To Buy or Not to Buy: First-Time Homeownership, Renting vs. Buying, and Real Estate in 2026

Connect with us :)At some point in your late 20s and 30s, it feels like everyone around you is talking about real estate. Friends are buying homes, parents are asking questions, social media is telling you you're behind, and suddenly you're wondering if you're making the right financial decision.In this episode, Laura and Amanda sit down for an honest conversation about real estate, homeownership, renting, investing, and the pressures that come with trying to build wealth in today's world.Laura shares her experience as a homeowner and the realities that come with owning property, while Amanda shares why she hasn't bought and explores the questions many people have about whether real estate is still the right path.Together, they discuss:• First-time homebuyer fears and expectations• Renting vs. buying in today's market• The financial realities of homeownership• Cultural pressure and the "American Dream."• Building wealth beyond real estate• Feeling behind when everyone else seems ahead• Creating your own financial blueprintBecause maybe the bigger question isn't whether you should buy a house.Maybe it's whether you're building a life that feels right for you.This episode is for those of you who find yourselves confused, caught in the middle of conversations about investing, or wondering whether buying a home is truly what's next for you. We came to the conclusion that there isn't one right answer, and that everyone should carve a path that aligns with their own goals, values, and vision for life.More than anything, we hope this conversation helps you feel more confident about where you are, releases some of the pressure, and reminds you that it's okay to move at your own pace.New episodes every Thursday.Support the showWait... What's Next? Support the Show: Buy Us a CafeistoHost: Laura Alba Co-Host: Amanda BrilhanteExecutive Producer: Lauren AtkinsonInstagram: @waitwhatsnextpod, @lauraalbaz & @amandakbrilEmail:  [email protected]