Can buyers still afford to move in today's housing market? On this week's episode of Real Estate Today, we explore mortgage rates, housing affordability and strategies buyers can use to make the numbers work without overextending. We also take a closer look at whether the long-standing 30% affordability rule still holds for today's homebuyers and how students at 20 universities are competing to tackle housing costs.

Guests include Mabel Guzman, REALTOR® from Chicago; Nadia Evangelou, principal economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of REALTORS®; and Bobby Vance, architect and assistant professor at Virginia Tech.

Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, Jon Grishpul, co-founder of GreatBuildz, joins us to discuss ADUs and how they can improve affordability and multigenerational living.

With home prices high and inventory limited, getting your starter home right has never been more important. This week on Real Estate Today, we explore how the idea of the starter home is evolving and whether the traditional first home still exists or has simply been reimagined. Learn what today's buyers should prioritize in a shifting housing market, why a home's condition can make or break a deal when budgets are tight and which inspection red flags buyers simply cannot ignore.

Guests include Mike Bruce, real estate professional from Denver, Colorado; Matt Cook, director of operations at HomeTeam Inspection Service; and Korey Dropkin, a REALTOR® from Minnesota and silver medalist at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, Jennifer Adams, home designer with Engel & Volkers, shares what's trending in home design.

House hunting starts online for most buyers, but what looks perfect on your screen may tell only part of the story. This week on Real Estate Today, we help buyers become smarter online shoppers by breaking down how to spot the difference between eye-catching listings and what really matters once you see a home in person. Learn how to avoid getting catfished by listing photos and what red flags to watch for.

Guests include Ryann Brier, REALTOR® from Michigan, who shares expert tips on what buyers should look out for when shopping for homes online; and real estate professional Scott Henderson, who explains how he creates catchy songs to creatively market listings.

Plus, in our Hot or Not segment, Krisztina Bell, founder of No Vacancy Home Staging in Atlanta, weighs in on selling a home by leaving rooms completely empty and the growing use of virtual home staging.