What if the greatest threat—or opportunity-to your real estate business wasn’t the housing market, but the policies shaping it behind the scenes? Now that we are deep into 2025, legislative changes are poised to have a bigger impact on investors than ever before. In this timely and eye-opening episode of Fiscally Fabulous®, host Dr. Teresa R. Martin, Esq. is joined by legislative expert Paul Bodley for an unfiltered look at how executive orders, tax reforms, immigration policies, and zoning laws could shift the entire playing field for real estate entrepreneurs. Together, they unpack the real-world implications of expiring tax cuts, a growing federal deficit, and new tariffs that will drive up material costs, raising serious concerns for flippers, buy-and-hold investors, and developers alike. But it’s not all doom and gloom. The conversation also shines a light on powerful local solutions, including New York’s groundbreaking “City of Yes” initiative and the potential of land banks as affordable pathways to property ownership. Whether you’re an investor agent, a business owner looking to diversify, or just getting your feet wet in real estate, this episode delivers essential context, actionable insights, and the motivation to get informed—because in today’s environment, what you don’t know can cost you. Key Quotes:

• “Local initiatives like the 'City of Yes' may do more for housing than anything coming out of Washington. That’s where smart investors should focus." - Paul Bodley
• “We're not just talking luxury condos anymore. We need housing for bakers, sanitation workers, city employees—real people.” - Paul Bodley
• “Legislation is legislation—regardless of the state you live in. You must understand what's happening where you invest.” - Dr. Teresa R. Martin

Key Takeaways:

• Federal Policy Shifts Matter: Executive orders reinstating Title 42 and Schedule F could have long-term impacts on immigration and government workforce stability, affecting labor availability in real estate-critical sectors like construction and healthcare.
• Rising National Debt & Tax Cuts: The potential extension of 2017 tax cuts may add $7 trillion to an already $36 trillion deficit, raising investor concerns about bond markets, inflation, and funding for key public programs.
• Tariffs & Inflation: New tariffs will likely raise prices on essentials like lumber and appliances, increasing renovation and development costs for real estate investors.
• Affordable Housing Crisis: Federal inaction means local solutions like New York’s “City of Yes” initiative are vital. Zoning relaxations aim to increase housing stock through ADUs, reduced parking mandates, and small-scale multifamily development.
• Opportunity in Land Banks: With high property prices, investors should explore land banks and state-funded revitalization programs to access underutilized real estate assets affordably.

Highlights/Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Fiscally Fabulous 00:52 Legislative Updates and Their Impact 02:29 Federal Budget and Debt Limit Concerns 03:31 Tax Cuts and Economic Implications 05:16 Tariffs and Their Consequences 08:19 Housing Policies and Local Initiatives 10:59 Real Estate Investment Strategies 15:59 Community and Real Estate Focus 17:57 Conclusion and Call to Action Conclusion:As we are deep into 2025, one thing is clear: legislation and economic policy are no longer background noise—they're front and center in shaping your success as a real estate investor. From federal tax debates to local zoning wins, staying informed isn't optional—it's your competitive edge. This episode of Fiscally Fabulous® arms you with the insights to navigate rising costs, shifting regulations, and hidden opportunities in today’s market. Don’t just react—strategize. Learn more about REIA NYC: Website: https://reianyc.org/ Learn more about Dr Teresa R. Martin on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresarmartin/ Website: https://enjoyyourlegacy.com/