Construction costs are rising again, creating a new challenge for the housing market. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why copper, lumber, diesel, aluminum, and other building material prices are surging in 2026 and what that could mean for home prices, housing affordability, and real estate investors.

You'll hear why builders are struggling to price new homes, how higher construction costs could slow housing supply, and why rising replacement costs may actually benefit owners of existing properties. Kathy also explains how these inflationary pressures could keep mortgage rates elevated and what investors should watch when evaluating renovation budgets, development projects, and long-term real estate opportunities.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/the-housing-markets-latest-hurdles-copper-lumber-diesel-and-aluminum-70b45947?regwall=eafs

What happens to mortgage rates if the Iran conflict ends?

In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down new analysis from Logan Mohtashami at HousingWire on the relationship between geopolitical events, inflation, bond yields, and mortgage rates. While easing tensions in the Middle East have helped calm oil markets, mortgage rates remain elevated as inflation stays stubbornly high and Federal Reserve officials take a more hawkish stance.

Kathy explains why mortgage spreads have helped prevent rates from moving even higher, what Logan's mortgage rate forecast means for the housing market, and why real estate investors should pay close attention to inflation and Treasury yields. You'll also hear why housing demand has remained resilient despite higher borrowing costs and what could be needed for mortgage rates to move lower.

If you're watching the housing market, mortgage rates, or the Federal Reserve's next move, this is an update you won't want to miss.

Source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/what-happens-to-mortgage-rates-if-the-iran-conflict-is-over/

3D-printed homes are moving closer to the mainstream housing market as Wells Fargo begins offering mortgages on homes built with ICON's 3D-printing technology. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why this partnership matters, how 3D-printed construction could impact housing affordability, and why major financial institutions are beginning to back alternative homebuilding methods. Learn how faster construction timelines, lower building costs, and new financing options could shape the future of real estate investing and housing development.

🏡 Get our free PDF, "Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your First Rental Property," at www.RealWealth.com/FiveQuestions to learn how to find strong rental markets, analyze cash flow, and avoid costly investing mistakes.

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/26/wells-fargo-mortgage-incentives-3d-printed-homes-icon.html