Home Goals Podcast

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...

Think buying a home is all about luck? Think again! In this St. Patrick’s Day special, we’re revealing proven negotiation tactics to help first-time homebuyers save thousands and keep more gold in their pockets. From getting the seller to cover closing costs to turning inspection issues into cash savings, we’ll break down the best ways to negotiate like a pro. Whether you're in a competitive market or looking for hidden deals,...

Is now the right time to stop renting and buy a home? In this episode, we break down five key signs that indicate you might be ready to take the leap into homeownership—or whether you should keep renting a little longer. From getting your finances in order to understanding the market, we cover the most important factors that can make or break your home-buying decision.

Buying a home is a big commitment, but it’s not just about money...

What if you could set your kids up for financial success before they even graduate high school? In this episode, we’re diving into why teaching kids about homeownership early can be a game-changer for their future. From understanding the difference between renting and owning to learning about credit, savings, and building wealth, we’ll break down simple ways to make real estate a family lesson. Plus, I’ll share five practical tips ...

In this episode, we delve into the history of systemic barriers—redlining, discriminatory lending practices, and racially biased policies—that have long impeded Black families from building generational wealth. Through personal narratives, expert insights, and historical analysis, we uncover how these past injustices continue to reverberate today, shaping economic realities and community landscapes. Join us for a compelling journey...

Buying a home is just like winning the Super Bowl—you need the right team to execute the perfect game plan. In this episode, we’re breaking down the key players who will help you cross the goal line and secure your dream home. From the professionals who guide you through the process to the experts who protect your investment, we’ll cover why assembling the right team is essential for a smooth and successful home purchase. Whether y...

Buying your first home is a big milestone, but choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as picking the perfect house! In this episode, I break down the practical factors that can make or break your living experience—like commute times, schools (even if you don’t have kids), property taxes, home appreciation trends, and the little things that impact your day-to-day life. We’ll also talk about red flags to watch for, how ...

Home warranties promise peace of mind, but are they really worth the cost? In this episode, we break down what home warranties cover, how they differ from homeowners insurance, and the pros and cons of investing in one. We’ll also discuss common misconceptions, real-life scenarios where a home warranty can save you money (or be a waste), and key factors to consider before purchasing one. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seaso...

In this episode, we examine the Trump administration’s latest immigration policies and how they may affect the real estate industry. With undocumented immigrants making up a significant portion of the construction labor force, we explore the potential impact on housing supply, affordability, and the costs of home repairs and renovations. We also discuss why these policies could intensify the labor shortage and what that means for b...