Here are the most essential stories of the week, according to Inman readers
Limited coastal land, tighter regulations and environmental unpredictability all contribute
Carl Medford writes about the factors that are keeping the real estate market in a holding pattern
Sub-6% rates improved affordability but couldn't overcome economic and political headwinds
High mortgage rates and buyer incentives are squeezing builder margins
3 economists explain the Iranian conflict's potential impacts, from fuel costs to mortgage rates
The 12-month program pays homeowners up to $1K to rent spare rooms
The agents who consistently reach their goals recognize moments like this for what they are: Not guarantees, but opportunities, ERA President Alex Vidal writes
Agents are sticking to their guns in recent Intel Index surveys, arguing that their hopes are higher for the year ahead. Their cautious optimism is about to be put to the test
A headline-making partnership with Compass International Holdings took over Rocket's Q4 2025 earnings call, with leaders giving more details into how both parties will benefit
Gary Keller delivered his annual State of the Housing Market keynote on Monday, musing on sales trends and market competitiveness — while offering a few quips about Compass and CoStar
A new Intel survey of 3,000 working U.S. adults shows how consumer attitudes about homebuying may boost the spring and summer market — though a full recovery may take longer
Pending home sales slid on a monthly and annual basis in January, despite improving market factors. However, several economists urged calm, saying a sales boost will likely come this spring
Rising existing-home inventory is thwarting homebuilders, who are now slowing permits and starts — and backing off from hefty incentives
Opinion
If real estate and housing are your passion and your career, Rachael Hite writes, you should be among the foremost advocates to help all Americans find their way home