Real Estate Today
Real Estate Today opens doors for buyers and sellers with critical and credible information on the real estate market. It’s fast-paced and fact-packed with experts, interviews, call-ins, field reports, and timely market conditions.
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Severe Weather's Impact on Home Construction, Insurance and the Market
07/04/2025
Severe Weather's Impact on Home Construction, Insurance and the Market
This week, we’re exploring how severe weather is reshaping the real estate market. First, Erica Wolfe, owner of The Wolfe Team in Jupiter, Florida, explains how higher insurance costs are impacting real estate transactions and why more buyers are turning to new construction for better insurance rates. Next, Travis Hodges, managing director at VIU by HUB, shares the types of weather events having the biggest impact on the market. After, Jon Schneyer, hurricane risk expert and director of research and content at Cotality, reveals the biggest surprises from this year’s hurricane risk report. Then, Matt Brannon, data journalist at Insurify, breaks down the types of weather events that can damage your home and how homeowners can prepare. Finally, REALTOR® Cara Ameer shares how skyrocketing insurance premiums are derailing real estate deals and pushing some homes out of financial reach for buyers. Plus, host Melissa Dittmann Tracey weighs in on whether tinted windows for the home are hot or not.
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Maximize Your Home’s Resale Potential
06/27/2025
Maximize Your Home’s Resale Potential
Want to make your home look like a million bucks and actually profit from it? This week, we’re diving into smart renovation strategies that can boost your home’s resale value and help you sell faster. Michael Alladawi, CEO and founder of Revive Real Estate, shares how presale renovations can lead to bigger profits. REALTOR® Michelle Doherty breaks down which updates are worth it and which ones to skip. Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of REALTORS®, walks us through key findings from the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report. Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, offers tips on zoning your backyard for both relaxation and entertaining. Plus, host Melissa Dittmann Tracey explores the latest home design trends, including wellness-focused bathrooms and whether spray-painted lawns are catching on with homeowners.
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The 2025 Summer Real Estate Market
06/20/2025
The 2025 Summer Real Estate Market
Are you buying or selling a home this summer during what is historically the busiest real estate market of the year? Real estate agent Erica Wolfe from Jupiter, Florida, discusses the shifting real estate market, where prices, affordability, and the luxury market are expected to go. NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun looks at the raw economic data to share the latest on housing inventory, where interest rates are going, and how inflation data may open the market for first-time home buyers. Host Melissa Tracey looks at whether electric grills are a hot or not home trend before Frank Meek, an entomologist at Rollins, Inc. explains how to keep the bugs out of your house. And, Mike Opyd from Motto Mortgage answers listener questions on mortgage rates and home loans.
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Housing Market Update: Where Are the Buyers?
06/13/2025
Housing Market Update: Where Are the Buyers?
Where are the home buyers? We break down what’s keeping buyers on the sidelines—even as inventory rises. Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, shares an in-depth look at today’s housing market. He explains why existing-home sales haven’t picked up despite better spring conditions and why elevated mortgage rates are keeping deals from closing. Melissa Bailey, real estate professional and team lead at the Jason Mitchell Group in Scottsdale, Arizona, discusses the challenges today’s buyers face. Ali Wolf, chief economist at Zonda, dives into the growing housing affordability crisis and compares new-home prices with existing-home prices. Plus, we explore whether painting a home’s brick white and open floor plans are hot or not.
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Behind the Drywall: The Truth About Home Inspections
06/06/2025
Behind the Drywall: The Truth About Home Inspections
We’re peeling back the layers of home inspections, from red flags and repair requests to how inspections can make or break a deal. Whether you're buying, selling or just curious about what’s behind the walls, this episode is packed with insights. Joe Graziano, a REALTOR® with the DeBartoli Real Estate Group in Las Vegas, shares how buyers can navigate inspection reports and negotiate repairs. Matt Cook, director of business development at HomeTeam Inspection Service, explains what’s covered in a home inspection, what’s not and how to separate real red flags from cosmetic issues. Bob Albrecht, a HomeVestors® franchise owner in Chicago, talks about transforming 2024’s Ugliest House of the Year into a showstopper. Plus, we explore whether backyard pools are still a splash or if solar panels are the new must-have.
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How to Afford a Home in Today’s Market
05/30/2025
How to Afford a Home in Today’s Market
Think you can’t afford a home? The dream may be closer than you realize. Our experts share real-world strategies to make homeownership more affordable. From side hustles and fixer-uppers to smart saving and financial prep, this episode explores the creative approaches helping buyers navigate today’s market. Guests include Ryan Fitzgerald, broker-owner of Raleigh Realty, who explains how buyers are finding new paths to homeownership; financial expert Andrea Woroch, who shares smart ways to save and avoid costly mistakes; and Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of REALTORS®, who highlights new research on affordability challenges.
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Meh to Market-Ready
05/24/2025
Meh to Market-Ready
Want to boost your home’s value before listing? Start here. This week, we spotlight the top home projects that increase value—from curb appeal and staging to creative listing strategies. Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, shares quick curb appeal wins. REALTOR® Orion Moquin of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, reveals how a staged Bigfoot sighting grabbed buyer attention. Brandi Snowden, director of member and survey research at the National Association of REALTORS®, shares new data on how staging influences today’s buyers. Michael Alladawi, CEO and founder of Revive Real Estate, explains how presale renovations can help sellers maximize profits—and how his company fronts the costs until closing. Then, Guest House CEO Alex Ryden discusses staging strategies that create beautiful, buyer-ready spaces, and which areas to prioritize to make a property shine. Plus, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey reveals whether air fresheners are helping or hurting your home’s appeal during showings.
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How to Move Without the Mayhem
05/16/2025
How to Move Without the Mayhem
Ready to move? Don’t just pack—plan. This episode is packed with moving tips, packing tips for moving, and expert strategies to make your next move smoother, cheaper, and less stressful. Join Florida real estate broker Cara Ameer, moving expert and author Robert Esposito, home design authority Melissa Dittmann Tracey, and Livability editor-in-chief Amanda Ellis as they share actionable advice for buyers, sellers, and renters alike. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, this episode will help you move smarter—not harder.
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Don't Do That! Real Estate Mistakes to Avoid
05/09/2025
Don't Do That! Real Estate Mistakes to Avoid
Ready to make smarter real estate moves? This week, we’re helping buyers navigate the market like a pro. First, REALTOR® Lizette Sinhart from Westchester County, New York shares how first-time buyers can prepare to succeed in today’s competitive market. Next, Tom Cronkright, co-founder and executive chairman at CertifID, discusses the rise in real estate wire fraud and how scammers use sophisticated tools, including AI, to target buyers. Then, REALTOR® Gabriella Debartoli from Las Vegas, Nevada highlights some of the biggest buyer mistakes, from missteps during showings to what not to do when submitting an offer. Finally, REALTOR® Adam Pretorius from Iowa City, Iowa weighs in on what to know when buying luxury real estate and how to avoid common mistakes at the high end of the market. Plus, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares her take on two trends: dopamine décor and compact garages—are they hot or are they not? Whether you're buying your first home or your forever home, this episode will help you sidestep the pitfalls and move forward with confidence.
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Top Real Estate Questions Answered
05/02/2025
Top Real Estate Questions Answered
You have real estate questions, we have answers! Tamara Suminski, co-owner of Beach Real Estate Group Southern California, Chris Lim, RE/MAX chief growth officer, and Mike Opyd, co-owner of Motto Mortgage NEXT in Chicago, tackle questions on what the difference is between preapproval and prequalification; how a real estate agent determines the price of a listing; and how to qualify for a lower mortgage rate. We even let you know if you can bring your dog on a home tour!
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The 2025 Guide to Home Remodeling
04/25/2025
The 2025 Guide to Home Remodeling
Thinking about remodeling your home? Whether you’re upgrading for comfort, resale, or long-term value, we’re sharing expert insights to help you remodel smart—and avoid costly mistakes. First, , deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of REALTORS®, highlights key findings from the , including which home projects bring homeowners the most joy. Next, breaks down which areas of the home are worth updating to increase value and which renovations could hurt your home’s resale potential. Then, Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angie’s List (now ), shares money-saving strategies for homeowners planning a remodel; plus, get the latest insights from Angi’s State of Home Spending Report. Finally, Jody Costello, founder of , recounts her remodeling nightmare and offers essential tips for hiring trustworthy contractors and avoiding costly renovation pitfalls. From joyful upgrades to smart investments, this episode is your ultimate guide to remodeling right in 2025.
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Second Homes Made Simple
04/18/2025
Second Homes Made Simple
Thinking about buying a second home? Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a future retirement retreat, or a rental property, this episode covers everything you need to know to turn that dream into reality. First, REALTOR® George Harvey shares how buyers can prepare for a second home purchase—and why understanding the seller’s timing can give you a competitive edge in seasonal markets. Next, REALTOR® Sindy Ready explains how she helps clients find their perfect second home and why today’s market still offers real opportunities for buyers. Then, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey weighs in on two trends: Double drenching a space in color and ‘Castlecore’ design—are they hot or not? Finally, REALTOR® Beth Foley highlights what buyers should consider before entering the short-term rental market, and how to ensure that you’re set up for success from day one. Whether you're seeking a personal retreat or a smart investment, this episode is your second-home road map.
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Buying a Condo in 2025
04/11/2025
Buying a Condo in 2025
Thinking about buying a condo? Whether you're a first-time buyer or just curious about what sets condos apart, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about condo living in 2025. First, condominium expert and REALTOR® Mabél Guzmán shares what makes condo ownership unique—and why it can be an ideal entry point to homeownership, especially for first-time buyers looking to build wealth. Next, real estate attorney Nishad Khan breaks down what you own when you buy a condo, plus key financial responsibilities and community rules to be aware of. Then, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey weighs in on whether ranch homes and ADUs (accessory dwelling units) are hot or not. Finally, Nadia Evangelou, senior economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, shares the latest trends in condo sales across the country. If you’re considering condo living, this episode is your go-to guide!
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Buying Brand New: Spring 2025
04/04/2025
Buying Brand New: Spring 2025
Thinking about buying brand new? Whether you’re considering new home construction or a move-in-ready build, we’re breaking down what to expect in spring 2025. First, REALTOR® Gonzalo Mejia breaks down the process of buying a brand-new home versus an existing one, and why home inspections are crucial for home warranties. Next, REALTOR® Christine Richardson shares the potential advantages of working with a builder’s preferred lender and explains why having a REALTOR® is essential throughout the buying process. Home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey explores the latest trends in new home construction and shares insights from the 2025 International Builders Show. Melissa also tells us whether dark wood vanities or bathtubs are hot or not.
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Investing in the Spring 2025 Real Estate Market
03/28/2025
Investing in the Spring 2025 Real Estate Market
Want to start or expand your real estate investment portfolio? We’re breaking down what it takes to invest in the spring market! First, Matt Ritchie, owner of Ritchie Real Estate, breaks down the essentials of getting started and shares key terms every investor needs to know. Then, Luke Worrell, land expert and owner of Worrell Land Services, explains the ins and outs of investing in land—how to buy it, how to use it, and how to turn a profit. Home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares whether two-tone kitchen cabinets are hot or not. Then, Keith Gumbinger, vice president at HSH.com, explains the differences between investment property mortgages and traditional home loans—plus what it takes to qualify. Whether you are a first-time investor or looking to grow your holdings, this episode has expert insights to help you succeed!
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Selling a Home in the Spring 2025
03/21/2025
Selling a Home in the Spring 2025
Spring is one of the hottest times to sell a home, but what does it take to sell quickly and get top dollar in today’s market? Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate, shares strategies for a successful home sale this spring. Then, Tori Toth, REALTOR® and founder of The Stage 2 Sell Strategy, explains how home staging helps attract buyers and boost their sale price. Melissa Dittmann Tracey highlights what paint colors are trending and which to avoid. Lastly, Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, breaks down the latest Existing-Home Sales Report and what it means for sellers in the current market.
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The 2025 Spring Real Estate Market
03/14/2025
The 2025 Spring Real Estate Market
The 2025 spring real estate market is here, bringing new opportunities for buyers and sellers! First, Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate, shares winning strategies for home buyers to succeed in a competitive market. Then, Elizabeth Renter, senior economist at NerdWallet, brings good news for first-time home buyers based on the latest First-Time Home Buyer Affordability Report. Next, Paul Pastelok, senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, provides a spring weather forecast tailored for real estate, highlighting areas with sunny skies and those likely to face more unpredictable weather. Finally, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey breaks down the latest design trends. Tune in for everything you need to prepare for the 2025 spring market! This week’s episode is sponsored by Opendoor. Serve your clients the simpler way.
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Moving Made Easy: Tips for Success
03/07/2025
Moving Made Easy: Tips for Success
Ready to make your move to a new home? We dive into the final phase of the homebuying journey: moving! Whether you’re relocating across town or the country, we’ve got tips to help you get settled with minimal stress. First, can you guess which state the most people moved to in 2024? Jeff Lockridge, from U-Haul International, will tell you that and more when he discusses the latest migration trends based on U-Haul’s 2024 Growth Index. Then, Dale Mattison, REALTOR® and team leader at The Mattison Group, shares how REALTORS® can ease your move and why starting early is key. Gayla Dixon, residential sales manager at UniGroup Companies, offers expert advice on how to save money and stay on schedule during your move. Plus, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey breaks down the latest trends—are sliding barn doors still a hit, and what about statement ceilings? Tune in for everything you need to know to make your move go smoothly!
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From Contract to Keys: Closing Day Tips
02/28/2025
From Contract to Keys: Closing Day Tips
Ever wondered what goes down on closing day? Whether you're the buyer or the seller, being prepared is key. Economist Nadia Evangelou with the National Association of REALTORS® discusses insights from the new Pending Home Sales Report. We also welcome Chris Rost, REALTOR® and broker-owner at Coldwell Banker in Salina, KS, who shares expert tips on how buyers and sellers can prepare for a property to change hands. Home design expert Melissa Dittman Tracey reveals whether wireless lights and landscape lighting are a hot trend or flickering out of style. Lastly, real estate closing attorney Vanessa Goggans explains everything homebuyers and sellers need to know before sitting at the settlement table. Tune in for the info you need to ensure your closing day goes off without a hitch!
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Winning Offers for Home Buyers and Sellers
02/21/2025
Winning Offers for Home Buyers and Sellers
Curious about what makes a buyer's offer stand out or how a seller can choose the right one? Pat Corle, 2025 president of Dayton REALTORS®, shares expert strategies on crafting and evaluating offers for a successful home purchase. We also welcome Jeffrey Fagan, REALTOR® and regional vice president at Watson Realty Corp. in Jacksonville, Florida, who explains the appraisal process and why they are so important, what sellers can do to hit the highest appraisal price, and the benefits of pre-listing appraisals. Then, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey joins the conversation to weigh in on whether black countertops or wood floors in your kitchen are still trending or if they’ve gone out of style. Finally, Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, shares the latest trends from the Existing-Home Sales Report.
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What’s Hot in New Home Construction
02/14/2025
What’s Hot in New Home Construction
Are you considering buying a brand-new home? Rose Quint from the National Association of Home Builders shares what today’s home buyers seek in their new builds before REALTOR® Jeremy Lichtenstein walks us through buying newly constructed homes, from timelines to mortgages and inspections. Design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey discusses whether Zoom rooms or multigenerational homes are hot or not. Then, Jeremey comes back to talk about the nonprofit he founded, Kids in Need Distributors (KIND), which provides food to thousands of kids each weekend. This week’s episode is sponsored by Opendoor. Serve your clients the simpler way.
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Market Trends and Real Estate Tips for Valentine's Day
02/07/2025
Market Trends and Real Estate Tips for Valentine's Day
Looking to make your home more romantic this Valentine’s Day? Home stager Tori Toth shares secrets on using the five senses to make your home more romantic before Natalie Carmolli from Proven Winners ColorChoice plants discusses selecting the best rose. Design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey considers whether using the same color on your walls and floor is hot or not. Melissa also examines whether the old money aesthetic is a hot home trend. Then, REALTORS® Krista and Philip Becker talk about working together and how they make each other better real estate professionals. Finally, economist Nadia Evangelou with the National Association of REALTORS® discusses the latest metro pricing trends and where the real estate market is headed.
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Real Estate Investing in 2025
01/31/2025
Real Estate Investing in 2025
Is 2025 the year you invest in real estate? REALTOR® Bill Armstrong from Maryland explains how to navigate the current interest rates and what to think about when buying your first investment property. Bill also discusses donating land to create the Terra Firma Retreat Center, which will be a retreat facility for military veterans and their families who are learning to cope with life on the other side of trauma. Then, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares whether biophilic design or integrating nature into your home is hot or not. Finally, Evan Liddiard, the director of federal tax policy at the National Association of REALTORS®, explains 1031 Like-Kind Exchanges and how it can help real estate investors.
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The 2025 Real Estate Market
01/24/2025
The 2025 Real Estate Market
Curious what you need to know about the 2025 real estate landscape? REALTOR® Mabél Guzmán shares her top advice for buying and selling a home in 2025, from how to price your home to the importance of the condition of it. Then, Holden Lewis with NerdWallet discusses their 2025 Home Buyer report, which examines the challenges and opportunities home buyers face. Plus, NAR’s Chief Economist Lawrence Yun discusses the latest Pending Home Sales report. Weighing out the pros and cons between renting and buying? Danielle Hale with Realtor.com shares her insights as to why rental rates continue to drop. Then, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey weighs in on home tech, like auto-mowers and robo-vacuums, to let us know what’s hot and what is not.
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Tips for Selling Your Home in 2025
01/17/2025
Tips for Selling Your Home in 2025
Selling in 2025? You won’t want to miss this episode. REALTOR® Leslie Rouda Smith walks us through a successful home sale by explaining pricing strategies, the home's condition, and how to evaluate offers. Then, interior designer Julea Joseph explains how staging your home can make the buyers fall in love with the house. Curious how to increase the value of a home? Appraiser Beth Graham shares what appraisers look for and how to push that evaluation higher. And, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares if waterfall countertops and woven cabinet fronts are hot or not.
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The 2025 Homebuying Guide
01/10/2025
The 2025 Homebuying Guide
Planning to buy a home in 2025? REALTOR® Shad Bogany from Houston, Texas walks us through the homebuying process, from the first consultation to making an offer that will be accepted. Then, Keith Gumbinger with HSH.com shares what to look for in a mortgage, how to qualify for a home loan and what mistakes to avoid. Plus, Rob Chrane with Down Payment Assistance explains why home buyers should explore down payment assistance programs regardless of their income and purchasing power. Also, home design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares if shower rooms and high-contrast spaces are hot or not.
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The Lasting Benefits Of Homeownership
01/03/2025
The Lasting Benefits Of Homeownership
Owning a home is more than just having a roof over your head. NAR President Kevin Sears shares the ways homeownership can improve lives, from housing stability to building generational wealth. Then, REALTOR® Kerri Hartnett discusses how the definition of “home” has changed for her throughout the years. Plus, NAR’s Senior Economist Nadia Evangelou shares insights on the latest contract signing data. Looking to improve your credit score? Credit expert Gerri Detweiler explains how having a mortgage and paying it on time every month can help your credit score soar. Lastly, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares if brass fixtures or wallpaper are hot or not.
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Homeownership Across Diverse Lifestyles
12/27/2024
Homeownership Across Diverse Lifestyles
Thinking about living in a home that’s off the grid or not so big? REALTOR® Eileen Oldroyd from Orange County, CA shares what it’s like living in a home without any public utilities and how to make it happen. Author and architect Susan Susanka shares her “Not So Big” design philosophy that leads to spacious living in a house that is smaller than your neighbors. REALTOR® D’Ette Owen shares what it’s like to buy and sell in remote parts of Alaska while REALTOR® Charlie Chennai discusses the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota where homeowners can only reach their house by dogsled in the winter. Lastly, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares if symmetry in your home is hot or not.
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The 2024 Winter Real Estate Market
12/20/2024
The 2024 Winter Real Estate Market
Curious how to make the most out of your winter real estate transactions? REALTOR® Ron Phipps explains buying and selling strategies for the winter market as the notion of scarcity wanes. He also shares why getting in the market now could provide excellent opportunities. NAR’s Chief Economist Lawrence Yun discusses the latest Existing-Home Sales Report and how inventory and interest rates are currently impacting sales. Design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey shares which home design trends were the worst of 2024. Plus, Andrew Gebhart with PCMag shares his top smart home tech gifts.
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The 2025 Real Estate Market Outlook
12/13/2024
The 2025 Real Estate Market Outlook
What’s ahead in the 2025 real estate market? NAR’s President-elect Kevin Brown walks us through strategies for buyers and sellers, including what to know when going up against an all-cash offer. Next, Robert Dietz with the National Association of Home Builders shares why new home construction could be a challenge in the year ahead. Then, design expert Melissa Dittmann Tracey does a lighting round of which home trends are hot or not. Finally Danielle Hale with shares a 2025 forecast for home prices, mortgage rates, and home supply.
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