking to build long-term retirement income.

Want to watch our free retirement webinar? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com.

Sources: https://workplace.vanguard.com/content/iig-transformation/pdf/how-america-saves-2026.html

https://401kspecialistmag.com/how-america-saves-2026-preview-strong-market-auto-features-power-record-401k-balances

A housing bill hailed as the most significant housing legislation in decades has hit an unexpected roadblock. Kathy Fettke explains why President Trump is delaying the signing of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, what's in the bill, and what it could mean for housing supply, affordability, and real estate investors.

Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com

Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us-house-overwhelmingly-backs-affordable-housing-bill-2026-06-23/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Bank of America now expects three Fed rate hikes before year-end, citing persistent inflation, a resilient economy, and a more hawkish Federal Reserve under Chair Kevin Warsh. But the bond market isn't convinced. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the forecast means for mortgage rates, housing affordability, and real estate investors.

Want to learn more about investing in real estate? Visit www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets for you FREE PDF.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/bofa-forecasts-75-bps-rate-hikes-2026-labour-market-resilience-new-fed-chair-2026-06-22/

The SBA has doubled the combined limit for its 7(a) and 504 loan programs, allowing eligible businesses to access up to $10 million in financing. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explains what the change could mean for commercial real estate, homebuilders, and investors watching business expansion trends.

Want to learn more about investing in real estate? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com. 

Source: https://www.sba.gov/article/2026/05/18/sba-doubles-cumulative-7a-504-loan-limit-10-million 

Title insurance premiums climbed 15% in the first quarter of 2026, reaching $4.5 billion nationwide. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what rising title insurance sales may reveal about housing demand, real estate transaction activity, and where investors are seeing momentum in today's market.

Download our FREE PDF at www.Realwealth.com/FiveQuestions. 

Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/title-insurance-premiums-rise-to-4-5b-in-q1/ 

A new report shows the U.S. economy continues to outperform many other developed nations despite inflation, global conflicts, and trade tensions. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explores what's driving America's economic resilience and what it could mean for housing demand, mortgage rates, and real estate investors.

Download our FREE PDF at www.Realwealth.com/TopCities 

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy031el03po 

The Federal Reserve held rates steady in Kevin Warsh's first meeting as Fed Chair. With inflation rising to 4.2% and job growth remaining strong, here's what investors need to know about the outlook for mortgage rates and real estate.

Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com. 

AI is fueling a new office leasing boom, with major markets seeing demand rise as companies expand and hire. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explores how AI firms are reshaping commercial real estate, why investors are paying attention, and what it could mean for the future of office space.

To learn more about passive real estate investing opportunities, visit www.RealWealth.com/Syndications.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/the-ai-office-boom-feels-like-2000-all-over-again-41455a1e 

The U.S. stock market has reached a record valuation of 238% of GDP, far above levels seen during the Dot-Com Bubble. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what that means for investors, why some analysts are raising caution flags, and why many real estate investors continue to favor cash-flowing assets backed by real-world demand.

Want a FREE pdf? Visit www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets to learn more. 

Source: https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/26/06/53083450/worse-than-dot-com-bubble-us-market-valuation-hits-record-238-of-gdp

Inflation reached its highest level in three years while the labor market remained surprisingly strong. Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest CPI and jobs data, what it could mean for Federal Reserve rate cuts, and why mortgage rates may stay elevated for real estate investors.

Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/economy/article/annual-cpi-inflation-surges-to-42-in-may-the-highest-level-since-2023-as-energy-prices-rise-182143107.html 

Mortgage rates are back above 6.5%, but the housing market continues to hold up better than many expected.

In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest Mortgage Monitor Report from Intercontinental Exchange and the key trends shaping real estate in 2026. From home prices and affordability to buyer demand, homeowner equity, and foreclosure activity, you'll get a data-driven look at what's happening in today's housing market and what it could mean for investors moving forward.

Source: https://mortgagetech.ice.com/publicdocs/mortgage/IMT-ICE-Mortgage_Monitor_June_2026_xfsrgggme.pdf

Fannie Mae has released its latest Housing and Economic Forecast, and the outlook points to a gradual recovery in the housing market. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the key projections for mortgage rates, home sales, home prices, inflation, and economic growth.

According to the forecast, home sales are expected to increase over the next two years, mortgage lending activity could surge, and refinancing volume may see a comeback. Kathy also explains what Fannie Mae's projections could mean for real estate investors, homebuyers, and the broader housing market.

Tune in to hear the biggest...

A major milestone just happened at the intersection of crypto and housing finance. Better and Coinbase have funded what they say is the first Fannie Mae-backed mortgage that allows borrowers to use Bitcoin as collateral instead of selling it for a down payment.

Source: https://www.fidelity.com/news/article/technology/202606040830BI...

Berkshire Hathaway is making a major bet on U.S. housing.

Inflation is moving in the wrong direction, and Americans are feeling the strain. New data shows inflation has climbed to its highest level in roughly three years, while the personal savings rate has fallen to its lowest level since 2022. Consumers are spending more on essentials like housing, food, and energy, even as incomes struggle to keep pace.

Housing affordability may be impacting more than homeownership—it could be affecting population growth itself. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down new research linking rising housing costs to declining birth rates and explores what slowing population growth could mean for future housing demand, home prices, and real estate investors. Plus, lessons from Japan and the demographic trends investors should be watching today.

Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/population-decline-2064-housing-market-risk/

Construction costs are rising again, creating a new challenge for the housing market. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why copper, lumber, diesel, aluminum, and other building material prices are surging in 2026 and what that could mean for home prices, housing affordability, and real estate investors.

You'll hear why builders are struggling to price new homes, how higher construction costs could slow housing supply, and why rising replacement costs may actually benefit owners of existing properties. Kathy also explains how these inflationary pressures could keep mortgage rates elevated and what investors should watch when evaluating renovation...

What happens to mortgage rates if the Iran conflict ends?

In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new analysis from Logan Mohtashami at HousingWire on the relationship between geopolitical events, inflation, bond yields, and mortgage rates. While easing tensions in the Middle East have helped calm oil markets, mortgage rates remain elevated as inflation stays stubbornly high and Federal Reserve officials take a more hawkish stance.

Kathy explains why mortgage spreads have helped prevent rates from moving even higher, what Logan's mortgage rate forecast means for the housing market...

3D-printed homes are moving closer to the mainstream housing market as Wells Fargo begins offering mortgages on homes built with ICON's 3D-printing technology. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why this partnership matters, how 3D-printed construction could impact housing affordability, and why major financial institutions are beginning to back alternative homebuilding methods. Learn how faster construction timelines, lower building costs, and new financing options could shape the future of real estate investing and housing development.

🏡 Get our free PDF, "Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your First Rental Property," at www.RealWealth.com/FiveQuestions to learn how to fi...

Mortgage lending is entering a major transition as the industry begins testing newer credit scoring models like FICO 10T and VantageScore 4.0. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what these modern credit scores are, why lenders are concerned about risk and pricing, and how the changes could impact mortgage approvals, housing demand, and the future of real estate investing. Learn why investors should pay attention as the mortgage market moves toward a new era of credit scoring and lending standards.

Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/gse-modern-credit-scores/

Homebuilder confidence improved in May as builders saw signs of stronger late spring housing demand, even with mortgage rates climbing back toward 6.6%. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest National Association of Home Builders sentiment report, what's driving renewed buyer activity, and why affordability challenges are still putting pressure on the housing market.

You'll also hear why fewer builders are cutting prices, how incentives are still shaping the new construction market, and which regions of the country are showing the most strength right now. For real estate investors, this episode highlights what builder sentiment could...

Los Angeles has launched a new public rental property database that tracks housing complaints, alleged violations, and tenant disputes across thousands of apartment buildings. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the new "Top 100 Problem Rental Properties" list reveals, why cities are increasing oversight on landlords, and what this could mean for real estate investors operating in heavily regulated markets. From eviction complaints to rent increase disputes, learn why compliance, property management, and transparency are becoming bigger issues in today's rental housing market.

🏘️Receive a FREE Rental Property PDF from RealWealth at www.RealWealth.com/FiveQuestions. 

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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?

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...

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.

📈 🏘️ Want to learn more about Real...

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.

📈 🏠 Want to learn more about what's going on in the real estate market? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com. 

Sources:

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.

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/m...

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 prope

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.re...

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...

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...

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 sh...

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?<...

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...

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...

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.

📈 Want to learn more? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com. 

Sourc...

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.

📈 Want to learn more about turn-key rental properties? Visit www.Realwealth.com/Deals to learn more. 

Source: https://www.apartments.com/rent-market-trends/us/