August 20, 2024

Unlocking the Benefits: Why You Should Use a Realtor for Your Next Move with Jill Ballew, Stephens Real Estate and LBOR 2024 President

Curious about the benefits of using a realtor? 🤔 In our latest episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast," we sit down with Jill Ballew, Stephens Real Estate and 2024 Lawrence Board of Realtors President; we dive deep into why having a professional by your side can make all the difference in your real estate journey! 🏠✨ We cover all the key topics and answer the burning questions you might have.

1️⃣ What’s the difference between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor?

2️⃣ What are the benefits of using a local Realtor when buying or selling a home? 🏠

3️⃣ How do realtors help with pricing accuracy, market expertise, and negotiations? 💼

4️⃣ Access to listings, handling paperwork, and navigating legal considerations. 📝

5️⃣ Personalized advice, problem-solving, and what to look for in a Realtor. 🤝

Plus, we're debunking common myths in real estate! 🧐

Whether you're buying, selling, or just interested in the market, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧

August 7, 2024

Navigating Interest Rates with Kelsey McClasky from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

In our latest episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we dive deep into the world of mortgage interest rates with Kelsey McClasky from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, exploring how economic shifts and Federal Reserve policies impact them. Learn the ins and outs of fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages and discover actionable steps to secure the best possible rate. We also break down what factors, beyond interest rates, influence your mortgage payments and how to estimate them accurately.

🔍 Topics Covered:

1. How do economic changes and Federal Reserve policies affect mortgage rates?
2. Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages—what's right for you?
3. Tips to improve your chances of securing a lower mortgage rate.
4. How credit scores and other factors influence your interest rate.
5. Understanding APR and its role in comparing lenders.
6. How to estimate mortgage payments, including property taxes and insurance.
7. Is interest rate the only factor to consider when choosing a lender?

Fact or Fiction Segment:

• Does the Federal Reserve solely set interest rates? Fact or Fiction?
• Do higher rates always mean higher payments? Fact or Fiction?
• Does locking in a rate guarantee no changes before closing? Fact or Fiction?
• Is shopping around for the lowest rate the most important? Fact or Fiction?
• Are ARMs always riskier than fixed-rate mortgages? Fact or Fiction?

Tune in to sharpen your knowledge and make informed decisions about your home financing! 🏠💡

Editing & Music: Josiah MorenoPodcast

Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!

July 9, 2024

Smooth Moves: Expert Tips with Reese Jones, Professional Moving & Storage

June 4, 2024

Navigating the NAR Settlement: Insights with Rob Hulse

In this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors,” we sit down with Rob Hulse, Executive Vice President of the Lawrence Board of Realtors, to unpack the recent NAR (National Association of Realtors) settlement. Rob sheds light on why NAR chose this path and the significant changes resulting from the settlement. We delve into the shifting role of the MLS, the new compensation options available, and what these changes mean for both home buyers and sellers. Rob also discusses the potential requirement of Buyer Agency Agreements, the broader impact on the Lawrence Board of REALTORS®, and their upcoming steps. Whether you're a realtor, buyer, or seller, this episode provides crucial insights to help you navigate the evolving real estate landscape.

Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno

Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!

May 21, 2024

Unmasking Mold: Signs, Health Risks, and Effective Mitigation with Nesreen Iskandrani

In this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we dive deep into the hidden world of mold. Join us as we uncover the telltale signs that mold may be lurking in your home, explore the serious health risks associated with prolonged mold exposure, and demystify the mold mitigation process. Are home tests for mold reliable? We'll answer that too. Plus, don't miss our fun and informative game segment, "Mold MythBusters," where we'll separate fact from fiction. For instance, is bleach really an effective remedy for visible mold? Tune in to find out and arm yourself with the knowledge to keep your home safe and healthy.

Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno

Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!

May 7, 2024

Exploring the Role and Value of Buyer's Agents with Cheri Drake, McGrew RE

In this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into buyer agents' crucial role in a real estate transaction. Join our hosts for an enlightening episode as we delve into the world of real estate with Cheri Drake from McGrew Real Estate. Join us as we explore the role of buyer's agents and the value they bring to the real estate transaction process.

Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno

Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!

April 23, 2024

Unveiling the Mystery: Exploring Title Insurance with Beth Shmalberg

In this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into the crucial role title insurance plays in a real estate transaction. Join our hosts for an enlightening episode as we delve into the world of title insurance with Beth Shmalberg from Kansas Secured Title. Title insurance is a crucial component of the real estate transaction process, yet it's often misunderstood. Beth demystifies the complexities surrounding title insurance, answering basic questions and providing essential information to empower consumers. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate the intricacies of title insurance confidently.

Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno

Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!

April 9, 2024

Curbing Doubts: How Curb Appeal Influences Buyer Perception

In this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into the crucial role curb appeal plays in the real estate market. Our hosts, joined by Michelle Roberts-Freeman with Stephens Real Estate, uncover effective ways to enhance a property's external charm. From quick fixes to overall appearances, discover how to create a captivating first impression that boosts value and attracts buyers. Learn about cost-effective updates, the latest outdoor design trends, and various curb appeal projects. Whether you're selling your home or just aiming to be the envy of the neighborhood, this episode is your guide to elevating your property's appeal efficiently.

Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno

Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library

Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage

Thank you to all parties that made this episode possible. Stay tuned for future content!