Home Goals Podcast

Not all lenders are created equal — and choosing the wrong one can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five essential questions you need to ask before committing to a mortgage consultant. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or just haven’t applied for a loan in a while, these questions will help you spot red flags, understand your options, and find a lender who’s truly on your side. If ...

In this episode, we break down real-life strategies for efficient grocery shopping and meal planning that can help you stretch your budget. Whether you're saving for your first home or already a homeowner looking to build up a repair fund. I also weigh in on the common debate: Is it actually cheaper to eat out? While cutting your grocery bill won’t erase the deeper financial hurdles like student loan debt or wage stagnation, b...

Supporters call it a game-changing reform aimed at pulling back government interference, slashing taxes, and unleashing the free market. But what does the One Big Beautiful Bill really mean for affordable housing in America? In this episode, we unpack the bill's bold intentions: fewer zoning restrictions, less federal red tape, and financial incentives to spur new housing development. We also examine the ripple effects like pr...

Real estate contracts can feel overwhelming, but having a basic understanding of what you're signing is crucial when buying or selling a home. In this episode, we break down the key parts of a real estate contract, including due diligence, earnest money, disclosures, and common addendums.

With annual form updates rolling out in North Carolina, it's the perfect time to talk about why it matters to know the terms, timelines,...

Buying or selling a home is more than a financial decision, it’s an emotional one. In this episode, we explore how feelings like excitement, fear, pride, and nostalgia show up during the real estate process and how they can either move you forward or hold you back. We’ll cover real examples of deals influenced by emotion, when it helps (like acting decisively) and when it hurts (like overpricing or reacting to repair requests). Tun...

In real estate, everything boils down to leverage—and knowing how to use it can make or break a deal. In this episode, we break down how leverage works in real estate negotiations, especially in the North Carolina market. Sellers often have the upper hand with due diligence fees, while buyers gain leverage when inspections reveal issues or sellers are motivated to close. Plus, we’ll discuss how sellers can hold firm if their home h...

The housing market is showing signs of a shift—but not in the way you might expect. In this episode, we dive into a recent CNN article that reveals there are now around 500,000 more home sellers than buyers, signaling a potential market change. Yet, prices continue to climb, marking 22 straight months of year-over-year gains. We’ll explore why rising prices don’t always mean homes are more affordable, why sellers need to be more co...

What if your home could pay you instead of the other way around? In this episode, we’re diving into the powerful strategy of house hacking—an approach where you use your primary residence to generate rental income and drastically reduce (or even eliminate) your monthly housing costs. Whether it’s renting out a spare bedroom, living in one unit of a duplex, or turning your basement into an income stream, I’ll walk you through the mo...

Property taxes are one of the biggest—and most misunderstood—costs of owning a home. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything buyers and homeowners need to know about property taxes, including how they’re calculated, why your bill can suddenly spike, and what sneaky factors can make two similar homes have wildly different tax bills. I’ll also share tips for appealing an unfair assessment and how to avoid budget-busting surpr...

Thinking about buying a brand-new home? New construction can feel like the perfect blank canvas—but it comes with its own set of rules, risks, and hidden costs that many buyers overlook. In this episode, I’m breaking down how new construction really works, including what’s in those builder contracts, why timelines often shift, and how to protect yourself from costly surprises. Whether you’re considering a custom build or a builder-...

That dream home feature you’ve always wanted? It might be draining more than just your wallet. In this episode, we’re breaking down five home features that look amazing on paper—but often come with hidden costs, unexpected maintenance, or long-term regret. From pools to smart home tech and everything in between, I’ll walk you through what to watch out for before you fall in love with the wrong upgrade. If you’re a first-time homebu...

It’s our one-year anniversary! 🎉 In this special 52nd episode of the Home Goals Podcast, we're celebrating by answering the most-Googled questions homebuyers are asking right now. From “Should I buy a house in 2025?” to “How much house can I actually afford?” — we're tackling the biggest uncertainties with clear, no-fluff answers. Whether you’ve been with us since day one or just tuned in, this episode is packed with pra...

 The new 10% tariff on all imports is making waves—and not just on Wall Street. In this episode, we unpack how these sweeping trade policies could potentially drive up the cost of building materials, appliances, and everyday goods tied to homeownership. From delayed construction timelines to shrinking buyer budgets, the ripple effects are real. Tune in to hear how the 2025 tariff shift may impact the housing market, mortgage rates,...

Think your real estate agent has your back? Maybe… but what if they’re actually the reason your offers keep getting passed over? In this episode, we’re breaking down 4 subtle but serious signs that your agent might be costing you the deal — without you even knowing it. From poor communication to sloppy offer strategy, we’ll walk you through what to watch for and how to make sure you're putting your best foot forward as a buyer...

Just bought your first home and wondering where to start with updates? In this episode, we’re diving into five smart, budget-friendly renovations that pack a punch. These upgrades will help you add value, boost functionality, and truly make the place your own—without breaking the bank. From fresh paint to curb appeal, we’ll walk you through practical tips that are perfect for first-time homeowners ready to roll up their sleeves and...

Real estate scams are more common—and more sophisticated—than ever, and whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, it’s easier than you think to fall into a trap. In this episode, we break down the most common scams happening in the real estate world right now and the red flags you need to watch for. From fake rental listings and wire fraud during closing to shady contractors and impersonation schemes, I’ll walk you through what w...