Come join us today on For the Love of Real Estate as we chat with Mike Conners, a realtor based in Kansas City and the author of the book, Things You Didn't Know You Didn't Know About Real Estate. We won't be sharing your typical, knowledge-based concepts in this podcast. Instead, get ready to have fun as Mike and Jill share their craziest stories about showing homes to clients. From birds and pigs to ghosts, some houses have it all. But don't let that scare you away from your home shopping journey! Tune in for a hilarious episode that you won't want to miss. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:50] Mike tells of a house with many different animals inside and an odor outside 
• [07:45] Jill shares her story of a home that reminded her of Amityville Horror  
• [09:58] What were some of the “weird” feelings the house was “expressing.” 
• [12:48] Being attacked by an animal while showing a house and someone needing stitches 
• [17:11] Sellers not admitting there are raccoons in the house 
• [21:07] Mike shares his haunted listing story 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Not all showings of houses are the Better Homes and Gardens dream homes. Some are downright scary. 
• People don’t all live the same.  Some of us are neat freaks; some live with ghosts and don’t seem to mind. 
• If you are considering getting your real estate license, you will enjoy this podcast. However, there is information here you won’t find in your training. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Jill Elliott Homes - Website 

For the Love of Real Estate Website 

Mike Conners - Website 

Mike Conners - Facebook 

ReeceNichols - Website 

BIOGRAPHY: 

Mike Conners has lived in Kansas City for the past 25 years. Before becoming a real estate agent, he spent 15 years as a regional manager with two leading medical companies. During these years, he developed his client-centric mentality and overall sales philosophies. After years of driving winning behaviors from his sales teams, Mike now embraces that same attitude for himself. Mike played college and semi-pro baseball and roots for the Royals and Chiefs. However, his biggest joy these days are not traveling for work anymore; instead, he spends time with his family. 

Join us today as I visit with Mike Conners, a realtor in Kansas City and author of the book, Things You Didn’t Know You Didn’t Know About Real Estate. Today we will dive into the pros and cons of having a home inspection. When the housing market was “hot,” buyers had to forego a home inspection to close the deal. Learn why that is not the case in most markets and what top five areas should always be inspected. Mike shares the advice he gives his clients, both sellers, and buyers. Don’t miss this episode of For the Love of Real Estate. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [02:29] Mike is an advocate of both buyers and sellers having home inspections 
• [05:06] Mike feels that real estate agents should prepare their clients for what could happen without an inspection 
• [10:03] The five parts of a home that should have an inspection 
• [14:45]  Mike identifies the reason why buyers did not have home inspections a year ago 
• [19:00] The trend in building homes in Kansas City and why the footprint and floor plan make a difference in the price 
• [24:42] New construction and the need for a punch list and inspection 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• A home inspection before you purchase a home is a good use of money. There are hidden aspects of the mechanics of a home that you never see in a walk-through. You cannot over-inspect. 
• Sometimes you need to walk away from purchasing a home you love only because of the work and expense involved in fixing all the defects. 
• A home inspection will give insight on what is going on with the house at the time of inspection, but the report can be used as a punch list in that first year to make sure the buyer takes care of the little things that could need attention later if not addressed. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Jill Elliott's Phone Number: (469) 500-1300 

Jill Elliott’s Website 

For the Love of Real Estate Website 

Mike Conners - Website 

Mike Conners - Facebook 

BIOGRAPHY: 

Mike has lived in Kansas City for the past 25 years. Before becoming a real estate agent, he spent 15 years as a regional manager with two leading medical companies. It’s during these years that he developed his client-centric mentality and overall sales philosophies. After years of driving winning behaviors from his sales teams, Mike now embraces that same attitude for himself. Mike played college and semi-pro baseball and roots for the Royals and Chiefs. However, his biggest joy these days is not traveling for work anymore; instead, he spends time with his family. 

Today I talked with Brooks Kelly about interest rates, jumbo loans, renting versus buying, and other topics affecting decisions in the real estate market. Brooks is a Senior Loan Officer with Mortgage Link in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area and deals with these issues daily. In addition, Brooks reflects on the hyper-competitive housing market of the last few years and the opportunities available today. Listen as Brooks shares insight on these topics and his prediction of the real estate market in 2023.    

IN THIS EPISODE:  

• [02:26] Strengthening your buying power, enabling a jumbo loan for high-end properties.  
• [04:33] Required down payments have changed. Should you put all the money you have into a down payment. 
• [06:01] Looking at interest rates from a historical point of view, do you base a decision to purchase on interest rates? 
• [11:58] The importance of keeping a credit score of 700 or above. 
• [17:37] Qualifying for the loan. You may qualify for more than you expected.  
• [24:11] The truth about the housing market and the fear generated by the media. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

• Interest rates have been low during the past few years. However, historically they have been much higher. Therefore, it’s an adjustment for borrowers to accept that current rates are still lower than several years ago. 
• Your credit score is the determining factor of the terms of a home loan. In addition, credit scores affect the interest rate and the loan package obtained. Therefore, keep your score at 700 or higher and pay your bills on time. 
• Deciding to rent when you can purchase is making the property's owner's payment.  As you make the payments, the owners' equity increases while you have gained no equity. Buying a home is much wiser than renting. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Jill Elliott’s Phone Number: (469) 500-1300 

For the Love of Real Estate Website 

Facebook - Brooks Kelly 

LinkedIn - Brooks Kelly 

Instagram - Brooks Kelly 

Website - Brooks Kelly 

BIO: 

Brooks Kelly is the EVP of National Sales and Mortgage Loan Originator with the Mortgage Link. A boutique mortgage lender who provides their partners and clients with the consultation and service clients expect when making the largest purchase of their life. Mortgages are the only thing Brooks knows. Coming out of college at Texas Tech into the new home business and then quickly transitioning to mortgage in 2007, he has helped thousands of clients achieve their dream of homeownership. In his spare time, he loves to play golf and coach his two boys on the baseball field. 

Buying a house is personal and the best time to buy is when it is best for you, personally. Today, I talked with Mike Conners to discuss the crazy past few years in real estate, the current market, and what to expect in the near future. We discuss how Covid-19 and the recent boom have impacted the market. As things start to normalize and federal rates continue to rise, it is important to be prepared. Listen in as Mike shares advice on how to set yourself up for success. 

IN THIS EPISODE:  

• [01:41] How the last two years have changed things for Mike 
• [05:32 The benefit to continuing to love your house and keeping it up 
• [09:51] Going back to some old tools and products for buyers in the current market 
• [14:23] Rates depend on you 
• [19:37] The upcoming struggle real estate agents may face 
• [27:11] How to get ahold of Mike 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

• The real estate market is back to a more “normal” pre-covid market. 
• Interest rates depend on the individual. It may take time and steps, but you can work for the loan you want. 
• With an upcoming shift in the market, it is critical for realtors to continue reaching out to their databases. There will be many leaving the field and you need to spread the word that you are still available. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Mike Conners Real Estate Website 

Mike Conners’ Phone Number: (913) 433-4901 

Jill Elliot's Phone Number: (469) 500-1300 

For the Love of Real Estate Website 

BIO: 

Mike Conners has lived in Kansas City for the past 25 years. Prior to becoming a real estate agent, he spent 15 years as a regional manager with two leading medical companies. It’s during these years that he developed his client-centric mentality and overall sales philosophies. After years of driving winning behaviors from his sales teams, Mike now embraces that same attitude for himself. Mike played college and semi-pro baseball and roots for the Royals and Chiefs. His biggest joy these days, however, is not traveling for work anymore and instead of spending time with his family. 

You don’t want to miss today’s exciting episode with Cara Hawkins as we talk about all things interest rates! Interest rates are important, but some common misconceptions can restrict buyers. With over 21 years of experience in lending, Cara adds a wealth of information to this episode. Tune in as we discuss interest rates, equity, refinancing, and ARM rates. Cara also addresses some common misconceptions about loans and interest rates. 

IN THIS EPISODE:  

• [09:04] Cara and Jill discuss equity and refinancing 
• [10:53] Cara shares an outdated assumption some buyers make 
• [15:40] The evolution of ARM rates 
• [21:12] Common misconceptions about home loans and interest rates 
• [27:47] How to reach Cara 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

• Putting more money towards upgrades in the house can add more value than putting extra money towards the loan, especially with how much houses are currently appreciating.  
• It can make more sense to buy earlier. Even with poor credit, and no down payment, you can still get a home loan. There are programs to help. 
• People hold misconceptions about interest rates. 20% down-payment is necessary or always wise. The federal interest rate does not always correlate to the mortgage interest rate. You do not have to wait until the market is perfect. 

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Cara Hawkin's Website 

Jill Elliot phone number: (469) 500-1300 

For the Love of Real Estate Website 

BIO: 

Cara Hawkins has spent over 21 years in lending and is the Branch Manager for Guild Mortgage. Since earning a master’s degree in Business Administration from Oklahoma Christian University, Cara has been working in real estate lending in the Dallas/ Fort Worth metroplex and throughout Texas. Cara has had the privilege of working in the marketing and public relations fields for two fortune 500 companies during her work history. She has built a strong business foundation consisting of extensive knowledge of the conventional and government loan market, credibility in dealing with the numerous parties encountered in a real estate transaction, experience, and client referral relationships. 

Today’s episode is all about luxurious moving.  Yes, I said it!  There is such a thing as luxurious moving and there is no one better to talk to about this topic than Debra Hudson! Debra Hudson is the owner of Smooth Moves by Design, a modern luxury relocation service that guarantees relocation to your new home 100% stress free. We talk about what moving with a full-scale moving company like Smooth Moves by Design looks like and how it is different from other high-end movers. Join us today to learn more about the behind the scenes of hiring a modern luxury relocation company and how settling in services is the cherry on the top when buying a new home. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [04:00] Behind the scenes of hiring a full-scale moving company
• [10:49] Questions that pop up when outsourcing moving and designing your home 
• [15:04] How is a Smooth Moves by Design different from other high-end movers
• [16:57] Trust factor is the essence of high-end services
• [30:58] Hiring a modern luxury relocation services doesn’t just save time but relationships too

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• A full-scale moving company is 100% stress-free high-end relocation experience. They will not just pack and unpack your boxes. They will settle you in, put together your furniture, accessorize your home, color code organize your closet and when you come back, there is champagne waiting for you in the fridge. 
• Connecting clients to specialized movers is the last 2% of selling a house that will set tone for the whole experience.
• If you offer a high-end service you must know how to deal with unexpected situations instead of stressing out clients with small things. They hire you to figure out how to make it happen. 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Debra’s personal phone 214 236 3532

smoothmovesbydesign.com 

www.instagram.com/smoothmovesbydesign/ 

Text Jill at 469 500 1300

BIO:

OWNER & INTERIOR DESIGNER

“Living in Dallas, one will experience the true definition of southern hospitality. That’s what I want to offer to my clients.” Simple words to live by but more of a way of life for Debra Hudson, as this is what she offers to her customers through her Smooth Moves by Design services.  Having 25+ years in residential interior design, Debra’s vision captures her client’s personality and lifestyle that will be reflected in their new home.  “I created a luxury moving service knowing exactly how to please my clients. Being on the stressful side of a traumatic move and seeing how moving creates such inconvenience for families, something had to be done. So, from that notion, I began assuming total responsibility to provide a seamless transition into their new residence.”

Today’s exciting episode is all about how to tackle the real estate market in the new year.  Mike Conners, a seasoned real estate agent and old friend, has joined me to discuss our biggest takeaways from 2021. We break down why it’s important to work with a real estate agent, and some advice for buyers and sellers hoping to enter the market in 2022.  Mike’s dedication and passion for the Kansas City real estate industry has served him well in his 25 year career.  Join us today to hear our advice and learn how you can be better prepared for the 2022 market.  

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [06:04] Jill and Mike’s big takeaways from 2021.  
• [12:42] Why it’s important to have a professional agent in your corner.  
• [15:37] Most For Sale By Owner home sales are not as easy as they seem.  
• [23:00] Jill shares an example of an agent’s success in San Francisco.  
• [26:35] Mike and Jill share insight into if the time of the year impacts the market for buyers and sellers.  
• [30:14] Price Reductions may not always be a thing of the past.  
• [34:03] What can buyers do to be ready for 2022 and beyond?
• [36:26] Sometimes it’s important for buyers to lower their expectations.  

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The right time to enter the real estate market is when you are ready, not based on how the market is doing.  
• We will talk about how the real estate industry checks and balances itself.  
• Price Reductions are not effective unless the price reduction makes your buyers jump at the opportunity, so make it worth their while.  
• It’s important for buyers to lower their expectations in order to have realistic expectations. It's not easy to find a property in the first place these days. It may not be what a buyer pictured in their head, but could work with an open mind.  

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.reecenichols.com/bio/connerssavage

www.connorsavagegroup.com

BIO:

Mike has lived in Kansas City for the past 25 years. Prior to becoming a real estate agent, he spent 15 years as a regional manager with two leading medical companies. It's during these years that he developed his client-centric mentality and overall sales philosophies. After years of driving winning behaviors from his sales teams, Mike now embraces that same attitude for himself. Mike played college and semi-pro baseball and roots for the Royals and Chiefs. His biggest joy these days, however, is not traveling for work anymore and instead spending time with his family.

I’m so excited to share this entertaining episode with you today, which is all about decorating. Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole (also known as Kandrac & Kole) are industry experts in residential and commercial interior design and were voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. We cover so many great decorating tips in this episode, whether you’re in your forever home or looking to sell, from color trends and backsplashes to personalization to remodeling. Tune in to this fun and value-packed episode to get in touch with your inner decorator today!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:37] Changes in color trends.
• [05:04] Creating that ‘wow factor’ with pops of color and wallpaper.
• [13:04] Learning from Covid and the importance of making your home your own.
• [16:43] Joann and Kelly’s thoughts on vertical blinds, sliding mirrored closet doors, quotes on walls, backsplashes, and wrapping appliances.
• [23:17] You should enjoy decorating your space, but don’t overlook function. Storage is a luxury.
• [26:18] What to update first if you’re selling your home.
• [29:33] How to work with Joann and Kelly.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• If you have a good eye or you’ve worked with a designer, you can have a navy blue ceiling that wouldn’t scare anybody away. If something is done well, it doesn’t have to be neutral.
• Unless you’re moving in a year or so, don’t be afraid to add your personality and put your own touch into your home. That’s what makes a home great.
• If you know you’re going to sell your house in a year or two, do a simple remodel of key spaces like the kitchen and bathrooms. You don’t want potential buyers to start envisioning updates that they can’t handle.
• Don’t underestimate the power of lighting and curb appeal.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Inside Design - Sue Wadden Episode -  https://www.kandrac-kole.com/podcasts/ep-116-color-marketing-trends-with-sue-wadden

https://www.kandrac-kole.com/

https://www.facebook.com/kandracandkole

https://www.instagram.com/kandrackole/

BIO:

Voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Kandrac & Kole has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.

As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala.