Real Estate News: Real Estate Investing Podcast

Student loan defaults are rising again, and that could have a bigger impact on the housing market than many investors realize. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explains how millions of borrowers falling into default could shrink the pool of qualified homebuyers, especially in key Sun Belt markets. Learn why credit scores matter just as much as mortgage rates, and what this trend could mean for housing demand and new home construction.   Check out our other podcast The Real Wealth Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-wealth-show-real-estate-investing-podcast/id883335228   Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/sun-belt-student-loan-defaults/

America's senior homeowners are wealthier than ever. According to a new report from the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association and Riskspan, homeowners age 62 and older now hold a record $14.92 trillion in home equity. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke explains what's driving the rebound, why it matters for retirees, and how this growing pool of housing wealth could shape real estate investing and the transfer of wealth to future generations.   Download your free PDF at www.Realwealth.com/TopCities.   Source: https://www.nrmlaonline.org/about/press-releases/17828

Could one of the biggest solutions to America's housing shortage already be sitting on the market? A new Zillow report finds that more than 300,000 vacant residential lots are currently listed for sale across the U.S. If just one home were built on each lot, the nation's housing shortage could shrink by more than 6%. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explains what the findings mean, why building remains so difficult, and why vacant land could present new opportunities for real estate investors.   Download your free PDF at www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets.   Source: https://www.zillow.com/news/more-than-300000-empty-lots-for-sale-could-close-americas-housing-shortage-by-6-percent/

AI is creating new opportunities in real estate—but it's also creating new risks. Kathy Fettke breaks down a new FundingShield report, covered by Scotsman Guide, that shows deepfake fraud and seller impersonation are becoming growing threats in mortgage transactions, and what every real estate investor should do to protect themselves at closing.   Want to learn more about investing? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com   Source: https://www.scotsmanguide.com/news/deepfake-fraud-rising-as-headline-mortgage-risk/

Berkshire Hathaway is expanding its homebuilding empire with another acquisition, this time adding McGuinn Homes to its growing portfolio. Kathy Fettke explains why Warren Buffett's company is doubling down on site-built and build-to-rent housing, what it signals about the future of the housing market, and why real estate investors should be paying attention.   Learn more at www.Realwealth.com/Syndications   Source: https://www.resiclubanalytics.com/p/warren-buffett-heir-buys-homebuilder-mcguin-berkshire-hathaway-clayton-homes

International demand for U.S. luxury homes has doubled in 2026, according to a new Coldwell Banker Global Luxury report. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why wealthy buyers are moving more money into American real estate, the rise of "landmaxxing," the surge in all-cash purchases, and why many affluent investors continue to view real estate as a safe-haven asset. Plus, what these luxury market trends could mean for investors in every price range.   Get your FREE real estate strategy session www.Realwealth.com/Schedule   Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/coldwell-banker-global-interest-in-us-luxury-housing-market-doubles-in-2026-as-wealthy-buyers-bet-on-american-homes-302825281.html

Could a slowdown in construction actually be good news for apartment investors? In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke explains why falling housing starts could help reduce oversupply, strengthen rent growth, and improve the outlook for multifamily owners through 2027. Plus, what today's cautious homebuilders, rising wages, and interest rates could mean for your next investment decision.   Want to learn more about real estate investing? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com   Source: https://www.credaily.com/briefs/us-housing-starts-slow-giving-apartments-room-to-recover/

Could Trump Accounts expand to adults? President Trump says he's interested in an Australia-inspired retirement savings system, but what would it mean for investors, homeowners, and the future of Social Security? In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the proposal, how Australia's system works, and why real estate investors should be paying attention.   Want to learn more about real estate investing? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com   Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/trump-accounts-for-adults-australia-retirement-accounts-money-monday/

Congress has passed the biggest housing affordability bill in decades—but what does it actually mean for real estate investors? In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what's in the new law, how it aims to increase housing supply, and why the biggest impact may still be years away. Plus, what investors should watch as the housing market continues to evolve.   Learn more at www.NewsforInvestors.com Source: https://www.cnn.com/2026/07/11/economy/new-housing-affordability-law-heres-what-it-means

Mortgage rates climbed back to 6.49%, existing home sales slowed, and the latest jobs report offered new clues about where the economy—and interest rates—could be headed next.   In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the three biggest economic stories of the week and explains what they mean for real estate investors. Learn why mortgage rates are rising, how tight housing supply is keeping home prices elevated despite slower sales, and why a cooling labor market could influence the Federal Reserve's next move.   Get your FREE PDF at www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets   Sources: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/archives/empsit_07022026.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://apnews.com/article/interest-rates-home-sales-29c907cc408cf7f88a8fcb3292150b1f https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/existing-home-sales-nar-june-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Where are America's fastest-growing business hubs—and what do they mean for real estate investors? A new GoDaddy report, paired with Zillow housing data, reveals the cities leading the nation in small business growth. Kathy Fettke breaks down why markets like San Antonio, Miami, El Paso, and Tampa are attracting entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and potentially driving long-term housing demand. Learn what these trends could mean for your next real estate investment.   Get your FREE PDF at www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets Source: https://aboutus.godaddy.net/newsroom/news-releases/press-release-details/2026/GoDaddy-Reveals-2026-Most-Entrepreneurial-Cities-Zillow-Spotlights-the-Real-Estate-Trends-Fueling-Their-Growth/default.aspx

Major changes to federal student loan rules are now in effect, bringing new borrowing limits and repayment options for millions of Americans. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explains what changed, why it matters, and how these new rules could influence the next generation of homebuyers—and the housing market. If you're a real estate investor, this is a policy shift worth watching.   Learn more at www.newsforinvestors.com   Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/student-loan-changes-july-1-2026/

Buying a first home is becoming harder than ever. A new study finds that fewer than 40% of non-homeowner households can afford a typical starter home, highlighting the growing affordability gap facing first-time buyers. Kathy Fettke breaks down what the data reveals, why affordable markets continue to stand out, and what these trends mean for real estate investors.   Download your Free PDF at www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets.   Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/starter-home-affordability-income-gap-lendingtree/

Home prices are still rising—but they're no longer keeping up with inflation.   In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest Case-Shiller Home Price Index, why real home values have now declined for 11 straight months after inflation, which markets are still seeing price growth, and what the latest housing data means for real estate investors.   Get your FREE PDF at www.Realwealth.com/AffordableMarkets.    Sources:  https://www.housingwire.com/articles/inflation-outpaces-home-prices-april/ https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CSUSHPINSA

Consumer confidence improved slightly in June as gas prices fell, but Americans remain worried about inflation, jobs, and the economy. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the latest confidence data, consumer spending trends, and labor market outlook could mean for the housing market and real estate investors.   Want to learn more about real estate? Visit www.Newforinvestors.com   Source:  https://apnews.com/article/consumer-confidence-economy-inflation-da0a1dee651d3e36123e8e83622c4ac4

A new bipartisan bill in Congress would allow communities to use federal housing funds to prepare for disasters before they happen instead of waiting to rebuild afterward. Kathy Fettke explains what the proposed legislation could mean for homeowners, real estate investors, insurance costs, and the future of housing resilience.   Want to learn more? Visit www.NewsforInvestors.com   Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/liccardo-timmons-bill-ounce-of-prevention-act/

Small investors are buying more homes while Wall Street pulls back. Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest Realtor.com data, where investors are purchasing properties, why the Midwest and Sun Belt continue to lead, and what the shift could mean for individual real estate investors looking for opportunity.   Get your FREE PDF at www.RealWealth.com/AffordableMarkets   Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/real-estate-investor-report-2026/

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 takeaways from one of the industry's most closely watched forecasts and what it could signal for housing in 2026 and beyond. Want to learn more about investing? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com.  Source: https://www.fanniemae.com/data-and-insights/forecast

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. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down how crypto-backed mortgages work, why lenders are exploring new ways to evaluate wealth, and what this could mean for homebuyers, real estate investors, and the future of mortgage lending.   Want to learn more about investing? Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com  Source: https://www.fidelity.com/news/article/technology/202606040830BIZWIRE_USPR_____20260604_BW894636

Berkshire Hathaway is making a major bet on U.S. housing. Warren Buffett's company has agreed to acquire homebuilder Taylor Morrison in a deal valued at approximately $8.5 billion, including debt. The move comes at a time when the housing market is still facing elevated mortgage rates, affordability challenges, and slower home sales. So what does Berkshire see that others don't?   In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the deal, why analysts believe it could signal a bottom for housing valuations, and what it may mean for homebuilders, real estate investors, and the broader housing market. She also shares insights from industry experts who believe long-term investors are beginning to position themselves for the next phase of the housing cycle.   For more information on RealWealth's current syndication opportunities and multifamily fund, visit www.RealWealth.com/Syndications.   Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/06/01/berkshire-taylor-morrison-bet-housing-market-bottom.html

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. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest inflation report, what shrinking savings could mean for the economy, and why persistent price pressures may keep interest rates and mortgage rates higher for longer. She also explains the key takeaways for real estate investors as affordability challenges continue to shape the housing market.   Visit www.Newsforinvestors.com to learn more    Source: https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/28/economy/us-pce-inflation-april   

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 budgets, development projects, and long-term real estate opportunities. Source: https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/the-housing-markets-latest-hurdles-copper-lumber-diesel-and-aluminum-70b45947?regwall=eafs

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, and why real estate investors should pay close attention to inflation and Treasury yields. You'll also hear why housing demand has remained resilient despite higher borrowing costs and what could be needed for mortgage rates to move lower. If you're watching the housing market, mortgage rates, or the Federal Reserve's next move, this is an update you won't want to miss. Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/what-happens-to-mortgage-rates-if-the-iran-conflict-is-over/ 

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 find strong rental markets, analyze cash flow, and avoid costly investing mistakes. Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/26/wells-fargo-mortgage-incentives-3d-printed-homes-icon.html 

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 mean for housing supply, buyer demand, and investment opportunities in the months ahead Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/18/may-homebuilder-sentiment-improves.html    

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.  Source: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-05-18/l-a-s-100-most-problematic-rental-properties-spotlighted-in-database#:~:text=The%20top%20target%20of%20complaints,Barrington%20Plaza%20ranked%20second.  

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. 📈 🏘️ Want to learn more about RealWealth? Visit www.Newforinvestors.com.  Source: https://www.realtor.com/news/real-estate-news/built-to-rent-investor-ban-road-housing-act-latest/ 

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: https://www.npr.org/2026/05/13/nx-s1-5816235/kevin-warsh-federal-reserve-chair-jerome-powell https://www.reuters.com/world/us/fed-chair-nominee-warsh-set-get-us-senate-nod-inflation-intensifies-2026-05-13/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

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  

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" data-turn-id="8dcbfccd-d39f-4bc2-9e16-196d27907352" data-turn-id-container="8dcbfccd-d39f-4bc2-9e16-196d27907352" data-testid="conversation-turn-11" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69fcd44d-3534-83e8-a6fb-b72f1e8c2427-10" data-turn-id-container= "request-69fcd44d-3534-83e8-a6fb-b72f1e8c2427-10" data-testid= "conversation-turn-12" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> 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? 🏠 Want to learn more about investing in real estate? Visit www.Realwealth.com/TopCities.    Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-debt-exceeds-gdp-first-time-since-wwii/