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House Keys

House Keys

Auteur(s): Birdman Media™
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À propos de cet audio

 HOUSE KEYS is your go-to podcast for unlocking the world of real estate with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rob “Birdman” Hephner and featuring trusted real estate expert Stephanie Crain of Mountain Retreat Realty Experts, this series breaks down the complex terms, processes, and decisions involved in buying and selling homes. With over 20 years of industry experience and a reputation for unmatched integrity, Stephanie brings practical insights, real-world examples, and straight-talk explanations that empower listeners at every stage of the real estate journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or preparing to sell your home, HOUSE KEYS gives you the tools to navigate the market with ease and assurance.2025
Épisodes
  • What Is MLS, and Why Do I Care?

    What Is MLS, and Why Do I Care?
    Sep 19 2025

    Stephanie Crain explains the MLS system.

    🔎 What is the MLS? • MLS = Multiple Listing Service It’s a database created and maintained by real estate professionals that contains detailed information about homes for sale. • Local REALTOR® associations typically operate the MLS, and each region has its own. • It’s not public in full form—buyers see MLS listings on consumer websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin, but the back-end MLS that agents use has much more detail (history, showing instructions, commission offers, etc.). ⸻ 🏡 Why the MLS Matters to Sellers 1. Maximum Exposure • The MLS syndicates your listing to all major real estate websites, apps, and other agents’ databases. • Without it, your home may only be seen through limited advertising channels. 2. Buyer’s Agents Use It Exclusively • Most buyers work with an agent, and those agents primarily search the MLS for properties. • If your home isn’t listed there, you’re invisible to a huge pool of buyers. 3. Comparable Sales (Comps) • The MLS tracks sold homes, which appraisers and agents use to determine value. • Having your home on the MLS makes it part of the official record. 4. Professional Presentation • MLS listings follow a standard format with room details, square footage, photos, and disclosures. • It helps your property look legitimate and trustworthy. ⸻ 📌 Why You Should Care If you want: • Lots of buyers seeing your home • A faster sale • A better chance at multiple offers (higher price) …then the MLS is the most powerful tool to get your home in front of the largest possible audience of ready buyers.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
    Voir plus Voir moins
    4 min
  • For Sale by Owner - What you need to know.

    For Sale by Owner - What you need to know.
    Sep 17 2025
    Stephanie talks to Birdman about For Sale By Owner or FSBO When you sell your home For Sale By Owner (FSBO), you’re taking on the responsibilities that a real estate agent would normally handle. It can save you the listing commission, but it requires careful planning, knowledge of legal steps, and extra work on your part. Here’s what you need to know: ⸻ 1. Pricing Your Home Correctly • Research recent comparable sales in your neighborhood. • Consider getting a professional appraisal to set a fair asking price. • Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing can leave money on the table. ⸻ 2. Preparing the Home • Clean, declutter, and stage the property to appeal to buyers. • Take high-quality photos (and possibly a video tour). • Make minor repairs or updates that boost curb appeal. ⸻ 3. Marketing the Property • Create an online listing on major sites (Zillow, Realtor.com, FSBO platforms). • Use yard signs, flyers, and social media to spread the word. • Consider professional photography and a well-written description to stand out. ⸻ 4. Handling Showings • Be ready to schedule and host open houses or private showings. • Keep the home clean and welcoming at all times. • Be prepared to answer buyers’ questions directly. ⸻ 5. Negotiating Offers • Buyers may expect a discount since you’re not paying a commission. • Review all offers carefully; price isn’t the only factor—financing type, contingencies, and timelines matter. • You may want a real estate attorney to help review terms. ⸻ 6. Legal and Paperwork Requirements • Disclosures: You are legally required to disclose known defects or issues with the property. • Purchase contract: You’ll need a legally binding contract; many FSBO sellers use state-approved templates or hire an attorney. • Escrow/title company: They handle earnest money deposits, title search, and closing documents. ⸻ 7. Closing the Sale • The buyer’s lender will order an appraisal (if financing). • You’ll need to coordinate with inspectors, appraisers, and the title/escrow office. • At closing, you’ll sign the deed transfer, settle final costs, and hand over the keys. ⸻ 8. Pros and Cons Pros: • Save on agent commissions. • You stay in full control of the process. Cons: • Requires time, effort, and negotiation skills. • Limited exposure compared to listings in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). • Risk of mistakes with contracts, disclosures, or legal compliance.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
    Voir plus Voir moins
    3 min
  • What is Earnest Money?

    What is Earnest Money?
    Sep 11 2025

    💵 What is Earnest Money?

    Earnest money (sometimes called a good faith deposit) is the money a buyer puts down when making an offer on a home to show the seller they’re serious about purchasing.

    It’s like a security deposit for your offer — proving you’re committed while the sale process moves forward.

    📊 Typical Amount

    • Usually 1%–3% of the purchase price (but can be higher in competitive markets).

    • Example: On a $300,000 home, earnest money might be $3,000–$9,000.

    🏦 Where Does the Money Go?

    • It’s not paid directly to the seller upfront.

    • It’s held in an escrow account (by a title company, escrow company, or broker).

    • At closing, the earnest money is applied toward your down payment or closing costs.

    ⚖️ What Happens to It?

    • If the deal closes → It goes toward the buyer’s purchase costs.

    • If the buyer backs out for a valid reason (like issues found during inspections, financing falls through, or appraisal problems under contract terms) → The money is usually refunded.

    • If the buyer backs out without a valid reason (outside the contract protections) → The seller may keep the earnest money as compensation for taking the home off the market.

    🔑 Why It Matters

    • Shows the seller you’re committed.

    • Strengthens your offer in competitive markets.

    • Protects the seller from wasted time if a buyer walks away without cause.

    👉 In short: Earnest money = the buyer’s “good faith” deposit that says, “I’m serious about this purchase,” and it eventually gets credited back to the buyer if the sale goes through.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
    Voir plus Voir moins
    2 min
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