What do rising mortgage rates, record-low inventory, and Trump’s economic agenda mean for real estate in 2025? This episode dives into the strategies you need to thrive amidst uncertainty. Don’t miss out—your future clients are counting on you to stay ahead.

On this week’s Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we analyze the post-election housing market, focusing on the housing affordability crisis, historic rate trends, and the impact of President Trump’s proposed policies. We tackle the challenges of limited inventory, surging multifamily construction, and shifting demographics in homebuying. Discover practical insights on how deregulation and tax incentives could influence supply and affordability. And don’t miss the final segment where we unveil a powerful AI-driven tool designed to elevate your real estate business for the year ahead.

Mortgage Rates Remain Volatile Amid Economic Uncertainty

Mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster, fluctuating between the low 6% range and above 7% within weeks. Factors like weak job creation, declining banking liquidity, and the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts are contributing to this unpredictability. Understanding these dynamics is critical for navigating today’s market.

Trump’s Policies Could Reshape Housing Affordability

With Trump’s return to the White House, key policies on tariffs, immigration, and deregulation are expected to impact housing costs and supply. While deregulation and tax incentives could encourage construction, tariffs on building materials and immigration restrictions may exacerbate affordability challenges.

The Housing Affordability Crisis Intensifies

Home prices have risen 57% since 2020, far outpacing wage growth at just 28%, making homeownership increasingly out of reach. The typical age of first-time buyers has climbed to 38, reflecting the growing challenges younger generations face in entering the market.

Economic Pressures Are Reshaping Real Estate Trends

Rising national debt and shrinking market liquidity are putting pressure on the economy and real estate markets. The Federal Reserve’s actions and Trump’s economic agenda could lead to further market volatility, requiring professionals to stay vigilant and adapt to changing conditions.

Revolutionize Your Business Planning with AI Tools

The episode closes with an introduction to ChatGPT as a transformative tool for real estate professionals. This AI platform can help streamline business planning, marketing, and operations, offering agents a competitive edge in 2025’s uncertain market.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

National Association of Realtors (NAR): https://www.nar.realtor

Mortgage News Daily: https://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com

CoreLogic Home Price Insights: https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/reports/home-price-insights/

HousingWire – Logan Mohtashami's Analysis: https://www.housingwire.com/author/logan-mohtashami/

IRS Opportunity Zones: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/businesses/opportunity-zones

ChatGPT by OpenAI:

Ready to turn your real estate team into a powerhouse? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep with Alex Kutsishin, co-founder of Fuel, on how to build and lead a team where every member performs at their peak. Discover practical strategies to enhance your team’s effectiveness and create a winning culture in real estate.

In this episode, we explore the top strategies for Developing Real Estate Teams That Thrive with guest Alex Kutsishin, co-founder of Fuel. Together, we dive into key leadership insights on boosting team performance, maintaining high standards, and recognizing when it’s time to elevate—or replace—team members. Alex shares actionable tips on measuring team progress, creating high-impact learning experiences, and fostering an environment that encourages growth for each member. We also discuss how to inspire a results-oriented mindset while maintaining a balanced, healthy work atmosphere. From self-improvement to performance-based analytics, this episode equips real estate professionals with the tools needed to create unstoppable teams. Whether you’re a seasoned broker or building your first team, this conversation will give you the edge to lead with impact and purpose.

Elevate Team Standards Consistently

Alex emphasizes that successful teams continuously raise standards to ensure every team member performs at their best. Leaders should seek 95% of the team to meet 100% of expectations, with standards evolving as the team excels.

Shift to a Talent-Development Mindset

Transitioning from personal performance to team-focused leadership requires viewing every interaction as a chance to develop talent. Alex shares practical ways leaders can enhance each member’s skills and build a culture of continuous improvement.

Autonomy and Accountability in Performance

Fuel’s platform encourages autonomy by allowing members to engage in personalized courses while maintaining accountability. Leaders can track growth and address specific areas for improvement, making training impactful and personalized.

Focus on Performance Over Knowledge

Moving beyond conventional training, Fuel’s approach emphasizes practicing skills rather than just understanding concepts. By encouraging team members to apply what they’ve learned, they’re better prepared for real-world success.

The Journey is the Goal

Both Alex and Mike discuss the importance of viewing progress as a continuous journey. By celebrating small wins and pushing through challenges, real estate professionals can stay motivated, avoid burnout, and keep their teams energized for the long term.

Alex Kutsishin is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Fuel, a leading platform in personal and professional development designed to build high-performance teams. With a background that spans launching ten diverse businesses, Alex brings a wealth of knowledge in team-building, leadership, and innovative training approaches. His commitment to developing teams through hands-on practice and performance analytics has made Fuel a go-to resource for companies worldwide. Alex’s insights inspire leaders to redefine team standards and build a culture where every member thrives.

Resources

For additional insights and tools mentioned in this episode, check out the following resources:

Fuel Personal & Professional Development Platform – Dive into a range of performance-enhancing courses and tools: https://www.myfuel.io/

Patty McCord’s Article on Building Teams Like Sports – Insight into building strong, talent-focused teams:

Are you ready to discover which presidential candidate's housing policies could make or break the real estate market? In this episode, we dive into the differences between Trump’s and Kamala Harris’s stances on housing, with expert insight from D.C. insider Michael Williams. Join us as we uncover which policies might truly impact your business—and what you need to know before election day!

In this timely episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we tackle the hot topic of the 2024 presidential election and its potential impact on real estate. Host Mike Mills sits down with Michael Williams, an experienced Washington lobbyist and policy strategist, to break down the differences between Trump’s and Kamala Harris’s housing policies. With the election just days away, they explore how these contrasting policy approaches could influence housing affordability, real estate investments, and the regulatory landscape that Realtors navigate daily. From affordable housing proposals to deregulation debates, this episode answers crucial questions that real estate professionals need to consider as they head to the polls. Whether you're an agent, investor, or loan officer, gain valuable insights into how this election could reshape the real estate industry.

The Reality of Affordable Housing Promises

Michael Williams discusses why sweeping federal affordable housing programs often fail due to complex local regulations and red tape. He highlights the challenge of aligning federal funding with state-level incentives to boost housing supply effectively.

Down Payment Assistance Programs: Do They Work?

We explore Kamala Harris’s proposal for $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Williams explains how this type of assistance could increase demand but won’t solve supply issues, potentially driving prices even higher.

The Limits of Deregulation in Real Estate

Williams shares his view on Trump’s deregulation promises, explaining why federal deregulation might not make a noticeable difference in housing supply, as zoning regulations are largely determined at the state and local levels.

Systemic Challenges to Housing Policy Implementation

Both Williams and Mills highlight the logistical and structural hurdles in implementing long-term housing policies, noting how temporary political goals often overshadow the sustained efforts needed for real change.

Why Your Vote Matters in Housing Policy

With a deep dive into how policies affect everyday housing, Williams stresses that Realtor and consumer participation in elections is essential for driving policies that prioritize real estate issues. Voter turnout directly impacts whether housing policies become a priority in Washington.

Michael Williams is a seasoned lobbyist and policy strategist with nearly two decades of experience in Washington, D.C., specializing in financial services, housing policy, and legislative affairs. His career includes working with influential political figures and administrations, such as Governor Mario Cuomo and President Bill Clinton, where he was involved in groundbreaking initiatives across trade, tax, and banking regulations. As a political consultant, Williams now advises top financial institutions and government bodies on critical housing and finance policies. Known for his practical approach to navigating policy challenges, Williams brings valuable insider knowledge on the legislative process and its impact on the real estate market. His insights shed light on the policy contrasts between presidential candidates, offering real estate professionals an in-depth understanding of how political shifts might influence the...

Mortgage rates are rising again, and debt is reaching staggering new heights in the U.S., impacting everything from home affordability to global markets. What does this mean for real estate professionals navigating today’s market? In this episode, we break down why rates have spiked, analyze recent housing data on inventory and price trends, and discuss Texas’ urgent need for new homes despite historic lows in transactions. Plus, we explore why home equity loans could be the key to managing high-interest debt for many households.

In this episode, we dive deep into the impact of rising debt on mortgage rates and how it’s shaping today’s real estate market. We start with the focus keyphrase “Rising Mortgage Rates,” examining the factors contributing to this increase, including recent Federal Reserve actions, U.S. debt, and economic data adjustments. We then cover the latest housing data, with insights from HousingWire’s Logan Mohtashami on how inventory and price trends are shifting. Moving to Texas, we explore the state’s pressing need for hundreds of thousands of new homes to keep up with rapid population growth and housing demand. Finally, we discuss how home equity loans could serve as a strategic tool for clients managing high-interest debt, offering realtors an opportunity to guide clients toward improved cash flow and financial stability.

1. Why Mortgage Rates Are Rising:

High government debt and recent data adjustments are putting upward pressure on mortgage rates, making it crucial for real estate professionals to stay updated on these influencing factors to better guide clients.

2. Housing Inventory and Price Cuts:

Despite slight gains in inventory, housing supply remains tight across most markets, while sellers are increasingly adjusting prices to stay competitive. This may signal more flexibility for buyers, but affordability challenges persist.

3. Texas’ Housing Needs Amid High Demand:

Texas is seeing unprecedented growth, especially in metro areas like Dallas-Fort Worth. With a shortage of nearly 50,000 housing units, new legislation and regulatory changes are vital to tackling the affordability crisis in Texas.

4. The Debt Crisis and Mortgage Rates:

As U.S. debt skyrockets, Treasury yields are climbing, which in turn drives mortgage rates higher. Until debt levels stabilize or government spending reduces, high mortgage rates may be here to stay.

5. Leveraging Home Equity Loans for Debt Management:

For clients carrying high-interest debt, a home equity loan can provide relief, offering a lower interest rate and the potential for increased cash flow. This strategy can be a smart move for those looking to consolidate debt and manage finances more effectively.

Resources

Here are the resources mentioned in this episode:

HousingWire Article by Logan Mohtashami

Read Logan Mohtashami's analysis on recent trends in housing inventory and seller activity:

• https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-inventory-fell-last-week-have-sellers-called-it-quits/

Dallas Morning News - Texas Housing Shortage

Read the full article on Texas’ housing needs and the push for new construction in urban areas:

What if leads could come directly to you—without spending a dime on marketing? In this episode, we dive into the art of organic lead generation through Facebook Groups, where realtors and investors create thriving communities that fuel business growth. Discover Kris Sachtleben's proven strategies to build connections and dominate your market.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of organic lead generation, with real estate entrepreneur Kris Sachtleben sharing how he built a massive network using Facebook Groups. Kris reveals his proven strategies for creating real estate communities that connect agents, investors, and wholesalers, leading to powerful business growth. You’ll learn how to use Facebook Groups to attract off-market property leads, generate organic connections, and leverage these relationships to grow your business. We also explore why nurturing relationships in digital spaces is essential for real estate success in today’s market. Whether you're looking for ways to build your realtor brand or uncover hidden opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in and get ready to rethink your networking approach.

Organic Lead Generation Through Facebook Groups

Kris Sachtleben shares how he uses Facebook Groups to generate leads organically, creating a constant flow of potential buyers, sellers, and investors without relying on paid ads. His strategy focuses on building value-driven communities that attract members who are actively looking for real estate opportunities.

Building a Real Estate Network From Scratch

Kris explains how to start and grow a real estate Facebook Group from zero. By connecting with key players in the industry, such as agents, wholesalers, and investors, you can create a self-sustaining network that continuously grows through word of mouth and organic engagement.

Leveraging Relationships for Long-Term Success

The episode highlights the importance of relationship-building in real estate. Kris reveals that focusing on the needs of group members, providing them with value, and making key connections have been central to his success in creating thriving communities that fuel business growth.

Finding Off-Market Deals Through Online Communities

Kris explains how his Facebook Groups have become a valuable resource for discovering off-market real estate deals. These groups connect buyers, sellers, and investors in real-time, often giving members first access to opportunities before they hit the MLS.

Scaling Your Network Across Multiple Markets

As the founder of over 20 real estate Facebook Groups spanning multiple states, Kris shares his blueprint for scaling online communities. He emphasizes that once the first group is successful, replicating it in other markets becomes easier, allowing for rapid growth across different regions.

Kris Sachtleben is a real estate entrepreneur who has mastered the art of building powerful online communities to drive organic lead generation. With a background in billboard location development, Kris transitioned into real estate, creating and managing over 20 real estate-focused Facebook Groups with a combined membership of more than 300,000 agents, investors, and property buyers. His expertise lies in fostering valuable connections between industry professionals, facilitating off-market deals, and helping realtors grow their businesses through strategic networking. In addition to his real estate ventures, Kris continues to lead a successful signage business while offering unique services like private jet travel for real estate investors.

Grand Chateau Properties:

Visit

Rates may be high right now, but they won’t stay that way forever! With the Fed's ongoing rate adjustments, preparing yourself for refinancing opportunities when lower rates return is key. Tune in to learn the exact steps to refinancing success and how today’s real estate trends could affect your future financial decisions.

In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, we break down the Refinancing Steps Explained—a crucial guide for anyone looking to save money when mortgage rates drop again. Mike walks you through the five key steps of the refinancing process, from assessing your financial situation to closing the loan. In addition, we dive into critical real estate topics, including the impact of rising mortgage rates, the latest on U.S. birth rates and their long-term effects on housing demand, and whether Texas is still affordable. Stay informed, optimize your real estate strategies, and make sure you’re ready for when rates finally come down!

1. Mortgage Rates and the Federal Reserve’s Policy

Mortgage rates are climbing, but surprisingly, the Federal Reserve continues to signal potential rate cuts soon. Mike explains the disconnect between the Fed’s policy direction and mortgage rate trends, and why this is crucial for real estate professionals to understand.

2. The Impact of Shrinking U.S. Birth Rates on Real Estate

The U.S. birth rate hit record lows in 2023, and this trend will likely impact the housing market over time. Fewer births could mean less demand for larger, family-sized homes, potentially shifting the focus to smaller homes and urban living spaces. Realtors should be aware of these population shifts when advising clients.

3. Is Texas Still Affordable?

A recent study shows that living comfortably in cities like Dallas and Arlington now requires an income close to six figures. With Dallas ranked as the second most expensive city in Texas, affordability remains a pressing issue, especially for homebuyers looking to settle in North Texas.

4. Refinancing: Preparing for Lower Rates

Refinancing might not be top of mind now, but rates will eventually fall. When they do, knowing the refinancing steps will save you time and money. Mike explains how to evaluate your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and home equity to position yourself for a successful refinance.

5. Step-by-Step Refinancing Process Breakdown

Understanding refinancing is crucial, especially with rates expected to drop. Mike walks through the 5 key steps to refinancing, including assessing your financial situation, finding the right lender, and completing the loan application. If you're looking for a quicker and simpler option, watch this Streamline Refinancing video for more details:

https://youtu.be/rfXjLXHuYzA

Cost of Living in Dallas: Learn what it takes to live comfortably in Dallas and other major Texas cities with this detailed Dallas Morning News article: https://www.dallasnews.com/business/personal-finance/2024/10/07/does-it-take-a-six-figure-income-to-live-comfortably-in-dallas-and-other-texas-cities/

U.S. Birth Rates Decline: Explore the broader implications of the U.S. birth rate hitting record lows in 2023 with this CNN report:

Want to discover the daily habits that separate top Realtors from the rest? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, Conrad Jackson shares his proven strategies for thriving in today’s tough real estate market. From marketing secrets to leveraging community connections, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you boost your business and plan for long-term success!

Detailed Episode Overview

In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, host Mike Mills sits down with Conrad Jackson to dive into the daily success habits that every Realtor needs in today’s challenging market. Focused on the theme of Daily Realtor Success, this episode covers essential strategies for Realtors looking to maintain and grow their business, even when the market slows down. Conrad offers tips on scheduling, leveraging tools like Property Boost and Adworks, and explains the importance of community involvement and video marketing. With insights into how to diversify income streams, build stronger client relationships, and set yourself up for a productive 2025, this episode delivers valuable advice for any Realtor looking to elevate their game.

Key Takeaways

Master Daily Realtor Success Habits

Conrad Jackson emphasizes the importance of maintaining a structured daily routine, especially in tough market conditions. By starting the day early and dedicating mornings to high-return activities like lead generation, scheduling, and follow-ups, Realtors can create consistency and drive long-term success.

Leverage Marketing Tools Like Property Boost

Conrad highlights the effectiveness of Property Boost, a cost-effective tool that promotes listings and drives engagement through social media. By investing in targeted ad campaigns, Realtors can attract clicks and potential clients, even in a slow market.

Maximize Your Sphere of Influence

Engaging with your community and network is key to generating leads and maintaining visibility. Realtors are reminded to connect with their local contacts and expand beyond immediate family or friends, engaging with everyone from grocery store clerks to parents in the car pickup line.

Incorporate Video Marketing

Conrad discusses the importance of video marketing for real estate professionals. He explains how Realtors can use video content to showcase their expertise, build a personal brand, and appear in search results, helping to validate their credibility and stand out in a competitive market.

Diversify Your Real Estate Business

To thrive in any market, Conrad recommends Realtors explore additional income streams, such as real estate investment, new construction, or property development. Diversifying business activities helps Realtors stay financially secure during slower sales periods while strengthening their expertise in various aspects of the industry.

Guest Bio: Conrad Jackson

Conrad Jackson is a highly experienced Realtor with over 20 years of expertise in the Texas real estate market. As a multifaceted professional, Conrad not only excels in single-family and multifamily investments but is also an accomplished builder and real estate developer. His hands-on approach extends to his successful YouTube channel, where he shares valuable tips and guides on home rehab projects and what to look for in real estate investments. Conrad’s vast experience in various sectors of real estate, combined with his active involvement in his local community, makes him a trusted figure in the industry. Known for his dedication, strategic marketing insights, and ability to thrive in tough market conditions, Conrad brings a wealth of knowledge to Realtors looking to grow their business and diversify their income streams.

Resources Mentioned

Mortgage rates have been on a wild ride this year—first dropping and then climbing back up. Did you miss the boat on refinancing, or is there another chance down the road? In this episode, we dive deep into refinance rate trends and help you decide whether now is the right time to refinance, or if waiting for rates to drop again could save you even more.

In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, Mike Mills, a North Texas Mortgage Banker with Geneva Financial, breaks down the latest refinance rate trends and why 2024 could be a pivotal year for homeowners. Mike explains the Fed's rate cuts and their impact on mortgage rates, highlighting who should consider refinancing now and who might want to wait. He also explores how refinancing could help homeowners with high-interest debt or those locked into higher rates from the past few years. From the fluctuating housing market to institutional investors buying up affordable homes, Mike covers all the crucial points realtors and homeowners need to know.

Understanding Refinance Rate Trends

Refinancing has become a popular topic in 2024 as mortgage rates have fluctuated. While rates have dropped recently, they have also risen, making it essential to stay informed. Timing is critical, and waiting too long could result in missed opportunities to save.

Who Should Consider Refinancing?

Homeowners with high-interest debt or those who bought homes in the last 2-3 years at higher rates should think about refinancing. Even a slight drop in rates could lead to substantial savings over the life of the loan, and consolidating high-interest debt could improve monthly budgets.

Impact of the Fed's Rate Cuts

The Fed’s recent rate cuts were designed to stimulate the economy, but mortgage rates have remained unpredictable. With fluctuating data, homeowners must carefully consider whether refinancing now is the right choice based on their personal circumstances and market conditions.

Key Costs to Consider in Refinancing

Homeowners should pay attention to closing costs, which can range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Calculating the break-even point is critical to determining whether refinancing will provide long-term savings, and options like rolling costs into the loan should be discussed with a lender.

Important Questions to Ask Your Lender

When refinancing, homeowners should ask about rate locks, closing costs, and what happens if rates drop again. These questions help ensure that refinancing makes financial sense, providing the best opportunity for long-term savings and flexibility.

Geneva Financial

Learn more about mortgage solutions and refinancing options:

https://www.millsteammortgage.com/

Mortgage News Daily

Stay updated on the latest mortgage rates and news:

https://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com

Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Track the latest data on Fed rate cuts and economic trends:

https://fred.stlouisfed.org

CoreLogic Housing Reports

Access reports on home price trends and market forecasts:

https://www.corelogic.com

Altos Research

Dive into housing market data and insights:

https://www.altos.re

Redfin Report on Investor Home...