Short and sweet episode — because 2026 is already moving fast. Suzanne and Paul share what they’re seeing in the market right now (real buyer activity, multiple offers, over-ask sales), then “double click” on the headlines: a proposed ban on institutional investors buying single-family homes, and the bigger local concern — rent policy changes that could seriously impact Los Angeles multifamily housing. They wrap with the real silver lining: consumer confidence returning, and some big Innovate announcements coming soon.

In this episode, we cover:
• Quick 2026 market pulse: buyer activity picking up fast
• A real example: strong open house traffic + multiple offers + $50K over ask
• Proposed institutional investor ban: what it actually targets (big funds, not local investors)
• Why it likely won’t impact Bye Bye House / Innovate — and why enforcement is questionable
• The affordability narrative vs. the real numbers (institutional ownership is a small slice nationally)
• Why certain pockets may feel investor pressure more than others
• The bigger concern: LA rent policy proposals and why it could hurt multifamily upkeep, values, and new development
• How rent limits can discourage building inventory during a housing shortage
• The positive takeaway: headlines + rates in the low 6s = buyers regaining confidence
• Why buyers should lean on agents/lenders to verify what’s real vs. just hype
• Teaser: major Innovate announcements coming soon