Shows
Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Energy Efficiency in Homes – What It Means & How to Get a Good Return on Your InvestmentGuest: Kelly Drake, Mallard Homes Inc. & Store StuffHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword—it can be a powerful tool for lowering utility bills and increasing home value. In this episode, we chat with Kelly Drake of Mallard Homes Inc. & Store Stuff to break down what energy efficiency really means, what upgrades are worth the cost, and how to maximize your return on investment.We cover:The most impactful upgrades homeowners can makeHow to calculate ROI on ener...2025-07-1537 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Roofing 101 – What Every Homeowner Should KnowGuest: Nate Robertson, Vision RoofingHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)Think your roof is “out of sight, out of mind”? Think again. In this episode, we bring in Nate Robertson of Vision Roofing to give homeowners the essential info they need to protect one of the most important parts of their home.We cover:How a roof affects your home value and insuranceCommon roofing materials and how they compareSigns of damage, when to inspect, and when to repairHow...2025-07-0134 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Staging on a Budget: How to Make Your Home Stand Out Without Breaking the BankGuest: Moriah Miller, Crystal Clear RealtyHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)Staging your home doesn’t have to cost thousands to make a big impact. In this episode, we sit down with Moriah Miller of Crystal Clear Realty to talk all about budget-friendly staging strategies that help homes shine—without draining your wallet.Tune in to learn:Why staging matters more than you thinkWhat rooms you must focus on when preparing to sellLow-cost and DIY staging tips you can implement toda...2025-06-1730 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®How to Use HELOCs Effectively – Smart Ways to Tap Into Your Home’s EquityGuest: Secily Rees, Envista Federal Credit UnionHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)A HELOC can be one of the most flexible financial tools available to homeowners, but only if you use it wisely. In this episode, we sit down with Secily Rees of Envista Federal Credit Union to break down how Home Equity Lines of Credit actually work, when they’re a good idea, and what to avoid.You’ll learn:How HELOCs differ from traditional mortgagesSmart ways to use your home’s equity...2025-06-0327 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®New Construction: The Process and What It Looks Like with Joy SlavensGuest: Joy Slavens, Keller Williams IntegrityHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)Thinking about building your dream home? This episode breaks down the entire new construction journey—from finding a builder to financing and what to expect along the way.Lexie and Campbell sit down with Joy Slavens of Keller Williams Integrity to explore:The first steps every buyer should take when considering new constructionKey differences between building new vs. buying existingCustom homes vs. spec homes—what’s more common now and wh...2025-05-2033 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Inventory Shortages & New Construction in Lawrence: What’s Really Going On?Guest: Bobbie Flory, Executive Director of the Lawrence Home Builders AssociationHosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)What’s driving the housing shortage in Lawrence? In this episode, Lexie and Campbell sit down with Bobbie Flory to explore everything from skyrocketing construction costs to zoning restrictions—and what can realistically be done to address the growing gap in available homes.We talk about:Why inventory is low (and which buyers are hit hardest)The true cost of building todayWhat role city regulations play...2025-05-0643 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Escrow, Closing Costs & Common Myths—What Buyers Need to Know: Elly Claussen, Mid America BankWhat exactly is escrow? How much do closing costs really add up to? And can buyers actually negotiate any of this?In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ It Real, Co-hosts Lexie Haskin with Flint Hills Mortgage and Campbell Ragan with McGrew Real Estate sit down with Elly Claussen from MidAmerica Bank to break down the essentials of escrow accounts, closing costs, and what buyers really need to know before signing on the dotted line.You’ll learn:✔️ What an escrow account is and how it works after closing✔️ What fees make up your clos...2025-04-1531 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Rural Housing Challenges and Solutions– Addressing unique homeownership issues in rural areas with Deborah Becker (Movement Mortgage) and Randy Russell (Stephens Real Estate)Rural Housing Challenges and SolutionsAs we recognize the start of Fair Housing Month, this timely episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real explores the unique challenges—and potential solutions—facing rural homebuyers across Kansas. This is the sixth installment in our Affordable Housing Series, and we’re joined by guest co-host Rob Hulse, Vice President of the Lawrence Board of REALTORS®, along with guests Deborah Becker (Movement Mortgage) and Randy Russell (Stephens Real Estate).From infrastructure hurdles and zoning restrictions to financing options like USDA loans, this episode takes a comprehensive look at rural housing b...2025-04-0142 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Financial Foundations: How Smart Money Management Leads to Homeownership with Ashley Zeller (Bank Midwest) and Ginger Ellsperman (HCCI)Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and financial literacy is the key to making smart, informed choices. In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast, host Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage), and guest co-host Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) sit down with financial experts Ashley Zeller (Bank Midwest) and Ginger Ellsperman (Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc.) to break down the essentials of financial literacy for homebuyers.We’ll tackle key topics like managing debt, improving credit, budgeting for a down payment, and navigating mortgage options confidently. Plus, we’ll...2025-03-1845 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Homebuyer Education 101: Empowering First-Time Buyers with Bailey Stuart (McGrew RealtEstate) and Lexie Haskin (FlintHillsMortgage)Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ It Real, we’re joined by Bailey Stuart (McGrew Real Estate) and Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) to break down everything first-time buyers need to know. From getting pre-approved for a mortgage and choosing the right loan program to avoiding common mistakes and navigating home inspections, this episode is packed with expert insights. We also explore how homebuyer education programs can better serve underrepresented groups and ensure equitable access to homeownership. Whether you're just starting your homeownership jour...2025-03-0438 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Making Use of Local Housing Programs with Erika Zimmerman and Ashley TaylorBuying a home can feel overwhelming—especially for low- and moderate-income families—but local housing programs can make homeownership more accessible. In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real, hosts Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) and GUEST Co-Host Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) sit down with Ashley Taylor (Tenant to Homeowner) and Erika Zimmerman (Habitat for Humanity) to break down the resources available for aspiring homeowners in Lawrence.We cover:✅ How Tenant to Homeowner helps buyers overcome mortgage challenges✅ The Habitat for Humanity process & how it keeps homes affordable✅ Common myths about affordable housing prog...2025-02-1831 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®📢 Buying Your First Investment Property: A Guide to Wealth Building with Bryan HedgesThinking about diving into real estate investing? In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ It Real, hosts Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) and Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) sit down with Bryan Hedges of Hedges Real Estate and Location Properties to break down everything you need to know about buying your first investment property.
We’ll cover:🏡 Key differences between primary residences and investment properties💰 How to finance your first rental & down payment requirements📍 What to look for in a profitable property⚖️ Risk management and wealth-building strategies🔎 Fact or Fiction: Investment property myths debun...2025-02-0455 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Designing for Everyone: Navigating Multi-Generational Living with Claire VowelsIn this episode, we welcome Claire Vowels of Thrive Real Estate KC to discuss the growing trend of multi-generational living and how to create homes that meet the needs of everyone under one roof.
Claire shares valuable insights on:
- Understanding the dynamics and benefits of multi-generational households
- Key design elements to balance privacy, accessibility, and functionality
- Practical renovations and future-proofing your space for aging parents or growing kids
- Addressing legal, financial, and market considerations for multi-generational living
...2025-01-2131 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Taxes Made Simple with Amy Neth Sand: What Every Homeowner Needs to KnowIn this episode, we tackle the essential tax considerations for homeowners with expert insights from Amy Neth Sand, an experienced accountant with Stonecreek Accounting. Rob Hulse, Vice President of the Lawrence Board of Realtors®, will also join us as a guest co-host.
Together, we break down the key tax topics every homeowner needs to know:
Post-Purchase Tax Prep: Learn which documents to provide your accountant, how property taxes impact filings, and the deductions you can claim as a new homeowner.
Selling & Capital Gains:
Understand how capital gains are calculated, the importance of keeping impr...2025-01-0726 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Enhancing Your Home with Victoria Perdue from KW Integrity and KB Painting KSIn this episode, we’re joined by Victoria Perdue of KW Integrity and KB Painting KS to explore how to transform your home into a stylish and valuable haven. From selecting the perfect paint colors to incorporating the latest home improvement trends, Victoria shares expert advice and practical tips for homeowners and sellers alike.
We’ll answer key questions like:✔️What are the biggest paint color mistakes, and how to avoid them?✔️How does painting affect a home’s aesthetic and value?✔️What are some budget-friendly renovation ideas that pack a punch?
✔️What should you look for in a cont...2024-12-2326 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Clearing the Air: Understanding Radon and Radon Mitigation with Kyle BulmerIn this eye-opening episode, we’re diving into everything
you need to know about radon—what it is, how it impacts your health, and why every homeowner should know it. Join hosts Lexie Haskin from Flint Hills Mortgage and Emily Robertson from McGrew Real Estate as they sit down for an
insightful conversation with Kyle Bulmer with Bulmer Environmental Solutions as he walks us through the radon testing process, discusses ongoing maintenance after mitigation and shares signs that may indicate a radon issue in your home. We’ll also tackle the big question: are at-home radon tests reliable?
2024-12-0318 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Decoding the Residential Appraisal Process with Michael Elliott from Veritas AppraisalsCurious about how the value of your home is determined? Join hosts Lexie Haskin from Flint Hills Mortgage and Emily Robertson from McGrew Real Estate as they sit down for an insightful conversation with Michael Elliott from Veritas Appraisals, where we break down the key factors appraisers use to assess property value. We’ll dive into the difference between market value and assessed value, common challenges in the appraisal process, and tips for homeowners to maximize their home’s appraised value. Plus, we’ll tackle the myths and truths surrounding FHA appraisals and explore how the neighborhood influences property value...2024-11-0635 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Spooky Critters and Creepy Crawlers: Pest and Termite Inspections with David RoubisonJust in time for Halloween, join hosts Lexie Haskin from Flint Hills Mortgage and Emily Robertson from McGrew Real Estate as they sit down with pest expert David Roubison of Laser Pest Management for a discussion on the creepy crawlies you don’t want hiding in your home!
Termites may not give you nightmares, but the damage they cause to your home just might! David uncovers the hidden dangers of untreated termite infestations, why early detection is crucial, and what to expect during a thorough inspection. We’ll also explore other creepy crawlers that homeowners should be on the look...2024-10-2221 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Preventing the Unthinkable: Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to KnowIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast," we’re joined by McKenzi Ezell and Kevin Joles from LK Fire and Medical to discuss essential fire safety tips that can save lives and protect homes. We’ll uncover common fire hazards often overlooked by homeowners and share strategies to reduce these risks. McKenzi and Kevin will also provide expert advice on the proper placement and maintenance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as recommend additional fire safety devices to consider. We’ll dive into creating an effective fire escape plan for families, ensuring that e...2024-10-0842 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Home Insurance Uncovered: From Claims to Costs with Thea LeaseIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast," we’re diving deep into the world of home insurance with expert guest Thea Lease, Sr. Account Executive at The Sparke Agency, Farm Bureau Financial Services. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or just curious, Thea helps us break down the key elements of home insurance that everyone should understand.
We cover the full spectrum, from what the claims process looks like to what factors can influence the cost of your policy. We'll also talk about when you should update your coverage, how the current residential insu...2024-09-1134 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Unlocking the Benefits: Why You Should Use a Realtor for Your Next Move with Jill Ballew, Stephens Real Estate and LBOR 2024 President New Podcast Episode
Alert! 🎉
Curious about the benefits of using a realtor? 🤔
In our latest episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast,"
we sit down with Jill Ballew, Stephens Real Estate and 2024 Lawrence Board of
Realtors President; we dive deep into why having a professional by your side
can make all the difference in your real estate journey! 🏠✨
We cover all the key topics and answer the burning questions you might have.
1️⃣ What’s the difference between
a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor?
2️⃣ What are the benefits of using
a local Realtor...2024-08-2029 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Navigating Interest Rates with Kelsey McClasky from Fairway Independent Mortgage CorporationIn our latest episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we dive deep into the world of mortgage interest rates with Kelsey McClasky from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, exploring how economic shifts and Federal Reserve policies impact them. Learn the ins and outs of fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages and discover actionable steps to secure the best possible rate. We also break down what factors, beyond interest rates, influence your mortgage payments and how to estimate them accurately.
🔍 Topics Covered:
How do economic changes and Federal Reserve policies affect mor...2024-08-0729 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Smooth Moves: Expert Tips with Reese Jones, Professional Moving & StorageIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we dive deep into the world of moving and storage with Reese Jones from Professional Moving and Storage. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of a seamless moving process, from packing tips and tricks to choosing the right storage solutions for your needs. We'll discuss common challenges, offer expert advice on avoiding moving pitfalls, and share stories of unexpected moving surprises. Tune in to learn more and arm yourself with the knowledge to make your next move smooth and...2024-07-0926 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Navigating the NAR Settlement: Insights with Rob HulseIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors,” we sit down with Rob Hulse, Executive Vice President of the Lawrence Board of Realtors, to unpack the recent NAR (National Association of Realtors) settlement. Rob sheds light on why NAR chose this path and the significant changes resulting from the settlement. We delve into the shifting role of the MLS, the new compensation options available, and what these changes mean for both home buyers and sellers. Rob also discusses the potential requirement of Buyer Agency Agreements, the broader impact on the La...2024-06-0545 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Unmasking Mold: Signs, Health Risks, and Effective Mitigation with Nesreen IskandraniIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we dive deep into the hidden world of mold. Join us as we uncover the telltale signs that mold may be lurking in your home, explore the serious health risks associated with prolonged mold exposure, and demystify the mold mitigation process. Are home tests for mold reliable? We'll answer that too. Plus, don't miss our fun and informative game segment, "Mold MythBusters," where we'll separate fact from fiction. For instance, is bleach really an effective remedy for visible mold? Tune in to...2024-05-2126 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Exploring the Role and Value of Buyer's Agents with Cheri Drake, McGrew REIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into buyer agents' crucial role in a real estate transaction. Join our hosts for an enlightening episode as we delve into the world of real estate with Cheri Drake from McGrew Real Estate. Join us as we explore the role of buyer's agents and the value they bring to the real estate transaction process.
Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno
Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library
Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage
Thank you to...2024-05-0726 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Unveiling the Mystery: Exploring Title Insurance with Beth ShmalbergIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into the crucial role title insurance plays in a real estate transaction. Join our hosts for an enlightening episode as we delve into the world of title insurance with Beth Shmalberg from Kansas Secured Title. Title insurance is a crucial component of the real estate transaction process, yet it's often misunderstood. Beth demystifies the complexities surrounding title insurance, answering basic questions and providing essential information to empower consumers. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this episode equips...2024-04-2324 minLawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®Curbing Doubts: How Curb Appeal Influences Buyer PerceptionIn this episode of "Lawrence Real + Local, Keepin' it REAL Podcast by the Lawrence Board of Realtors," we delve into the crucial role curb appeal plays in the real estate market. Our hosts, joined by Michelle Roberts-Freeman with Stephens Real Estate, uncover effective ways to enhance a property's external charm. From quick fixes to overall appearances, discover how to create a captivating first impression that boosts value and attracts buyers. Learn about cost-effective updates, the latest outdoor design trends, and various curb appeal projects. Whether you're selling your home or just aiming to be the envy of the neighborhood...2024-04-0920 min