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Keeping it Real Podcast • Chicago REALTORS ® • Interviews With Real Estate Brokers and Agents
Amanda Pendleton, the Zillow house trends expert, unpacks fresh data on today's buyers and sellers. Amanda discusses the growing importance, and fragility, of buyer loyalty, why repeat clients often don't return to their original agent, and the re‑engagement strategies top producers use to stay top of mind for 10–15 years between moves. Next, Amanda talks about how online research and AI are changing how consumers find agents, what a powerful digital presence and brand should look like in 2026. Amanda also emphasizes that GenZ is a bigger force in the market than most agents realize. Last, Amanda explores what today's sellers really want and how data-driven agents can use Zillow's insights to win more listings and build long-term loyalty. If you'd prefer to watch this interview, click here to view on YouTube! This episode is brought to you by Real Geeks and Courted.io.
This week we started off discussing the announcement of an announcement which has now been actually announced by the time the podcast was produced and published, as a part of Blizzard's 35th anniversary. We still have some announcements coming up for Overwatch, Diablo, and Hearthstone, which we speculated on a bit. But, in terms of the stuff we know is happening in WoW, the team is "whelmed" by the Midnight prepatch event, which just started.Something we're slightly more whelmed on are the Neighborhood Endeavors, now that Blizzard has boosted some of the rewards and XP gains, making the whole enterprise slightly less daunting.Also, Player Housing on Zillow? It's more likely than you think.If you have a few minutes, please fill out our survey to tell us what you think about the podcast. This data is collected by our podcast host, Acast, and will be used to help us improve the show as well as attract potential sponsors. Your answers are completely anonymous. We appreciate your help!If you enjoy the show, please support us on Patreon, where you can get these episodes early and ad-free! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Yitzchak Pierson breaks down how real estate agents can leverage AI-powered SEO to stay visible in a changing search landscape. He explains how buyers are using AI to research homes, why public-facing content matters, and how to optimize profiles across platforms like Google Business, YouTube, and Zillow. Yitzchak shares practical strategies for creating clear, local, question-based content that builds trust, boosts credibility, and helps agents show up where AI is pulling information in today's search results.
In this Best Year Yet episode, Eric Thompson interviews Belle Caplis, a Brooklyn based Compass agent on the Bateman Fields team. Belle shares how she grew from 9 million in sales volume to 23.6 million in 2025, increasing from 11 to 25 sales transactions, while also expanding rentals and referral business. Belle's story is especially compelling because her real estate career began in March of 2020, just days before New York City shut down. With the city locked down and her new career uncertain, she found structure and community through a Compass recovery meeting that led her to Ninja Selling and a powerful accountability practice called the 10 at 10. Three times a week, Belle joined a Zoom session, started with gratitude, then turned cameras off and called 10 people using FORD questions before regrouping to report back. That early rhythm gave her confidence, listening skills, and the ability to build trust fast, which later made her highly effective even with Zillow leads, where she routinely stayed on calls 30 to 40 minutes to deepen connection. Belle explains that her 2025 growth came from two main shifts. First, she became much better at follow up after open houses, using specific, personalized follow up tied to what the person said and continuing to deliver value through listings, pricing strategy, and education rather than generic check ins. Second, she leaned fully into education and service across her sphere by giving real estate advice freely, offering to find answers when she did not know them, and becoming the person people consult for clarity. Belle's approach is rooted in what she calls rigorous honesty, transparency, and risk analysis. She promises clients she cannot control outcomes, but she can control how honest and clear she is, and she builds deep trust by pointing out both pros and potential risks so clients can make confident decisions. She closes by encouraging listeners to be imperfect, take small steps, be honest about what they are not doing, and start again tomorrow. Key Takeaways Accountability creates momentum and Belle's early 10 at 10 practice built confidence, consistency, and relationship skills fast FORD questions are a business builder because they shift the focus to people, create trust, and help you listen for what matters Attraction over promotion works because you do not need to announce you are an agent, you just lead with curiosity and care Trust building beats pretending and the phrase "I'm not one hundred percent on that, so I'll get back to you very soon" protects credibility and creates natural follow up Longer first conversations create faster trust and Belle's ability to stay connected for 30 to 40 minutes helped her convert leads at a higher level Open house follow up is a growth lever when it is specific, personal, and value based rather than generic check ins Education is a referral engine when you freely explain pricing strategy, negotiation, and why listings sell or do not sell Service creates opportunity because you never know where the next referral will come from, so treat everyone like they matter Define your A list as the people you are rooting for and call them to reset your mindset and get out of your own head Humor and personality can be part of flow and Belle uses memes, "real estate gossip," and stories to stay top of mind while reinforcing expertise Rigorous honesty builds lifetime clients and Belle's promise is transparency, not outcomes she cannot control Risk analysis is a differentiator because clients feel protected, informed, and confident in their decisions Progress matters more than perfection and small daily improvements compound into big years Memorable Quotes "I onboarded at Compass on a Wednesday in March of 2020 and on Friday the entire city shut down." "I don't know how to do real estate, but I know how to go to a meeting." "This is attraction, not promotion." "I'm not one hundred percent on that and I don't want to answer until I am, so I'm going to get back to you very soon." "My goal was to gain trust before I got off that phone call." "I'm not a gatekeeper." "My A's are the people that I am rooting for." "The fastest way for me to reset to factory settings is to focus on other people." "I'm going to tell you no way more than I'm going to tell you yes." "I give you permission to not do it well today. Just do it." "Make one or two baby steps of progress today, then start over tomorrow." Links: Website: https://ninjaselling.com/ninja-podcast/ Email: TSW@NinjaSelling.com Phone: 1-800-254-1650 Podcast Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/TheNinjaSellingPodcast Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NinjaSelling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninjasellingofficial/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ninjaselling Upcoming Public Ninja Installations: https://NinjaSelling.com/events/list/?tribe_eventcategory%5B0%5D=183&tribe__ecp_custom_2%5B0%5D=Public Ninja Coaching: http://www.NinjaSelling.com/course/ninja-coaching/ Belle Caplis: https://www.compass.com/agents/belle-caplis/ Belle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belleclosing
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene is joined by Stuart Gethner, a longtime real estate investor, educator, and connector who has spent decades helping investors move from analysis into action. Stuart shares insights from his experience coaching investors and building his own portfolio across multiple market cycles. The conversation centers on why real estate is ultimately a people business. Stuart explains how networking, local market knowledge, and face-to-face relationships help investors avoid costly mistakes—especially when investing out of state or relying too heavily on online education. He and Jonathan discuss the limits of "YouTube University" and why real confidence comes from real conversations with experienced investors. Jonathan and Stuart also dive into partnerships, property management, and investor self-awareness. From understanding your personal strengths to building complementary partnerships and avoiding shiny object syndrome, the episode emphasizes patience, humility, and long-term thinking as foundations for sustainable investing success. In this episode, you will hear: Why networking groups accelerate investor confidence and clarity The risks of relying solely on online education without local insight How partnerships work best when both sides have equal skin in the game Why investing close to home often reduces operational risk How patience and long-term thinking outperform "get rich quick" strategies Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Stuart: Website: http://www.stuartgethner.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@StuartGethner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Gethner-Education-Consulting/61578852277422/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuartgethner LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stuartgethner/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stuart_gethner Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jome built a marketplace for new construction homes by solving a transparency problem most people don't know exists: the vast majority of new builds never appear on Zillow, Redfin, or traditional MLS systems. In this episode of BUILDERS, I sat down with Dan Hnatkovskyy, CEO and Co-Founder of Jome, to unpack how he identified a massive category gap during Austin's pandemic housing boom and scaled from scraping builder websites to partnering with 1,700+ builders including 92 of the top 100. Dan shares the specific market moments that unlocked builder partnerships, how he discovered Google's separate product category for new construction, and why early LLM traffic became a meaningful acquisition channel. Topics Discussed: Why IDX feeds and MLS requirements systematically exclude new construction inventory The three market inflection points that accelerated builder partnerships from 500 to 1,500+ in 12 months How Google's separate new construction product category created an arbitrage opportunity against brand-focused builders The manual MVP: Typeform + text message delivery before building any real product Why the mortgage rate lock-in effect (50%+ of mortgages under 3.5% vs 6-7% prevailing rates) compounds the housing shortage Accidentally discovering ChatGPT and Perplexity were driving closed transactions through analytics instrumentation The decision to optimize entirely for buyers despite builders being the sole revenue source GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Map structural exclusions in existing distribution systems: New construction homes can't enter MLS because they often lack finished addresses, real images, or completed properties—requirements designed for resale homes. This structural incompatibility created a $400B+ blind spot. Dan didn't just find underserved customers; he identified a category systematically locked out of dominant distribution. B2B founders should analyze whether incumbent platforms have structural requirements that exclude segments of the market, not just underserve them. Exploit paid search category mismatches between buyer intent and seller behavior: Dan discovered Google maintains separate product categories for new construction versus resale homes. Zillow and Redfin competed intensely in resale, but new construction was dominated by individual builders (Lennar, DR Horton) who assumed brand-driven intent—similar to car manufacturers. The reality: buyers search "new construction homes in Austin," not "Lennar homes." This category/behavior mismatch created immediate arbitrage. B2B founders should audit whether buyers search by problem/outcome while incumbents bid on brand terms, creating white space for aggregators. Time enterprise outreach to industry stress events, not product readiness: Jome scaled from 500 to 1,500 builders in one year by capitalizing on three specific moments: (1) pandemic demand surge when builders needed millennial/Gen Z reach, (2) 2022 quantitative tightening when builders feared demand collapse, (3) Zillow's 2023 policy change excluding builders with under 10 communities. Dan didn't wait for product-market fit—he mapped when prospects would be most receptive to any solution. B2B founders should create a calendar of industry stress events (regulatory changes, market corrections, competitor policy shifts) and time outreach to these windows regardless of product maturity. Instrument conversion funnels to detect emergent channels before consensus forms: Jome discovered meaningful lead volume and closed transactions from ChatGPT and Perplexity through analytics, not strategy. Only after seeing the data did they experiment with what Dan calls "reinforcement learning with LLMs"—promoting positive results to train the models. This wasn't about SEO or prompt engineering; it was about measurement infrastructure that surfaced signal before the channel was obvious. B2B founders should track referral sources at the closed deal level, not just top-of-funnel, to catch emerging platforms while unit economics are still favorable. Manually deliver value at zero margin before building product: Before any integrations or platform, Jome ran Google Ads to a Typeform, manually created searches in their agent-facing tool, and texted results to buyers. Dan's framework: "Start with manually creating value...and then step by step, improve it, automate it, make it more efficient." He launched this on a personal credit card and got immediate signal. B2B founders should resist the urge to build scalable product until they've proven someone will pay for (or convert on) manual delivery of the outcome. Optimize for the non-paying side when you're building a two-sided marketplace: Despite 100% of revenue coming from builder commissions, every product decision optimizes for buyer experience. Dan's logic: "If we want to bring value to the builders...we need to start with the buyers. We need to create the best possible home buying journey." This isn't idealism—it's recognition that in transaction-based models, buyer liquidity determines builder participation. B2B founders in marketplace businesses must identify which side is supply-constrained and build obsessively for the other side. // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role. Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM
The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview Rob and Greg are joined by Jack Miller (President & CEO of T3 Sixty) for a wide-ranging discussion on the SP 200, changes to T3's ranking methodology, brokerage business models, agent economics, consolidation, and the future of the MLS as a comprehensive marketplace. Key Takeaways SP 200 methodology update: Rankings now factor in future impact, not just past performance, leading to notable shifts in the Top 10. Agent economics by model: Traditional brokerages show higher average agent income, while fee-based and capped models emphasize unit economics. Brokerage costs: The critical metric is cost per transaction and cost per agent—not just GAAP net income. Teams vs. platforms: High-producing agents increasingly partner with platforms (Compass, Place, Side) instead of building large internal teams. MLS under pressure: Preserving a comprehensive marketplace is the key challenge as private and delayed listings increase. Consolidation continues: Industry consolidation is ongoing, but not near an end-state oligopoly. Portals vs. brokerages: Compass and Zillow are shaping industry direction in different ways, with contrasting strengths and strategies. Links Consulting Trends Industry Rankings Sp200 Rankings Industry News Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website Greg's Website Watch us on YouTube Our Sponsors: Cotality Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios
-Virginia erupts into Rob's newest political emergency as he accuses Governor Abigail “Spamburger” of pulling a bait-and-switch so large it should come with its own congressional oversight hearing. -Newsmax Hotline Guest: Fred Fleitz joins the show to talk NATO, Iran, Europe's collapse, and why the Ayatollah might want to start browsing Zillow listings in countries without extradition treaties. Today's podcast is sponsored by : RELIEF FACTOR - You don't need to live with aches & pains! Reduce muscle & joint inflammation and live a pain-free life by visiting http://ReliefFactor.com BIRCH GOLD - Protect and grow your retirement savings with gold. Text ROB to 98 98 98 for your FREE information kit! To call in and speak with Rob Carson live on the show, dial 1-800-922-6680 between the hours of 12 Noon and 3:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday…E-mail Rob Carson at : RobCarsonShow@gmail.com Musical parodies provided by Jim Gossett (http://patreon.com/JimGossettComedy) Listen to Newsmax LIVE and see our entire podcast lineup at http://Newsmax.com/Listen Make the switch to NEWSMAX today! Get your 15 day free trial of NEWSMAX+ at http://NewsmaxPlus.com Looking for NEWSMAX caps, tees, mugs & more? Check out the Newsmax merchandise shop at : http://nws.mx/shop Follow NEWSMAX on Social Media: -Facebook: http://nws.mx/FB -X/Twitter: http://nws.mx/twitter -Instagram: http://nws.mx/IG -YouTube: https://youtube.com/NewsmaxTV -Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NewsmaxTV -TRUTH Social: https://truthsocial.com/@NEWSMAX -GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/newsmax -Threads: http://threads.net/@NEWSMAX -Telegram: http://t.me/newsmax -BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/newsmax.com -Parler: http://app.parler.com/newsmax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don and Tom kick off the show with weekend banter and nostalgia about checkbooks before diving into why buying and selling a home remains one of life's biggest—and most misunderstood—financial decisions. Using a Wall Street Journal quiz, they explore smart pricing, commission negotiations, low-cost home improvements, inspections, seasonal pricing patterns, and even haunted-house disclosures. Along the way, callers ask about life insurance planning, tax-managed accounts, umbrella insurance, and retirement income strategy. The episode emphasizes realistic expectations, low-cost investing, diversification, and avoiding unnecessary fees, while reminding listeners that simple, disciplined decisions usually beat flashy financial “solutions.” 0:04 Weekend open, call-in invite, “no annuity” guarantee, check-writing nostalgia 1:24 Don discovers last checks were written in 2019–2021 2:45 Home buying/selling as life's biggest transaction 3:20 Overpricing your house and “it's worth what someone pays” 4:24 WSJ real estate quiz: pricing strategy in slow markets 6:14 Break, banter, and commission quiz setup 7:04 Real estate commissions are negotiable 8:10 Selling by owner and staging realities 9:14 Caller Dustin: debt-free at 27, life insurance, DIY vs advisors 12:41 Planning for life insurance proceeds and beneficiaries 14:06 Zillow estimates and home values 14:43 Caller Joey: SMAs and tax-loss strategies 17:31 Capital gains, housing exemptions, and SMA practicality 19:16 Caller Beth: umbrella insurance for homeowners 22:02 Caller Ron: retirement income, stable value funds, RMDs 25:06 Diversification beyond the S&P 500 26:50 Returning to WSJ real estate quiz 27:43 Best ROI upgrades: paint and curb appeal 28:23 Pre-listing inspections 29:44 When home prices peak (June) 31:09 Haunted houses and disclosure laws 33:43 Listener portfolio: AVGE, AVGV, bonds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Dylan Silver interviews Dallas Barkman, a broker specializing in new construction in Indiana and Michigan. They discuss the current trends in new construction, the impact of regulations, and the dynamics of the housing market. Dallas shares insights on the strategies employed by builders, the challenges faced in different counties, and the opportunities for first-time home buyers. The conversation also touches on the rental market, investment trends, and the experience of working across state lines in real estate. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss Big Tech's borrowing spree raising fears of AI risks in US bond market. All eyes are on Trump's reaction to the 'mother of all deals' between India and the EU. The dollar sinks to a 4-month low and gold soars past $5,000. Healthy 401(k)s need strong public markets. Zillow's best markets for home buyers in 2026. Is Elon Musk wrong about AI and retirement?
From a Craigslist ad to a 1,000-unit-a-year powerhouse, The Hogan Group's journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, James and Keith sit down with Mike Hogan (Founder) and Alicia Pittman (Principal Broker & President) to unpack how they've scaled their Virginia-based team to 80 agents across multiple markets without sacrificing culture, accountability, or profitability. They break down: Why micro-teams are the secret to mentorship, retention, and scale The onboarding expectations that instantly filter out the wrong hires Their unconventional "counter-recruiting" pitch that builds long-term loyalty How they use AI and CRMs to support, not replace, human connection Why clarity is kindness when it comes to letting agents go This is a blueprint for building something real—with systems that support people, not replace them. Give your clients the competitive edge with Zillow's Showcase. Discover how this exclusive, immersive media experience featuring stunning photography, video, virtual staging, and SkyTour helps agents drive more views, saves, and shares. Agents using Showcase on the majority of their listings on Zillow list 30% more homes than similar non-Showcase agents. Learn how to stand out and become the agent sellers choose. https://www.zillow.com/agents/showcase/ Links mentioned during the episode: https://owldoor.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTj69Gv3ZaU Connect with Mike on LinkedIn. Connect with Alicia on LinkedIn. Learn more about The Hogan Group on Facebook - Instagram or online at hogangrp.com. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Nick Corwin, founder of Oak and Ember, to explore what it really looks like to move from long-term rentals into short-term hospitality and eventually into ground-up development. Nick shares how an engineering mindset, strong mentorship, and disciplined downside analysis shaped his early investing decisions. The conversation traces Nick's evolution from owning Midwest long-term rentals to building unique short-term experiences in the Wisconsin Dells. He explains why chasing the middle of the market can be a losing strategy, how combining units and serving overlooked guest segments created an edge, and why operating short-term rentals requires far more systems and empathy than most investors expect. Jonathan and Nick also unpack the realities of entitlement risk, zoning battles, and development timelines. Nick offers a candid look at what it takes to push a project through local approvals, manage rising costs, and stay grounded when timelines and budgets inevitably expand. In this episode, you will hear: Why testing whether you even like being a landlord matters before scaling How Nick identified underserved short-term rental niches instead of competing in crowded markets The operational differences between long-term rentals and hospitality businesses Lessons learned from zoning, entitlement hurdles, and community resistance Why doubling both your budget and timeline can save you from painful surprises Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Nick: Website: http://www.stayoakandember.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Korwinning Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/korwinning/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korwinning/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@korwinning Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
If you've been thinking about leaving corporate but the risk feels too big, this episode gives you a smarter way to look at it.Brett sits down with Alex Smereczniak, a former EY consultant who left corporate early, built a high-growth business in the laundry space, and later launched Franzy—a platform designed to make franchising easier to research and navigate.This conversation covers the mindset shift that helps people stop overestimating the risk of leaving, plus why franchising can be an underrated “business with guardrails” path for escapees who want ownership without building from scratch.What we cover • Alex's escape story: college entrepreneurship → EY → leaving after a year and change • The moment that validated his decision: an EY partner's biggest career regret • Why fear is often self-created—and how to get past it • A practical worst-case scenario exercise to reset your risk tolerance • Why franchising is a business model, not an industry • Franzy's concept: “Zillow for buying and selling franchise businesses” • How AI + coaching can narrow thousands of franchise options into a realistic short list • Underrated franchise categories and trends (senior care, home services, turf, and more) • The “corporate is one customer” reframe—and why ownership builds equityKey timestamps (approx.) • 00:00–03:30 – Alex's corporate stint + why he left fast • 03:30–08:30 – The EY exit interview story: “It wasn't my ladder” • 08:30–12:30 – Why making money outside corporate is more possible than people think • 12:30–20:30 – The worst-case scenario exercise (the fear-killer) • 20:30–28:30 – Alex's journey building a scaled laundry business + why franchising clicked • 28:30–33:30 – What franchising actually is (and what most people misunderstand) • 33:30–40:30 – Franchise categories you probably haven't considered • 40:30–46:30 – Equity, control, and why “owning” beats “leasing” your careerBig takeaways • Most people overestimate the risk of leaving corporate. The real risk is staying dependent on one employer. • You don't need a perfect plan. You need small wins and momentum—then you adjust. • Franchising can be a fast path to ownership because you start with a proven playbook, support, and guardrails. • Ownership builds equity. A job pays you, but it doesn't typically create an asset you can sell.Who this episode is for • Corporate pros who want out but feel stuck because of risk, family, or finances • Escapees who want a “business with guardrails” instead of starting from scratch • Anyone curious about franchising beyond the usual fast-food stereotypesResources + links • Franzy https://franzy.com/ • Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-smereczniak-40310329/
Lunchbox revealed why he made the news and we hear his interview. Bobby shared the Most Expensive TV houses ranked by Zillow value including the top one that is worth $30 million dollars! Morgan had a dilemma where she went to a sandwich shop and the woman working was coughing while preparing her food. Lunchbox wants to play 'who is bigger' where he gives us two celebrities and we have to determine who is more famous right now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every January, James Dwiggins and Keith Robinson go on record and hold themselves accountable. In this annual "Predictions + Report Card" episode, the dynamic duo looks back at what they got right (and wrong) about 2025… and lays out bold predictions for the year ahead. This year's predictions episode covers: What the Compass/Anywhere merger signals for the future of brokerage Why big players like Zillow and CoStar may make even bigger moves The death of clear cooperation? NAR's crossroads and MLS consolidation AI-powered agents, humanoid robots, and the tech shift no one's ready for Agent attrition, lawsuits, inventory wars, and private listing strategies James and Keith don't pull punches and they don't sugarcoat the data. This is your insider playbook for what's really happening in residential real estate. Links mentioned during the show: https://youtu.be/jqYxIsV_59g https://youtu.be/jWsHGDyKsCA https://youtu.be/XcO3OnRufpA https://youtu.be/I4VUBMamHuY https://youtu.be/p4kiwl2A_nI https://youtu.be/wGgzzj_ugf0 https://youtu.be/2G7GYoox63k Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Bri West, co-founder of Somerled Designs, to explore how strategic design has become a competitive advantage in today's short-term rental market. Drawing on her background in marketing and real estate investing, Bri explains why design should be treated as a revenue-driving investment rather than a cosmetic expense. The conversation dives into how niching down on a clear guest avatar, using data to guide design decisions, and prioritizing high-impact spaces can dramatically increase ADR—even if occupancy is lower. Bri also shares insights from managing and designing hundreds of short-term rentals nationwide, including common mistakes investors make, how to think about amenities and bed configurations, and why lifestyle photography and branding are no longer optional. Listeners will come away with a clearer framework for evaluating short-term rental opportunities, aligning design with long-term investment goals, and standing out in increasingly saturated markets. In this episode, you will hear: Why short-term rental design should start with data and investment strategy, not personal taste How niching down on a specific guest experience can outperform "general" properties The role of amenities, durability, and bed layout in guest satisfaction and reviews Why branding and lifestyle photography directly impact bookings and pricing power How to think about long-term competitiveness as markets become more saturated Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Bri: Website: https://www.somerleddesigns.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somerled.designs/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/somerled-designs/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
To check out the complete video replay go to:https://LeadDeck.ai/sprintsInteractive Real Estate Work Session: Lead Generation and Effective Follow-upsIn this episode, Josh conducts an interactive work session focused on lead generation and follow-up strategies. The session begins with a change in plans from a deal sprint to a collaborative working session. Josh provides a step-by-step guide to implementing his lead-generation strategy using a simple one-page document. He emphasizes the importance of having more conversations to close more deals and addresses various audience questions about using platforms like Bold Trail, Zillow, and Lead Deck for effective lead management. The episode includes real-time examples of outreach to expired listings, cash offer request leads, and For Sale by Owner listings. Additionally, Josh showcases how he prepares for appointments by organizing relevant information into a Google Drive folder for easy reference during client meetings. The episode highlights practical tips, real-time problem-solving, and the importance of being persistent and efficient in real estate lead generation.00:00 Introduction and Session Plan00:31 Implementing the Work Session01:16 Using Scripts for Outreach01:45 Engaging with Leads and Handling Responses07:49 Filtering and Organizing Leads10:40 Real-Time Demonstration and Q&A20:16 Maximizing Efficiency and Effectiveness26:12 Leveraging Institutional Buyers31:37 Miscommunication and Its Impact32:19 Humorous Misunderstandings33:12 Strategies for Effective Communication33:28 Handling Client Interactions36:22 Managing Expired Listings39:42 Using Lead Deck for Messaging50:01 Preparing for Client Appointments01:01:21 Concluding Remarks and Next StepsNext best step? Go here: https://LeadDeck.ai/deals
Good morning, afternoon, and evening, everybody! Scott Carson here, still shaking off the flu but fired up to drop some serious knowledge. Remember those 4,200 distressed notes we talked about last week? Well, a fresh list of 3,000 more notes just landed on my desk – assets that didn't get bids the first time around! This isn't just about the deals (though there are plenty of cherry-pickable non-performing notes, REOs, and subject-to opportunities); it's about the marketing mindset you need to grab them!Too many of you are "Powder Puffs" when it comes to consistent marketing, thinking one post is enough. That's like watching a commercial once and buying the product forever – it doesn't work! It's time to learn how to rinse, repeat, and repost your way to being AI-searchable and attracting the deals and capital you deserve.Here's how to stop being a ghost and start being seen in 2026:The Second Chance Note Bonanza: Dive into the details of the remaining 3,000 distressed notes – including 355 severely non-performing assets and 119 REOs. Learn why these overlooked deals are ripe for the picking and how to make a strategic offer.The Consistency Commandment: Discover why daily, consistent posting is non-negotiable for real estate investors. Your content is only visible for a few hours; if you're not reposting, you're "nonexistent."Leverage Reposting Tools (Like Buffer.com): I'll show you how simple, often free, tools like Buffer.com allow you to schedule, clone, and endlessly repost your content across LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, maximizing your visibility with minimal effort.Case Studies: Brian Dills' LinkedIn Playbook: See how fellow investor Brian Dills uses just 7 simple images, repurposed and reposted daily, to attract capital and deals – a perfect example of effective, consistent marketing.Be AI-Searchable: Outsmart the Algorithms: Learn why AI is changing how people find information and how being AI-searchable (via consistent, repurposed content on platforms like LinkedIn) is crucial for competing with the "Bigger Pockets and Zillows" of the world.Don't let "lazy assets" (yours, not the notes!) keep you from profiting in 2026. This is your chance to turn consistent marketing into consistent deal flow and capital. Remember, 80% of sales happen after the fifth contact. So, go out there, grab those deals, and for the love of God, keep posting!Watch the Original VIDEO HERE!Book a Call With Scott HERE!Sign up for the next FREE One-Day Note Class HERE!Sign up for the WCN Membership HERE!Sign up for the next Note Buying For Dummies Workshop HERE!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Note Closers Show community today:WeCloseNotes.comThe Note Closers Show FacebookThe Note Closers Show TwitterScott Carson LinkedInThe Note Closers Show YouTubeThe Note Closers Show VimeoThe Note Closers Show InstagramWe Close Notes Pinterest
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Nick Ahrens, a seasoned real estate broker, shares valuable insights on navigating the Denver Metro real estate market, particularly for first-time buyers and new investors. He emphasizes the importance of professional guidance, strategic financial planning, and the potential of homeownership as an investment vehicle. Nick also offers advice for new real estate agents on building a successful career and discusses the dynamics between retail and investor markets. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
Episode 346 kicks off the first This Week in Real Estate show of the year with a hard look at how the industry is entering 2026—and what agents, brokers, buyers, and sellers need to recalibrate fast. From lawsuits against Zillow and leadership changes at Redfin, to shifting MLS rules, buyer leverage, shrinking homes, and federal action targeting Wall Street investors, this episode sets the tone for what actually matters going forward. If you're still operating with 2024 expectations, this episode is your wake-up call.
What happens when a former Zillow exec jumps back into production and builds one of the most successful teams in Northern California—from scratch? You get Colby Culbertson, founder and CEO of Culbertson & Gray Group at eXp. In this episode, James and Keith dive deep with Colby on: How he grew from 6 to 185 agents in 5 years Why he starts every recruiting call trying to talk people out of joining The one requirement his team must meet—or they're out The culture killers that quietly destroy teams Why "ego" is the real enemy of collaboration This episode is equal parts blueprint and gut check for leaders who actually want to scale something meaningful. Give your clients the competitive edge with Zillow's Showcase. Discover how this exclusive, immersive media experience—featuring stunning photography, video, virtual staging, and SkyTour—helps agents drive more views, saves, and shares. Agents using Showcase on the majority of their listings on Zillow list 30% more homes than similar non-Showcase agents. Learn how to stand out and become the agent sellers choose. https://www.zillow.com/agents/showcase/ Links mentioned in the episode: https://youtu.be/ZC2MLnd1Ylc Connect with Colby on LinkedIn. Learn more about Culbertson and Gray online at culbertsonandgray.com. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
A major shift is underway in the 3D real estate world. In this episode of Upmarket Pod, Reed, Mark, and Molly unpack the growing portal competition between Matterport, Zillow 3D, and Homes.com, and what it means for agents and real estate media. They explain how CoStar's acquisition of Matterport changes the 3D tour landscape, why Zillow is pushing its own 3D tool, and how Homes.com is positioning itself as a new player for agent visibility. They also share what agents should ask portals, which platforms to prioritize, and how to use 3D strategically to stay competitive in 2026.Don't worry, they still end the show with their Action Items... things that any listener can do right now to help lay the foundation for scaling their Real Estate Media Business.Follow the pod on Instagram at @upmarketpod.The Presenting Sponsor of Upmarket is Fotello, an AI media platform built to snap, upload, and deliver. Pricing starts at $12 per listing, with human revisions available within six hours. To get started, visit https://fotello.co/?via=upmarket and subscribe to begin using the platform. If you do not use the link, enter the code UPMARKET during signup.Another amazing sponsor is iGUIDE, which helps real estate professionals capture spaces fast and with industry-leading accuracy. Their PLANIX Pro camera delivers trusted measurements, with no subscriptions and priced per project. Options like iGUIDE Instant provide a clean 3D tour and interactive floor plan in minutes, starting at $7.99. Learn more at goiguide.com or @go_iguide.Another sponsor is Aryeo, the best place to help grow and manage your Real Estate Media business. Use the code UPMARKET at aryeo.com to get 15 free bonus listings with any new account.Another amazing sponsor of Upmarket is SecondFloor, the fastest way to create a finished floor plan. It's so fast that you can deliver the finished floor plan while you are still on-site! Not only that, but you can get UNLIMITED floor plans for one low monthly fee. We love SecondFloor and you can go to secondfloorapp.com/upmarket and any new subscriber will get a one-month free trial.Our Action Items are sponsored by PixlCRM, where you can scale your real estate photography business through automation. It's an all-in-one business and marketing platform that complements your current delivery app. If you go to pixlcrm.com/upmarket you can get a 30-day risk-free trial!
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Ash Patel, a commercial real estate investor with more than 15 years of experience investing beyond multifamily. Ash shares how an early mixed-use deal opened his eyes to the advantages of commercial assets and ultimately reshaped his entire investing approach. The conversation explores why many commercial assets are misunderstood or overlooked, including office, retail, medical, and mixed-use properties. Ash explains how changing work patterns, suburban growth, and market cycles are creating rare opportunities to acquire high-quality commercial buildings at deep discounts, often well below replacement cost. Jonathan and Ash also dig into the mindset required to succeed in real estate, the dangers of chasing trends promoted on social media, and why newer investors may benefit from escaping overcrowded asset classes. This episode offers a grounded look at how flexibility, curiosity, and long-term thinking can open doors to less competitive—and often more resilient—investment opportunities. In this episode, you will hear: How Ash transitioned from residential and mixed-use into commercial real estate Why office, retail, and medical assets are misunderstood by many investors How market cycles create opportunities across different commercial asset classes The risks of following social-media-driven investment trends Why parking, location, and tenant mix matter more than asset labels How mindset plays a larger role than mechanics in long-term success Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ash: Website: http://www.investbeyondmultifamily.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ashpatel_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ash.patel.58118 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashpatel_official/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-patel-95b1a25/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashpatel_official Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
In this throwback episode, Chris sits down with Mercy Lugo-Struthers, a top real estate professional and team leader, to break down the secrets to closing online leads and building a thriving real estate business. Mercy shares how her team has mastered online lead conversion, particularly through platforms like Zillow Flex, and the mindset and strategies agents need to succeed in today's market.Whether you're struggling to turn online leads into sales or looking for ways to improve your real estate business, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build a cash machine that fuels long-term wealth.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The mindset shift needed to convert online leads effectivelyHow to differentiate yourself and add value to potential clientsStrategies for building trust quickly with online buyersThe importance of follow-up and consistency in lead conversionHow Mercy trains her team to stay disciplined and accountableCommon mistakes real estate agents make with online leads – and how to avoid themResources Mentioned:The 5 AM Club by Robin SharmaThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillThe Pumpkin Plan by Mike MichalowiczConnect with Mercy:Phone: 703-861-6510Email: mercy@casalsrealtors.comCompany Website: Casals RealtorsHit Chris up:Facebook - Chris Craddock Business Instagram - @craddrockRESOURCES:
In this episode of the Real Estate Investor Growth Network Podcast, host Jen Josey welcomes back her "work husband" and REIGN Coach, Bud Evans. Bud shares his journey from a career in the military and public service to building a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio and leading a veteran-focused property management company. The conversation is packed with actionable strategies, real-world stories, and a healthy dose of humor as Bud and Jen dive into the systems and mindsets that drive success in real estate investing. Bud details his rigorous tenant screening process, including his unique 100-point scoring system and the integration of AI tools to streamline and safeguard property management. He emphasizes the importance of consistency, documentation, and systems—not just for legal protection, but for scaling a successful rental business. Bud also shares tips for landlords on lease clauses, maintenance responsibilities, and how to create standard operating procedures using innovative tools. The episode wraps up with Bud's "BADASS" insights, covering his favorite books, advice, systems, and what success means to him. He offers encouragement to take action, invest in education, and serve others—values that have shaped his own journey. Listeners are invited to connect with Bud for coaching, strategy sessions, or just to soak up more of his hard-earned wisdom. 00:00 Introduction to REIGN and Host Jen Josey 00:53 Badassery Bestowment: Finding Distressed Properties on Zillow 03:22 Guest Introduction: Meet Bud Evans 06:49 Bud Evans' Journey from Military to Real Estate 11:35 Tenant Screening: Importance and Strategies 15:35 The 100-Point Tenant Screening System 21:51 Incorporating AI in Tenant Screening 22:40 Privacy and Data Redaction in Tenant Management 23:29 AI in Financial Verification 24:30 Scoring and Approval Criteria for Tenants 25:09 AI Success Stories in Tenant Screening 27:00 Impact of AI on Vacancy Rates 27:36 Property Management and Self-Management Tips 29:11 Creating Effective Leases 34:47 Speaking Engagements and YouTube Channel 37:51 Personal Goals and Success Strategies 5 Key Takeaways Distressed Property Hunting: Use Zillow's keyword search (e.g., "fixer," "as is," "needs work"), filter by days on market, monitor price drops, scrutinize listing photos, and check public records to find hidden investment opportunities. Tenant Screening Systems: Implement a 100-point scoring system covering income stability, credit, criminal background, rental history, and file completeness. Consistency and documentation are essential to avoid legal pitfalls. Integrating AI: Utilize AI tools (like ChatGPT) for analyzing tenant applications, redacting sensitive info, and verifying income-to-expense ratios. AI can catch details humans might miss and streamline decision-making. Lease & Maintenance Tips: Customize leases to your market, include clauses for property showings before move-out, set a $250 repair threshold, and require proper documentation for pets. Use tools like Scribe to document your processes. Service and Systems Drive Success: Bud credits his achievements to serving others, investing in education, and leveraging systems like EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) for business growth and team alignment. Guest Bio: Bud Evans Bud Evans is a retired Air Force officer, former police officer, and mayor turned full-time real estate investor and business owner. He leads Second Street Property Management in South Jersey, managing hundreds of doors with a focus on affordability and service. Bud is also the founder of AIM High Properties and Enlisted 2 Entrepreneur, where he helps veterans and first responders transition into real estate. An educator at heart, Bud breaks down complex investing topics into actionable steps and is a sought-after coach, speaker, and advocate for systems-driven success. Books, Tools, and Websites Mentioned Books: Traction by Gino Wickman (and other works by Wickman/EOS) The E-Myth by Michael Gerber Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki The Four Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss Profit First by David Richter Tools & Websites: Zillow (for property searches) County GIS/public records ChatGPT (AI for screening) Scribe (process documentation tool) — scribe.com EOS One (Entrepreneurial Operating System management) — app.eosone.com Quicken (personal budgeting) PetScreening.com (pet documentation) Bud's YouTube: Enlisted 2 Entrepreneur Bud's website: budevans.com
Aaron Nelson (Realtor, Texas) shares how he's doubled his GCI by focusing on local marketing versus buying online leads.
Aaron Nelson (Realtor, Texas) shares how he's doubled his GCI by focusing on local marketing versus buying online leads.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Jennifer Ruelens, a longtime property manager and unapologetic truth-teller in the real estate industry. With more than two decades of hands-on experience, Jennifer shares what buy-and-hold investors often misunderstand about property management, tenant relationships, and the real work required to make rentals perform over time. The conversation explores why real estate investing is rarely passive, how deferred maintenance and avoidance cost investors far more than management fees, and why many landlords struggle when they underestimate the human side of housing. Jennifer explains how professional property management reduces risk, stabilizes assets, and helps investors focus on long-term wealth rather than short-term cash flow. Listeners will also hear a candid discussion about ego, DIY investing, family dynamics, and why many investors fail not because of bad deals, but because they avoid hard conversations and responsibility. This episode offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on what it really takes to succeed with buy-and-hold real estate. In this episode, you will hear: Why buy-and-hold real estate is a business, not a passive investment How poor property management decisions erode long-term returns The true cost of deferred maintenance and conflict avoidance Why professional management often increases NOI despite added fees How stabilizing properties protects both tenants and investors The role of expectations, transparency, and service in tenant retention Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jen: Website: https://holditwithpmjen.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@holditwithpmjen Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoldItwithPMJen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holditwithpmjen/ LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jenniferruelens TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holditwithpmjen Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview Rob and Greg dive into a packed week in real estate: the Compass–Anywhere deal officially closes, CoStar announces major spending cuts for Homes.com, and the recently settled Top Agent Network lawsuit raises big questions about the future of Clear Cooperation. They debate what these moves mean for MLSs, brokers, and portals—and preview the industry shake-ups still to come. Key Takeaways MLS Reset is sold out, with Rob returning as a featured speaker. Compass–Anywhere deal closes, surprising some who expected DOJ interference. CoStar cuts Homes.com spending by 35%, signaling a shift in strategy but not an exit from residential. Debate over Homes.com's future: Will CoStar pivot, partner with brokerages, or rethink its model? Top Agent Network settlement surfaces new guidance from NAR, suggesting TAN may not violate Clear Cooperation—potentially reshaping private-listing practices. Rob and Greg strongly disagree on the long-term impact of the TAN news and the strength of private networks. Upcoming injunction ruling (Zillow vs. NAR/DOJ context) may matter less than expected depending on how Compass positions itself. Links Compass Article Greg Hague Guest Post Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website Greg's Website Watch us on YouTube Our Sponsors: Cotality Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios
Want to quit your job and build a real land investing business?
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Paul LeJoy, a mortgage broker and real estate investor, shares his journey from being a tech professional to becoming a successful mortgage broker in California. He discusses the importance of understanding various loan programs, particularly DSCR loans, and how they can benefit both investors and first-time homebuyers. Paul emphasizes the need for community-oriented real estate development, aiming to create multi-generational living spaces that foster connectivity among residents. He also highlights the evolving landscape of real estate financing and the potential for innovative loan structures to support diverse segments of the market. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
From $61M deals to $0 paydays, NYC real estate is not for the faint of heart. In this episode, James and Keith sit down with Scott Hustis, co-founder of Paradigm Advisory at Compass, to talk about how he built one of New York's top-performing real estate teams; one relationship at a time. Scott shares why he runs his team more like a wealth advisory firm than a brokerage, how he built a repeat-and-referral machine in one of the most cutthroat markets in the world, and why most agents simply aren't consistent enough to succeed. Plus, hear: The 9-year story behind his $61M Central Park sale What the "three-phase" marketing plan really looks like in NYC His thoughts on off-market listings, Zillow, and MLS politics The power of mentors, coaches, and long-term compounding If you're burned out, tempted to shortcut the process, or unsure how to build a sustainable business, this is a masterclass in patience, precision, and real trust-building. Give your clients the competitive edge with Zillow's Showcase. Discover how this exclusive, immersive media experience—featuring stunning photography, video, virtual staging, and SkyTour—helps agents drive more views, saves, and shares. Agents using Showcase on the majority of their listings on Zillow list 30% more homes than similar non-Showcase agents. Learn how to stand out and become the agent sellers choose. https://www.zillow.com/agents/showcase/ Connect with Scott on LinkedIn. Learn more about Paradigm on Instagram - LinkedIn and online Paradigm Website, Paradigm Advisory Video. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
Jonathan Greene is joined by August Biniaz, co-founder and CIO of CPI Capital, to explore how early exposure to real estate shaped August's investing philosophy and led him from single-family investing into large-scale multifamily and build-to-rent strategies. August shares how his family's experience with real estate as a hedge against inflation influenced his long-term view on housing and capital preservation. The conversation dives into the realities of syndication, from learning the GP/LP structure through trial and error to building investor trust, infrastructure, and discipline over time. August explains why CPI focuses on U.S. markets like Tampa and San Antonio, how oversupply cycles create both risk and opportunity, and why patience and underwriting discipline matter more than deal volume. Jonathan and August also discuss the value of passive investing, especially for professionals who want real estate exposure without taking on a second job. August outlines how investors can think clearly about asset classes, sponsors, and alignment before committing capital, emphasizing that trust and communication are just as important as returns. In this episode, you will hear: How early family exposure to real estate can shape long-term investing instincts Why August transitioned from development into real estate private equity The differences between Canadian and U.S. multifamily investing environments How CPI evaluates Tampa and San Antonio amid oversupply and shifting demand Why being a limited partner can be the best education for future operators What passive investors should consider when choosing asset classes and sponsors Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with August: Website: https://cpicapital.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realestateinvestingdemystified Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soheil.biniaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augustbiniaz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustbiniaz/ Twitter: https://x.com/CPI_Capital Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Lots of work to do—let's get to it—Here are 3 big things for this hour— Number One— So should we start looking up Greenland on Zillow? It seems this issue and this effort to gain control of the island by the US is not going anywhere—and honestly, I will be on President Trump— Number Two— Our next stop however could be another strike against Iran—a country of over 90 million people that is being ignored by the left—because they are ruled by radical Islam—therefore they are ignored— Number Three— There's a war going on – on ICE and on common sense…and frankly on this country—
Zillow released its new 2026 housing market predictions and…I'm not sure I agree with them. From home price to mortgage rate predictions, “kidfluence” steering decisions, and the rise of the lifestyle renter, I'm going through all 10 of Zillow's predictions and sharing which I agree with, which I'm confused by, and which made me laugh. Even with a few very interesting predictions, I do think some core forecasts will actually play out in 2026. When's the last time you asked your kid, “Hey buddy, where do YOU want to live?” and rented based on their answer? Well, Zillow believes that your toddler does have a serious influence on your next home. But that's not all. In 2026, renting could become cool again as more “lifestyle renters” plan NOT to buy, even if mortgage rates drop. This could be a good sign for investors looking to keep long-term tenants, but you'll need the right type of property. We'll also touch on Zillow's home price prediction (and why they're more positive than Dave), the floor for mortgage rates in 2026 (will we break into the 5s?), and why buying a new-build could get even better. In This Episode We Cover Zillow's 2026 housing market predictions (prices, rates, rents, and more!) Why housing demand could bounce back (but by how much?) The “kidfluence” and why your seven-year-old really calls the shots when house hunting One prediction that Dave audibly started laughing at (does anyone believe this?) The rise of “lifestyle” renters and a good trend for real estate investors Will AI find your next home? Why Zillow is betting on a breakthrough And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1224 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Bob Fraser, bestselling author of Invest Like a Billionaire and CFO and Chief Macro Strategist at Aspen Funds. Bob shares how billionaire investors moved away from traditional 60/40 portfolios toward alternative investments—and why everyday investors can adopt the same mindset without billionaire-level wealth. Throughout the conversation, Bob explains why professionally managed real estate is often the most approachable entry point into alternatives, especially for investors who want exposure without taking on a second full-time job. He and Jonathan explore the differences between active and passive investing, the importance of aligned partnerships, and why many investors underestimate the operational demands of being a landlord. The discussion then dives deep into macro-driven investing, with Bob outlining why industrial real estate stands out today due to reshoring trends, logistics demand, and lower construction and operational complexity compared to multifamily. Bob also explains why fund structures can be more efficient than single-asset syndications, offering better capital deployment, diversification, and investor control—especially around taxes and liquidity. In this episode, you will hear: Why billionaires shifted away from traditional portfolios toward alternatives How everyday investors can think like billionaires without massive capital The difference between active real estate and truly passive investing Why industrial real estate is outperforming multifamily in the current cycle How fund structures can improve diversification, tax efficiency, and liquidity What macro trends Bob looks for when evaluating alternative investments Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Bob: Website: http://aspenfunds.us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspenfunds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobfraser10/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
https://stonemaiergames.com/zillow-for-board-games-and-the-wingspan-americas-expansion/
Most agents treat online leads like a necessary evil. Mickey Larson turned them into a $15 million business in just two years.In this episode, I sit down with Mickey, a former attorney and entrepreneur who ditched the courtroom stress for real estate and never looked back. While other agents complain about lead quality, Mickey has built an 85% online lead-based business with almost zero no-shows, consistent referrals, and a simple goal: one deal per week under contract.We break down his counterintuitive approach to working leads, why he spends more time talking clients out of buying than into it, and how treating every lead like a lifelong relationship turned Zillow clicks into a thriving referral machine.Inside this episode:•Why Mickey keeps his first contact minimal and gets to the showing fast • The psychology behind earning trust by saying no • How to turn vacant land leads and long nurture cycles into goldmines • Why he counts contracts, not closings, for instant gratification • His plan to scale by bringing his family into the businessFollow Mickey on Instagram: @larsmd09 Whether you're buying leads and struggling to convert, or wondering if paid traffic is worth it, this episode will change how you think about online lead generation. Subscribe, share, and follow for more interviews like this.The Neighborhood Real Estate Agent is proudly sponsored by Treadstone Funding and Neighborhood Loans. For more tangible tips in real estate marketing, check out Matt's book, The Tangible Action Guide for Real Estate Marketing available on Amazon.
From the U.S. Marine Corps to running one of California's largest brokerages, Michele Harrington's leadership journey is anything but typical. Alongside Lauren Henss, a marketing powerhouse with a Chanel-to-Compass résumé, these two leaders are redefining what it means to build a modern, human-first brokerage. In this episode, James and Keith sit down with Michele (CEO) and Lauren (VP of Marketing & Strategic Initiatives) of FirstTeam Real Estate to unpack: The power of discipline and structure (and how the military shaped Michele's career) The "Behind the Agent" campaign and how it's producing a 90% retention rate What most agents get wrong about branding, TikTok, and storytelling How to build a brokerage with vision, heart, and standards Why women are still underrepresented in the real estate C-suite—and how that's finally changing This episode is packed with truth bombs, real laughs, and sharp takes on private listings, Zillow, MLS reform, recruiting strategies, and what it really takes to scale a business that lasts. Links mentioned in the episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWSFJbCBsHM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grqWOEYGXSA Connect with Michele on LinkedIn. Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn. Learn more about FirstTeam Real Estate on Facebook - X - LinkedIn - YouTube - Instagram - Pinterest and online at firstteam.com. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview In this episode, Rob and Greg dive into the implications of a future where exclusive listings become the industry norm. They explore how this shift could reshape brokerages, MLS operations, agent recruitment, consumer transparency, and portal business models. With a slow news week in real estate, the discussion becomes a deep speculative analysis of what happens if the market fully embraces private listing networks, how big brokers consolidate power, and whether the MLS becomes a "nice to have" rather than a necessity. They also touch on political factors, Zillow vs. Homes.com strategy, and how agents might adapt in a less transparent ecosystem. Key Takeaways Exclusive listings could dramatically shift power to large brokerages, enabling stronger recruitment flywheels and disadvantaging boutique firms. Big brokers may form alliances to consolidate private listing access, leaving smaller shops struggling to compete. MLSs risk becoming secondary tools—useful but no longer essential—if private networks supply the bulk of market inventory. Consumer transparency may decline if days-on-market and price-change history disappear, increasing agent value as data interpreters. Portal strategies (Zillow, Homes.com) may need to adapt, especially if sellers aren't willing to pay for exposure under an exclusive model. The industry still misunderstands exclusive listings, which are less about double-ending and more about recruiting, retention, and leverage. Market cycles and seller psychology remain central, as many sellers still prefer full exposure while others choose convenience and certainty. Political housing policy may shift unexpectedly, though current geopolitical chaos makes predictions uncertain. Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website Greg's Website Watch us on YouTube Our Sponsors: Cotality Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios
There's one theme tying it all together: What's real and what's just good marketing? In today's Daily Dealio: • Are viral design trends even real? • Why AI hallucinations are becoming a trust problem • Why raw, unpolished content may win in 2026 • The Compass + Anywhere merger backlash • Why Google showing HouseCanary listings is a BIG deal • And what this means for Zillow, agents, and consumers
-Rob kicks off the year by celebrating Maduro's capture like it's the Super Bowl… except the halftime show is a special forces raid and the confetti is Democrats yelling “THIS IS BAD ACTUALLY.” -Newsmax contributor Katie Zacharia jumps in to celebrate Freedom 250, gush over the Washington Monument light show, and tag-team with Rob in predicting that 2026 is the greatest year for America since 1776. -Brigadier General (Ret.) Blaine Holt joins the show and happily announces he's “Maduro-free and loving it,” geeks out over the perfection of the special ops mission, and casually mentions that hostile regimes everywhere are now checking Zillow in Moscow. Today's podcast is sponsored by : RELIEF FACTOR - You don't need to live with aches & pains! Reduce muscle & joint inflammation and live a pain-free life by visiting http://ReliefFactor.com now! BEAM DREAM POWDER - Refreshing sleep now 40% off with promo code NEWSMAX at http://shopbeam.com/newsmax BIRCH GOLD - Protect and grow your retirement savings with gold. Text ROB to 98 98 98 for your FREE information kit! To call in and speak with Rob Carson live on the show, dial 1-800-922-6680 between the hours of 12 Noon and 3:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday…E-mail Rob Carson at : RobCarsonShow@gmail.com Musical parodies provided by Jim Gossett (http://patreon.com/JimGossettComedy) Listen to Newsmax LIVE and see our entire podcast lineup at http://Newsmax.com/Listen Make the switch to NEWSMAX today! Get your 15 day free trial of NEWSMAX+ at http://NewsmaxPlus.com Looking for NEWSMAX caps, tees, mugs & more? Check out the Newsmax merchandise shop at : http://nws.mx/shop Follow NEWSMAX on Social Media: -Facebook: http://nws.mx/FB -X/Twitter: http://nws.mx/twitter -Instagram: http://nws.mx/IG -YouTube: https://youtube.com/NewsmaxTV -Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NewsmaxTV -TRUTH Social: https://truthsocial.com/@NEWSMAX -GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/newsmax -Threads: http://threads.net/@NEWSMAX -Telegram: http://t.me/newsmax -BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/newsmax.com -Parler: http://app.parler.com/newsmax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What good is reach if you don't have resonance? In this transformative episode of Business of Story, host Park Howell sits down with Jay Acunzo to explore why clarity isn't enough for brand stories and how to transform expertise into influential public voice through premise development. --- ABOUT JAY ACUNZO --- Jay Acunzo is an author, speaker, and public speaking coach who helps experts become stronger public voices. He's written books about creativity and storytelling, and he's traveled the world giving keynotes to marketers and managers, dentists and designers, leaders and landscapers. His clients include bestselling authors, mainstage TED speakers, startup founders, and seven-figure coaches and consultants. Brands like Salesforce, GoDaddy, Zillow, and Mailchimp have trusted Jay to support some of their most visible projects. He began his career in sales and marketing at Google and HubSpot, and his own journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books. Jay's philosophy challenges conventional marketing wisdom: don't market more, matter more. Think resonance over reach. Don't be the best, be their favorite. --- WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER --- ✓ What a premise really is (and why it's different from a tagline, mission, or niche) ✓ The resonance over reach philosophy and why it creates more business impact ✓ How resonance works (using physics to understand the urge to act) ✓ The narrative argument framework: six beats that move audiences from skepticism to action ✓ Laddered messaging structure: We Want → We Need → We Hope ✓ Story 2.0: Why process alone isn't enough (you need practice and posture too) ✓ The critical difference between clarity and strength in brand storytelling ✓ How to develop your premise through iteration (not instant perfection) ✓ Why focus is something you pick, but clarity is something you build ✓ Real examples: How Jay helped Anne Handley refine her premise for ASAP: As Slow As Possible ✓ Premise examples from James Clear, Simon Sinek, Michelle Warner, and more ✓ How to apply premise thinking to products and services (StoryCycle Genie case study) --- KEY FRAMEWORKS REVEALED --- NARRATIVE ARGUMENT (6 Beats): What are their goals? What's their current approach? What are the problems with that approach? What root cause do you see? What change do they need? How do they implement it? LADDERED MESSAGING (3 Phrases): • We Want: Meet people where they're at • We Need: Your premise/philosophical change • We Hope: The grand transformation STORY 2.0 (3 P's): • Process: Story structure and frameworks • Practice: Regular creation and refinement • Posture: Seeing yourself as a storyteller --- MEMORABLE QUOTES --- The goal is not to market more, it's to matter more. What good is awareness if you don't have affinity? What good is reach if you don't have resonance? Don't be the best, be their favorite. Clarity doesn't mean strength. Clarity doesn't mean efficacy. Focus is something you pick. Clarity is something you build. --- ABOUT BUSINESS OF STORY --- The Business of Story podcast helps business owners and marketers master the art of storytelling to grow their brands and create meaningful impact. Hosted by Park Howell, creator of the StoryCycle System and ABT Framework, each episode features expert guests sharing proven strategies for business growth through authentic narrative. Whether you're building a brand, leading a team, or developing your public voice, Business of Story delivers the frameworks and insights you need to make your message matter. Topics: premise development | resonance over reach | brand storytelling | thought leadership | narrative argument | public speaking | IP development | expert positioning | influential voice | business communication | content strategy | keynote speaking | Story 2.0 | clarity vs strength | laddered messaging
You can care too much and it can break you. That's one of the many leadership lessons Matt Delhougne shares in this episode. From police officer to running a 70-agent team in St. Louis closing nearly 1,000 deals a year, Matt has seen it all and survived it. James and Keith sit down with the Chief Vision Officer of DRG at eXp to unpack everything from burnout and broker models to MLS politics, Google's property data play, and the two tools that truly matter for agent success. They also dive into his unique zip-code based lead rotation system, team culture, agent recruitment, the illusion of control, and how agents can actually crack the SOI code (hint: it's not what your broker told you). This one's a masterclass in sustainable scale, servant leadership, and leading with heart without losing your mind. Give your clients the competitive edge with Zillow's Showcase. Discover how this exclusive, immersive media experience—featuring stunning photography, video, virtual staging, and SkyTour—helps agents drive more views, saves, and shares. Agents using Showcase on the majority of their listings on Zillow list 30% more homes than similar non-Showcase agents. Learn how to stand out and become the agent sellers choose. https://www.zillow.com/agents/showcase/ Connect with Matt on LinkedIn. Learn more about DRG on Facebook - Instagram - Zillow - Google. Subscribe to Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered?sub_confirmation=1 To learn more about becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email: jessica@inman.com You asked for it. We delivered. Check out our new merch! https://merch.realestateinsidersunfiltered.com/ Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube, Facebook - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. Link to Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/realestateinsiderspod/ Link to YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealEstateInsidersUnfiltered Link to TikTok Page: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestateinsiderspod Link to website: https://realestateinsidersunfiltered.com This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative. https://twobrotherscreative.com/contact/
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Greg Trotter, CEO and founder of Commercial Building Consultants, to unpack what real estate investors often miss during commercial due diligence. With over 40 years of experience in construction, inspections, and forensic building analysis, Greg explains how his role is to act as a "bodyguard" for investors—protecting their equity by identifying real risks before they close. Greg walks through how property condition assessments should align with an investor's hold period and exit strategy, why cosmetic upgrades are often a distraction, and how overlooked systems like roofs, drainage, lift stations, and life-safety infrastructure can quietly derail deals. He also shares stories from projects across the U.S. and beyond, highlighting how climate, weather events, deferred maintenance, and operational blind spots create long-term financial consequences. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of why transparency, conservative planning, and honest reporting matter more than optimism in underwriting—and how knowing the full story of a building can protect both operators and investors from costly surprises down the line. In this episode, you will hear: How Greg's construction background led him into commercial inspection and consulting Why due diligence must account for hold period, capex timing, and exit strategy Commonly overlooked risks like drainage, roofing, lift stations, and life-safety systems How deferred maintenance compounds into multimillion-dollar problems Why weather events, storm surge, and climate risks are changing how buildings must be evaluated The difference between cosmetic improvements and protecting long-term asset value Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Greg Website: http://thecbcteam.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebuildingguy/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss some major questions that need to be answered in 2026. Is the US losing its battle to break up Big Tech? US auto sales are poised to slip as middle-class buyers retreat. Seven numbers shaping retirement in 2026. Zillow's CEO is ready for another slow year in the US housing market. How has NYC's surge toll pricing fixed traffic?
Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com
Where is buyer demand showing up in 2025? According to a new report from Zillow, the hottest housing markets this year aren't the usual coastal or Sun Belt favorites — they're affordable Midwestern cities. In this episode of Real Estate News for Investors, Kathy Fettke breaks down Zillow's list of the most popular housing markets of 2025, led by Rockford, Illinois. We look at why buyers are flocking to lower-priced markets with strong job access, fast-moving inventory, and growing out-of-state interest. You'll also hear which cities are topping Zillow's rankings across categories — from large metros and small towns to vacation destinations, college towns, and retirement markets — and what these shifts signal for real estate investors.
The housing market correction is well underway, but the story looks very different depending on where you invest. Some markets are cooling gently, others are slipping faster, and a few affordability outliers are still holding up. With new Zillow data in hand, Dave breaks down the major regional patterns, why price growth is slowing almost everywhere, and what today's shifts actually mean for investors buying at the end of 2025 and into 2026. He also looks at markets that may be “oversold” despite strong fundamentals, the places where buyers suddenly have serious leverage, and how rents are diverging sharply from home prices in some metros. We'll even take a look at the data to see where corrections may continue. So, where should you buy? If you want killer deals, are these “oversold” markets prime places for rental property investing, or could they fall even further? In This Episode We Cover Zillow's newest list of best and worst housing markets of 2026 Where buyers have strong leverage and where demand still holds Markets that have strong fundamentals but major concerns from buyers What rising or falling rents actually signal for investors Will hot, affordable markets keep their flame burning or freeze like the rest of the US? And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1218 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices