Guiding You Home

2024 was another rough year for the real estate industry. Inventory was down, transactions were down, interest rates were high and yet prices went up. We talk about why that was the case, but we also focus on what 2025 might hold in store. Will rates finally come down? Will afforability impove? All that and more on this week's episode. Contact Landmark Group for a free buyer's or seller's consultThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we're joined by Dylan Linnenkamp, a seasoned home inspector from Harper Homes, to discuss the key to keeping your home in tip-top shape. Dylan shares the common mistakes homeowners make, the often-overlooked maintenance tasks that can lead to costly repairs, and the small, smart investments that could save you thousands down the road. Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you protect your biggest investment. Don't miss it!Contact DylanThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Jeff, Bobbie, and Travis are here to play matchmaker—but with cities! They're diving into 10 iconic Central Coast towns, from Arroyo Grande's small-town charm to Paso Robles' wine-soaked cowboy chic. Which one fits your vibe? Whether you're dreaming of surf, sun, or dirt roads...this episode is packed with laughs, local tips, and heated debates to help you decide where you truly belong.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we're joined by Brett Bey of Bey Property Solutions to unpack the latest trends in San Luis Obispo County's housing rental market. From low inventory to rising rental costs, Brett breaks down the numbers and shares what it means for local renters, including Cal Poly students scrambling for affordable housing. How much does it cost to rent a room these days, and what's driving the crunch? Tune in for expert insights and practical advice for anyone navigating this competitive market.Contract BrettThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Let's be real—appraisals can feel like the ultimate buzzkill in the world of real estate. From confusing reports to frustrating delays, it often seems like these essential property evaluations create more headaches than they solve. In this episode, we're diving into the top five reasons why appraisals suck and unpacking what you can do about it.Whether you're an agent, a buyer, or a seller, this episode will give you the tools and insights to navigate the appraisal process more smoothly, minimize frustrations, and even find opportunities to make appraisals work in your favor. Get ready to take control of one of the trickiest parts of any real estate transaction. Tune in to make appraisals less painful and more predictable!Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Listen, this isn't a Yelp list...this is our list. Three locals who have been around the block and want you to visit these spots asap. We've included some iconic, delicious places in this episode...and maybe a few you haven't been to. So let us know which ones are your favorites and what we might have missed. We're always open to doing some more recon. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

It's so important to know the people you are doing business with. And let us tell you...Jeff is one of the best people you'll ever know. In this episode, we chat with Jeff about what makes him tick, why he got into real estate, why he decided to start Landmark Group and what he's passionate about outside of work.Learn more about Nature CorpsThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

This week, we're pulling back the curtain on a topic that's sure to shake up your assumptions: why you might be way off in estimating your home's worth.Join us as we explore the disconnect between what homeowners believe their castle is worth and the hard-hitting reality of the market. Spoiler alert: it's not just about that fresh coat of paint or the new garden gnome! We'll share stories from our own experiences and uncover how value is actually determined. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

It's an unbelievable stat, but it's true. So many realtors fail, especially in the first few years of getting their license. Buy why? Bobbie Kelly, team lead at Keller Williams Central Coast helps shed some light on where the problems lie. Bobbie has hundreds of agents who hang their license at Keller Williams and she's spoken with the best in the biz, as well as those who struggle and eventually, don't make it - so she is uniquely qualified speak into this topic. Whether you are an agent, or someone who might hire an agent some day, this episode will help you figure out what make the best agents successful and why so many don't make it.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Realtor Phil Gibbs joins us to talk about the San Diego Real Estate Market. Whether you're looking at San Diego as an investement opportunity, or for your primary residence, this episode will give you great insight into the trends Phil is seeing in the market, as well as what the next 6-12 months might look like. Connect with PhilThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Bobbie, Jeff and Travis talk about off-market properties. We're honest about how difficult they can be to find and the potential disadvantages to the seller. But the team also discuss the advantages and reasons sellers and buyers should consider off-market opportunities.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Over the last few weeks, interest rates hit a one year low. But the real question is, will they stay there? Mike Poyntz from Motif Mortgage joins us to talk about how we got here, and what market conditions would need to exist for rates to stay where they are or go even lower. We discuss the pros and cons of lower rates, and advice for buyers and sellers as we approach more cuts in interest rates. Contact Mike PoyntzThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

We had the privilege of speaking with Megan Martin, Community Development Director at the City of Grover Beach. Megan shares what's going on with the West Grand Avenue projects, and explains how the city thinks about development in a way that is thoughtful, sustainable and keeps the heart of Grover Beach while bolstering the economy and giving residents more options. Contact MeganThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

What's the biggest challenge facing SLO County and the rest of the Nation? If you ask Michael Massey of Generation Build....it's housing. There aren't enough homes to satisfy demand, prices continue to rise beyond what is reasonable, and there are serious questions about the ability for future generations to be able to stay in SLO County and build a life for themselves. We talk about all of these questions and how Generation Build is trying to help by galvanizing the community around pro-housing efforts to see more development in SLO County. Contact Generation BuildThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

We had the privilege of being joined by Arroyo Grande Mayor, Caren Ray Russom. We spoke about her journey into public service, as well as some of the challenges faced by the City of Arroyo Grande. But the through line of the conversation was the incredible community that makes Arroyo Grande such a special place to call home. Contact Mayor CarenThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Did you know that 50% of your plumbing system is the sewer lateral? That's the line that runs from your home to the city tie in at the street. Randy Schad from Sewer-Oscopy West explains the importance of getting that line inspected regularly, and especially when you buy a home. When something goes wrong with your sewer lateral, it can lead to big trouble and big cost to repair or replace, so inspections are critical for peace of mind or to identify potential problems. Contact Sewer-Oscopy WestThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we dive into the world of professional cleaning with Frantz Cleaning, a company renowned for turning homes into spotless sanctuaries. Join us as we explore the secrets behind their exceptional services, from their meticulous attention to detail to the techniques and products they use to achieve stunning results.Whether you're looking to refresh your living space, prepare for a special occasion, sell your home, or simply maintain a pristine home, this episode offers valuable tips and inspiration. Contact Frantz CleaningThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Shawn and Charlie from the Taranto Group join us to talk about how the influx of people moving into Idaho has shaped their economy, public opinion and housing market. Contact the Taranto GroupThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Harry Bennett Jr from Equity Reach Mortgage Solutions drops some serious knowledge on how to lower your monthly payment dramatically with some options you might not know about, including assumable loans and rate buy downs. If you're uncomfortable with 7-8% interest rates, this is the episode for you! Contact Harry at Equity ReachThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Ryan "Monty" Montgomery from Photon Brothers joins us to talk about solar panels, power walls and why solar installation still makes sense. Turns out, there are still credits and rebates to take advantage of, and with the ever increasing cost of utilities, you might be surprised how quickly you break even. Contact Photon BrothersThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Zeke Graf from ZG Custom Interiors is on the podcast today talking about interior finishes. Specifically, authentic lime plaster. If you're looking for a unique finish for a kitchen hood, a fireplace, an accent wall, or a whole home....Zeke will create a piece of art that will be a show-stopper in your home. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

It's a question we answer all the time with our buyers...and it's not as simple as you might think. In this episode, the Landmark Team jump into market data and strategies that will help you write offers that get accepted! Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Tune in to our latest episode as we delve deep into the world of home insurance with Tyler Riley from Riley & Riley Insurance in Arroyo Grande. In this informative discussion, Tyler sheds light on the current challenges facing homebuyers when it comes to securing adequate insurance coverage for their new properties. From navigating complex policy requirements to understanding the factors that influence insurance premiums, Tyler provides invaluable insights and actionable advice to help listeners better protect their most valuable asset. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to safeguard their home against unforeseen risks.Contact Riley & RileyThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Tim Romano, a savvy homebuyer who took on the task of purchasing a fixer-upper. Tim shares his strategy for purchasing the home, timeline and cost of renovations and invaluable lessons learned throughout the entire process. From envisioning the potential of a run-down property to turning it into his dream home, Tim's story is filled with insights, challenges, and wins.Whether you're considering a fixer-upper of your own or just fascinated by the process of turning a neglected property into a gem, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice and inspiration. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

2022 Brewery of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival...8 Gold Medals for their Beers........and right in our backyard! Ryan and Jacque Fields (and their two kids) join us to talk about the serious business of starting a brewery. From the challenges of opening right before a pandemic to the victories of community support and gold medals, Wild Fields Brewhouse has been through a lot since they opened and they're just getting started. They pride themselves on having something for everyone who enters. From food to beers to fun...their brewhouse in Atascadero won't let you down! Learn more about Wild FieldsThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

We helped the Howard family purchase a family compound last year, so we thought it would be fun to follow up with them one year later to see how it's going. Mother and son LeeAnn and Richard talk us through what inspired them to buy a family compound, the biggest challenges in the escrow process, how a family compound affects relationships, and advice for those considering doing something similar. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Michael Vogt, Lead Designer with Purlieu Landscape Design + Build joins us to talk about how landscapes can create memories that last generations. From small spaces to small budgets, Michael helps us understand the importance of good design, how to create the best indoor/outdoor space and some trends they're seeing in landscape architecture. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we sit down with the warm and brilliant Jaime Lewis, writer and host of the "Consumed" podcast. Over the last 5 years, Jaime has talked to the wonderful people of SLO County  who put food on our plate and drinks in our glass.  We talk through the history of food on the central coast, how our identity is intertwined with what we eat and how we eat it, why it's so challenging for restaurants to survive on the Central Coast and how we can make sure we're looking at sustainability for the businesses we love and the people that work for them. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of buyer representation with none other than Scott Haigwood, President of the Pismo Coast Association of Realtors. We explore the historical context surrounding buyer representation and its pivotal role in shaping real estate transactions. From the most recent lawsuits challenging traditional commission structures to recent regulatory changes aimed at enhancing transparency, we navigate the complexities that both empower and potentially burden today's buyers. Join us as we unpack the nuances of these developments and discuss their implications for navigating the modern real estate landscape.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we're uncovering the secrets lurking within our walls with Mold Doctor, a trusted name in mold testing and remediation serving San Luis Obispo County. We discuss the impact of mold on the human body, and on your home. We also talk through what to do when you have mold in your home and how to prevent it if you don't. Mold doesn't have to be a deal breaker in real estate transactions. The Mold Doctor has a trusted process for identification, testing, remediation and certification that will leave you confident in the safety of your home! Contact The Mold DoctorThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Attorney Mike Pick joins us to talk about trusts. What is a trust, what different types of trusts are there and when to use them, how much does it cost and how long does it take, and so much more. Mike does a great job with a high level overview, while also getting into some specifics that will give you some practical advice on whether or not a trust might be a good option for you. Contact MikeThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

If you own an investment property and like saving money on taxes, this is the episode for you! Ben Watson, CPA extraordinaire, joins us to talk about cost segregation, which is a powerful tool to save you tens of thousands of dollars in taxes through expedited depreciation. Contact BenThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

There are lots of ways for escrows to go sideways. This week, the team shares with you three big things to avoid once you're in contract; one from an agent's perspective, one from a seller's and one from a buyer's. And we even give you a few bonus "no-no's" at the end! Contact Landmark GroupThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Jessica Bass, owner of Acacia Creek Home Staging joins us to talk about the value of home staging. You might be surprised to find out how staging can drive the selling price of a home. Jessica talks through some of the trends she's seeing in home design, how she approaches staging a home and why you should consider using a staging company when selling your home. Contact Acacia Creek Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

You're all in for a real treat with this episode! Rene Jacques and Dino Rosetti are two powerhouse business coaches, entrepreneurs and friends who provide some incredible insight on how to deal with tough times. 2023 was a tough year for anyone in the real estate profession, but whatever industry you find yourself in, Dino and Rene give a holistic approach to developing mental toughness for the tough times.  Connect with ReneRene JacquesConnect with DinoDino RosettiThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Jeff, Travis and Bobbie sit down to discuss what we saw in 2023, what forces drive the market, and what 2024 might bring. From interest rates to inventory, home prices to buying strategies - it's all covered in this episode. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we sit down with Brett Bey from Bey Property Solutions to delve into the unbelievable story of the "Tenant from Hell" who managed to stay rent-free for a staggering 570 days in a Los Angeles AirBnb. Brett sheds light on the challenges landlords face when dealing with difficult tenants and navigating the legal intricacies of eviction. Join us as we explore the tenant vs. landlord rights landscape, discussing key insights and essential tips for both property owners and renters. Whether you're a landlord seeking to protect your investment or a tenant aiming to understand your rights, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the delicate balance between property ownership and tenant occupancy.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Scott Haigwood joins us to talk about the creation of the National Association of Realtors, the multiple listing service, and what makes Realtors different than Real Estate Agents. We also get into the recent commission based lawsuits and what it means for agents and buyers moving forward. Connect with ScottThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we talk through some of the key metrics we use to evaluate the Central Coast housing maket and what these numbers mean for buyers and sellers. Interest rates dropped this week, which is creating more demand, but inventory is still at all time lows. So what does that mean for the housing market? Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

We had the privilege of helping Jake and Ari purchase their first home. On this episode, Jake and Ari share their story of moving from rental to rental over the years, always feeling the pull towards home ownership, but not knowing how or when. This is a great success story of what happens when you have a good team around you, a plan, and the perseverance to see it  through. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Keller Williams Team Lead, Bobbie Kelly, joins us to talk about how we can show up to our own life. We talk about agency and gratitude, who we surround ourselves with, and being so connected to our "why" that we feel an ache if we aren't achieving it. Bobbie shares some practical exercises that she took us through, and that you can go through yourself, to make sure that your life is aligned with your core values.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Join us as we peel back the layers of the commission-based model that has long governed the industry, exploring the nuances of how real estate agents get paid. Jeff, Adam and Travis delve into the traditional structures, dissecting the roles of buyer's and seller's agents and who decides how commissions get split. But we also delve into a groundbreaking lawsuit that threatens to reshape the landscape of real estate commissions as we know them. Could this legal battle be the carrier of change, challenging the very foundations of agent compensation? If so, what could that change look like and when is it coming? We discuss it all in this episode of Guiding You Home. Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Jeff Meyers from Certainty Home Lending joins us to talk about the new Fannie Mae down payment requirements for multi-family units. Previously, you had to put 15-25% down on those units, which made it difficult for most people to get their foot in the door. Now, the requirement is 5% down, which opens up new opportunities, especially for those considering house hacking. We run through the numbers on two acutal duplexes that are currently active in SLO County to show you how the payments will work with these new requirements compared to the old. We also talk about the differences between this conventional program and the FHA program that allowed you to put 3.5% down, but had other stipulations.Contact Jeff MeyersThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Join us for an insightful and informative episode with our three industry experts, Adam, Jeff, and Travis, to dive deep into the current state of the real estate market. In this discussion, our hosts will provide a comprehensive update on the ever-changing landscape of the real estate industry, offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers.In this episode, the guys share the latest trends in interest rates and their impact on property purchases, what low inventory means for house prices and how high interest rates will actually lead to more inventory, and so much more. Whether you're looking to purchase your dream home in a competitive market or thinking about selling your property for the best price, Adam, Jeff, and Travis will provide you with expert guidance and proven strategies to achieve your real estate goals.Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Permitting, ADU's, Short-Term rentals, Zoning...we cover it all in this episode with Megan Martin, Community Development Director with the City of Grover Beach. Often times, working with the city or county can be a daunting process and feel like an "us vs them" situation. But Megan and her team are changing that...at least in Grover Beach - offering options and solutions for your development needs!Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we sit down with Dylan Deaton, the visionary founder of Estate 360. Dylan talks us through Estate 360's innovative online platform and how they are transforming the way we navigate the intricacies of estate transactions. Dylan shares his insights on the digital revolution, the challenges faced by traditional estate sale processes, and the unique solutions his company brings to the table. From streamlining the selling process to providing a seamless experience for buyers, this conversation unveils the future of estate sales and how Estate 360 is at the forefront of this game-changing evolution. Contact Estate 360Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Scott Collins, Executive Director from the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo is on the podcast today to discuss affordable housing in SLO. This problem is very personal for Scott and he and his team are doing incredible work around the County to provide housing to people who need it most. There are obvious challenges along the way, from funding to building these projects, but the HASLO team is committed to finding solutions and continuing to provide decent, safe and affordable housing for eligible residents of SLO County.  Learn more about HASLOThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

Banner Coffee is our home away from home. Most days you'll find us there discussing real estate, meeting with clients and enjoying a delicous cappuccino! In this episode, we talk with brothers Ben and Ryan Crandall who own this little slice of heaven. We chat with them about opening a coffee show,  how Banner is impacting the community and what's on the horizon for coffee in general and Banner Coffee Co. Follow Banner on InstagramThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we chat with an experienced notary about real estate transactions. We'll break down what notaries do and why they matter in the real estate world. From signing documents to getting your keys, you'll learn how their work is essential to keeping property deals on the up-and-up. Whether you're a newbie buyer, a seasoned investor, or just curious about how things work behind the scenes in real estate, this conversation will give you a clear picture of why notaries are a crucial part of the process.Contact Tricia Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

The real estate market in the U.S. is experiencing a dynamic and challenging time, as is the Central Coast. On one hand, the high interest rates and low inventory have made it harder for buyers to find and afford homes. On the other hand, the strong demand and limited supply have given sellers the ability to get a strong price for their properties. In this podcast, we will share some stories from our buyers and sellers who are engaging in the market now, and how they have overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, or just curious about the real estate market, we hope you find this podcast informative!Thanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.

In this episode, we're thrilled to have Eric Stolz, founder of SellHouse Media, join us as we delve into the captivating world of real estate photography and marketing. Eric brings a wealth of expertise and insights to the table, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in the industry.We kick things off by exploring the essential role that photography plays in marketing homes effectively. Eric shares his secrets on how to capture a property's unique charm and character through the lens, making it irresistibly appealing to potential buyers.But we don't stop at just photography. Eric generously shares his comprehensive knowledge of real estate marketing strategies that can make or break a sale. From online listings to social media campaigns, we cover it all, unraveling the mystery behind successful real estate marketing.Join us for an engaging conversation that combines the art of photography with the science of selling homes. Whether you're a seasoned real estate professional or a homeowner looking to maximize your property's marketability, this episode promises valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in and learn how to make your real estate endeavors picture-perfect!Find Eric on InstagramThanks for listening! Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Email us with any question or comments.