The game has been 'rigged’: Real estate star warns buyers face a housing 'obstacle course'

September 24, 2026 - 18:04

Real estate executive Ryan Serhant says the current housing market presents significant barriers for potential buyers. In a recent interview, the founder and CEO of SERHANT described the situation as an "obstacle course" that makes purchasing property increasingly difficult for average Americans.

Serhant points to a combination of factors that have created this challenging environment. Local policy friction often delays or complicates transactions. Property tax burdens continue to rise in many regions, adding substantial costs to homeownership. Insurance premiums have spiked dramatically in various markets, particularly those affected by natural disasters and climate-related risks.

These overlapping issues have a compounding effect. When taxes and insurance costs climb, monthly payments become less affordable. When local regulations slow down development or complicate sales, inventory remains tight. The result is a market where mobility stalls and buyers struggle to find options within their budgets.

The real estate leader argues that these problems are not isolated to one region but affect markets across the country. He suggests that without addressing these structural issues, the housing market will continue to favor sellers and existing homeowners over those trying to enter the market for the first time.

Serhant's assessment reflects broader concerns among industry professionals who worry that current conditions could persist for years without meaningful policy changes and market adjustments.