Gulf Coast to Space Coast

When a baseball connects perfectly with the bat and sails over the fence, there's a special feeling that stays with you forever. That magical moment—one that Clearwater Little League board member Amanda Cole hopes every child experiences—sits at the heart of our latest conversation about youth sports, community building, and creating future leaders.Fresh off our successful fundraiser that raised $3,500 for the league, Amanda reveals what makes Clearwater Little League special beyond the typical base hits and strikeouts. With over 360 players each season, their programs extend far beyond traditional baseball, including six Challengers teams that provide children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to experience America's pastime. Every fall, they host the statewide Challenger jamboree, welcoming teams from across Florida for a weekend celebration of inclusive baseball.Behind the pristine fields and impressive facilities lies a volunteer-driven organization tackling significant challenges. Hurricane damage last season forced the closure of five fields, while annual expenses—including a surprising $10,000 just for baseballs—require continuous fundraising efforts. Yet through careful stewardship, registration fees remain remarkably affordable ($35 for T-Ball), ensuring financial barriers don't prevent participation. The league provides equipment for newcomers and creates a supportive environment where players can develop confidence while building relationships with caring adults.Amanda's vision for the future includes doubling their softball program and increasing female representation in coaching and umpiring roles. However, with seven fields already booked from afternoon until night throughout the season, community support through sponsorships (ranging from $600 to $25,000) and volunteering has never been more crucial to their continued growth.Whether you're looking to register a player, volunteer your time, or support youth development through sponsorship, visit clearwaterlittleleague.com today to discover how you can help build brave, honest leaders who care about their community both on and off the diamond.

When Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector steps onto Virgin Airlines and sees Clearwater Beach representing Tampa Bay on international flight promotions, he's reminded of his city's global tourism appeal. But as he reveals in this candid conversation with Real Estate Disruptors host Amir Habibzadeh, tourism is just one piece of a more ambitious vision for Clearwater's future.Mayor Rector brings 34 years of legal practice and extensive international leadership experience to his role, having visited 50 countries in a single year during his presidency of Junior Chamber International. This global perspective informs his approach to Clearwater's challenges - from unprecedented hurricane recovery to downtown revitalization that has lagged behind neighboring St. Petersburg and Tampa. "We need to revitalize our city, not just our downtown," Rector emphasizes, outlining his commitment to enhancing all areas from the beaches to Countryside.The conversation delves into Clearwater's remarkable recovery from Hurricane Helene's record-breaking eight-foot storm surge that devastated properties that had stood for a century, while also addressing the critical housing affordability crisis that forces over half of Clearwater Beach's workforce to commute from neighboring counties. Mayor Rector details his plans for attracting development while protecting the natural environment that makes Clearwater special, including waterfront opportunities created by the county's planned relocation and potential workforce housing along US-19.Beyond tourism, Rector envisions Clearwater becoming a hub for cybersecurity and life sciences, particularly marine research, positioning the city within Tampa Bay's broader economic ecosystem. His hands-on approach to community engagement - personally responding to every email and phone call - reflects his commitment to hearing residents' concerns while building a legacy focused on long-term improvements that may not be fully realized during his term. For real estate professionals navigating Clearwater's complex market, the mayor offers both encouragement and challenge: help find housing solutions for the workforce while maintaining the community character that makes Clearwater an international destination.

What if you could transform your real estate business overnight with the power of media? Meet Michael Wholey of Wholey Media, our special guest who turned his film school education into a thriving business that revolutionizes how real estate agents present themselves and their listings. From creating compelling "hero videos" that elevate agent branding to offering professional headshots that capture the essence of real estate professionals, Michael shares his journey and expertise in leveraging video production to boost agent visibility and lead generation.Join us as we uncover the innovative marketing strategies that have reshaped the real estate landscape, especially for buyers from afar. Michael and I discuss cutting-edge tools like virtual tours, drone photography, and virtual staging, which have become indispensable in showcasing properties. We laugh over personal anecdotes and dive into the ever-evolving demands of homebuyers, from detailed floor plans to future-proof features like detached units and home studios. The conversation is a blend of insights, humor, and a forward-looking perspective on what homebuyers will be seeking in the years to come.As the real estate market shifts from the highs of 2021 to the competitive demands of 2025, the episode underscores the necessity of high-quality, consistent marketing practices. We explore how agents can maintain their brand strength and secure client trust by systematizing their processes and ensuring every listing shines. With platforms like YouTube and Instagram at the forefront of content consumption, embracing video and professional photography becomes critical. We wrap up with tips on reinvesting earnings into marketing, moving beyond transactional interactions, and fostering long-term client relationships.

This episode delves into property tax relief options available for homeowners affected by recent calamities, focusing on the procedures for claiming refunds and the significance of the Save Our Homes cap. Tune in for expert insights on homestead exemptions, tax assessments, and actionable steps residents can take to secure financial relief in uncertain times. • Discussion on partial property tax refunds available for displaced homeowners • Application process and important deadlines outlined • Explanation of the refund calculation based on days displaced and structure value • Insights on the Save Our Homes cap and implications for long-term residents • Clarifications regarding reapplying for homestead exemptions post-rebuild • Importance of community engagement and resources for property owners • Tips for realtors to assist clients in navigating tax processes

Join us for a groundbreaking conversation with the Honorable Mike Twitty, the Pinellas County Property Appraiser, as we unlock the mysteries behind the innovative updates to the PCPAOgov site. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into the often-confusing FEMA 50% rule letter, understanding its true origins and how it assists property owners in navigating the aftermath of storms. Discover how this massive three-year project enhances user experience with cutting-edge tools and architecture, especially for residents dealing with storm-induced challenges. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for property owners, offering practical guidance on handling property appraisal intricacies and storm-related repairs with confidence.We also tackle the complex world of FEMA regulations and permitting processes in Pinellas County, drawing lessons from Hurricane Ian's impact. Learn about the critical importance of flood insurance compliance and the potential pitfalls of neglecting FEMA guidelines, as evidenced by Lee County's loss of NFIP insurance discounts. Our discussion shines a light on the crucial role floodplain managers play in efficiently managing the rebuilding appraisal process, ensuring timely permit approvals amidst the bureaucracy. With insights from Mike Twitty, we equip you with the tools to navigate governmental red tape and streamline your storm-related permit endeavors.

Discover the revolutionary shift in MLS systems as we challenge traditional norms with Chris Lumia from Stellar MLS. Have you ever wondered what the real estate world would look like without compensation structures tied to MLS listings? Tune in to learn about the innovative steps Stellar MLS is taking to prepare brokers and agents for this transformation, and why MLS remains an essential pillar for real estate professionals, offering more than just compensation.Navigating the intricate world of third-party IDX feeds within MLS requires precision and care. Chris shares valuable insights on the compliance protocols that safeguard data integrity and protect brokers and agents from potential risks and liabilities. Understand the shared responsibility in upholding these standards and learn why reporting violations is critical for maintaining a fair and trustworthy platform. We emphasize the importance of vigilance and adhering to these guidelines to prevent serious consequences and preserve the integrity of the MLS system.Maximize your real estate potential by leveraging MLS's expansive resources and strategic opportunities. With Stellar MLS's vast network across Florida and Puerto Rico, agents can tap into powerful referral systems and exploit niche markets for enhanced success. Discover how tools like MLS Match, Hurdler, and specialized training sessions can enrich your business strategy and boost your credibility in the competitive real estate arena. Join us as we share personal stories and announce upcoming learning opportunities that promise to elevate your expertise and grow your real estate business.

How is the real estate industry being revolutionized by appraisal modernization? Meet John Barcelo, a pioneering force in real estate valuation, sharing his journey from the foreclosure sales trenches of Tampa in the 1980s to co-founding a groundbreaking national appraisal firm. John unveils how technological advancements are reshaping appraisals, with the potential to deliver valuations within 24 hours—a norm in places like Australia and New Zealand. Get ready to expand your understanding of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's innovative valuation processes that are set to transform the industry.Communication is key, especially when navigating complex real estate trends. We explore the dynamic interaction between real estate agents and appraisers, emphasizing the importance of speaking the appraisers' language for seamless transactions. From understanding the nuances of local market trends to the rise in mortgage applications due to fluctuating interest rates, we unpack the current market conditions. Discover how real estate agents play a vital role in the appraisal process by returning calls and sharing on-the-ground insights.Natural disasters like Hurricane Helene that just passed throught the Tampa Bay area and throughout the south east, pose unique challenges to the real estate market, and in this episode, we tackle the issues of affordability and growth stagnation. John shares insights on the stigma attached to properties affected by storms and how remediation can shift perceptions over time. We also highlight the powerful partnerships that can be forged in the industry, harkening back to John's collaboration with Charles Rutenberg. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on the importance of mutual support and collaboration for achieving success in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.

Unlock the secrets to creating a stunning Florida landscape as we sit down with Diana Interlante from Interlante Landscape Design. With her extensive experience since 1985, Diana shares her top recommendations for grass types that thrive in Florida's climate, shedding light on why Seville, Bitter Blue, and Palmetto grasses are superior to the traditional St. Augustine. We also explore the rising trend of hardscapes and container gardening, offering practical and visually appealing alternatives to traditional lawns.Diana delves into the nitty-gritty of tree removal permits and the importance of maintaining good relations with neighbors, avoiding the hefty fines of improper removal. Succulents like agaves and cacti are becoming increasingly popular in Florida, and Diana explains why these water-wise plants are an excellent choice for sustainable gardens. Furthermore, she provides insights on caring for a variety of blooming plants, including norgr's, alamandas, jatrophas, Bird of Paradise, and knockout roses. For hydrangea enthusiasts, Diana's tips on managing these finicky plants will prove invaluable.We wrap up the episode with a comprehensive discussion on outdoor maintenance and safety. From choosing the right artificial turf to the hidden dangers of plants like oleander, bougainvillea, and sago palms, Diana covers it all. She also addresses the limitations of using reclaimed water for certain plants and the necessity of potable water for others. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Diana's practical advice and wealth of knowledge will inspire and equip you to create a beautiful, sustainable landscape in Florida.

What does it take to stay safe during a hurricane in coastal Florida? Discover the invaluable insights from Kathy Perkins, Director of Pinellas County Emergency Management Services, who brings over three decades of experience, including her firsthand involvement in Hurricane Andrew. Kathy helps us navigate the unique challenges that each storm brings, from storm surges and high winds to inland flooding. Learn why it's crucial not to get fixated on the "cone of uncertainty," and hear Kathy's expert advice on staying informed and understanding the broader risks.Ever felt "hurricane fatigue"? We tackle this critical issue by reflecting on personal experiences with major storms like Hurricane Charlie, Ian, and Irma. Kathy shares the complexities of hurricane forecasting and stresses the importance of staying vigilant despite the unpredictable nature of these storms. We dive into the challenges of evacuation planning, especially for vulnerable populations, and discuss the necessity of preparing for best, mid, and worst-case scenarios. This segment aims to keep you ready for rapid changes in storm intensity and direction, emphasizing the dangers of complacency.Preparation is key, and that's why we focus on practical strategies for evacuation and hurricane preparedness in our final chapter. Drawing parallels to everyday safety measures, you'll get practical advice on creating a well-thought-out plan tailored to your family's needs, including pets and specific medical requirements. Learn about the importance of timely preparation and how to use resources like Alert Pinellas and the Ready Pinellas app. Kathy's insights will guide you through knowing your risk, making a plan, and staying informed to ensure your safety during hurricane season.

Ever feel like you're hunting for a golden key to unlock success in real estate? Listen in as we, Monica and myself, debunk this myth and replace it with the truth - there is no single "one thing," but rather a series of consistent, strategic actions that builds a successful real estate business. We share the story of an agent who started with her immediate family and then consistently expanded her network, reminding us that persistence is key in this industry.Building your real estate business is about more than just closing deals, it's about building lasting, genuine connections. We dive into the art of communication and how sincere rapport with clients can make or break your success. We advocate the use of video messages over text to strengthen your connection with clients and emphasize the need for a solid business plan to help elevate your real estate venture.Finally, we tackle the current real estate market and its evolution since 2008, navigating its complexities together. With insight into the mindset of today's buyers, the impact of higher interest rates, and the current market dynamics, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding. We underline the importance of agents being knowledgeable about the market trends, not just relying on news outlets, and champion the importance of understanding your contract and continually educating yourself. Wrapping up, we discuss the significance of networking and striking a balance of passion and professionalism in the real estate business, leaving you with a wide array of strategies and insights to apply to your own practice.

Ready to debunk the myths and misconceptions about interior design and decoration? Join us as we sit down with our special guest, Sarah, an accomplished interior designer, to dissect the intricate world of interior design. She brings to the table more than a decade of experience and shares her expertise on distinguishing between a designer and a decorator, the overlap of real estate and design, and how understanding structural aspects of a home can significantly impact design decisions.Our conversation doesn't stop at the exterior; we actually climb inside the designer's mind, exploring the art and science of space planning to accommodate diverse tastes and lifestyles. We touch on the sensitive task of blending the old with the new, discussing the delicate balance of respecting a home's original architecture while injecting modern touches to keep it current with recent trends. Sarah also shares her valuable insights on the most common mistakes people make when flipping homes and how to avoid them.But there's more! If you've ever wondered about the ongoing debate between floating shelves versus no uppers or how to design a practical, functional, and stylish kitchen, then this is the episode for you. We illuminate the critical role lighting plays in enhancing room ambiance and how to choose the right light fixtures. Additionally, we weigh the pros and cons of DIY home design versus professional consultation and discuss the importance of material selection for a cohesive look during home renovations. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode brimming with invaluable tips and wisdom from a seasoned industry expert.

What if you could penetrate a new real estate market and build a successful team from scratch? This can be a tall order, but not for our guest, Lance Willard of the Willard Home Team. With an inspiring 17-year journey in real estate, Lance divulges his secrets to breaking into the real estate market, building relationships, and creating a powerhouse team. We navigate through his transition to a new state and how he employed cold calling, circle prospecting, and relationship building to earn his name in the field.This episode isn't just about making your mark, it's also about maintaining it. Ever wondered how to stay connected with your clients? We glean insights from Lance's unique strategies - from offering free coffee to passersby to sending handwritten cards. But it doesn't stop there, Lance also elaborates on how he fosters a team environment that inspires creativity, innovation, and risk-taking. He provides valuable advice on preparing your team to excel in the industry, and the importance of high touch in real estate.Lastly, we delve into the nitty-gritty of team structure, lead generation strategies and communication methods. Lance talks about his unique approach of introducing himself with his phone number to potential clients, and the significance of frequent quality assurance calls. Join us as we unpack this wealth of insights from a seasoned professional, and learn how to build a strong team that can weather any storm in the real estate market.

Opening your eyes to the intricate world of property appraisals and tax rates, we're thrilled to welcome a true authority on the subject, Mike Twitty, the Pinellas County Property Appraiser. With a wealth of experience and deep understanding of the field, Mike offers us a lens into the backstage processes, including decoding the values posted on their website and intricacies of trim notices. But that's not it, he also presents an illuminating post-COVID overview of the value increase for single-family homes over the past two years, something that's reshaping the real estate market in unprecedented ways.Our conversation takes a turn towards understanding the role of technology in property appraisals. Mike recounts his firsthand experience with the recent website redesign and the unique challenges that accompany such system changes. We delve into the specifics of different mobile home parks and the elusive arena of PACE loans. Ever wondered why these loans are missing from their website or tax bills? Mike has the answers. The discourse shifts gear as we explore the often-overlooked complexities of homestead exemptions and property taxes. With Mike at the helm, we walk through the process, discuss the consequences of removing homestead from a property before its sale, and the penalties for homestead fraud. Ever thought about establishing trusts to retain homestead benefits? This episode will guide you on the why and how. Mike also explains how to leverage the tax estimator website for a smoother transition into the upcoming tax year. So, tune in as we dissect the multifaceted world of property appraisal and taxes, promising a conversation full of insights and knowledge you can't afford to miss!

Bernardo of Marvel Insurance and Mike Webb, Broker of Charles Rutenberg Clearwater talk about all the flood insurance changes and the basics of flood insurance for new home owners, new agents, and seasoned agents looking to understand the new laws and laws that will be in affect over the next few years.

Join Byron and Barry Lively from B.Lively Images as we discuss the importance of professional real estate photography, how it can help you get to the closing table faster, and how it can get your Seller more money.

Mike Webb and Lilliana Warr of Showhomes Tampa Bay talk about the 5 Do's and 5 Don'ts of staging.

Monica and Steve talk about Successful Characteristics for Real Estate Professionals. Find out which ones to possess and not to possess on this exciting episode!

Steve Looper and Iman Shami from Interiors by Iman...talk about design tips for your home and/or your vacation rental.  Airbnb & VRBO are very popular ...you might be surprised at some of Imans most recent designs for her customers.

FL Insurance Changes & Updates with Bernardo Piccolo of MARVEL Insurance and Mike Webb Broker of CRR in sunny Clearwater Florida.  The discuss the ins and outs of all the new changes....especially, the home owners who will be requried to carry flood insurance, when they previously did not have to...Wow.  Check out all the changes and updates on this weeks podcast!

Joann talks to Orlando Healths John Moore President of Bayfront Health and Blake Bard SVP of Bayfront Health St. Petersburg Foundation.

Another  Podcast within the Podcast, in the Loop with Steve Looper and Monica Osorio talk about the changes and evolution of real estate.

Steve and Monica talk about going Back to the Basics as a Real Estate Professional.

Steve & Monica start the new series within the CRR Podcast.  Staying in the Loop with Steve Looper. 

Marsha, Rhonda, & Byron discuss different loan programs, educating buyers on the loan process, & More.

Monica & Steve talk with Tom & Michelle about the current market rate, mortgages, managing customer relationships, & MORE....!

Marsha, Bernardo (Marvel Insurance), & Byron Talk about Home Insurance some tips for all agents, some of the new changes, and some insight to help your buyers out early in the transaction.

StPeteRising.com founder Anthony Close joins Fred & Byron to talk about the Surge of commercial buildings, residential buildings, projects, & proposed construction going on as the Bay Areas waterfront town of St. Petersburg, FL is growing.

Dr. Robin Lavitch talks with Josh, Mike, & Maurice about the importance of recharging your batteries.

Robin talks about dealing with difficult people and the adjustments people make to obtain clarity  or avoid escalation.

In this 3 part series, Dr. Robin Lavitch talks to Mike, Maurice, & Josh about the differences between Goal Setting vs Goal Getting.

We talk about Mindset, changes you can make, what F.E.A.R is, & more.  

Mike, Mo, and Josh talk about Social Media. 

Mike, Maurice, & Josh discuss todays market and the concerns of consumers purchasing a home in todays market.

John Barcelo of Valucentric powered Opteon discusses Appraisals and the many differences of a Appraisers view vs a Realtors view.

CRR's JoAnn Nestor, Monica Osorio, & Steve Looper discuss real estate, successful characteristics, achievements, 100% commission, and more.

Steve Looper (Head Trainer CRR Orlando) interviews Monica Osorio (Broker CRR Orlando).  We learn so many things, how she started, her path to real estate, tips for agents, and that's not all!  This episode is packed full of fantastic info.

Get to know your team! In this episode, we take a more personal turn as we get to know CRR Tampa Bay's Broker, Fred Hintenberger, and Office Manager, Jo-Ann Roberts. From Fred's go-to meal to Jo-Ann's favorite band – we learn more about two of the leaders of our office – and they're interviewed by our very own, Mrs. JoAnn Nestor!

CRR Orlando's trainer sits down with one of our entrepreneurial agents, Corey Smith. They discuss Corey's background both in the industry and prior to, what has made him a successful agent, and his advice for other agent's just getting started in the industry!

John, Jo-Ann, & Fred discuss how it all began at Charles Rutenberg Realty.

Movement Mortgage's Michael Cochran and Managing Broker Monica Osorio discuss Mortgages and The Movement Mortgage Mission.

Real Estate Education and its importance with Asst Broker Terry Yoder and Educator Joe Troy.

Part 2 of Nathaniel Bittman - Regional Manager of Security National Mortgage joins Fred Hintenberger - Broker of Charles Rutenberg Clearwater to discuss Current rates, Housing Market, and beyond.

Monica talks to newly appointed  Orange County Property Appraiser Amy Mercado about her role, real estate, family and beyond!

Nathaniel Bittman - Regional Manager of Security National Mortgage joins Fred Hintenberger - Broker of Charles Rutenberg Clearwater to discuss Current rates, Housing Market, and beyond.

PART 2!!!!    Pinellas County Tax Appraiser Mike Twitty and Mike Webb discuss Homestead Exemptions, Portability, new Amendments for 2021 and more!

Steve Looper sits down with founder of Systematic Home Staging Joseph Sipp.  They discuss what home staging is, the importance, and how he started this amazing company at such a young age.

Pinellas County Tax Appraiser Mike Twitty and Mike Webb discuss Homestead Exemptions, Portability, new Amendments for 2021 and more!

Mayor Rick Kriseman and JoAnn Nestor talk about Saint Petersburg,  its booming real estate, and its newly built Saint Petersburg Pier.

Monica is joined by Attorney Michael Heath  to discuss real estate, realtors, attorneys, title, AND ....the LEGAL BEAGLE.

David and Fred talk about the Gulf Coast real estate and the impact of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021

Gulf Coast 2 Space Coast Monica and Cliff talk about 2020 and what 2021s future has to offer