Real Estate Today

Why do you still need a real estate professional in the age of AI? You could lose thousands of dollars on the biggest transaction of your life — and not even know it until it's too late.

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on everything buyers and sellers get wrong: why AI-generated comps can be dangerously misleading, why interviewing just one agent leaves you flying blind, and why the moment you go under contract is actually when you need an expert the most. Two real estate professionals break down the difference between a real estate agent an...

This week on Real Estate Today, we're exploring the spooky side of real estate, from creepy home discoveries and home inspection nightmares to scary mortgage rates and high home prices. Hear 10 of the wildest real estate listing stories, including bats in the attic, a home sliding down a hill and a shocking discovery hiding behind a wall. Plus, we dig into the housing market headlines haunting today's homebuyers and the unexpected surprises that can turn a dream home into a nightmare.

Joining us this week is Jake Krimmel, senior economist at Realtor.com®, and Jesse Durham, home i...

The home buyer wish list is getting a makeover. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore the home features today's buyers want most, from flexible living and entertaining spaces to outdoor areas designed for relaxing and gathering. Discover why buyers are putting a bigger premium on outdoor living, how wellness trends such as saunas and meditation spaces are making their way into homes, and which outdoor improvement sellers should consider to help catch buyers' attention.

Guests include Shelton Wilder, CEO and lead agent of the Shelton Wilder Group in Los Angeles, and Ginger Wilcox, global president...

Home equity can be one of the biggest financial benefits of homeownership, but what should you do once you've built it? This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how homeowners can estimate their home equity, decide whether to leverage it or let it grow, and make improvements and upgrades that could help build more equity over time. Learn which types of homes tend to appreciate the most, common misconceptions about home equity and whether paying off your mortgage as quickly as possible is always the smartest financial strategy.

Guests include Michael Perna, REALTOR® and CEO of T...

Hidden homeownership costs can catch you by surprise if you're not prepared. This week on the 900th episode of Real Estate Today, we look at common homeownership expenses that buyers should prepare for.

Melissa Bailey, sales team lead at Real Broker in Phoenix, AZ., and Shane Brady, agent at Keller Williams in Boston, MA. discuss the true impact of rising insurance costs, how home inspections can flag potential maintenance issues, and the future expenses to look out for when buying a home.

Building wealth through real estate starts with making smart decisions. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how homeowners and investors can make their properties work harder for them and build long-term value. Learn which property characteristics can boost value, what can hurt an investment, what to look for in a property with long-term potential and the biggest mistakes first-time rental property investors should avoid.

Guests include Jonathan Greene, real estate investor and host of the podcast "Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing," and Lisa Patterson, REALTOR® in Charleston, S.C.

A fixer-upper can look like a money pit, but with the right vision, it could become a hidden gem. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how to turn overlooked and neglected homes into standout properties, from identifying renovation potential to deciding which rooms to tackle first. Discover how to modernize a home while preserving its original character, which renovations can make the biggest impact and how to approach a property transformation with confidence.

Guests include Konya Hendricks Shuh, REALTOR® with CENTURY 21 Affiliated and host of A&E's "Betting on Beloit"; and James Dainard, real estate i...

This week on Real Estate Today, we break down how to get your home ready to sell without wasting time or money. Learn which repairs are worth making before you list your home, which renovations you can skip, and the small updates that can have the biggest impact on buyers and help your home sell faster and for the best possible price. We also discuss a practical home-selling checklist, reveal the behind-the-scenes work a great REALTOR® does to help sell a home, and discuss the warning signs every homeowner should know before putting their property on the market.

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This week on Real Estate Today, we answer one of today's biggest homebuying questions: Is now the right time to buy new construction? From builder incentives to inspections, we break down what buyers need to know before signing on the dotted line.

Discover the advantages and disadvantages of buying a newly built home versus an existing one, whether every new-construction home should be inspected, the smartest upgrades to invest in, and which room is worth splurging on. Plus, learn why working with a REALTOR® can make all the difference when buying directly from a builder and how t...

Home design is evolving, and today's buyers are looking for more than just beautiful finishes. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore the latest home design trends inside and out, from the features and layouts buyers want most to the curb appeal projects homeowners are tackling this summer. We also examine whether the open floor plan is losing popularity and what today's design preferences could mean for buyers and sellers.

Discover the home upgrades making the biggest impact, insights from Thumbtack's 2026 Curb Appeal Report, and the outdoor projects helping homeowners create a lasting first impression.

The 2026 summer real estate market is here. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down the latest housing trends, including what's driving price changes, inventory shifts and buyer demand this summer, along with what these shifts mean for anyone looking to buy or sell a home.

Discover where opportunities are emerging, which real estate strategies are actually working, how to save money on your mortgage and the practical moves you can make right now to achieve your homeownership goals. 

Guests include Cara Ameer, real estate professional with Coldwell Banker, and Scott Haymore, senior vice p...

Multigenerational living and co-buying are reshaping homeownership in today's housing market. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore the next generation of housing trends and how buyers are adapting to rising home prices, affordability challenges and changing lifestyle needs.

Discover why more families are choosing to live under one roof, how friends and other co-buyers are teaming up to achieve homeownership, and what these shifts mean for first-time buyers navigating today's market. We also examine how homeowners are creating flexible, stylish spaces that work for multiple generations and evolving household dynamics.

Guests include Sue "...

Is it smarter to rent or buy in today's housing market? With home prices high, mortgage rates elevated, and affordability stretched, many consumers are wondering whether homeownership is still worth pursuing.

In this episode of Real Estate Today, we break down the real financial math behind renting vs. buying—and explore the creative strategies helping first-time buyers enter the market despite today's challenges.

Justin Cambra of eXp Realty shares how buyers are using "house hacking" strategies to offset mortgage payments and build wealth through real estate. Susan Isaak of Coldwell Banker Realty explains how first-time bu...

Closing day is in sight—but getting there is where the real work begins. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down what it takes to successfully navigate the final steps of selling a home and why having a trusted real estate professional can make all the difference in one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make.

Sarah Scattini, REALTOR® from Nevada, explains the most common issues that can derail a transaction and how sellers can avoid costly delays. Matt Cook with HomeTeam Inspection Services shares how new technology is giving buyers deeper insight int...

This week on Real Estate Today, we take a closer look at the latest real estate fraud trends, the red flags buyers and sellers cannot afford to miss, and how scammers are using new technology to target transactions. With 1 in 5 homeowners reporting they have received a fraudulent message before closing, understanding how these scams work has never been more important.

Hear from homeowner Raegan Bartlo, who shares her experience of losing a $255,000 down payment in a real estate wire fraud scam. Tom Cronkright, REALTOR® and founder of CertifID, explains how artificial intelligence is making these scams harder t...

The spring housing market is here, and it's bringing new opportunities for buyers and sellers. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down the latest housing market data, what to expect during this traditionally busy season, and how this year compares to past spring markets. Learn how buyers can navigate a shifting market, what they can do to put themselves in the best position to qualify for the lowest possible mortgage rate, and how strategies like using a tax refund could help boost buying power.

Guests include Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of...

Thinking about giving your home a fresh look? This week on Real Estate Today, we dive into the latest trends in home remodeling, simple DIY projects that can make a big impact, and strategies to boost your home's value. From easy upgrades to tips for tackling fixer-uppers without regret, this episode is packed with insights for homeowners and first-time buyers alike.

Guests include Elizabeth Lord-Levitt, real estate broker and residential designer; Michelle Doherty, REALTOR® from Virginia; Don Ruthroff, architect at Design Story Spaces; and Michael Silva-Nash, president of Molly Maid.

Can buyers still afford to move in today's housing market? On this week's episode of Real Estate Today, we explore mortgage rates, housing affordability and strategies buyers can use to make the numbers work without overextending. We also take a closer look at whether the long-standing 30% affordability rule still holds for today's homebuyers and how students at 20 universities are competing to tackle housing costs.

Guests include Mabel Guzman, REALTOR® from Chicago; Nadia Evangelou, principal economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of REALTORS®; and Bobby Vance, architect and assistant professor at Virginia Tech.

With home prices high and inventory limited, getting your starter home right has never been more important. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how the idea of the starter home is evolving and whether the traditional first home still exists or has simply been reimagined. Learn what today's buyers should prioritize in a shifting housing market, why a home's condition can make or break a deal when budgets are tight and which inspection red flags buyers simply cannot ignore.

Guests include Mike Bruce, real estate professional from Denver, Colorado; Matt Cook, director of operations at...

House hunting starts online for most buyers, but what looks perfect on your screen may tell only part of the story. This week on Real Estate Today, we help buyers become smarter online shoppers by breaking down how to spot the difference between eye-catching listings and what really matters once you see a home in person. Learn how to avoid getting catfished by listing photos and what red flags to watch for.

Guests include Ryann Brier, REALTOR® from Michigan, who shares expert tips on what buyers should look out for when shopping for homes online; and real e...

Buying a home today takes more than finding the right property. It also takes financial fitness. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down the true cost of homeownership, from hidden expenses buyers often overlook to the impact of soaring home insurance bills. Learn how much buyers really need to save, what down payments look like in today's market, and the smart ways buyers are getting creative to make homeownership possible.

Guests include Christopher Wands, REALTOR® with Douglas Elliman Real Estate; Shawn Yerkes, group president of financial services at Genstone Financial; and Julia Taliesin, data journalist a...

The hottest home trends for 2026 are coming into focus, and they could have a major impact on resale value. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down what's driving tomorrow's design decisions and how homeowners can remodel with resale in mind. From trending colors and finishes to smart updates that appeal to buyers, real estate and design experts share practical advice to help homes stand out in a competitive market. We also explore insights from the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate 2026 Design Trends Moving Real Estate report, along with the "HGTV effect" and how buyer expectations shaped...

This week on Real Estate Today, we take a close look at what's ahead in 2026: We're talking bold builder incentives designed to attract buyers and the housing markets expected to be in highest demand. Whether you're thinking about buying a home or you're a current homeowner planning for the future, this episode explores what these emerging trends could mean for your next move. We also break down why Florida continues to capture national attention as a housing hot spot.

Guests include Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Robert Dietz, chief economist a...

What will the housing market look like in 2026, and how can buyers, sellers and investors prepare now? This week on Real Estate Today, we look ahead to the next phase of the real estate market as leading economists and top industry voices share their outlook for the year ahead. From long-term housing trends to economic forces shaping homeownership, our guests break down what to expect and how those shifts could impact decisions to buy, sell or invest.

Guests include Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Matt Vernon, head of consumer lending at Bank o...

This week on Real Estate Today, we break down why winter may be the secret season for savvy buyers and why hitting pause until spring could mean missing real opportunities. We take a look at the current housing market, explore why first-time buyers make up the smallest share of buyers on record, and highlight opportunities for today's buyers, including how purchasing in winter could work to your advantage and how to shop smarter for a mortgage and potentially save.

Guests include Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Christine Belin, REALTOR® based in...

The holiday real estate season has arrived, and it may be one of the most strategic times of the year for homebuyers and sellers. This week on Real Estate Today, we dig into how the housing market is performing right now, whether home prices are still rising or beginning to level out, and why this festive season may offer unique opportunities for anyone looking to make a move before the New Year. We also explore the ups, downs, and even the funny moments that real estate pros experience during the holidays.

Guests include Mike Ferrante, REALTOR® from C...

We uncover the insider secrets real estate pros wish every buyer and seller knew. From navigating tricky seller disclosures to avoiding costly pricing mistakes, our experts break down the overlooked details that can make or break your next move. Learn how to boost your home's resale value, the updates that truly pay off, and the things you should never say to your real estate agent. We also share top tips to spruce up your home with selling in mind and smart strategies for choosing the right property in any market.

Guests include Kati Spaniak, real estate professional...

This week on Real Estate Today, we spotlight the inspiring winners of the 2025 Good Neighbor Awards—REALTORS® making a difference in communities nationwide. Discover how these real estate professionals are transforming lives beyond the closing table by:

Raising millions for ALS patient services

Creating a hospice care center

Keeping families together by providing essential items

Funding families facing life-threatening illnesses

Promoting youth mental health

Meet our extraordinary guests:

Ray Manzoni, president of ALS Ride For Life

Cindy Bradley, founder of

Refresh, Update & Elevate Your Home
This week on Real Estate Today, discover the smartest ways to transform your home—whether you're staying put or preparing to sell. Learn which home improvement projects deliver real return on investment, the top remodeling trends for 2025, and which design ideas to skip. Plus, big-ticket lessons every homeowner can use and budget-friendly updates that make your space bold, unforgettable, and full of personality.

Featured Guests:

Kirsten Jordan, Associate Broker of the top ten national real estate team and alum of Bravo's "Million Dollar Listing New York"

Gray Be...

Everyone wants to save money on their home and this week on Real Estate Today, we're showing you how. From lowering your mortgage rate to dodging rising insurance premiums, we'll cover the smartest ways to protect your wallet and make the most of your real estate investment. Learn how REALTORS® help clients avoid costly mistakes, what smart financial strategies can help homeowners save more, and how a little paint can go a long way in a budget-friendly remodel.

Guests include Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree; Travis Hodges, managing director of VIU; Sue Wadden, director o...

Utility bills got you shivering? You're not alone. This week on Real Estate Today, we're tackling winter head-on to help you keep the elements out and your utility bills down. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or just tired of battling drafts and high energy costs, we've got tips to help you stay comfortable, save money, and protect your home this season. You'll learn how to prevent frozen pipes, maintain your roof, and seal drafts. We also cover the green and energy-efficient home features buyers are seeking and the surprises homeowners may encounter when filing insurance claims.

Guests...

It's spooky season on Real Estate Today, and we're diving into the haunted side of homeownership. From horrifying home design trends to creepy real estate stories, our experts share what happens when the market gets scary.

We'll explore homes "haunted" by bad design choices, listings that came with shocking surprises, and sellers who use cameras to listen to buyers. You'll also learn which pests and insects are most likely to sneak into your home this time of year.

Guests include REALTOR® Mary Harmon Young from Tuscaloosa, AL; REALTOR® Kati Spaniak from Northbrook, IL; REALTOR® Kourtney Pul...

Design meets real estate in this week's Real Estate Today. We're exploring the hottest home design trends shaping America's housing market and the smart updates that can actually boost your home's value. From the "Ozempic of surface materials" slimming down kitchens everywhere to the newly announced 2026 Color of the Year, our experts break down what's in, what's out, and what's worth the investment.

Guests include Mallory Slesser, interior designer and home stager; Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams; Latham Jenkins, associate broker; Kati Spaniak, REALTOR®; and Mary Harmon, real estate expert.

Plus, in o...

Is it time to consider downsizing—or as we like to say, rightsizing? More families are facing the challenge of saying goodbye to a long-time home. This week on Real Estate Today, we guide you through the careful process of senior relocation and the critical steps to making this transition as smooth as possible. We discuss the tough challenge of deciding what stays and what goes; ways of helping sellers feel comfortable in their new space; and tips for managing emotions.

We also explore the latest generational trends in homebuying and selling, including the rising demand for mu...

Is now a good time to sell your home? This week on Real Estate Today, we dig into the data, market trends, and strategies sellers need to know before making their next move. Learn how to price your home right, boost curb appeal in the colder months, and make your property stand out to today's savvy buyers. We'll also explore home equity loans and what sellers should know about leveraging their home's value.

Guests include Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com; Kourtney Pulitzer, Palm Beach real e...

Real estate can be a powerful tool for building wealth, and this week on Real Estate Today, we explore strategies for turning homes into serious cash. From short-term rentals and flipping houses to buying property overseas, we break down the methods that can help you grow your real estate portfolio and maximize income. Discover the top markets for short-term investments and tips from experts who have helped buyers turn homes into profitable ventures.

Guests include Jamie Lane, chief economist at AirDNA; Janet Ramirez, REALTOR®; and Janel Muhammad, international real estate specialist.

Plus, in our Hot o...

The fall real estate market is here, and it may be the best season for homebuyers. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore why autumn often gives buyers an edge—from reduced competition to unique opportunities not seen in the spring and summer markets. Discover whether there really is a "perfect week" to buy a home, how to land the lowest mortgage rate, and the latest lending trends shaping today's market.

Guests include Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com; Alexa Kebalo, REALTOR® with eXp Realty; Janet Ramirez, real estate broker with Better Homes and Gardens Rea...

Buying or selling a home can take a toll on your well-being. But, it doesn't have to. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore the powerful connection between real estate and wellness. From avoiding buyer burnout and seller stress to discovering how your home can actually make you healthier, we share expert strategies to keep your emotions and energy in check. We'll also look at how pets play a surprising role in buyer decisions and spotlight Babcock Ranch, America's first wellness town. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we explore two home design trends: biohacking amenities and...

Smart homes, AI and even 3D-printed houses are no longer futuristic ideas—they're here and reshaping real estate. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how technology is changing the way homes are built, bought and sold. From the smart home features buyers want most to the upgrades that can raise—or lower—a property's value, we cover what every homeowner and buyer should know. Plus, we take a closer look at privacy concerns, asking whether sellers can spy on buyers through security cameras and smart devices.

Guests include Brandon Doyle, a REALTOR® from Minnesota with the Doy...

Mortgages don't have to be confusing. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down what buyers need to know about mortgage rates, bridge loans and finding the right lender. We'll discuss how rates are really impacting today's housing market and why buyers shouldn't wait to act. You'll also learn when to bring a lender into your home search, how to shop for the best mortgage and how rising rates and prices are affecting affordability and down payments. And in our Hot or Not spotlight, we take on two home design trends: floating stairs and slow decorating.

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