U.S. Home Buyers at the Lowest Level Ever (Worst Than 1929 & 2008???)

This week we're reacting to a viral Instagram post claiming U.S. homebuyers have fallen to their lowest level ever — supposedly worse than 1929 and worse than 2008. We dig into where that headline actually came from (Redfin, now owned by Rocket Mortgage), what the real numbers say, and why comparing today's market to the Great Depression or the Great Financial Crisis doesn't hold up once you look at population growth, lending standards, and foreclosure rates.From there we get into what's actually happening on the ground in Washington State: falling prices in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties, wages outpacing home prices for the first time in history, and real conversations we're having with sellers and investors right now — including a new-construction buyer negotiating a 4.99% rate and 4% commission, and an investor closing on a multifamily deal at a 6.7 cap.We also break down the bigger economic picture shaping the rest of 2026: the U.S. national debt crossing $40 trillion, how the ongoing conflict with Iran is pushing oil prices and inflation higher, new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's hawkish turn, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's move to buy back long-term bonds. We close with our honest rate predictions for the rest of the year and what it means if you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing.Got questions about your own situation? Reach out at RSG.com.About the ShowWelcome to the Anton Stetner Podcast, where we break down real estate, economics, investing, housing policy, and the trends shaping the future of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Whether you're a homebuyer, investor, business owner, or simply trying to make sense of today's economy, you'll find practical insights, market analysis, and conversations with industry experts designed to help you make smarter financial decisions.🏡 Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Washington State real estate? Visit: RESG.com📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for market updates, housing trends, and investment opportunities.