Episode 346 kicks off the first This Week in Real Estate show of the year with a hard look at how the industry is entering 2026—and what agents, brokers, buyers, and sellers need to recalibrate fast.

From lawsuits against Zillow and leadership changes at Redfin, to shifting MLS rules, buyer leverage, shrinking homes, and federal action targeting Wall Street investors, this episode sets the tone for what actually matters going forward.

If you're still operating with 2024 expectations, this episode is your wake-up call.

🔥 What We're Breaking Down LIVE ⚖️ Legal & Industry Shakeups

A Washington agent sues Zillow over alleged mortgage steering—and why this case could ripple beyond one lawsuit

How Compass views MLS enforcement and where the pressure points really are

A new playbook proposing non-Realtor MLS access and why it's making industry leaders nervous

Glenn Kelman announces his exit after 20 years—what it signals for Redfin's future

Members asked, National Association of Realtors delivered—but does the 2025 Annual Report change anything?

📉 Market Reality Check

Monthly housing payments drop 5%, the biggest decline in over a year

Pending home sales fall to the lowest level on record outside the pandemic

Home sellers outnumber buyers by a historic margin, shifting negotiation power

U.S. home prices inch up just 0.1%—what that really means for pricing strategy

Single-family homes keep getting smaller, and that trend isn't reversing

🏦 Mortgage & Policy Moves

Refinance activity surges again—then rates jump higher

New federal action aimed at limiting Wall Street investors in single-family housing

What this means for affordability, inventory, and long-term housing supply

🥂 Why This Episode Matters

2026 is already forcing higher standards—on pricing, transparency, representation, and strategy. This isn't a hype show. It's a reality check for professionals who want to stay relevant and informed as the rules, risks, and leverage continue to shift.

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