Rent vs. Buy in 2026: House Hacking, Down Payments & New Paths to Homeownership

Is it smarter to rent or buy in today's housing market? With home prices high, mortgage rates elevated, and affordability stretched, many consumers are wondering whether homeownership is still worth pursuing. In this episode of Real Estate Today, we break down the real financial math behind renting vs. buying—and explore the creative strategies helping first-time buyers enter the market despite today's challenges. Justin Cambra of eXp Realty shares how buyers are using "house hacking" strategies to offset mortgage payments and build wealth through real estate. Susan Isaac of Coldwell Banker Realty explains how first-time buyers can determine whether they're financially and emotionally ready to buy a home, along with the hidden costs of homeownership. Matt Schulz from LendingTree dives into the financial realities of buying a home today, including down payment assistance programs and FHA, VA and USDA loan options. Laurel Djoukeng, founder and CEO of KeyPath, explores how AI and fintech innovation could reshape the future of renting and ownership. Whether you're a renter trying to buy your first home, a homeowner exploring investment strategies, or simply curious about where the housing market is headed, this episode offers practical insights and forward-looking ideas for navigating real estate in 2026.