Market Updates Episodes
Mike's weekly solo Market Update for Texas Realtors. Mortgage rates and what's moving them, DFW housing numbers, a buyer, seller or agent tip, and one AI workflow you can put to work in your business this week.
196
Oct. 21, 2026
The Listing That Sits: Use AI and MLS Data Before You Cut the Price
A stale listing strategy works best when it starts at the listing appointment. In this Market Update, Mike Mills shows Texas Realtors how to give AI the MLS solds, showing feedback and price history to find why a listing sits. Then he fixes it with seller concessions before a price cut and marketing aimed at the buyer who wants that house. Plus mortgage rates as of October 20, September DFW housing data (93.9% of original list, 62 days on market), and the $69-a-month question that protects a list price.
194
Sept. 30, 2026
Why Rates Spiked, Why Texas Isn't Frozen, and How to Set Up AI Right
Mortgage rates rising through 2026 just produced the sharpest three-week move in years — the 30-year went from 6.89% to 7.58%. In this Market Update, Mike Mills breaks down what's actually driving it (government borrowing, not just oil), why the Texas housing market is running opposite to the national story, and how to set up an AI project so you stop re-explaining your business every morning. Where rates stand 30-Yr Conventional 7.58% · 15-Yr 7.20% · FHA 7.24% · VA 7.25% · Jumbo 7.60% — Mortgage News Daily index, Sept 29, 2026. Highest since April 2024. How a mortgage rate is actually built Your rate isn't set by your lender or the Fed. It's the 10-year Treasury (~5.25%) plus a spread of roughly 2%. From late February to mid-September the 30-year rose 0.97 points and the 10-year rose 0.97 points — identical to the basis point. Texas housing isn't the frozen national market Closed sales running ahead of last year · median ~$343,000, down 0.4% YoY · 5.5 months inventory · t…
193
Aug. 13, 2026
AI Setup for Realtors: A Step-by-Step Guide
AI setup for realtors doesn't have to be complicated. Most agents use AI like it's 2010 — type a question, grab the answer, close the tab. That's about 10% of what it can do. In this Market Update, Mike Mills walks Texas Realtors through setting up ChatGPT or Claude so it knows your market, your voice, and your business — working like a real employee instead of a search box. Plus the week's rates and DFW housing. In this episode: Rates eased after a cool CPI print — the Fed's September hike odds got cut nearly in half DFW went flat: ~$420K median, ~50 days on market, sellers giving back ~5% off original list Buyer Tip: kill the credit-pull fear Seller Tip: the recast — cleaner than a bridge loan for move-up sellers Mike's Mind: builders acting like banks, the jobs numbers nobody's checking, and a rocket into the moon Main event: your step-by-step AI setup — custom instructions, projects, context docs, connectors, artifacts, skills Free for Realtors — the Buyer Assistant …
191
July 7, 2026
How AI Picks Realtors: What the Internet Says About You When You're Not in the Room
How AI picks realtors is no longer a hypothetical — your next client is Googling you, or asking ChatGPT about you, before they ever call. In this relaunch episode, Mike Mills breaks down how to get found online when AI decides who gets the referral, plus a rate story that runs through a Middle East war and a new Fed chair, a DFW market check, and the AI brand audit he built to show agents exactly what the internet says about them. Part market update, part comeback, part wake-up call for Texas Realtors.
190
Dec. 15, 2025
The Fed Rate Cut Explained: Why Mortgage Rates Could Still Drop in 2026
The Fed rate cut explained: In December 2025, the Federal Reserve cut rates for the third time but signaled they're slowing down—only one more cut expected in 2026. So are mortgage rates stuck? Actually, no. This episode breaks down three real reasons why mortgage rates could continue dropping in 2026: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's massive MBS buying spree, Jerome Powell's term ending in May with a likely more dovish replacement, and rates already trending down with room to fall further. Plus, the brutal math showing why waiting for lower rates while home prices appreciate 4-5% costs buyers tens of thousands more than buying now.
188
Nov. 11, 2025
Fed Rate Cut Reaction: Why Mortgage Rates Are Rising Instead of Falling
In this episode, Fed Rate Cut Reaction: Why Mortgage Rates Are Rising Instead of Falling, Mike Mills breaks down why mortgage rates climbed after the latest Fed rate cut—and what it means for Realtors, buyers, and sellers in 2025. Learn how mortgage-backed securities, tariffs, and investor sentiment drive real rates, not the Fed itself. Discover practical strategies for navigating volatile markets, explaining rate changes to clients, and leveraging AI tools to automate your Realtor database. Stay informed, sharpen your communication, and guide clients confidently through a market full of mixed signals.
186
Oct. 22, 2025
The Truth About Mortgage Rates and Debt in Today’s Housing Market
How are mortgage rates and debt reshaping the housing market in 2025? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, Mike Mills breaks down how $37 trillion in U.S. debt, Fed rate policies, and investor demand are keeping mortgage rates high and affordability low. Realtors will learn why the “rate cut trap” could mislead buyers, how gold and stablecoins may influence future liquidity, and how AI tools can streamline transactions. Packed with real estate finance insights and Texas housing trends, this episode helps agents navigate today’s market with clarity and confidence.
181
Aug. 27, 2025
Mortgage Rate Cut Outlook 2025 | Fed Policy, Housing Trends & Realtor Tips
The Mortgage Rate Cut Outlook 2025 is shifting fast, and Realtors need to know what it means for buyers, sellers, and the Texas housing market. In this episode, Mike Mills breaks down the Fed’s latest signals from Jackson Hole, explains why mortgage rates don’t always follow rate cuts, and shares practical Realtor strategies for pricing, concessions, and guiding clients through uncertainty. You’ll also learn how an AI workflow can turn one client meeting into personalized presentations and follow-ups. Stay ahead with insights on Fed policy, housing trends, and actionable mortgage strategies.
180
Aug. 12, 2025
Mortgage Rate Forecasting: What Realtors Need to Know for 2025
Confused about when mortgage rates will finally drop? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, we dive deep into Mortgage Rate Forecasting for 2025. Mike Mills sits down with Kendall Garrison, CEO of Amplify Credit Union, to break down the Fed’s recent rate decision, bond market signals, and how inflation, debt, and tariffs are shaping the future of housing. You’ll also hear why fee-free banking matters and how Realtors can guide clients with smart, long-term strategies. Packed with timely insights, this episode is a must-listen for any real estate professional navigating today’s economic uncertainty.
Guest: Kendall Garrison
178
July 22, 2025
The Housing Crisis Explained: Debt, Prices & Why Affordability Is Fading
Housing crisis explained — mortgage rates remain stuck in the 6% range, national debt is ballooning, and home affordability is slipping away fast. In this episode, Mike Mills delivers a sharp, unfiltered look at what’s really keeping buyers sidelined, from $350K starter homes to soaring Treasury yields. Packed with Texas housing market data, price-to-payment comparisons, and the economic absurdities shaping 2025, this one’s a must-listen for real estate pros trying to survive the chaos.
176
July 7, 2025
Summer 2025’s Texas Housing Market Shift: What Realtors Need to Know Now
The Texas housing market shift is flipping real estate upside down with crashing prices, rising inventory, and even Bitcoin-backed mortgages. In this summer 2025 episode, mortgage pro Mike Mills breaks down what Realtors need to know—from Austin’s buyer-friendly boom and the Fed’s inflation standoff to the Big Beautiful Bill’s impact on affordability. Plus, discover how AI tool Fello could revolutionize your CRM… and why aliens and Klarna might have more to do with your deals than you think. If you’re navigating chaos in Texas real estate, this episode is your roadmap.
174
June 12, 2025
Texas Real Estate Market Shift & The AI Lead Conversion Tools You Should Be Using
Mortgage rates are holding steady, inventory is surging, and AI lead conversion tools are changing the game—welcome to the Texas real estate market in 2025. In this episode, Mike Mills unpacks why rates remain frozen, what soaring listings mean for buyer and seller leverage, and how Structurely’s AI assistant is boosting agent conversions by over 50%. Plus, “Mike’s Mind” tackles everything from corporate landlords to quantum computing. Whether you're a Realtor, broker, or team leader, this episode delivers the data, tech tools, and strategy you need to thrive in today’s unpredictable real estate market.
170
March 4, 2025
The CFPB Under Trump & HUD Layoffs – The Future of Real Estate
The CFPB under Trump is rolling back regulations, and HUD layoffs could disrupt FHA and USDA loan approvals, creating major shifts in real estate and mortgage lending. In this episode, Mike Mills and Aaron VanTrojen, CEO of Geneva Financial, discuss how deregulation may impact lenders, homebuyers, and consumer protections. They explore Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac’s future, the likelihood of a housing market crash, and how AI is reshaping real estate. If you're a Realtor, mortgage lender, or investor, tune in for critical insights to stay ahead in 2025’s evolving market.
Guest: Aaron VanTrojen
168
Feb. 20, 2025
AI Tools for Realtors, Austin Housing Market Trends & Mortgage Rate Predictions
AI Tools for Realtors, Austin Housing Market Trends & Mortgage Rate Predictions—this episode is packed with insights for real estate professionals looking to stay ahead in 2025. Host Mike Mills dives into the best AI tools for realtors, showing how automation can improve lead generation, marketing, and client follow-ups. We also analyze Austin’s real estate market correction, with home prices dropping and inventory rising, making it a buyer’s market. Plus, we discuss mortgage rate predictions for 2025, whether rates will finally drop, and how realtors can navigate today’s market challenges. If you want to streamline your business and stay competitive, this episode is a must-listen!
Guest: Amy Cearnal
166
Feb. 13, 2025
DFW Real Estate Market Trends: Will 2025 Be a Buyer’s Market?
The DFW Real Estate Market is shifting, and 2025 could be a turning point for buyers, sellers, and realtors. With rising inventory, steady mortgage rates, and stabilizing home prices, North Texas presents both opportunities and challenges. Are we finally entering a buyer’s market? In this episode, we break down key real estate trends, mortgage rate forecasts, and expert strategies to help real estate professionals navigate the evolving market and stay ahead in 2025. Don't miss these valuable insights to help you adapt and succeed in the changing DFW housing landscape!
164
Feb. 4, 2025
2025 Housing Forecast: Market Trends, Mortgage Rates & Real Estate Insights
The 2025 Housing Forecast is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years—will home prices crash, or will they keep rising? In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with James Kleimann, Managing Editor at HousingWire, to discuss mortgage rate predictions, housing affordability challenges, and key industry shifts impacting realtors and mortgage professionals. They explore the role of AI in real estate, potential Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac changes, and new commission regulations. Stay ahead of the competition with expert insights into housing trends and policy changes shaping the market in 2025.
Guest: James Kleimann
162
Nov. 15, 2024
Trump’s Housing Market Impact: Rates, Policies, and Affordability in 2025
What do rising mortgage rates, record-low inventory, and Trump’s economic agenda mean for real estate in 2025? This episode dives into the strategies you need to thrive amidst uncertainty. Don’t miss out—your future clients are counting on you to stay ahead. On this week’s Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we analyze the post-election housing market, focusing on the housing affordability crisis, historic rate trends, and the impact of President Trump’s proposed policies. We tackle the chal...
157
Oct. 17, 2024
Refinancing Steps Explained: How to Prepare for Lower Rates in 2025
In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, we break down the Refinancing Steps Explained, a vital guide for anyone planning to save when mortgage rates drop again. Rates are high now, but they won’t stay that way forever! Learn the five key refinancing steps—from assessing your financial situation to closing on your loan. We also explore the effects of rising rates, declining U.S. birth rates on future housing demand, and whether Texas remains affordable in 2024. Stay ahead of these trends, optimize your real estate strategies, and be prepared when lower rates return!
155
Oct. 10, 2024
Refinance Rate Trends and Timing: Should You Refinance Now or Hold Off?
Mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster this year, leaving many wondering about refinance rate trends. Did you miss your chance, or is another opportunity on the horizon? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, Mike Mills breaks down the latest refinance rate trends, Fed rate cuts, and who should consider refinancing now versus waiting. Homeowners with high-interest debt or those locked into higher rates will find actionable insights. Plus, Mike dives into how institutional investors are impacting the housing market and what realtors and homeowners need to know.
144
Aug. 6, 2024
Mortgage Rates Decline: Tips for Homebuyers and Investors
Mortgage rates are falling, but what does it mean for you? In this episode, Mike Mills unravels the mystery behind the mortgage rates decline, exploring its impact on housing affordability and offering expert advice on refinancing and real estate strategies for 2024. Stay tuned to navigate the evolving market with confidence.
142
July 30, 2024
Texas Housing Market Trends & The Benefits of Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Ready to master the Texas housing market? Join Mike Mills as he dives into the benefits of Adjustable Rate Mortgages and reveals key market insights. Learn about mortgage rates, housing inventory, economic impacts, NAR rules, and income requirements for homebuyers. Discover strategies to save thousands in this packed episode!
140
July 23, 2024
Texas Real Estate Update: Streamline Refinance Tips and Rate Insights
Unlock the secrets to lower mortgage payments with Mike Mills! This episode is packed with streamline refinance tips and crucial updates on current interest rates. Perfect for realtors and homeowners aiming to stay ahead in the Texas real estate market. Tune in for insights on housing trends, car buying tips, and changes in non-compete agreements.
138
July 16, 2024
Refinance Tips 2024: Key Strategies for Texas Homeowners
Join Mike Mills in this enlightening episode as he explores refinance tips for 2024 and their significance for Texas homeowners. Covering declining mortgage rates and refinancing strategies, this episode offers valuable insights for Texas realtors and investors. Mike discusses current mortgage trends, the impact of inventory levels, and the rise of single women in homeownership. Tune in for expert advice on navigating the ever-changing Texas real estate market
136
July 9, 2024
Understanding Assumable Mortgages: Benefits and Challenges in 2024
What if there was a way to offer your clients mortgage rates below 4%? Join Mike Mills as he explores the ins and outs of assumable mortgages, along with the latest real estate trends in Texas. Enhance your expertise with these game-changing tips. In this episode, Mike Mills delves into the world of understanding assumable mortgages, focusing on the benefits and challenges these loans present. He offers a detailed update on mortgage rates, including the potential for rates to drop below 7%, and discusses the implications for the Texas real estate market. Key topics include FHA and VA assumable loans, current housing inventory trends, and the impact of insurance premiums. Stay informed with the latest insights and advice tailored for Texas realtors. This episode is packed with essential information to help you navigate the complexities of the current market.