This week on the tWiRE Podcast, we dive into the biggest stories shaping the real estate market. The Supreme Court has denied the National Association of Realtors' appeal in a high-stakes legal battle with the Department of Justice, leaving the industry facing increased scrutiny. Meanwhile, California wildfires are wreaking havoc on housing markets, leading to rising evictions, heightened property speculation, and executive orders aimed at addressing the crisis. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are emerging as a vital solution in Los Angeles, even as wildfires test the resilience of local housing stock.

Across the country, starter homes remain frustratingly out of reach for buyers, and soaring mortgage rates—now at their highest since May—are dampening demand, despite a modest rise in home tours to start the year. In Atlanta, a federal lawsuit accuses landlords of orchestrating a rent price-fixing scheme that could be costing renters millions, raising questions about fairness in the rental market. With these headlines and more, we're breaking down the week's biggest challenges and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and investors navigating today's market.