The Den | Real Estate in the Four Corners: Buy, Sell, Invest

The Lyons Group
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The Den | A Real Estate Podcast focused on Buyers/Sellers and Realtors alike with an emphasis on Entrepreneurship, Industry Trends and Self Improvement. Tune in to hear fun and lively discussions on current happenings in the real estate world. Gather some unique insight on everything from market realities for Buyers/Sellers to navigating new rules and regulations for Realtors. With over $400M in sales and over 2,000 transactions, The Lyons Group is widely know as some of the prominent experts in real estate in the Southwest United State. Stay current on hot topics by subscribing to the channel that brings you an entertaining spin on real world, real estate matters. To find out more about The Lyons Group and their partners go to https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup. Produced by www.apodcastgeek.com

  1. 5D AGO

    Why New Construction Isn’t Always Perfect | The Den Ep. 105

    Are new construction homes really built to perfection? In this episode of The Den, Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen dive into common builder mistakes that buyers and sellers across Farmington, NM and the Four Corners region should understand before purchasing new construction. From functionality oversights and finish work flaws to structural shortcuts and warranty strategy, this conversation gives home buyers, sellers, and Realtors practical insight into what to watch for behind the walls. If you are navigating the homebuying journey, preparing to list, or advising clients in today’s market, this episode delivers real-world perspective from time tested experts with over 400 million in sales and nearly 2000 transactions. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Functionality matters as much as design, room layout must work for real furniture and daily living • Finish work separates a built house from a completed home • Floor joists are often cut or notched improperly for plumbing and HVAC • Crawlspace access and structural reinforcement are commonly overlooked • Open floor plans can create furniture placement and storage challenges • Window placement in primary bedrooms impacts privacy and livability • Water drainage and grading around the foundation is critical • Builders typically offer a one year warranty, buyers must use it proactively • A home inspection is essential, especially on new construction • Versatility and future planning during construction can save major costs later Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    29 min

  2. FEB 13

    Behind the Scenes of Real Estate Transactions | The Den Ep. 104

    What really happens behind the scenes of a real estate transaction in Farmington and the Four Corners region? In this episode of The Den powered by the Lyons Group, Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen break down the backend processes that protect buyers, sellers, and Realtors from missed deadlines, lost earnest money, compliance issues, and costly mistakes. If you are buying, selling, or working in real estate, this episode gives you a real look at the systems, structure, and quality control that create a smooth, professional transaction. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Why missing a contract deadline can cost a buyer their earnest money • How inspection, objection, and resolution periods actually work • Why checklists and CRM systems protect buyers and sellers • The importance of tracking communication and documentation • Why Realtors must retain files for six years • How broker duties and buyer broker agreements impact clients • The role of office compliance and second layer quality control • Why septic permits, covenants, and local regulations matter early • How small contract glitches can create major liability issues • Why professional systems matter more as deal volume increases Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    34 min

  3. FEB 6

    How to Price Homes in Today’s Market | The Den Ep. 103

    Pricing a home is not guesswork. It is a strategy. In this episode of The Den, Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen unpack how pricing works in today’s real estate market and why sellers who rely on outdated expectations often leave money on the table. With inventory shifting and buyer behavior changing, understanding pricing psychology has never been more important. From average days on market to buyer perception, this episode delivers real world insight for buyers, sellers, and Realtors across Farmington, San Juan County, and the Four Corners region. If you want to understand how to price strategically and protect your position in any market, this conversation is for you. KEY TAKEAWAYS • “Pricing is a strategy. The price has to be right in order to maximize what you can get as a seller.” • “You could throw any number out there in 2020 and it didn’t matter.” • “Buyers still set the price today, but the market is softer and choices matter.” • “If it’s been on the market for weeks, buyers start asking what’s wrong with it.” • “Make it the best home on the market. It doesn’t have to be the cheapest.” • “If you price too high and chase the market down, buyers feel they have the upper hand.” • “That money was never on the table. It was blue sky.” • “Pair your wants and needs with current market conditions to build the right strategy.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    31 min

  4. JAN 30

    Smart Realtors Do THIS at Every Showing | The Den Ep. 102

    What makes RE/MAX agents outperform others 2 to 1 in sales?  In this episode of The Den, we're joined by Ryan Brown, Qualifying Broker and Owner of RE/MAX of Farmington. Hosts Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen dig deep into the values, systems, and leadership behind RE/MAX’s six-year reign as San Juan County’s top brokerage. Ryan shares insights into agent recruitment, brand strength, and what it takes to run a high-performing real estate operation without sacrificing integrity. If you're a buyer, seller, or Realtor looking to understand what really drives success in this business, this one’s packed with local relevance and proven strategy. KEY TAKEAWAYS • RE/MAX is the #1 brand in real estate by global sales volume • RE/MAX agents close 2 to 1 compared to other brokerages • Culture and mindset matter more than production in agent recruitment • Broker liability makes agent selection a high-stakes decision • Leadership means cutting even top producers if they cross the line • Systems and structure are the backbone of a high-functioning brokerage • Trust, autonomy, and mentorship drive long-term agent success • RE/MAX's brand recognition builds client trust instantly • Professionalism and continued growth are essential traits of top agents • The goal is not more agents, but the right agents with the right mindset BEST MOMENTS 00:01:33. “When you think RE/MAX, what do you think of?” 00:02:23. “It was incredible to see people from Portugal… Olympics.” 00:03:12. “The RE/MAX model has always been to help the agent build their business.” 00:04:23. “Have you turned agents down that wanted to come to the RE/MAX brand?” 00:05:47. “If I do something wrong, the agent's not liable.” 00:07:18. “We're willing to cut off a major branch of our business to help it thrive.” 00:10:03. “People call for everything… it’s like you're a coach 24/7.” 00:14:21. “If I do five of these a day, that system to get to the goal… that’s my happy place.” 00:27:55. “When I think of RE/MAX, I think of leadership.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    32 min

  5. JAN 23

    Decode Mortgage Rates Like a Pro | The Den Ep. 101

    Why don’t mortgage rates drop when the Fed cuts interest rates? In this episode of The Den, hosts Paul and Ben welcome Sr. Loan Officer Pete Marthaler, the go-to mortgage pro for The Lyons Group. Pete breaks down how mortgage rates really work, what buyers should understand before jumping in, and why now might still be a smart time to purchase, despite higher rates. This is a must-listen for homebuyers, sellers, and agents looking to make informed moves in today's unpredictable market. If you're wondering about the difference between conforming and non-conforming loans, how job reports impact rates, or why sticker shock derails deals, Pete delivers the insights with clarity. 🎧 Tune in to get behind the numbers and learn how to strategize like a pro in real estate finance. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Mortgage rates don’t directly follow Fed rate cuts • Conforming vs. non-conforming loans explained • Why long-term mortgage rates are based on 10-year Treasuries and MBS • Fed rate affects credit cards and HELOCs, not mortgages • Recession fears often lower mortgage rates • The job market plays a critical role in rate movement • “Date the rate, marry the house” strategy explained • Pre-approval should be your first step, not home tours • Sticker shock is real, how to avoid it • USDA and VA loans still offer major advantages BEST MOMENTS 00:01:52. “You do fantastic customer service, a true professional. You’ve been in mortgages now, gosh, 12 years.” 00:03:11. “Conforming loan is traditional lending. Most people are familiar with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA.” 00:05:35. “True or false? Fed rate cuts directly impact mortgage rates. Pete, I’m going to give you this one.” 00:06:14. “Mortgage rates today are forecasted for what’s going to happen in six months.” 00:10:00. “Even though the fed funds rate went down, Powell’s hawkish comments scared that six-month forecast.” 00:12:11. “In my industry, a recession benefits my industry because recessions drive mortgage rates down.” 00:17:02. “Your safest investment is always real estate. That chart goes from bottom left to top right.” 00:21:02. “Now there's a federal law. It's called the Dodd-Frank Act and the TRID.” 00:24:28. “It’s not my job to tell you yes or no. It’s to tell you yes, here’s how, or if not now, then how and when.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    35 min

  6. JAN 16

    What Zillow Isn’t Telling You in 2026 | The Den Ep. 100

    Is the 2026 real estate market ready to break loose? In this 100th episode of The Den, Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen return to the mics to forecast what’s ahead for buyers, sellers, and agents. From dropping interest rates and shadow inventory to investor shakeups and foreclosure chatter, this conversation pulls no punches. The team reflects on last year’s predictions, throws down new bets for 2026, and breaks down the economic undercurrents shaping the Four Corners and beyond. If you're a real estate professional, aspiring buyer, or market-watching seller, this episode delivers insights and laughter in equal measure. KEY TAKEAWAYS • 2026 kicks off with high hopes and big shifts in the real estate market • Interest rates dropped three times, but will mortgage rates follow? • Pent-up demand may finally explode as sellers and buyers re-enter • Many Americans are refinancing to access equity, despite low locked rates • Foreclosures remain under 3%, but shadow inventory could hit soon • Investors are dumping portfolios and reshuffling at high prices • The multifamily sector faces a looming debt wall and refi crunch • San Juan County’s average home price predicted to stay stable or slightly rise • Realtor ranks could thin, but top performers will remain • Lawsuits against Zillow may reshape agent relationships and lead flow BEST MOMENTS 00:02:31. “We just had three interest rate cuts from the feds, but Paul, does that necessarily equate to mortgage interest rates going down?” 00:04:03. “Eventually it just doesn't work as good as you thought it was going to… It's like, what's worth it?” 00:05:14. “It won't be as scary going from a, you know, a two to a six… It might be going from, you know, a two to a five or a four.” 00:08:03. “There’s a shadow inventory of foreclosures… the banks are getting their hands on and holding.” 00:10:06. “The foreclosure prices that I have seen have been pretty crazy. They're so high.” 00:13:17. “You're going to see a massive turnover with big commercial complexes like that.” 00:16:15. “This is our hundredth episode at The Den, and I'm super proud of us.” 00:21:04. “Paul, the grand prize winner. Winner. Winner. Chicken by dinner.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    31 min

  7. JAN 9

    2025 Real Estate SURPRISES No One Predicted | The Den Ep. 99

    Was 2025 a boom or a bust for real estate? In this lively year-end recap, The Den team, Ben Lyons, Paul Barry, Aspen, and Shannon Martinez, dive into what really happened across the housing market in 2025. From affordability challenges and buyer behavior shifts to surprising stats on commercial conversions and single women leading home purchases, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. If you’re a buyer, seller, or agent in the Four Corners region, this episode is your must-hear market download. KEY TAKEAWAYS • Termination rates in 2025 caught many by surprise • Interest rates fluctuated but not as sharply as predicted • Farmington’s market proved more stable due to jobs, not rates • 75% of homes on the market are overpriced, per Bankrate • Average U.S. homeowner spends $1,783/month on hidden costs • Single millennial women were the second-largest buyer group in 2025 • Remote work continues to reshape housing and commercial real estate • Proximity to Starbucks can increase home values • Experienced agents (top 15%) handled over 50% of transactions • FSBO (For Sale by Owner) sales dropped significantly in 2025 BEST MOMENTS 00:00:36. “Was it a yummy year or a dummy year in real estate?” 00:01:48. “Termination rates that were really high... most people didn’t realize.” 00:02:34. “Farmington… wasn’t scared of the interest rates. It was more based on jobs and affordability.” 00:04:46. “According to Bankrate, 75% of homes on the market are overpriced.” 00:07:56. “The hidden costs of homeownership soar to an average of $1,783 a month.” 00:11:00. “Single millennial women solidified the number two spot… 20% of the buyers.” 00:14:47. “See that building? It’s like 5% occupied. A ghost town.” 00:17:40. “Proximity to Starbucks can boost your home value.” 00:20:08. “10 to 15% of experienced agents were responsible for over 50% of the business.” 00:23:06. “FSBO was closer to 5–7%. People are trusting realtors a little bit more.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    30 min

  8. 12/19/2025

    What Every Homeowner Gets Wrong About Fireplaces | The Den Ep. 98

    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.” Ad link: Visit our website at https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup to schedule a consultation. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelyonsgroup4c Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelyonsgroupfourcorners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLyonsGroupFourCorners Sign up for our newsletter for valuable insights and updates via https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup too! This podcast has been brought to you by APodcastGeek. https://www.apodcastgeek.com

    29 min
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About

The Den | A Real Estate Podcast focused on Buyers/Sellers and Realtors alike with an emphasis on Entrepreneurship, Industry Trends and Self Improvement. Tune in to hear fun and lively discussions on current happenings in the real estate world. Gather some unique insight on everything from market realities for Buyers/Sellers to navigating new rules and regulations for Realtors. With over $400M in sales and over 2,000 transactions, The Lyons Group is widely know as some of the prominent experts in real estate in the Southwest United State. Stay current on hot topics by subscribing to the channel that brings you an entertaining spin on real world, real estate matters. To find out more about The Lyons Group and their partners go to https://sholink.to/thelyonsgroup. Produced by www.apodcastgeek.com

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