The Federal Housing Finance Agency is pushing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to prepare for a future where cryptocurrency could play a role in mortgage lending. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what crypto-backed mortgages might look like, the opportunities they could create for nontraditional borrowers, and the risks that have lenders asking tough questions. Will digital assets reshape the path to homeownership—or is this just a speculative idea? Tune in to find out what this move could me...
Jul 04, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1533
In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke covers the stunning outcome of New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, where State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani—a self-described Democratic Socialist—defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a landslide. The news sent shockwaves through NYC’s real estate and financial sectors, with shares of major property owners like SL Green and Vornado Realty Trust taking a hit. Mamdani’s bold housing proposals—rent freezes, a $70 billion publi...
Jul 02, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1532
In this week’s Real Estate News Brief, we are breaking down the latest updates on the labor market, inflation trends, and a notable shift in home sales. Personal income and consumer spending are down, while savings rates are holding steady. We’ll explore what’s behind these economic changes, including jobless claim trends and how wage growth is influencing housing affordability. Plus, new home sales are falling—but pending home sales are on the rise. Tune in for insights every real estate invest...
Jul 01, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1531
Existing home sales ticked up slightly in May — but not enough to turn around what’s been the slowest May in 16 years. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest data from the National Association of Realtors and explores why more listings aren’t translating into more sales. With mortgage rates still hovering near 7% and home prices hitting new highs, affordability remains a key obstacle for today’s buyers. Kathy also shares insights from top economists at NAR and Realtor.com, examines...
Jun 27, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1530
Compass has filed a lawsuit against Zillow, claiming the platform’s listing policies unfairly restrict competition—especially around “Coming Soon” and off-market listings. In this episode, Kathy Fettke unpacks what the lawsuit means for real estate investors who rely on early deal access, private listings, and digital platforms like Zillow, Redfin, and eXp. If you’re sourcing deals online, this legal battle could directly impact your strategy moving forward. JOIN RealWealth® FOR FREE https://rea...
Jun 26, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1529
In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the Federal Reserve’s June policy decision and what it means for the housing market. The Fed held interest rates steady at 4.25% to 4.5% but still expects two rate cuts before the end of 2025. Kathy unpacks the new economic projections—including slower GDP growth, persistent inflation, and a slight rise in unemployment—and explains how these shifting forecasts could impact mortgage rates, housing demand, and investor sen...
Jun 20, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1528
Starwood Capital is suing GVA Real Estate Group for $110 million—sparking major concerns in the multifamily investing world. In this episode, we break down what went wrong, how personal guarantees work, and why more syndicators are getting caught in the fallout from rising interest rates. We’ll also explain the risks behind floating-rate debt and what today’s investors need to know to avoid similar mistakes. If you're investing in real estate syndications—or thinking about it—this is a must-list...
Jun 18, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1527
The U.S. construction industry is facing a growing crisis as immigration raids ramp up across job sites. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down how increased worksite enforcement actions are leading to labor shortages, project delays, and rising costs—at a time when housing demand remains high. With as many as 1 in 5 construction workers estimated to be undocumented, this crackdown could have major ripple effects on real estate development and the broader economy. Tune in for the latest updat...
Jun 16, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1526
Fannie Mae’s latest report reveals that consumer confidence in the housing market just hit its highest point of 2025. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the May Home Purchase Sentiment Index, which shows a growing number of buyers and sellers feeling optimistic—despite ongoing affordability challenges. Hear why more Americans expect mortgage rates to fall, how job security sentiment is shifting, and what this all means for real estate investors heading in...
Jun 13, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1525
In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke dives into a major trend in housing finance: Americans tapped nearly $25 billion in home equity during Q1 2025 — the strongest start to the year since the 2008 housing boom. Fueled by falling HELOC rates and rising homeowner confidence, second-lien mortgage volume surged 22% year over year. With over $17.6 trillion in total home equity — and $11.5 trillion considered tappable — the opportunity for real estate investors and homeowner...
Jun 11, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1524
The latest Beige Book from the Federal Reserve paints a cautious picture of the U.S. economy. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the key takeaways for real estate investors—slowing job growth, rising inflation concerns, and the growing impact of tariffs, which were mentioned a record 122 times. Learn how regional trends and economic uncertainty could influence housing demand, borrowing costs, and investor strategy in the months ahead. JOIN RealWealth® FOR FREE https://realwealth.com/join-...
Jun 09, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1523
Can Landlords Ask About Immigration Status? Oregon’s New Housing Bill Explained A new housing bill in Oregon could set a precedent for landlords across the country. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down Senate Bill 599 — legislation that would make it illegal for Oregon landlords to ask tenants about their immigration status. Learn what this means for tenant screening, ID requirements, and fair housing compliance. Whether you own rental property in Oregon or...
Jun 06, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1522
College towns across the U.S. are facing a growing crisis—and it’s not just about education. In this episode of The Real Wealth Show, we explore "The College Town Doom Loop" and how falling enrollment, ballooning university debt, and demographic decline are reshaping local economies and hurting real estate markets. From shuttered dorms to collapsing rental demand, the ripple effects are hitting investors, homeowners, and businesses alike. LINKS Download Your Free Top 5 Cities to Invest in 2025 P...
Jun 04, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1521
Trump just announced plans to take Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public — but without ending government conservatorship. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what this could mean for the mortgage market, investor profits, and homebuyers. Will mortgage rates go up? Is this privatization in disguise? And how are analysts reacting to Trump’s unusual approach to housing finance reform? LINKS Download Your Free Top 5 Cities to Invest in 2025 PDF! https://www.realwealth.com/1500 JOIN RealWealth® FOR...
Jun 02, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1520
The U.S. national debt has surpassed $36 trillion, prompting Moody’s to downgrade America’s credit rating and setting off a sharp selloff in stocks and bonds. Treasury yields are spiking, with the 30-year hitting 5.13% and the 10-year above 4.6%, signaling a shift toward higher interest rates across the economy—from mortgages to consumer loans. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke covers the latest financial developments shaking markets and influencing investor strateg...
May 23, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1519
Migration is slowing in 2025—but some states are still attracting new residents. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest trends, including top gainers like South Carolina and Idaho, and surprising population rebounds in parts of the Midwest. Find out what’s driving these shifts, why some hot spots are cooling, and where new opportunities may be emerging for real estate investors. LINKS Download Your Free Top 5 Cities to Invest in 2025 PDF! https://w...
May 22, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1518
Housing inventory is surging across the U.S., with new listings up over 11% and total active listings rising more than 30% year-over-year. But despite more homes hitting the market, many buyers are still on the sidelines—held back by high mortgage rates and ongoing affordability concerns. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the latest data from Realtor.com’s Weekly Housing Trends Report and explains why increased supply isn't translating into stronger demand. You’ll also hear insights on i...
May 21, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1517
US credit downgrades are back in the spotlight as Moody’s lowers the U.S. rating from Aaa to Aa1 for the first time since 1949. In today’s episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what this means for bond markets, long-term Treasury yields, and most importantly—mortgage rates. With the 30-year Treasury briefly topping 5%, investors and homebuyers alike are wondering: are borrowing costs headed even higher? Plus, how this move aligns Moody’s with other rating agencies, why deficits and political gridloc...
May 20, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1516
The U.S. and China have agreed to dramatically roll back tariffs — from 125% to 10% — in a surprise deal that's sparking a major Wall Street rally. In this episode, Kathy Fettke explains how the tariff reduction impacts markets, recession forecasts, and investor sentiment. Tech stocks are surging, bond yields are rising, and the Nasdaq has officially entered a new bull market. Tune in to Real Estate News for Investors for expert insight on what this means for the economy, interest rates, and rea...
May 19, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1515
Opportunity Zone incentives may soon reach new areas, thanks to a proposed extension through 2033. A key House committee has included major Opportunity Zone reforms in a sweeping tax package, aiming to give investors more time and more places to deploy capital gains for powerful tax advantages. The proposal would allow states to nominate a new round of zones—especially in rural communities—with even stronger incentives, while also tightening eligibility and expanding what kinds of income qualify...
May 16, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1514
Builders are slowing down, but inventory is rising. In this Real Estate News Brief, Kathy Fettke dives into the latest trends in home starts, sales, and what it all means for real estate investors. From the sharp decline in single-family construction to the resilience of multifamily and the growing number of completed homes for sale, this episode offers critical insights into a shifting market. Whether you're buying, selling, or holding, tune in to stay ahead of the curve. Topics Discussed: 00:0...
May 14, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1513
Zillow is enforcing stricter MLS compliance, requiring publicly marketed listings to appear on the MLS within one business day — or be removed from Zillow and Trulia. This move could have major implications for agents, investors, and off-market deal flow. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the policy means, why it’s controversial, and how it could reshape transparency, competition, and control in the real estate industry. Topics Discussed: 00:00 Zillow's Shakeup 00:25 Zillow's MLS Ne...
May 12, 2025•4 min
The Fed's interest rate pause is making headlines as economic uncertainty reaches new heights. In this episode, Kathy Fettke unpacks what the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates steady means for real estate investors, borrowers, and the broader economy. With rising concerns about stagflation, shaky GDP numbers, and trade tensions driving market volatility, this pause may be more than just a waiting game — it could signal the start of a critical turning point. Topics Discussed: 00:00 Fed's I...
May 09, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1511
First-time home buyers now make up a record 58% of agency purchase loans, according to ICE’s Monthly Mortgage Monitor — but price growth is cooling, and serious delinquencies are ticking up. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down what the latest data means for investors, lenders, and the 2025 housing market. Topics Discussed: 00:00 First Time Home Buyers 00:33 Home Buyer Activity 01:08 Loans for First Time Home Buyers 01:47 Delinquencies 02:16 Foreclosure Activity 02:43 Home Prices LINKS Down...
May 07, 2025•4 min•Ep. 1510
In a major shift, HUD and the FHA are walking back a Biden-era policy on foreclosures that gave nonprofits and government agencies first access to buy distressed properties. Originally intended to support affordable housing and community revitalization, the policy has delivered underwhelming results—prompting officials to reverse course. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down what this rollback means for investors, how it could speed up the flow of foreclosed...
May 05, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1509
A groundbreaking new study from the University of Cincinnati reveals that police funding can significantly impact home prices—but the effect depends on the income level of the community. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down economist David Brasington’s findings, which show that increasing police budgets raises home values by 13% in low-income areas, while decreasing them by at least 14% in high-income neighborhoods. Tune in to learn why these opposing trend...
May 02, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1508
A major shift is underway at Jack in the Box, owner of Del Taco, and it could open the door to hundreds of new real estate opportunities. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down the company’s decision to potentially sell its Del Taco brand and close up to 200 underperforming locations. With softening demand and rising competition in the fast-food sector, Jack in the Box is pivoting toward a leaner business model — and that means a wave of commercial properties may soon hit the market. LINKS Do...
Apr 30, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1507
Roche and Regeneron, two of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, have announced a combined $56 billion investment that’s set to transform U.S. real estate and manufacturing. Billions of dollars will go into expanding research and manufacturing facilities across key states like California, Indiana, New York, and North Carolina, creating thousands of new jobs. These investments signal long-term confidence in the U.S. market and could spark a boom in life sciences real estate. As the pharm...
Apr 28, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1506
A massive real estate portfolio of over 6,000 rental units tied to convicted investor Eli Silber is set for auction following a multi-million-dollar loan fraud scheme. The properties, located across several states including Michigan, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania, are being sold after Silber defaulted on $20M in loans. Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the FHFA are ramping up efforts to crack down on real estate loan fraud with new underwriting rules. Learn more about the fraud case in this episode! To...
Apr 25, 2025•3 min•Ep. 1505
Tired of all the negative headlines? In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke shares three encouraging updates that could brighten your outlook on the market. We’ll cover the latest drop in gas and diesel prices, new signs of a buyer-friendly shift in the housing market, and growing optimism in the multifamily sector for 2025. Discover how these trends could benefit consumers, investors, and the economy as a whole. Tune in for your weekly dose of positive real estate and e...
Apr 23, 2025•5 min•Ep. 1504
