Real Estate Today

The fall real estate market is here, and it may be the best season for homebuyers. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore why autumn often gives buyers an edge—from reduced competition to unique opportunities not seen in the spring and summer markets. Discover whether there really is a "perfect week" to buy a home, how to land the lowest mortgage rate, and the latest lending trends shaping today's market. Guests include Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com; Alexa Kebalo, REALTOR® with eXp Realty; Janet Ramirez, real estate broker with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate; and John Hummel, executive vice president and head of retail home lending at U.S. Bank. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we look at two surprising lifestyle trends in communities across America: golf carts cruising the neighborhood and backyard chicken coops.

In this episode, Heather Haase, a seasoned REALTOR® from Dayton, shares effective techniques to manage emotions during real estate transactions, helping to avoid buyer burnout and seller stress. Syd Kitson, CEO of Kitson & Partners, dives into Babcock Ranch, a pioneering wellness-focused community that emphasizes sustainability and resilience. The conversation highlights how homes can enhance health, the surprising impact of pets on homebuying, and popular design trends like biohacking amenities and biophilic elements that improve well-being.

This installment features Brandon Doyle, a Minnesota REALTOR®, Dalton Brewer, a Kansas City broker and tech innovator, and Gene Eidelman, co-founder of Azure Printed Homes. They dive into how smart homes and AI are reshaping the real estate landscape. Topics include the privacy implications of smart technology in home sales, the rising influence of AI on transactions, and the revolutionary potential of 3D printing in construction. The discussion even touches on what buyers want in smart home features and innovative design tools.

Heather Haase, a seasoned real estate pro from Keller Williams Advisors Realty, joins Austin Niemiec, Chief Revenue Officer at Rocket Mortgage, to demystify mortgages for buyers. They tackle current mortgage rates and the impact on affordability, urging buyers not to hesitate. Listeners learn about bridge loans as a powerful tool, strategies for managing adjustable-rate mortgages, and the importance of choosing the right lender. Plus, they explore unique home design trends like floating stairs and the concept of slow decorating.

Joshua McGrath, a broker and owner at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central, dives into the world of home renovations. He discusses which remodeling projects genuinely enhance value and which can become budget traps. Tips for maintaining historic charm while updating, the rise of two-tone kitchen cabinets, and selecting trustworthy contractors are also shared. The importance of smart home tech and budget-conscious improvements for resale are highlighted, making it essential listening for homeowners eyeing potential renovations.

Join REALTOR® Jacob Smith, an expert in Northwest Vermont's new home market, and Danushka Nanayakkara from the National Association of Home Builders. They discuss whether now is a good time to buy a new construction home amidst rising prices. Key topics include budgeting, homebuilder incentives, and the differences between production and custom builders. They also tackle the complexities and emotional aspects of the home-building process, and even debate if mirrored furniture is still in vogue!

In this engaging discussion, Stacie Staub, a real estate titan and CEO of West + Main Homes, teams up with Todd Carson, a sales performance expert from Planet Home Lending. They demolish prevalent real estate myths, tackling misconceptions about bidding wars and mortgage requirements. Listeners learn about navigating the Denver market, the truth about credit scores, and alternative down payment options. Plus, they dive into the 'mindless maximalism' design trend, balancing boldness with intention in home aesthetics.

Thinking about buying a home? Learn how to navigate the complex housing market, including crucial insights on timing and transparency. Discover how long a property should sit before you question its price, and the hidden costs of owning a pool. Get tips from experts on avoiding overly customized smart home features that could hurt resale value. Plus, hear a touching story about a young couple finding their first home amidst challenges. Don't miss out on these essential strategies for savvy homebuyers!

In today's competitive housing market, expert guests share vital selling strategies. Learn how to price your home competitively and attract buyers with stunning listing photos. Discover common pitfalls that could ruin great shots and how home warranties can soothe buyer anxieties. Recent equity gains are demystified, while trends like creating a 'fortress of solitude' hint at the future of home design. Get insights on how pre-listing inspections can elevate your negotiating position, all aimed at helping sellers thrive in challenging conditions.

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), co-ownership vacation homes, and multigenerational living—creative solutions are helping homeowners tackle rising costs. This week, we're joined by Ryan Hvizda, owner at Hvizda Realty Group at Keller Williams Metro in New Hampshire; Matt Brannon, data journalist at Insurify; Danielle Hale, chief economist at realtor.com; Austin Allison, CEO of Pacaso; and Lynn Butterfield, associate broker at Coldwell Banker. They share expert insight on how to afford homeownership in today's market, including ways to save on property taxes and why asking for a home's insurance history can protect your finances. Plus, house hacks that put money back in your pocket and a new "Hot or Not" home trend: renting out your backyard.