The 2025 housing market is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years—will home prices crash, or will they keep rising? In this episode, we break down housing trends, mortgage rate predictions, and real estate industry shifts that every realtor and mortgage professional needs to know. Don’t get left behind—tune in now to get ahead of the competition!

The 2025 Housing Forecast is filled with uncertainty—will home prices drop, mortgage rates stabilize, or affordability continue to be a challenge? In this episode, host Mike Mills sits down with James Kleimann, Managing Editor at HousingWire, to break down the latest real estate trends, policy changes, and mortgage industry shifts that will shape the market in 2025. They dive deep into the impact of rising interest rates, housing supply shortages, and the role of AI in real estate and mortgage lending. Will Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac leave conservatorship? What do proposed real estate commission reforms mean for agents? And how will new federal housing policies affect buyers and sellers? Get the expert insights you need to stay ahead in the fast-changing real estate market.

Mortgage Rates in 2025: What to Expect

Experts predict that mortgage rates will likely stay in the 6% range, with potential fluctuations depending on inflation, economic policies, and Federal Reserve actions. While some hope for a return to 4% rates, the bond market and U.S. debt levels make this unlikely in the near future.

Housing Affordability Challenges Continue

Home prices remain historically high, making affordability a top concern for buyers, real estate agents, and lenders. Rising insurance costs, credit reporting fees, and property taxes add additional strain, preventing many from entering the market despite strong demand.

AI and Automation Are Reshaping Real Estate & Mortgage Lending

AI-driven tools are making real estate agents and mortgage lenders more efficient, but they also threaten traditional roles like underwriters and processors. Big players in the industry are already investing heavily in AI, signaling major shifts in how loans are processed and real estate transactions are handled.

Real Estate Commission Lawsuits Could Reshape the Industry

The DOJ’s focus on real estate commissions and agent steering could lead to major changes in how agents are compensated. New regulations may affect MLS structures, buyer commissions, and the role of brokerages, making it crucial for realtors to stay informed on legal updates.

2025 Will Be a Defining Year for Real Estate Professionals

With fewer home sales, tighter inventory, and evolving regulations, real estate agents and mortgage lenders must adapt to stay competitive. Whether through leveraging AI, improving marketing strategies, or adjusting to new commission structures, professionals who embrace change will have the best chance at success in 2025.

James Kleimann – Managing Editor, HousingWire

James Kleimann is the Managing Editor at HousingWire, the leading news source for real estate and mortgage professionals. With years of experience covering the housing market, mortgage industry trends, and...

What does it take to succeed in a slowing real estate market? This week, Julie Holly reveals the keys to thriving during downturns, scaling your business, and leveraging relationships to uncover hidden deals. If you’re a Realtor looking for practical tips and long-term strategies, this episode is a must-listen!

Mastering Real Estate Cycles is essential for any Realtor looking to succeed in a shifting market, and in this episode, we dive deep with seasoned investor and strategist Julie Holly. Julie shares her insights on navigating today’s challenging real estate landscape, building strong client relationships, and discovering hidden opportunities. From leveraging social media to creating clear sales cycles, she offers practical strategies for Realtors to implement immediately. We also discuss the emotional cycle of change in real estate, the importance of professionalism, and scaling wealth through multifamily investments. If you’ve been wondering how to grow your business during a slowdown, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Whether you're looking for new opportunities or refining your processes, Julie's expertise is sure to inspire and educate.

Define Clear Goals for Success

Julie emphasizes the importance of setting specific, measurable goals to guide your real estate career. By defining what success looks like for you, you can focus your efforts on achieving results that align with your objectives.

Relationships Are the Foundation of Real Estate

Building strong relationships within your community and network is a cornerstone of real estate success. Julie explains how nurturing these connections can uncover hidden deals and establish you as a trusted professional.

Adapt to Market Cycles

Julie highlights why slowing markets are often the best time for growth, as competition decreases and new opportunities emerge. Realtors who remain proactive and embrace market shifts are more likely to thrive.

Leverage Social Media Strategically

Rather than chasing vanity metrics, Julie advises Realtors to use social media to reinforce expertise and maintain visibility with their sphere. Strategic posting can enhance your reputation and expand your reach.

Treat Real Estate Like a Profession

Julie underscores the importance of adopting a professional mindset, from creating clear sales cycles to implementing effective systems. Treating your business with the same rigor as a top company ensures long-term success in any market.

Julie Holly is the founder of Three Keys Investments and the host of The Conscious Investor podcast. As a third-generation real estate professional, Julie brings decades of experience to the table, ranging from residential sales to multifamily investments and assisted living facilities. Her expertise lies in helping investors protect, preserve, and grow their wealth through scalable, strategic investments. Having been both a limited and general partner in large apartment complexes, Julie has navigated complex markets and developed a reputation for her clear, proven strategies. Beyond real estate, Julie is a sought-after speaker and coach, empowering others to achieve financial freedom while staying true to their purpose.

Here are the updated resources mentioned in this episode:

Three Keys Investments Website: Learn more about Julie Holly’s work and explore resources for multifamily investing at https://www.threekeysinvestments.com/.

The Conscious Investor Podcast: Listen to Julie’s podcast for actionable advice on purpose-driven investing:

What do rising mortgage rates, record-low inventory, and Trump’s economic agenda mean for real estate in 2025? This episode dives into the strategies you need to thrive amidst uncertainty. Don’t miss out—your future clients are counting on you to stay ahead.

On this week’s Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we analyze the post-election housing market, focusing on the housing affordability crisis, historic rate trends, and the impact of President Trump’s proposed policies. We tackle the challenges of limited inventory, surging multifamily construction, and shifting demographics in homebuying. Discover practical insights on how deregulation and tax incentives could influence supply and affordability. And don’t miss the final segment where we unveil a powerful AI-driven tool designed to elevate your real estate business for the year ahead.

Mortgage Rates Remain Volatile Amid Economic Uncertainty

Mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster, fluctuating between the low 6% range and above 7% within weeks. Factors like weak job creation, declining banking liquidity, and the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts are contributing to this unpredictability. Understanding these dynamics is critical for navigating today’s market.

Trump’s Policies Could Reshape Housing Affordability

With Trump’s return to the White House, key policies on tariffs, immigration, and deregulation are expected to impact housing costs and supply. While deregulation and tax incentives could encourage construction, tariffs on building materials and immigration restrictions may exacerbate affordability challenges.

The Housing Affordability Crisis Intensifies

Home prices have risen 57% since 2020, far outpacing wage growth at just 28%, making homeownership increasingly out of reach. The typical age of first-time buyers has climbed to 38, reflecting the growing challenges younger generations face in entering the market.

Economic Pressures Are Reshaping Real Estate Trends

Rising national debt and shrinking market liquidity are putting pressure on the economy and real estate markets. The Federal Reserve’s actions and Trump’s economic agenda could lead to further market volatility, requiring professionals to stay vigilant and adapt to changing conditions.

Revolutionize Your Business Planning with AI Tools

The episode closes with an introduction to ChatGPT as a transformative tool for real estate professionals. This AI platform can help streamline business planning, marketing, and operations, offering agents a competitive edge in 2025’s uncertain market.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

National Association of Realtors (NAR): https://www.nar.realtor

Mortgage News Daily: https://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com

CoreLogic Home Price Insights: https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/reports/home-price-insights/

HousingWire – Logan Mohtashami's Analysis: https://www.housingwire.com/author/logan-mohtashami/

IRS Opportunity Zones: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/businesses/opportunity-zones

ChatGPT by OpenAI:

Ready to turn your real estate team into a powerhouse? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep with Alex Kutsishin, co-founder of Fuel, on how to build and lead a team where every member performs at their peak. Discover practical strategies to enhance your team’s effectiveness and create a winning culture in real estate.

In this episode, we explore the top strategies for Developing Real Estate Teams That Thrive with guest Alex Kutsishin, co-founder of Fuel. Together, we dive into key leadership insights on boosting team performance, maintaining high standards, and recognizing when it’s time to elevate—or replace—team members. Alex shares actionable tips on measuring team progress, creating high-impact learning experiences, and fostering an environment that encourages growth for each member. We also discuss how to inspire a results-oriented mindset while maintaining a balanced, healthy work atmosphere. From self-improvement to performance-based analytics, this episode equips real estate professionals with the tools needed to create unstoppable teams. Whether you’re a seasoned broker or building your first team, this conversation will give you the edge to lead with impact and purpose.

Elevate Team Standards Consistently

Alex emphasizes that successful teams continuously raise standards to ensure every team member performs at their best. Leaders should seek 95% of the team to meet 100% of expectations, with standards evolving as the team excels.

Shift to a Talent-Development Mindset

Transitioning from personal performance to team-focused leadership requires viewing every interaction as a chance to develop talent. Alex shares practical ways leaders can enhance each member’s skills and build a culture of continuous improvement.

Autonomy and Accountability in Performance

Fuel’s platform encourages autonomy by allowing members to engage in personalized courses while maintaining accountability. Leaders can track growth and address specific areas for improvement, making training impactful and personalized.

Focus on Performance Over Knowledge

Moving beyond conventional training, Fuel’s approach emphasizes practicing skills rather than just understanding concepts. By encouraging team members to apply what they’ve learned, they’re better prepared for real-world success.

The Journey is the Goal

Both Alex and Mike discuss the importance of viewing progress as a continuous journey. By celebrating small wins and pushing through challenges, real estate professionals can stay motivated, avoid burnout, and keep their teams energized for the long term.

Alex Kutsishin is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Fuel, a leading platform in personal and professional development designed to build high-performance teams. With a background that spans launching ten diverse businesses, Alex brings a wealth of knowledge in team-building, leadership, and innovative training approaches. His commitment to developing teams through hands-on practice and performance analytics has made Fuel a go-to resource for companies worldwide. Alex’s insights inspire leaders to redefine team standards and build a culture where every member thrives.

Resources

For additional insights and tools mentioned in this episode, check out the following resources:

Fuel Personal & Professional Development Platform – Dive into a range of performance-enhancing courses and tools: https://www.myfuel.io/

Patty McCord’s Article on Building Teams Like Sports – Insight into building strong, talent-focused teams:

Are you ready to discover which presidential candidate's housing policies could make or break the real estate market? In this episode, we dive into the differences between Trump’s and Kamala Harris’s stances on housing, with expert insight from D.C. insider Michael Williams. Join us as we uncover which policies might truly impact your business—and what you need to know before election day!

In this timely episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we tackle the hot topic of the 2024 presidential election and its potential impact on real estate. Host Mike Mills sits down with Michael Williams, an experienced Washington lobbyist and policy strategist, to break down the differences between Trump’s and Kamala Harris’s housing policies. With the election just days away, they explore how these contrasting policy approaches could influence housing affordability, real estate investments, and the regulatory landscape that Realtors navigate daily. From affordable housing proposals to deregulation debates, this episode answers crucial questions that real estate professionals need to consider as they head to the polls. Whether you're an agent, investor, or loan officer, gain valuable insights into how this election could reshape the real estate industry.

The Reality of Affordable Housing Promises

Michael Williams discusses why sweeping federal affordable housing programs often fail due to complex local regulations and red tape. He highlights the challenge of aligning federal funding with state-level incentives to boost housing supply effectively.

Down Payment Assistance Programs: Do They Work?

We explore Kamala Harris’s proposal for $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Williams explains how this type of assistance could increase demand but won’t solve supply issues, potentially driving prices even higher.

The Limits of Deregulation in Real Estate

Williams shares his view on Trump’s deregulation promises, explaining why federal deregulation might not make a noticeable difference in housing supply, as zoning regulations are largely determined at the state and local levels.

Systemic Challenges to Housing Policy Implementation

Both Williams and Mills highlight the logistical and structural hurdles in implementing long-term housing policies, noting how temporary political goals often overshadow the sustained efforts needed for real change.

Why Your Vote Matters in Housing Policy

With a deep dive into how policies affect everyday housing, Williams stresses that Realtor and consumer participation in elections is essential for driving policies that prioritize real estate issues. Voter turnout directly impacts whether housing policies become a priority in Washington.

Michael Williams is a seasoned lobbyist and policy strategist with nearly two decades of experience in Washington, D.C., specializing in financial services, housing policy, and legislative affairs. His career includes working with influential political figures and administrations, such as Governor Mario Cuomo and President Bill Clinton, where he was involved in groundbreaking initiatives across trade, tax, and banking regulations. As a political consultant, Williams now advises top financial institutions and government bodies on critical housing and finance policies. Known for his practical approach to navigating policy challenges, Williams brings valuable insider knowledge on the legislative process and its impact on the real estate market. His insights shed light on the policy contrasts between presidential candidates, offering real estate professionals an in-depth understanding of how political shifts might influence the...

Mortgage rates are rising again, and debt is reaching staggering new heights in the U.S., impacting everything from home affordability to global markets. What does this mean for real estate professionals navigating today’s market? In this episode, we break down why rates have spiked, analyze recent housing data on inventory and price trends, and discuss Texas’ urgent need for new homes despite historic lows in transactions. Plus, we explore why home equity loans could be the key to managing high-interest debt for many households.

In this episode, we dive deep into the impact of rising debt on mortgage rates and how it’s shaping today’s real estate market. We start with the focus keyphrase “Rising Mortgage Rates,” examining the factors contributing to this increase, including recent Federal Reserve actions, U.S. debt, and economic data adjustments. We then cover the latest housing data, with insights from HousingWire’s Logan Mohtashami on how inventory and price trends are shifting. Moving to Texas, we explore the state’s pressing need for hundreds of thousands of new homes to keep up with rapid population growth and housing demand. Finally, we discuss how home equity loans could serve as a strategic tool for clients managing high-interest debt, offering realtors an opportunity to guide clients toward improved cash flow and financial stability.

1. Why Mortgage Rates Are Rising:

High government debt and recent data adjustments are putting upward pressure on mortgage rates, making it crucial for real estate professionals to stay updated on these influencing factors to better guide clients.

2. Housing Inventory and Price Cuts:

Despite slight gains in inventory, housing supply remains tight across most markets, while sellers are increasingly adjusting prices to stay competitive. This may signal more flexibility for buyers, but affordability challenges persist.

3. Texas’ Housing Needs Amid High Demand:

Texas is seeing unprecedented growth, especially in metro areas like Dallas-Fort Worth. With a shortage of nearly 50,000 housing units, new legislation and regulatory changes are vital to tackling the affordability crisis in Texas.

4. The Debt Crisis and Mortgage Rates:

As U.S. debt skyrockets, Treasury yields are climbing, which in turn drives mortgage rates higher. Until debt levels stabilize or government spending reduces, high mortgage rates may be here to stay.

5. Leveraging Home Equity Loans for Debt Management:

For clients carrying high-interest debt, a home equity loan can provide relief, offering a lower interest rate and the potential for increased cash flow. This strategy can be a smart move for those looking to consolidate debt and manage finances more effectively.

Resources

Here are the resources mentioned in this episode:

HousingWire Article by Logan Mohtashami

Read Logan Mohtashami's analysis on recent trends in housing inventory and seller activity:

• https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-inventory-fell-last-week-have-sellers-called-it-quits/

Dallas Morning News - Texas Housing Shortage

Read the full article on Texas’ housing needs and the push for new construction in urban areas:

What if leads could come directly to you—without spending a dime on marketing? In this episode, we dive into the art of organic lead generation through Facebook Groups, where realtors and investors create thriving communities that fuel business growth. Discover Kris Sachtleben's proven strategies to build connections and dominate your market.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of organic lead generation, with real estate entrepreneur Kris Sachtleben sharing how he built a massive network using Facebook Groups. Kris reveals his proven strategies for creating real estate communities that connect agents, investors, and wholesalers, leading to powerful business growth. You’ll learn how to use Facebook Groups to attract off-market property leads, generate organic connections, and leverage these relationships to grow your business. We also explore why nurturing relationships in digital spaces is essential for real estate success in today’s market. Whether you're looking for ways to build your realtor brand or uncover hidden opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in and get ready to rethink your networking approach.

Organic Lead Generation Through Facebook Groups

Kris Sachtleben shares how he uses Facebook Groups to generate leads organically, creating a constant flow of potential buyers, sellers, and investors without relying on paid ads. His strategy focuses on building value-driven communities that attract members who are actively looking for real estate opportunities.

Building a Real Estate Network From Scratch

Kris explains how to start and grow a real estate Facebook Group from zero. By connecting with key players in the industry, such as agents, wholesalers, and investors, you can create a self-sustaining network that continuously grows through word of mouth and organic engagement.

Leveraging Relationships for Long-Term Success

The episode highlights the importance of relationship-building in real estate. Kris reveals that focusing on the needs of group members, providing them with value, and making key connections have been central to his success in creating thriving communities that fuel business growth.

Finding Off-Market Deals Through Online Communities

Kris explains how his Facebook Groups have become a valuable resource for discovering off-market real estate deals. These groups connect buyers, sellers, and investors in real-time, often giving members first access to opportunities before they hit the MLS.

Scaling Your Network Across Multiple Markets

As the founder of over 20 real estate Facebook Groups spanning multiple states, Kris shares his blueprint for scaling online communities. He emphasizes that once the first group is successful, replicating it in other markets becomes easier, allowing for rapid growth across different regions.

Kris Sachtleben is a real estate entrepreneur who has mastered the art of building powerful online communities to drive organic lead generation. With a background in billboard location development, Kris transitioned into real estate, creating and managing over 20 real estate-focused Facebook Groups with a combined membership of more than 300,000 agents, investors, and property buyers. His expertise lies in fostering valuable connections between industry professionals, facilitating off-market deals, and helping realtors grow their businesses through strategic networking. In addition to his real estate ventures, Kris continues to lead a successful signage business while offering unique services like private jet travel for real estate investors.

Grand Chateau Properties:

Visit

Rates may be high right now, but they won’t stay that way forever! With the Fed's ongoing rate adjustments, preparing yourself for refinancing opportunities when lower rates return is key. Tune in to learn the exact steps to refinancing success and how today’s real estate trends could affect your future financial decisions.

In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, we break down the Refinancing Steps Explained—a crucial guide for anyone looking to save money when mortgage rates drop again. Mike walks you through the five key steps of the refinancing process, from assessing your financial situation to closing the loan. In addition, we dive into critical real estate topics, including the impact of rising mortgage rates, the latest on U.S. birth rates and their long-term effects on housing demand, and whether Texas is still affordable. Stay informed, optimize your real estate strategies, and make sure you’re ready for when rates finally come down!

1. Mortgage Rates and the Federal Reserve’s Policy

Mortgage rates are climbing, but surprisingly, the Federal Reserve continues to signal potential rate cuts soon. Mike explains the disconnect between the Fed’s policy direction and mortgage rate trends, and why this is crucial for real estate professionals to understand.

2. The Impact of Shrinking U.S. Birth Rates on Real Estate

The U.S. birth rate hit record lows in 2023, and this trend will likely impact the housing market over time. Fewer births could mean less demand for larger, family-sized homes, potentially shifting the focus to smaller homes and urban living spaces. Realtors should be aware of these population shifts when advising clients.

3. Is Texas Still Affordable?

A recent study shows that living comfortably in cities like Dallas and Arlington now requires an income close to six figures. With Dallas ranked as the second most expensive city in Texas, affordability remains a pressing issue, especially for homebuyers looking to settle in North Texas.

4. Refinancing: Preparing for Lower Rates

Refinancing might not be top of mind now, but rates will eventually fall. When they do, knowing the refinancing steps will save you time and money. Mike explains how to evaluate your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and home equity to position yourself for a successful refinance.

5. Step-by-Step Refinancing Process Breakdown

Understanding refinancing is crucial, especially with rates expected to drop. Mike walks through the 5 key steps to refinancing, including assessing your financial situation, finding the right lender, and completing the loan application. If you're looking for a quicker and simpler option, watch this Streamline Refinancing video for more details:

https://youtu.be/rfXjLXHuYzA

Cost of Living in Dallas: Learn what it takes to live comfortably in Dallas and other major Texas cities with this detailed Dallas Morning News article: https://www.dallasnews.com/business/personal-finance/2024/10/07/does-it-take-a-six-figure-income-to-live-comfortably-in-dallas-and-other-texas-cities/

U.S. Birth Rates Decline: Explore the broader implications of the U.S. birth rate hitting record lows in 2023 with this CNN report: