Are fireplaces a dream feature or a hidden danger? In this episode of The Den, hosts Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen tackle everything homeowners overlook when it comes to fireplaces. Whether it's chimney safety, outdated inserts, or the pros and cons of gas versus wood burning, this conversation is packed with insights for buyers, sellers, and homeowners alike. From potbelly stoves to modern gas logs, the team unpacks safety risks, insurance implications, and practical advice for maintaining and upgrading fireplaces in the Four Corners region and beyond.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Fireplace maintenance is essential for homeowner safety
• Chimney caps and spark arrestors help prevent roof fires
• Creosote buildup can cause dangerous flue fires
• Pellet stoves are efficient but rely on electricity and fuel supply
• Insert systems help protect old chimney structures
• Gas logs offer convenience but require upkeep
• Electric fireplaces are low-maintenance but add no real value
• Fireplaces may not impact home value but are preference-driven
• Old fireplace setups can hide major safety issues
• Annual inspections are critical, especially before winter use

BEST MOMENTS

00:03:13. “The soot, the creosote buildup in the flue? That is highly flammable.”
00:04:30. “You could easily have an ember go straight up your chimney and... then you've got a problem.”
00:05:03. “So when you said open air fire pit, I was like, that's not code in New Mexico.”
00:06:44. “It's not safe. So we haven't used that one.”
00:10:00. “I love listening to the crackling fire... not when it fills my house with smoke.”
00:13:13. “Electricity goes out. That’s what the pellet stoves work on.”
00:16:39. “That gas log fireplace almost burned us out of there.”
00:17:19. “I can’t even sleep with my Christmas tree on, let alone a fire.”
00:26:09. “Gas log fireplaces are a little bit more desirable because they’re easy.”

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Is renting the new reality? In this episode of The Den, hosts Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen tackle the ongoing migration from homeownership to renting. With local housing inventory shrinking and affordability tightening across the Four Corners, they ask the tough question - is this a long-term shift or a temporary fix? Whether you're a first-time buyer, long-time homeowner, or active real estate professional, this candid roundtable breaks down current market pressures, personal finance choices, and strategic timing in today’s market. Tune in for insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

Key Takeaways:
• Affordability is the top factor driving more people to rent
• Shrinking inventory under $300k is limiting buyer options
• Interest rates are still making renting more attractive for many
• Families may be priced out of “starter homes” completely
• Renting offers flexibility without the maintenance burden
• Wages are not keeping pace with housing or living costs
• Builders lack incentives to create truly affordable housing
• New Mexico’s free childcare and education programs could help
• Real estate timing should align with personal financial readiness
• Owning remains the top path to long-term wealth, but only when the time is right

Best Moments:

00:02:03. “Affordability - I think that's our biggest issue right now.”
00:03:14. “74 homes under $300k in San Juan County - and most aren't family-ready.”
00:04:15. “You're paying $2,200 a month for a home that might not meet your needs.”
00:06:11. “If you're a traveler or a nomad, renting might make more sense.”
00:09:24. “Right now, I think it's a good idea to just sit and wait. Stack your chips.”
00:11:05. “Wages are so low, even renting is unaffordable for many.”
00:13:46. “Somebody has to take a hit for affordability... and right now, it's the buyer.”
00:28:08. “Homeownership builds wealth, but renting is a great strategic step.”

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Is a 50-Year Mortgage the Key to Homeownership or a Debt Trap?
In this episode of The Den, powered by the Lyons Group, hosts Ben Lyons, Paul Barry, and Shannon Martinez dive into one of the most hotly debated real estate trends emerging in the market: 50-year mortgages. Are they a strategic tool to increase affordability or a dangerous path to long-term financial strain? Backed by real-world numbers, personal experiences, and insights from over 400 million in real estate sales, this episode breaks it all down. Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or real estate professional, this conversation will challenge your thinking and expand your strategy toolkit.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• 50-year mortgages are being floated as a new affordability tool
• Most homeowners don’t keep their mortgage for the full term anyway
• Lower monthly payments could help entry-level buyers get in the game
• Real-life example comparing 15, 30, and 50-year mortgages
• Total interest paid on 50-year loans is significantly higher
• These long-term loans are best viewed as flexible tools, not long-term commitments
• Renting vs. building equity through ownership, even with minimal principal paid
• Portable mortgages are already in use in Canada and could hit the U.S.
• Down payments and closing costs remain the biggest barrier to ownership
• Strategic planning is key to using these tools wisely and avoiding future debt traps

BEST MOMENTS:

00:02:05. “Nobody ever really pays off a 30 year loan. So who cares about the back end of a 50 year?”
00:03:40. “50 year mortgage. You’re looking at a total monthly payment of $1,275.”
00:05:02. “The total interest paid on a 50 year mortgage would be $765,000.”
00:08:15. “Even if you don’t pay down a penny, market growth can still give you equity.”
00:13:09. “We don’t want people to necessarily pay 50 years, but use it as a tool to build wealth.”
00:17:50. “It’s the long game. That’s the idea with real estate and student loans too.”
00:21:00. “I would buy an investment property and pay on it like a 15, but with flexibility.”
00:24:38. “In Canada, you can move your current interest rate to a new asset. That’s wild.”

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Are lowball offers worth the risk, or do they just burn bridges?

In this episode of The Den, powered by the Lyons Group, your hosts Ben Lyons, Shannon Martinez, Paul Barry, and Aspen Groen dive into one of the most controversial buyer strategies in real estate: the lowball offer. Is there ever a right time to go in well under asking? What’s the fine line between a smart offer and an offensive one? Packed with real-world stories and tactical insights, this conversation unpacks how to approach negotiation without damaging your chances, or your reputation.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or local agent navigating today's unpredictable market, this one’s a must-listen.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Why lowball offers can backfire and permanently close the door
• The emotional factor sellers bring to the table
• How presentation and tone make or break negotiations
• The strategic difference between a “low” offer and a “lowball” offer
• Why buyers should focus on the seller’s pain points first
• How market conditions shape what's acceptable
• Why reputation matters in small markets
• Tactics for getting concessions without offending
• The concept of BATNA and how it applies to buyers
• How realtors can soften the blow and keep deals alive

BEST MOMENTS

00:03:00. “I think sellers still have a bit of an advantage, and I don't think that they are that terribly desperate.”
00:04:00. “You've almost already set the tone for how you're going to behave with them.”
00:06:09. “Well, I hate lowball offers.”
00:08:01. “It's not where we want to be, but it's a starting place. Let's see what we can do with it.”
00:10:02. “I don't have one seller that says, yeah, I'd give up $80,000 to get it sold today instead of in three months.”
00:13:09. “Anytime I get a lowball offer, it's almost like, well, let's raise the price.”
00:15:06. “You're taking an offer to somebody on the place where they brought their kids home to.”
00:25:36. “You're going from a lowball offer to being a strategic low offer. And there's a big difference.”

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What’s better than turkey and stuffing? Try a real estate trivia showdown and a heartfelt gratitude session with your favorite hosts.

In this special Thanksgiving edition of The Den, Ben, Paul, Aspen, and Shannon come together to reflect on what they’re most thankful for in life, work, and real estate. It’s part gratitude, part hilarity, and all community. From iconic Friends references to surprising real estate stats and a full trivia segment, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Powered by the Lyons Group and recorded in the heart of the Four Corners region, this one’s for every buyer, seller, agent, and neighbor in our local community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Gratitude for teammates, community, and lasting career relationships
• Reflections on staying grounded in the ups and downs of real estate
• Why abundance mindsets lead to stronger agent communities
• How realtors support each other even as competitors
• The surprising power of a black front door in home sales
• How deep fryer disasters make Thanksgiving the #1 fire risk holiday
• 11 countries that actually celebrate Thanksgiving
• Why the “Moist Maker” from Friends stole the show
• Behind-the-scenes stories about family, outfits, and leftover safety
• Fun facts and unexpected trivia about early Thanksgiving history

BEST MOMENTS

00:02:15. “I'm grateful, super thankful for my partners here at the Lyons Group.”
00:04:11. “I am wearing my Moist Maker sandwich today.”
00:06:27. “No matter how hard times have gotten, I've always had great support.”
00:08:54. “Some of the most incredibly kind people in this industry. Also generous and willing to give advice.”
00:11:06. “Locally, we really do rally behind each other.”
00:12:57. “We don't always agree, we don't always have success, but we're always in it together.”
00:17:04. “Did the first Thanksgiving last seven days?”
00:24:08. “There's a fine line when you let the turkey thaw and then fry it.”
00:30:08. “I want to share the actual Moist Maker sandwich recipe.”

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Is the 2025 Housing Market the Next 2008?

Could history be repeating itself? On this episode of The Den, the Lyons Group, Paul, Ben, Aspen, and Shannon, tackle one of the most pressing questions in real estate today: Is 2025 shaping up to be another 2008-style crash? They explore national trends, local impact, and the key differences between then and now. From interest rates to inventory shortages, this episode is packed with real talk, sharp insights, and personal experience from boots-on-the-ground realtors who’ve seen it all. If you’re buying, selling, or just trying to make sense of the market, this one’s for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• 2025 home sales are nearly identical to 2008, despite 50 million more Americans
• Home prices have outpaced wages dramatically, pricing out many buyers
• Dual-income households still struggle to afford homes
• Inventory shortages and low interest mortgages are keeping people in place
• Distressed sales have dropped from 45% in 2008 to just 1% in 2025
• Average days on market has dropped from 120 in 2008 to 62 now
• Lending practices are far stricter today thanks to post-crash reforms
• Builders lack incentive to create affordable housing without tax credits
• The Fed lowering rates doesn’t directly affect mortgage rates
• Real estate movement has slowed due to lack of financial flexibility

BEST MOMENTS
00:02:14. “Back in 2008, there were 4.1 million homes sold. In 2025, 4.08 million.”
00:03:01. “The 2008 crash was because of poor lending practices. Right now we have very elevated home prices and higher interest rates.”
00:04:06. “Twenty years ago, even somebody right out of college or high school could buy a house. That’s not the case now.”
00:05:27. “Now the average income is $80,000 and the average home is $350,000.”
00:08:07. “Why would you choose right now to trade up if you're at a 2 or 3% interest rate?”
00:10:00. “Short sales were just left and right. You had to understand them to navigate the market.”
00:14:06. “Average 30-year mortgage is 6.17% right now in America, nearly identical to 2008.”
00:17:02. “Average days on market now is 62. That’s 50% less than 2008.”
00:27:28. “We are not in the same market as we were in 2008. We've got a lot of good things on our horizon.”

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Why water is the silent threat to your home (and what to do about it)

Think you’re safe from water damage just because you live in the dry Southwest? Think again. In this episode of The Den, Paul, Ben, Shannon, and Aspen break down how water continues to be one of the biggest threats to homes, through roof leaks, plumbing issues, flash floods, improper grading, and even swamp coolers. With stories from real inspections and practical advice for buyers, sellers, and homeowners, this is a must-hear episode for anyone looking to protect their investment.

The Den is powered by The Lyons Group, and brings expert insights into real estate, entrepreneurship, and personal growth across the Four Corners region.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Flooding in Pagosa Springs caused hot tubs to float downriver
• Mudslides and burn scars are major threats post-wildfire
• Flash floods in arroyos can swallow trucks in seconds
• Diverting natural arroyos can lead to serious property damage
• Poor grading is a top cause of water entering homes
• Gutters often drop water right at the foundation—bad design
• Snowmelt and rainwater need engineered drainage systems
• Crawlspaces reveal hidden plumbing leaks and foundation issues
• Evaporative coolers cause extensive roof damage if not maintained
• Listening for odd sounds can save you from major water disasters

BEST MOMENTS

00:01:52. “The river rose 20, 30 feet. It was crazy.”
00:03:08. “There were hot tubs floating down the river.”
00:04:12. “After the fires, you get a big rain. And the floods happen.”
00:05:08. “Flash floods are scary. It would swallow an entire vehicle.”
00:06:54. “Our land does not absorb the water as much.”
00:10:01. “Water diverting away from the house is probably the best thing you can do.”
00:14:07. “Clean out your gutters, because they get clogged with leaves and debris.”
00:17:08. “If you have an issue in your plumbing, get it looked at immediately.”
00:18:58. “If something sounds weird, that’s when you start looking into it.”
00:20:12. “I hear this dripping... we had water dripping into our gas log fireplace.”
00:21:23. “Water was just pouring out of our light socket.”
00:22:05. “That’s probably the thing we see the most, water damage from swamp coolers.”
00:23:59. “The water didn’t hurt the house, but it caused issues on the property.”
00:25:00. “It had rained so much, it finally just cleaned out the French drain.”
00:27:06. “French drains are usually a solid pipe filled with gravel that takes water away.”
00:28:14. “Don’t cross arroyos. Even with 4 to 6 inches of water, it can be dangerous.”
00:28:45. “Clean out your scuppers and your canals. Don’t end up like me, a crooked plumber.”

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Are you unknowingly risking your deal with owner finance?

In this episode of The Den, hosts Ben Lyons, Aspen Grown, Shannon Martinez, and Paul Barry dive into the top mistakes people make with owner financing. With hundreds of millions in sales and decades of real estate experience, the team breaks down real scenarios that could cost buyers and sellers big. Whether you're looking to finance creatively or just want to avoid the pitfalls, this episode is a masterclass in what not to do. Learn why title companies matter, how balloon payments should be structured, and what happens when taxes or insurance slip through the cracks.

Key Takeaways:
• Understand the difference between legal and equitable title
• Why closing through a title company protects both parties
• How federal tax liens can attach to your property
• What happens if a balloon payment can’t be met
• The dangers of a deficit closing and how to spot one
• Why verifying financial terms is crucial before signing
• Common misconceptions about rent-to-own vs owner finance
• How escrow protects buyers and sellers alike
• Strategies to protect against unpaid taxes and insurance
• The pros and cons of long-term amortization vs balloon structures

Best Moments:
00:01:00. “You don't want to make mistakes in real estate, especially with owner finance.”
00:02:23. “If you do it right, it could be very advantageous for both sides.”
00:04:07. “You might be having to negotiate again or working on getting your property back.”
00:07:00. “I trusted information given to me by the seller without verifying it.”
00:10:18. “Title companies won’t close a deficit closing nowadays.”
00:13:00. “If it's not recorded, you have no legal right to that property.”
00:15:40. “You're probably going to have to qualify for both loans at the same time.”
00:20:15. “If you don't go through proper channels, you can be in big time trouble.”
00:27:03. “There's actually a lot more ownership and responsibility in it.”

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