In this wide-ranging discussion, Barry Habib - CEO of Highway.ai - and host Bill Hitchcock explore the complex issue of tariffs and their broader implications for the U.S. economy and the housing market. Barry explains how tariffs act as a consumption tax paid by importers, often passed on to consumers, and how they can shrink margins and slow economic activity, potentially increasing the risk of recession. Yet, Barry offers perspective: despite media alarm, the actual impact on consumer prices may only be around 4–5%, not the full value of the tariff. He compares implementing tariffs to starting a new fitness regimen - painful at first, but potentially necessary for long-term health, in this case, economic sustainability amid ballooning deficits. Bill and Barry also underscore the importance of mortgage professionals staying educated and focused. They point out that housing often performs well during recessions, with falling interest rates and stable or rising home values - except during the 2008 financial crisis. Barry’s national forecast? A solid 4.1% appreciation in home values this year, which, when combined with mortgage leverage, can translate into significant wealth creation for homeowners. Lending Forward is the home for real discussions about the industry we love. Hear first-hand accounts every week from the people at the heart of the business – Mortgage Bankers, Realtors, Financial Advisors, Coaches, and more – as they cultivate transparency around the future of lending. So tell us, how are you lending it forward? Thank you to our friends at Highway.ai for sponsoring this episode!