Make Yourself at Home

Deana Brummett

Step into real estate with a host who truly knows it. With 18 years of experience since 2008 and millions in sales, she brings real-world insight to every episode. From Keller Williams to REMAX and now Coldwell Banker, Make Yourself at Home is a consumer-focused podcast offering clarity and confidence for buyers, investors, and the curious. Featuring nationwide experts, the show covers markets, legislation, investing strategies, and life in Charlotte—helping you make smarter decisions and maximize ROI.

Episodes

  1. Understanding the Home Buyer's Privacy Protection Act - EP 11

    4H AGO

    Understanding the Home Buyer's Privacy Protection Act - EP 11

    🚀 In this episode, Deana Brummett sits down with Brendan McKay, Chief Advocacy Officer and Co-Founder of the Broker Action Coalition, to discuss the three-year fight to pass the Homebuyer Privacy Protection Act. Brendan shares the behind-the-scenes journey of advocating for consumer data privacy, how trigger leads affected homebuyers, and why this landmark legislation is a major win for both consumers and mortgage professionals. The conversation also dives into mortgage misconceptions, the impact of federal policy on lending, and how buyers can make smarter financial decisions when choosing a mortgage. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Brendan McKay – Chief Advocacy Officer & Mortgage Industry Advocate Brendan McKay is the Chief Advocacy Officer and Co-Founder of the Broker Action Coalition and the lead strategist behind its three-year national advocacy campaign. He is recognized for his expertise in mortgage-industry policy and consumer protection. Brendan also owns McKay Mortgage, bringing direct industry experience to his advocacy work. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ What trigger leads are and why they flooded homebuyers with calls ✔️ How the Homebuyer Privacy Protection Act protects consumer data ✔️ Why mortgage shopping is critical for getting the best loan ✔️ Common misconceptions about mortgage brokers vs. lenders ✔️ How federal policies shape mortgage access and housing markets 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Brendan McKay: 🌐 Website → https://mckaymortgage.com/ 📸 Instagram → https://facebook.com/brendan.mckay 💼 LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/in/brendan-mckay🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    50 min
  2. Creating Spaces That Enhance Wellbeing Through Design - EP 10

    FEB 26

    Creating Spaces That Enhance Wellbeing Through Design - EP 10

    🚀 In this episode, Deana Brummett sits down with interior designer Claudette Rowley, founder of Claudette Rowley Design and creator of the Wired Method. Claudette shares how neuro aesthetic design connects science, wellness, and interior spaces to positively impact your mood, stress levels, and overall wellbeing. From color psychology to biophilic design, discover how to create a home that feels like a sanctuary — and why thoughtful design matters more than ever in today’s real estate market. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Claudette Rowley – Interior Designer & Creator of the Wired Method Claudette Rowley is the founder of Claudette Rowley Design and the creator of the WIRED Method™, a science-informed approach to interior design rooted in human behavior and wellness. She specializes in designing residential and workplace environments that support physical, emotional, and mental well-being. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ What neuro aesthetic design is and how it impacts your brain ✔️ How color influences mood, hormones, and buyer perception ✔️ Simple, budget-friendly ways to reduce stress through design ✔️ Why curves, nature, and texture matter in your home ✔️ How design choices affect resale value in today’s market 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Claudette Rowley: 🌐 Website → https://www.claudetterowleydesign.com/ 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/claudetterowley/ 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    44 min
  3. Empowering Home Buyers with Knowledge for Smart Decisions - EP 9

    FEB 19

    Empowering Home Buyers with Knowledge for Smart Decisions - EP 9

    🚀 In this powerful episode, we welcome Colorado real estate expert Taylor Ratliff for an honest conversation about today’s shifting housing market. From buyer fears and social media misinformation to interest rate buy-down strategies and the dangers of working with the wrong agent, Taylor shares real-world stories and hard-earned lessons. If you’re nervous about buying or selling right now, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and actionable guidance. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Taylor Ratliff – Colorado Residential Real Estate Agent Taylor Ratliff is a Colorado-based real estate agent serving buyers and sellers throughout the Westminster and surrounding areas. With approximately five years of experience in the residential market, Taylor has helped clients navigate home purchases, sales, and relocations with a focus on clear communication and personalized service. Based on publicly available records, she has closed an estimated $3.5 million in real estate sales across multiple transactions, working with homes ranging from entry-level to mid-range price points. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why interviewing your real estate agent is critical ✔️ The truth about interest rates, buy-downs & common market myths ✔️ How misinformation is hurting buyers (and how to avoid it) ✔️ Strategies to prevent decision fatigue during the home search ✔️ Why personalization and communication change everything 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Taylor Ratliff: 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/TaylorRatliffRealEstateCO/ 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/taylorratliff_realtor/ 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-ratliff-220178378/🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    57 min
  4. Exploring Co-Living: Affordable Housing and Community Bonds - EP 8

    FEB 12

    Exploring Co-Living: Affordable Housing and Community Bonds - EP 8

    🚀 This conversation discusses PadSplit, a company offering affordable co-living solutions in major U.S. cities. Devon Aguirre, PadSplit's market manager, explains their model involving renting out individual rooms in shared houses, often converting common areas into additional bedrooms. This approach aims to address cash flow and vacancy problems for investors, while providing affordable housing options for lower-income individuals. The interview also covers PadSplit's operations, market demand, and future outlooks for co-living as a sustainable housing solution. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Devon Aguirre – Mortgage & Credit Strategy Specialist Devon Aguirre is the Southern California Market Manager at PadSplit, a company innovating in co-living and affordable housing. With a track record in proptech and market expansion, Devon advocates for rental models that balance higher cash flow, reduced vacancy, and community impact. He is a regular speaker at real estate investor events, helping landlords and developers understand co-living’s financials and operational trade-offs. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why credit strategy is crucial before applying for a mortgage ✔️ How homeownership creates long-term financial stability ✔️ The biggest mistakes buyers make before applying ✔️ How to prepare financially for your first home ✔️ The mindset needed to build generational wealth 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Devon Aguirre: 🌐 Website → https://linktr.ee/DevonAguirre 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/devonneedsaninsta 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/DevonAguirre365/ 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/devon-aguirre-97b76925🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    43 min
  5. Inside Real Estate: What Makes a Great Agent Stand Out - EP 7

    FEB 5

    Inside Real Estate: What Makes a Great Agent Stand Out - EP 7

    🚀 In this episode, host Deana Brummett sits down with real estate industry veteran Joe Arnao to break down what truly makes a great real estate agent. From pricing strategy and communication standards to emotional control, market knowledge, and red flags consumers should watch out for, this conversation gives buyers and sellers the tools they need to make confident, informed decisions in today’s evolving real estate market. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Joe Arnao – Real Estate Coach & Strategic Consultant Joe Arnao is the owner of 4W Strategic Consulting in Wake Forest, North Carolina, where he provides coaching, training, recruiting solutions, and a proprietary placement service for real estate agents and brokerages. He brings more than 20 years of industry experience, including leadership roles such as Director of Growth at Keller Williams Legacy–Apex, Career Development Manager at Relevate, and Area Sales Manager at William Raveis, where he managed multi-office operations, P&L, agent development, and market expansion.  💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ What truly defines a great real estate agent versus a “salesperson” ✔️ Common red flags buyers and sellers should watch out for ✔️ Why pricing strategy is more important than location alone ✔️ How communication and responsiveness impact client trust ✔️ How remote work and lifestyle shifts have changed buyer behavior 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Joe Arnao: 🌐 Website → https://www.4wstrategicconsulting.com/ 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_real_joe_show/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/4WStrategicConsulting 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/joearnao1/🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    48 min
  6. Smart Tax Strategies for Long-Term Wealth Building - EP 6

    JAN 29

    Smart Tax Strategies for Long-Term Wealth Building - EP 6

    🚀 In this episode of Make Yourself at Home, host Deana Brummett sits down with Brett Swarts, founder of Capital Gains Tax Solutions, to unpack how real estate investors and business owners can preserve wealth, defer capital gains taxes, and create truly passive income. Brett shares real-world case studies, explains deferred sales trusts, and reframes wealth-building around ROT (Return on Time) instead of just ROI—helping families unlock freedom, cash flow, and long-term impact. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Brett Swarts – Capital Gains Tax Strategist & Founder of Capital Gains Tax Solutions Brett Swarts is the founder of Capital Gains Tax Solutions and host of the Capital Gains Tax Solutions Podcast. A leading expert in Deferred Sales Trusts, he helps high-net-worth individuals defer capital gains taxes on real estate, businesses, and other assets. With years of experience in tax deferral strategies and investment real estate, Brett has been featured on top financial platforms and has educated countless investors, financial advisors, and business owners on wealth preservation and smart tax planning. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ How Deferred Sales Trusts work beyond traditional 1031 exchanges ✔️ Ways to defer capital gains on primary homes, businesses, and investments ✔️ The difference between ROI and ROT (Return on Time) ✔️ How to transition from active investing to truly passive income ✔️ Strategies for building generational wealth with purpose and flexibility 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or business owner, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Brett Swarts: 🌐 Website → https://www.capitalgainstaxsolutions.com/ 📘 Facebook → https://web.facebook.com/brett.swarts/ 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-swarts/ 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    41 min
  7. Unpacking Tax Myths and Realities for Consumers - EP 5

    JAN 22

    Unpacking Tax Myths and Realities for Consumers - EP 5

    🚀 In this episode of Make Yourself at Home, host Deana Brummett sits down with certified public accountant Branden Chopelas to pull back the curtain on taxes, real estate myths, and the dangerous misinformation spreading on social media. From capital gains on home sales and hiring your kids to LLC misconceptions, audits, and W-4 mistakes, Branden breaks down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and when you truly need a tax professional. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Branden Chopelas – Certified Public Accountant | Owner, Chopelas Tax & Small Business Branden Chopelas is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and the owner of Chopelas Tax and Small Business Services. She provides accounting and financial services to small business owners in North Carolina, particularly in the Indian Trail area.Branden specializes in tax services, tax consulting, accounting, payroll, and business consulting. With over 26 years of experience in the accounting field, including 20 years focused on tax, she has worked at public accounting firms, local government, and in the commercial construction industry.Owning a small business previously inspired Branden to pursue a Master of Accountancy (MACC) degree and become a CPA. She has operated her own firm for 14 years and has been working full-time for 7 years. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ How capital gains taxes really work when selling your home ✔️ Common tax myths spread on TikTok and social media ✔️ What you can—and cannot—write off when buying or selling a home ✔️ The truth about LLCs, audits, and “guaranteed refunds” ✔️ When hiring a CPA actually saves you money long-term 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Branden Chopelas: 🌐 Website → https://www.chopelastax.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/branden-chopelas-72b94739/ 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    45 min
  8. Home Inspection Insights for Buyers and Sellers Alike - EP 4

    JAN 15

    Home Inspection Insights for Buyers and Sellers Alike - EP 4

    🚀 In this episode of Make Yourself at Home, host Deana Brummett sits down with seasoned home inspector and entrepreneur Wes Grant to break down what buyers and sellers truly need to know about home inspections. From managing buyer emotions and understanding inspection reports to tools, certifications, red flags, and customer service, Wes shares real-world insights gained from decades in the field across the Carolinas. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Wes Grant – Home Inspector & Entrepreneur 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ What happens during a home inspection from start to finish ✔️ How inspectors handle major defects without alarming buyers ✔️ Tools and technology used in modern inspections ✔️ What sets a great home inspector apart from the rest ✔️ Red flags buyers and sellers should watch for when hiring an inspector 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Wes Grant: 🌐 Website → https://www.newsouthpropertyinspections.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/wes-grant-34160b13 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    52 min
  9. Creating a Comfortable and Practical Home for Holiday Hosting - EP 3

    JAN 8

    Creating a Comfortable and Practical Home for Holiday Hosting - EP 3

    🚀 In this episode, host Deana Brummett sits down with interior designer Sabine Hayes of George Maurice to explore how to create homes that are not only beautiful, but deeply comfortable, functional, and welcoming—especially during the busy holiday season. From intentional layouts and color psychology to lighting, scent, and stress-free hosting, Sabine shares practical, real-life design wisdom that helps homes work with you, not against you. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest:🏡 Sabine Hayes – Interior Designer & Founder at George Maurice Sabine Guillaume Hayes is an interior designer and founder of Georgette Marise Interiors, known for creating personalized residential and small-business spaces. With a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Philadelphia and experience in retail visual merchandising and furniture-industry management, she brings a strong foundation in design planning and project coordination. Although based in the Philadelphia area, Sabine also offers virtual E-Design services that allow her to work with clients in North Carolina and other locations nationwide. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ How intention shapes the way a home feels and functions ✔️ The psychological impact of color, layout, lighting, and scent ✔️ How to design multifunctional spaces for modern lifestyles ✔️ Simple design shifts that reduce stress when hosting guests ✔️ Common mistakes homeowners make when refreshing a room 🎵 Whether you're a homeowner, host, or real estate professional, this episode offers valuable insights! 💼 Connect with Sabine Hayes: 🌐 Website → http://www.georgettemarise.com/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/georgettemarise 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/georgettemariseinteriors/ 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgette-marise-interiors 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    46 min
  10. Financial Strategies to Empower Your Everyday Life - EP 2

    JAN 8

    Financial Strategies to Empower Your Everyday Life - EP 2

    🚀 In the very first episode of Make Yourself At Home, host Deana Brummett sits down with certified financial planner David Chudyk for a deep, honest conversation about money, mindset, and margin. David shares why money itself isn’t the problem—but how we handle it often is. From budgeting with irregular income and avoiding lifestyle drift, to understanding financial reality, delayed gratification, generosity, and long-term planning, this episode breaks down complex financial ideas into real-life, relatable lessons. Together, they explore how financial health directly impacts relationships, stress levels, freedom, and the ability to live a meaningful life. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 👤 Guest: 🏡 David Chudyk – Certified Financial Planner® David Chudyk is a Certified Financial Planner™ and the owner of Chudyk Financial Services & Insurance Group in Seneca, South Carolina, where he has provided comprehensive financial planning, investment guidance, and a full range of insurance solutions since acquiring the firm in 2005. With expertise spanning risk management, tax and estate planning, and property-related insurance such as homeowners and commercial coverage, David helps individuals and business owners protect and strategically grow their real estate and overall financial portfolios. Known for his practical, relationship-driven approach, he supports clients across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, bringing clarity and confidence to important financial and property-related decisions. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ Why margin matters more than income ✔️ How lifestyle drift quietly destroys financial health ✔️ The difference between financial facts and financial feelings ✔️ Why buying the most expensive car you qualify for is a major mistake ✔️ How generosity, discipline, and purpose impact long-term wealth 🎵 Whether you’re a business owner, professional, or simply trying to feel more confident about money, this episode offers practical guidance and mindset shifts you can apply immediately. 💼 Connect with David Chudyk: 🌐 Website → https://www.weeklywealthpodcast.com/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559549546182 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/weekly_wealth_podcast 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-chudyk-cfp/ 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas

    47 min
  11. Unveiling New Paths: Real Estate with Heart - EP 01

    JAN 8

    Unveiling New Paths: Real Estate with Heart - EP 01

    🚀 This powerful first episode of the Make Yourself At Home Podcast turns the mic inward to share the deeply personal story behind the brand. Host Deana Brummett, the host turns the spotlight on herself, sharing her journey in real estate which began in 2008. Overcoming personal tragedy, she explains how her experiences have shaped her empathetic and people-focused approach to real estate. The episode emphasizes the importance of relationships, the value of understanding clients' needs, and demystifying the home-buying process. The podcast aims to provide clarity, comfort, and confidence to listeners, with a mission to take the fear out of buying a home. 🎧 Hosted by: Deana Brummett 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ The personal story behind Make Yourself At Home ✔️ How loss and adversity can shape purpose and leadership ✔️ Why real estate is about people—not just houses ✔️ How to pivot and adapt in challenging markets ✔️ The importance of relationships, trust, and education in real estate 🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights! 🎧 Follow Deana Brummett: 📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/AtHomeintheCarolinas/ 📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HomeintheCarolinas 📌 Don’t Forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & COMMENT 💬 Below!

    35 min

  12. TRAILER

    Intro

    Welcome to Make Yourself at Home! Step into the world of real estate with a host who knows it inside and out. With 18 years of experience, starting back in 2008, and a track record of millions in sales- including $2.5 million in 2012 and $4.5 million in 2013- our host brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world insight to every episode. From her beginnings at Keller Williams, to Remax, and now at Coldwell Banker since 2017, she’s seen it all- and she’s here to guide you. Make Yourself at Home is a consumer-focused, educational podcast designed to provide comfort, clarity, and confidence whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or simply curious about real estate. Join us for engaging conversations with nationwide guests: industry partners, contractors, economists, lawyers, legislators, and real estate agents. Learn about everything from legislation and economic shifts to what it’s really like to buy and live in Charlotte. Discover insider tips, educational content, and strategies to help you see at least 2–4 times ROI on your investments. With insights rooted in experience—and a passion for helping people feel at home—this is your ultimate resource for understanding the world of real estate.

    1 min

Trailer

About

Step into real estate with a host who truly knows it. With 18 years of experience since 2008 and millions in sales, she brings real-world insight to every episode. From Keller Williams to REMAX and now Coldwell Banker, Make Yourself at Home is a consumer-focused podcast offering clarity and confidence for buyers, investors, and the curious. Featuring nationwide experts, the show covers markets, legislation, investing strategies, and life in Charlotte—helping you make smarter decisions and maximize ROI.

Information

  • Creator
    Deana Brummett
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Deana Brummett
  • Show Website
    Make Yourself at Home