Midweek Real Estate Rundown | Week of October 7: Lawsuits, Cash Deals, and a $1B Vision

Zillow and Redfin Under Fire: Antitrust Lawsuit Could Shake Up the Industry

Five U.S. states have filed an antitrust lawsuit against real estate giants Zillow and Redfin. The claim? That Zillow paid Redfin $100 million to pull out of the rental listing space — a move that, if proven, could have limited competition and given Zillow even more control over the rental market.

This comes at a time when online platforms already dominate how buyers, renters, and agents access listings. With both companies under increased legal and regulatory scrutiny, this case could spark major changes in how listing data is shared and monetized nationwide.

My Take: The big players in real estate tech are starting to feel the weight of their own scale. While these platforms changed how we find and market properties, too much control in one place never lasts forever. For developers and investors like me, it’s a reminder to own your pipeline and relationships directly — not just rely on third-party platforms.

💵 All-Cash Buyers Are Winning the Housing Game

Nearly one-third of U.S. home sales so far in 2025 have been all-cash transactions, according to Investopedia. With mortgage rates hovering above 6%, buyers who can skip financing altogether are dominating the market — leaving many financed buyers struggling to compete.

This shift is creating an uneven playing field in several markets, particularly for first-time buyers or those relying on traditional mortgages. Sellers, on the other hand, are leaning toward cash because it means fewer delays, fewer contingencies, and faster closings.

My Take:The rise of all-cash buyers reinforces a larger truth — capital is king. In development, we see the same pattern. Whether it’s buying land, securing materials, or closing deals, liquidity gives you leverage. The best developers find ways to move like cash buyers — through strong investor partnerships and creative capital stacking.

🏗️ Sydney’s $1 Billion Redevelopment Proves the Power of Vision

In Sydney, Australia, a $1 billion plan to redevelop the iconic InterContinental Hotel site into a luxury mixed-use precinct just got the green light. The new design will include high-end residences, offices, retail, restaurants, and wellness spaces — transforming one of the city’s most recognizable properties into a vibrant community hub.

This project highlights a growing global trend: the reimagination of underperforming or legacy assets into multi-functional, lifestyle-driven destinations.

My Take:This is the future of real estate — blending living, working, and leisure in one space. Whether in Sydney or the Midwest, people want convenience, connection, and quality. For developers, the lesson is clear: success comes from creating places where people want to spend time, not just space they occupy.