Real Estate Today

This week on Real Estate Today, we break down why winter may be the secret season for savvy buyers and why hitting pause until spring could mean missing real opportunities. We take a look at the current housing market, explore why first-time buyers make up the smallest share of buyers on record, and highlight opportunities for today's buyers, including how purchasing in winter could work to your advantage and how to shop smarter for a mortgage and potentially save. Guests include Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Christine Belin, REALTOR® based in Corpus Christi, Texas; Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree; and Patrick Roach, president and co-founder of Southwestern Real Estate in Wheaton, Illinois.  Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we weigh in on Pantone's Color of the Year for 2026, Cloud Dancer, and the use of light pink in interior design.      

The holiday real estate season has arrived, and it may be one of the most strategic times of the year for homebuyers and sellers. This week on Real Estate Today, we dig into how the housing market is performing right now, whether home prices are still rising or beginning to level out, and why this festive season may offer unique opportunities for anyone looking to make a move before the New Year. We also explore the ups, downs, and even the funny moments that real estate pros experience during the holidays. Guests include Mike Ferrante, REALTOR® from Cleveland; Seb Frey, Silicon Valley real estate broker and host of the YouTube channel Seb Frey TV; Jenny Smith, REALTOR® with Jenny Smith & Associates in Georgia; Patrick Roach, president and co-founder of Southwestern Real Estate in Illinois; Angie Hicks, founder of the home services website Angi; and Kirsten Jordan, real estate broker with the Corcoran Group and alum of Bravo's "Million Dollar Listing New York." Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we break down this season's top holiday home design trends, including the Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic, bright multicolored Christmas lights, and the rise of artificial Christmas trees.

We uncover the insider secrets real estate pros wish every buyer and seller knew. From navigating tricky seller disclosures to avoiding costly pricing mistakes, our experts break down the overlooked details that can make or break your next move. Learn how to boost your home's resale value, the updates that truly pay off, and the things you should never say to your real estate agent. We also share top tips to spruce up your home with selling in mind and smart strategies for choosing the right property in any market. Guests include Kati Spaniak, real estate professional with eXp Realty; Rebecca Hidalgo, real estate broker with Integrity All Star Realty; Mallory Slesser, real estate broker with Baird & Warner; Kathleen McQuilkin, real estate professional with RE/MAX Professional Realty; Kirsten Jordan, real estate broker with the Corcoran Group and alum of Bravo's "Million Dollar Listing New York"; and Latham Jenkins, associate broker with Live Water Properties in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we look at two home design trends: formal dining rooms with built-ins and coastal modern design

This week on Real Estate Today, we spotlight the inspiring winners of the 2025 Good Neighbor Awards—REALTORS® making a difference in communities nationwide. Discover how these real estate professionals are transforming lives beyond the closing table by: Raising millions for ALS patient services Creating a hospice care center Keeping families together by providing essential items Funding families facing life-threatening illnesses Promoting youth mental health Meet our extraordinary guests: Ray Manzoni, president of ALS Ride For Life Cindy Bradley, founder of Sacred Ground Hospice House Kim Clifton, founder of Tierra Antigua Hope Foundation Ken Larson, founder of Northern Lights Foundation JacQuan Winters, founder of Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we reveal the top five home design trends homeowners are thankful for this year. Tune in for powerful stories, actionable insights, and the latest real estate trends shaping the market.

Refresh, Update & Elevate Your Home This week on Real Estate Today, discover the smartest ways to transform your home—whether you're staying put or preparing to sell. Learn which home improvement projects deliver real return on investment, the top remodeling trends for 2025, and which design ideas to skip. Plus, big-ticket lessons every homeowner can use and budget-friendly updates that make your space bold, unforgettable, and full of personality. Featured Guests: Kirsten Jordan, Associate Broker of the top ten national real estate team and alum of Bravo's "Million Dollar Listing New York" Gray Benko & Chelcie Eastman, hosts of the new Magnolia Network show, Anything But Gray Jennifer Bien, DAHLIN Architecture Scott Wharton, HouseMaster Home Inspections Hot or Not: Are man caves still in? Is color drenching the next big thing? Find out what's trending now.

Everyone wants to save money on their home and this week on Real Estate Today, we're showing you how. From lowering your mortgage rate to dodging rising insurance premiums, we'll cover the smartest ways to protect your wallet and make the most of your real estate investment. Learn how REALTORS® help clients avoid costly mistakes, what smart financial strategies can help homeowners save more, and how a little paint can go a long way in a budget-friendly remodel. Guests include Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree; Travis Hodges, managing director of VIU; Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams; Rebecca Hidalgo, REALTOR®; and Tom Staub, CEO of Red Oak Development Group. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we explore two home design trends making headlines: home theaters and tinted windows.

Utility bills got you shivering? You're not alone. This week on Real Estate Today, we're tackling winter head-on to help you keep the elements out and your utility bills down. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or just tired of battling drafts and high energy costs, we've got tips to help you stay comfortable, save money, and protect your home this season. You'll learn how to prevent frozen pipes, maintain your roof, and seal drafts. We also cover the green and energy-efficient home features buyers are seeking and the surprises homeowners may encounter when filing insurance claims. Guests include Kathleen McQuilkin, real estate pro; Scott Wharton, franchise business coach with HouseMaster Home Inspections; Travis Hodges, managing director of VIU; and Michael Wagner, president of Roof Scientist. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we discuss disaster-proof homes and greenwashing.

It's spooky season on Real Estate Today, and we're diving into the haunted side of homeownership. From horrifying home design trends to creepy real estate stories, our experts share what happens when the market gets scary. We'll explore homes "haunted" by bad design choices, listings that came with shocking surprises, and sellers who use cameras to listen to buyers. You'll also learn which pests and insects are most likely to sneak into your home this time of year. Guests include REALTOR® Mary Harmon Young from Tuscaloosa, AL; REALTOR® Kati Spaniak from Northbrook, IL; REALTOR® Kourtney Pulitzer from Palm Beach, FL; and Frank Meek, board-certified entomologist. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we reveal the most horrifying home design trends of the year.  

Design meets real estate in this week's Real Estate Today. We're exploring the hottest home design trends shaping America's housing market and the smart updates that can actually boost your home's value. From the "Ozempic of surface materials" slimming down kitchens everywhere to the newly announced 2026 Color of the Year, our experts break down what's in, what's out, and what's worth the investment. Guests include Mallory Slesser, interior designer and home stager; Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams; Latham Jenkins, associate broker; Kati Spaniak, REALTOR®; and Mary Harmon, real estate expert. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we're talking two of the season's boldest design trends: faux fur finishes and curvy

Is it time to consider downsizing—or as we like to say, rightsizing? More families are facing the challenge of saying goodbye to a long-time home. This week on Real Estate Today, we guide you through the careful process of senior relocation and the critical steps to making this transition as smooth as possible. We discuss the tough challenge of deciding what stays and what goes; ways of helping sellers feel comfortable in their new space; and tips for managing emotions. We also explore the latest generational trends in homebuying and selling, including the rising demand for multigenerational homes for families looking to combine their households. Guests include Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist; Dane Ramsden, REALTOR® and senior relocation specialist; and Mary Harmon Young, REALTOR® and senior housing professional. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we look at two flooring trends: polished tiles and high-gloss hardwood.

Is now a good time to sell your home? This week on Real Estate Today, we dig into the data, market trends, and strategies sellers need to know before making their next move. Learn how to price your home right, boost curb appeal in the colder months, and make your property stand out to today's savvy buyers. We'll also explore home equity loans and what sellers should know about leveraging their home's value. Guests include Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®; Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com; Kourtney Pulitzer, Palm Beach real estate professional; Alexa Kebalo, REALTOR® and relocation expert; and John Hummel, head of retail home lending at U.S. Bank. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we look at two home design trends: quiet luxury and open shelving in the kitchen.

Real estate can be a powerful tool for building wealth, and this week on Real Estate Today, we explore strategies for turning homes into serious cash. From short-term rentals and flipping houses to buying property overseas, we break down the methods that can help you grow your real estate portfolio and maximize income. Discover the top markets for short-term investments and tips from experts who have helped buyers turn homes into profitable ventures. Guests include Jamie Lane, chief economist at AirDNA; Janet Ramirez, REALTOR®; and Janel Muhammad, international real estate specialist. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we look at two trending home design elements: the color beige and gigantic couches.

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.

Buying or selling a home can take a toll on your well-being. But, it doesn't have to. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore the powerful connection between real estate and wellness. From avoiding buyer burnout and seller stress to discovering how your home can actually make you healthier, we share expert strategies to keep your emotions and energy in check. We'll also look at how pets play a surprising role in buyer decisions and spotlight Babcock Ranch, America's first wellness town. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, we explore two home design trends: biohacking amenities and biophilic design. Guests include Heather Haase, REALTOR® from Ohio; Teri Slavik-Tsuyuki, initiative co-chair at the Global Wellness Institute; Syd Kitson, chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners and developer of Babcock Ranch; and Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of REALTORS®.

Smart homes, AI and even 3D-printed houses are no longer futuristic ideas—they're here and reshaping real estate. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how technology is changing the way homes are built, bought and sold. From the smart home features buyers want most to the upgrades that can raise—or lower—a property's value, we cover what every homeowner and buyer should know. Plus, we take a closer look at privacy concerns, asking whether sellers can spy on buyers through security cameras and smart devices. Guests include Brandon Doyle, a REALTOR® from Minnesota with the Doyle Real Estate Team; Dalton Brewer, a Kansas City real estate broker with Coldwell Banker, co-founder of CD Technologies and inventor of SetWave; and Gene Eidelman, 2025 iOi Innovator Award winner. And in our Hot or Not segment, we explore whether mobile apps for designing your home are in and if the classic light switch is fading out.

Mortgages don't have to be confusing. This week on Real Estate Today, we break down what buyers need to know about mortgage rates, bridge loans and finding the right lender. We'll discuss how rates are really impacting today's housing market and why buyers shouldn't wait to act. You'll also learn when to bring a lender into your home search, how to shop for the best mortgage and how rising rates and prices are affecting affordability and down payments. And in our Hot or Not spotlight, we take on two home design trends: floating stairs and slow decorating. Guests include Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of REALTORS®; Heather Haase, a REALTOR® from Ohio; Austin Niemiec, chief revenue officer at Rocket Mortgage; and Todd Carson, mortgage expert at Planet Home Lending.

Thinking about remodeling your home? Before you grab a hammer, find out which projects actually boost your home's value and which ones could drain your budget. In this week's episode, we explore where to splurge, where to save, and how to plan a remodel that works for your lifestyle and your bottom line. You'll also hear how to preserve historic character while adding modern updates, tips for finding a reliable contractor, and whether two-toned kitchen cabinets are in or out. Guests include Joshua McGrath, broker-owner of Better Homes and Garden Real Estate; Adam Pretorius, luxury real estate agent; Stacie Staub, co-founder and CEO at West + Main; and Justin Johnson, owner of HouseMaster.

With the price of newly built homes being close to the price of buying an existing home, we tackle the question of whether now is a good time to buy a new construction home. What does it take to build a house from scratch? How do you budget? How do you get homebuilder incentives? How long will it take? What is the difference between a production builder and a custom builder? We discuss with REALTOR® Jacob Smith from Burlington, Vermont, Joel Berner from realtor.com and Danushka Nanayakkara from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). We also find out if mirrored cabinets and dressers are hot or not.

Think you know the truth about the housing market? From bidding wars to whether you really need perfect credit to get a mortgage, we're taking a sledgehammer to the biggest myths in real estate. We'll reveal how the national headlines stack up against what's really happening in your local market and what to watch for when shopping for a loan, helping you cut through the noise to make smarter moves in today's market. Featuring Stacie Staub, CEO and founder of West + Main Homes in Colorado; Todd Carson, director of sales performance for Planet Home Lending in California; and Ryan Melvin, Las Vegas real estate expert. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment: Is 'mindless maximalism' the next big thing in home design or a trend best left behind?

Thinking about buying a home? From listing that high more than they reveal to pool issues that could drain your wallet, we're helping buyers cut through the noise in today's complex housing market. This week on Real Estate Today, hear smart strategies for buying in a market where timing, transparency and thorough inspections can make or break your deal. We'll explore how long a home should sit before you question the price, how to weigh the pros and cons of owning a pool, and the unexpected red flags that could signal trouble behind those flawless listing photos. Featuring Scott Geller, a real estate pro and appraiser from Pennsylvania; Ryan Hvizda, owner of Hvizda Realty Group in New Hampshire; Ryan Melvin, Las Vegas real estate expert; Art Moreno, broker-owner of The Art of Realty; and Jordan Schaeffer, president of renovations and aftermarket at Anthony & Sylvan Pools. Plus, in our Hot or Not segment: Are over-customized smart home features turning off buyers?