Margo is a 38-year-old PR executive and former journalist. She grew up in a financially unstable home, which fuels her intense desire to purchase a beautiful, single-family house and start a family. She possesses a sharp, cynical sense of humor and approaches the competitive housing market with ruthless determination. She prioritizes her real estate goals over conventional ethical boundaries.

Ian is an environmental lawyer who works for the Environmental Protection Agency. He previously held a high-paying corporate law position but chose to take a pay cut to pursue work he finds meaningful. He comes from a stable background and values personal ethics over financial success. He serves as a grounding presence for Margo, though he grows uncomfortable with her aggressive tactics to secure a house.

Curtis is a Georgetown economics professor and the author of a successful book. He comes from inherited wealth, as his parents run a prominent hedge fund. He maintains a large online presence and projects an air of arrogance in his professional life. He is fiercely protective of his family and expects respect from those around him.

Jack works in commercial furniture sales and is preparing to become a stay-at-home father. Unlike his husband, he comes from humble origins and is entirely self-made. He is a dedicated yoga practitioner with a warm, open personality. He openly shares his experiences with the adoption process and proves eager to connect with new people.

Erika is a highly respected journalist who used to work with Margo. She lives in a gorgeous Tudor home that she secured on her first bid. She easily balances her successful reporting career with raising her young son. She has access to extensive databases through her news organization, which makes her a valuable resource.

Natalie is a recently divorced woman living in Margo and Ian's building. She embraces a free-spirited, hard-partying lifestyle as she attempts to enjoy her post-divorce freedom. She frequently dates different people and openly criticizes traditional institutions like marriage and homeownership. She owns a dog but approaches pet care casually.

Jordana is a firm boss who manages high-profile public relations events and demanding clients. She is a stylish, poised executive who expects absolute professionalism from her team. She quickly loses patience when mistakes threaten important accounts and does not tolerate poor performance.

Dottie is a former Georgetown student who comes from an under-resourced background. She worked multiple jobs to fund her education and maintained a stellar academic record. She disappears from public view following an incident at the university, and Margo tries to track her down.

Alex is a young, recent college graduate passionate about environmentalism. She takes an active interest in the Environmental Protection Agency and frequently connects with professionals in the field to learn about internship opportunities.

Penny is Jack and Curtis's adopted daughter. She is an outgoing, smiling young girl who enjoys playing at the local park and attending gymnastics classes. She quickly warms up to visitors in her home.

Ginny is the real estate agent initially working with Margo and Ian. She has connections in desirable local neighborhoods and tries to leverage her personal network to find her clients a suitable home.

Heath is an attorney who formerly worked at the Environmental Protection Agency with Ian. He left government work to take a highly paid position at a top law firm. His massive salary affords his family a luxurious lifestyle in a sought-after neighborhood.

Fritter is Natalie's pet dog. He is highly affectionate and eagerly greets visitors in the apartment building. Margo develops a strong attachment to him and pays close attention to his well-being.