Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast by Lawrence Board of REALTORS®

Lexie Haskin, Bank Midwest Mortgage and Patrick Dipman, McGrew Real Estate

Welcome to Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast, brought to you by the Lawrence Board of REALTORS®. Join your hosts, Lexie Haskin from Bank Midwest Mortgage and Patrick Dipman from McGrew Real Estate, as they explore the fascinating world of homeownership. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or just dipping your toes into the real estate market, this podcast is your go-to source for practical advice and insider tips. With a mission to demystify the home-buying process, Lexie and Patrick bring a fresh perspective to topics that matter most to consumers.

  1. 3d ago

    When Concrete Settles: What Homeowners Should Know Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem

    Guest: TopGun Concrete LiftingHosts: Lexie Haskin, Bank Midwest & Patrick Dipman, McGrew Real EstateThat uneven sidewalk or sinking section of driveway might seem like something you can deal with later—but concrete settlement can be more than a cosmetic problem.In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real, we sit down with the experts at TopGun Concrete Lifting to talk about why concrete settles, when homeowners should be concerned, and how concrete lifting can sometimes provide an alternative to tearing everything out and starting over.We cover:🏠 What causes driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other concrete slabs to settle⚠️ How to tell when uneven concrete has become a safety concern💧 Why drainage and soil conditions play such an important role🔍 The difference between cosmetic cracking and signs of a bigger problem🛠️ How polyurethane concrete lifting works💰 How lifting compares with full concrete replacement in cost and disruption🏡 How concrete problems can come up during inspections and real estate transactions📋 When sellers may want to address concrete before putting their home on the marketPlus, in our Fact or Fiction segment, we tackle common misconceptions about cracked concrete, home value, drainage, inspections, and whether concrete lifting is really just a temporary fix.The big takeaway? Waiting until a small problem becomes a big one can make the solution a whole lot more complicated—and expensive.🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113👏 Special thanks to Campbell Ragan with McGrew Real Estate for all of her work behind the scenes coordinating guests, organizing details, and helping keep Lawrence Real + Local running smoothly.

  2. Aug 4

    Water Is the Enemy: How Proper Drainage Protects Your Home

    Guest: Gutter Princess & Roofing LLC, a fully licensed and insured roofing and guttering companyHosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) Water may seem harmless, but when it isn’t properly directed away from your home, it can become one of the biggest threats to your foundation, siding, landscaping, and overall property value. In this episode, the team from Gutter Princess & Roofing LLC joins Lexie and Patrick to explain how gutters and proper drainage work together to protect your home—and why seemingly small issues can turn into expensive repairs over time. We cover: 💧 Why water is one of a home’s biggest long-term threats🏠 What happens when water collects near the foundation⚠️ Warning signs that your gutters or drainage system aren’t working correctly🛠️ The difference between cosmetic gutter damage and a functional failure🍂 How gutter guards, downspout extensions, pitch, grading, and landscaping work together🔍 What buyers and sellers should look for during inspections💰 The costly mistakes homeowners make by waiting for visible damage✅ Preventative fixes that can provide a major return on investment Plus, we separate fact from fiction by tackling common myths—including whether gutters are mostly cosmetic, whether overflowing gutters only cause minor problems, and whether drainage issues are harmless if the water eventually disappears. The big takeaway? Just because water hasn’t caused a visible problem yet doesn’t mean it isn’t creating one behind the scenes. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 This episode is proudly sponsored by TopGun Concrete Lifting, specializing in lifting, leveling, and stabilizing existing concrete. If you’re dealing with a sinking driveway, uneven sidewalk, settled patio, or dangerous trip hazard, TopGun Concrete Lifting uses polyurethane foam injection to raise and restore the concrete you already have—without the cost, mess, and disruption of tearing it out and replacing it. Learn more or request an estimate at topgunconcretelifting.com. 👏 Special thanks to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for her behind-the-scenes work coordinating guests, organizing details, and helping keep the podcast running smoothly. 🛠️ Episode Sponsor: TopGun Concrete Lifting

  3. Jul 21

    The First 48 Hours: Why Water & Fire Damage Can't Wait

    Guest: Kelly Langseth (recorded while serving with Rainbow Restoration of Northeast Kansas)Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) A small leak. A kitchen fire. Smoke from a nearby room. What happens in the first few hours after damage occurs can make all the difference in protecting your home—and your wallet. In this episode, Kelly Langseth joins Lexie and Patrick to explain what homeowners often get wrong about water and fire damage, why hidden damage can be just as serious as what you can see, and what steps you should take when disaster strikes. Please note: This episode was recorded while Kelly was with Rainbow Restoration of Northeast Kansas. Although she has since moved into a new role, the information shared in this episode reflects her restoration expertise and experience at the time of recording. We cover: 💧 The most common causes of water damage in homes ⏱️ Why acting quickly can prevent mold and structural damage 🔥 The hidden effects of smoke and soot—even after a small fire 🏠 How water and fire damage impact drywall, flooring, insulation, and HVAC systems 📋 When to call your insurance company versus a restoration professional 📸 What homeowners should document immediately after damage occurs 🏡 How previous damage can affect a home's resale value 🛠️ Practical steps every homeowner can take to reduce their risk Plus, we separate fact from fiction by discussing common misconceptions about mold, insurance coverage, smoke damage, and whether drying things out is enough. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, or seller, this episode provides valuable information that could save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of stress. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno 🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 👏 Special thanks to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for all of her incredible work behind the scenes coordinating guests, organizing logistics, and helping make each episode possible.

  4. Jul 7

    Building from the Ground Up: A Guide to Lot & Construction Financing

    Guest: Michelle Fales, U.S. Bank Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) Dreaming of building your own home? Before the first shovel hits the ground, there's one critical piece many buyers don't fully understand—how to finance it. In this episode, Michelle Fales of U.S. Bank joins Lexie and Patrick to simplify lot loans, construction loans, and construction-to-permanent financing so buyers can confidently navigate the building process. We cover: 🏡 The difference between lot loans, construction loans, and construction-to-permanent loans 🌱 What to know before purchasing land 💰 How construction financing differs from a traditional mortgage 🏗️ How the construction draw process works 📋 What documentation borrowers should prepare upfront👷 Why choosing the right builder is just as important as choosing the right lender 💵 Cash reserves, contingencies, and budgeting for the unexpected ⏳ Realistic timelines and the most common causes of delays 📈 Strategies to keep your project—and your finances—on track Plus, we tackle common misconceptions in our Fact or Fiction: Construction Loan Edition, including whether construction loans are only for luxury homes and if being pre-approved means you're ready to start building. Whether you're planning to build next year or simply exploring your options, this episode provides the roadmap to make your dream home a reality. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno 🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 This episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin' it Real is proudly sponsored by Gutter Princess & Roofing. Whether you're dealing with storm damage, an aging roof, clogged gutters, or simply want to protect one of your biggest investments, Gutter Princess & Roofing is committed to helping homeowners with honest guidance, quality workmanship, and dependable service. From roofing repairs and replacements to seamless gutter solutions, their experienced team is dedicated to keeping your home protected year-round. If your home could use a little attention—or you'd simply like the peace of mind that comes from a professional inspection—be sure to reach out to Gutter Princess & Roofing. 👉 Learn more or request a free estimate at gutterprincess.com 👏 Special thanks to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for her incredible behind-the-scenes work coordinating guests, organizing details, and helping make this podcast possible.

  5. Jun 16

    Housing, Growth & Solutions: How the Chamber Is Working to Strengthen Lawrence

    Guest: Bonnie Lowe, President & CEO, Lawrence Chamber of CommerceHosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) Housing isn't just a real estate issue—it's a workforce issue, an economic development issue, and a community issue. In this episode, Bonnie Lowe, President & CEO of the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, joins Lexie and Patrick to discuss how housing availability and affordability impact Lawrence's future, and what the Chamber is doing to help create solutions. We cover: 🏡 Why housing is critical to economic growth and workforce retention📈 How housing availability impacts local businesses and employers🤝 The Chamber's role in housing advocacy and collaboration💰 What affordability means from a workforce and economic perspective🏗️ How growth, infrastructure, and zoning influence housing opportunities🌆 How Lawrence can continue growing while preserving its unique character🔑 The biggest barriers to solving housing challenges—and potential solutions Plus, we tackle common myths in our Fact or Fiction: Housing & Growth Edition, including whether affordability is "just a real estate problem" and whether growth and affordability can coexist. If you've ever wondered why the Chamber is involved in housing conversations—or why housing impacts so much more than buying and selling homes—this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 👏 Special shoutout to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for her behind-the-scenes work coordinating guests, organizing details, and helping make the podcast possible.

  6. Jun 2

    Why Housing Development Matters: Supply, Stability & the Future of Lawrence

    Guest: Steve KellyHosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate)Housing isn’t just a real estate issue—it’s an economic issue, a workforce issue, and a community issue.In this episode, Steve Kelly joins Lexie and Patrick to break down why housing development plays such a critical role in the long-term success of Lawrence—and what happens when supply can’t keep up with demand.We cover:🏡 Why housing is foundational to a strong local economy📉 What today’s inventory shortage means for residents and employers🏗️ Where zoning, land use, and permitting create friction👷 How labor shortages are impacting construction timelines and costs📊 How limited supply affects renters, buyers, and businesses alike🌆 Why growth shifts to surrounding communities when supply is constrained💡 Practical solutions to increase housing while preserving community characterPlus, we tackle big-picture misconceptions in our Fact or Fiction segment—like whether more housing lowers values, whether zoning affects affordability, and whether stopping growth actually solves housing challenges.If you’ve ever wondered why housing conversations feel so complex—this episode connects the dots.🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113🛡️ Episode Sponsor: The Sparke Agency, Farm Bureau Financial ServicesHelping you protect what matters most.👉 www.sparkeagency.com👏 Special shoutout to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for keeping everything organized behind the scenes!

  7. May 19

    Building From the Ground Up: What It Really Takes to Build a Home – Timelines, Costs & Realities

    Guest: Mickey Stremel, REALTOR® (KW Integrity) & General Contractor (McReynolds Construction) Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) Building a home sounds exciting… until you realize how many moving pieces are actually involved. In this episode, Mickey Stremel—both a REALTOR® and a general contractor—joins Lexie and Patrick to give a real, behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to build a home from start to finish. We cover: 🏗️ What a realistic building timeline looks like—from lot purchase to move-in ⏳ Where delays actually come from (and why they’re often unavoidable) 💰 Budgeting beyond price per square foot—and the biggest cost surprises 🛠️ How change orders impact both cost and timeline 📜 Permits, inspections, and what happens when things don’t pass 🚧 Supply chain and labor realities builders are still navigating 🤝 The importance of communication between builder, buyer, lender, and agent 🏡 When building makes sense—and when buying might be the better option Plus, we break down common misconceptions in our Fact or Fiction segment—like whether timelines are fixed, if supply chain issues are “over,” and whether new construction means zero surprises. If you’re thinking about building—or even just curious what goes into it—this episode will give you a much clearer picture of the process. 🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno 🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library 🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113 🛡️ Episode Sponsor: The Sparke Agency, Farm Bureau Financial Services Helping you protect what matters most.👉 www.sparkeagency.com 👏 Special shoutout to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for keeping everything organized behind the scenes!

  8. May 5

    How a Development Gets Approved: Inside the Planning & Zoning Process

    Guest: David Hamby, BG ConsultantsHosts: Lexie Haskin (Bank Midwest) & Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate)Ever wondered what actually has to happen before a development gets approved?It’s not just a yes or no—it’s a multi-step process involving planning, zoning, engineering, public input, and multiple layers of review.In this episode, we sit down with David Hamby of BG Consultants to walk through what really happens behind the scenes as a project moves from idea to approved development.We cover:🏗️ The step-by-step process from concept to approval📜 The difference between zoning, plats, and site plans🧑‍⚖️ What happens at planning commission meetings—and who actually decides📊 The role consultants play in guiding projects through the process🗣️ How public input shapes outcomes (and when it matters most)⏳ Why projects get delayed—or denied altogether🏡 Why REALTOR® involvement matters in shaping housing supplyIf you’ve ever wondered why development takes time or how decisions are actually made, this episode gives you the full picture.🎧 Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno🎙️ Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library🏡 2026 Season Sponsor: Bank Midwest | Lexie Haskin | NMLS #2093113🛡️ Episode Sponsor: The Sparke Agency, Farm Bureau Financial ServicesHelping you protect what matters most.👉 www.sparkeagency.com👏 Special shoutout to Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate) for all her behind-the-scenes organization!

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About

Welcome to Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast, brought to you by the Lawrence Board of REALTORS®. Join your hosts, Lexie Haskin from Bank Midwest Mortgage and Patrick Dipman from McGrew Real Estate, as they explore the fascinating world of homeownership. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or just dipping your toes into the real estate market, this podcast is your go-to source for practical advice and insider tips. With a mission to demystify the home-buying process, Lexie and Patrick bring a fresh perspective to topics that matter most to consumers.

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