The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast with Mike Mills

Mike Mills
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The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast with Mike Mills

Dive deep into the heart of Texas Real Estate with Mike Mills, your dedicated guide through the intricate world of home loans and beyond. The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast isn't just another industry show—it's an exploration of opportunities, a masterclass from industry titans, and a beacon for those aiming for the pinnacle of success. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, Mike brings to the table not only his expertise as a home loan professional but also heart-pounding conversations with top experts and leaders from the realms of Real Estate, mortgage, finance, and other real estate-centric sectors. Our promise? No fluff, just smart, actionable advice distilled from the experiences of those who have carved niches and built legacies. Every episode is a journey – a step towards achieving your potential, realizing your goals, and making informed decisions in the world of real estate and finance. Are you ready to redefine success, shatter your ceilings, and journey through the vast landscapes of opportunity? Join Mike and his esteemed guests and step into a realm of inspiration, motivation, and success. Your potential awaits, and together, we'll help you seize it. Subscribe now!

  1. NAR Settlement Update 2025: What Realtors Must Know Now

    4 DAYS AGO

    NAR Settlement Update 2025: What Realtors Must Know Now

    🚨 The NAR Settlement Update 2025 is shaking up the real estate industry, and Realtors need to act fast. With MLS rule changes, buyer agent commission shifts, and new legal risks, staying informed is no longer optional—it’s essential. Tune in now to get expert insights on how these changes impact your business and what you must do to stay competitive in 2025! Detailed Episode OverviewThe NAR Settlement Update 2025 is transforming how Realtors, brokerages, and MLS systems operate, but what does it really mean for your business? In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with real estate expert Amy Cearnal to break down the new commission rules, MLS participation changes, and what buyers and sellers need to know moving forward. Key topics we cover: ✅ How the NAR lawsuit settlement is changing buyer agent commissions ✅ Why MLS rules are evolving, and how they impact your ability to do business ✅ What the DOJ’s real estate oversight could mean for future regulations ✅ How these changes will affect Realtors, brokerages, and homebuyers ✅ What steps agents must take to adapt and thrive in this new landscape Whether you're a seasoned agent or new to real estate, this episode will give you the clarity and strategies you need to navigate these shifts confidently. Don't miss out—hit play now! Key Takeaways1️⃣ NAR Settlement Update 2025: Major Commission ChangesThe NAR lawsuit settlement has removed buyer agent commission disclosures from the MLS, fundamentally altering how Realtors negotiate compensation. With commissions now negotiated outside the MLS, buyers and sellers are facing new challenges in understanding who pays what. 2️⃣ MLS Rule Changes: New Access & Membership UpdatesMLS access rules are shifting, with some markets like Austin and Houston allowing non-Realtors to access MLS data. This could change how listings are controlled, forcing agents to rethink how they leverage MLS platforms. 3️⃣ Buyer Agreements: Are They Helping or Hurting?Buyers must now sign agreements before viewing homes, aiming to improve transparency in agent compensation. However, this requirement is creating friction, as buyers may hesitate to commit before seeing properties. 4️⃣ DOJ Oversight: More Real Estate Lawsuits Ahead?While the NAR settlement addressed commission disclosure, the DOJ is still investigating real estate practices. More lawsuits and regulatory changes could be coming, making it critical for Realtors to stay proactive. 5️⃣ Adapting to a Changing Market in 2025To stay competitive, Realtors must embrace these new rules, educate clients, and refine their value propositions. Those who adapt and innovate will thrive, while those who resist change risk falling behind. Guest BioAmy Cearnal is a real estate veteran with expertise in brokerage operations, title services, mortgage lending, and real estate law. As a former brokerage owner and longtime Texas Realtor®, she specializes in helping clients minimize risk and maximize value in real estate transactions. Amy has...

    1h 2m
  2. DFW Real Estate Market Trends: Will 2025 Be a Buyer’s Market?

    6 DAYS AGO

    DFW Real Estate Market Trends: Will 2025 Be a Buyer’s Market?

    The DFW Real Estate Market is shifting, and 2025 could be the turning point for buyers, sellers, and realtors. With rising inventory, mortgage rates holding steady, and home prices stabilizing, the North Texas housing market presents both opportunities and challenges. Tune in as we break down key real estate trends, mortgage rate forecasts, and expert insights to help you stay ahead in this evolving market! Detailed Episode OverviewThe DFW Real Estate Market is at a crossroads—are we finally entering a buyer’s market? As home prices level off, inventory grows, and mortgage rates remain high, real estate professionals need to adapt their strategies to succeed in 2025. In this episode, we dive deep into: ✅ Current market trends—how rising inventory and mortgage rates are impacting buyers and sellers. ✅ Mortgage rate forecasts—will rates drop or stay high in 2025? ✅ Changing buyer demographics—why first-time homebuyers are older than ever and how this affects the market. ✅ The CFPB debate—how changes to mortgage regulations could impact real estate financing. ✅ Expert real estate strategies—guest Conrad Jackson of REMAX Pinnacle shares game-changing tips for agents, buyers, and sellers. Whether you're a real estate agent, investor, or homebuyer, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you navigate the DFW market in 2025. Key Takeaways✅ DFW’s Real Estate Market is Changing—Here’s What You Need to Know With inventory levels rising and home prices stabilizing, 2025 may be a prime time for buyers. However, elevated mortgage rates continue to shape affordability, making strategic decision-making essential for realtors and investors. ✅ Mortgage Rates Are Holding Steady—But Will They Drop? Mortgage rates remain a major factor influencing demand. We explore why inflation, Federal Reserve policies, and economic uncertainty will determine whether rates fall or remain high throughout 2025. ✅ First-Time Homebuyers Are Older—How This Affects the Market The median age of a first-time homebuyer has risen from 28 in 1991 to 38 in 2024. This shift means realtors must adjust their approach, catering to buyers who are financially established but facing affordability challenges. ✅ The CFPB Debate—Will New Regulations Impact Home Loans? With new leadership at the CFPB, real estate lending policies could tighten or relax in the coming years. We break down how potential changes in mortgage regulations could impact buyer financing and loan availability. ✅ Expert Strategies for Realtors to Win in 2025 Special guest Conrad Jackson of REMAX Pinnacle shares actionable insights on increasing listing visibility, negotiating better deals, and understanding buyer behavior. His tips can help realtors and investors maximize success in a shifting market. Guest Bio – Conrad JacksonConrad Jackson is a highly experienced real estate professional with REMAX Pinnacle in Arlington, Texas, specializing in buyer representation, seller negotiations, and market...

    25 min
  3. Surviving the Real Estate Market 2025: Strategies for Realtors

    FEB 7

    Surviving the Real Estate Market 2025: Strategies for Realtors

    Real Estate Market 2025 is here! Discover top realtor strategies, mortgage trends, and expert predictions to navigate home sales, prospecting, and marketing. With 2023 and 2024 being two of the worst years for home sales since 1995, what will 2025 bring for realtors and investors? If you’re wondering how to generate leads, close deals, and market effectively in a slow housing market, this episode is for you. Mike Mills and Conrad Jackson discuss real estate trends, mortgage rate shifts, and prospecting strategies to help realtors grow in 2025. The Real Estate Market 2025 presents new challenges and opportunities for realtors, investors, and mortgage professionals. With home sales at their lowest levels in decades, successful agents must adapt their sales approach, improve lead generation, and embrace digital marketing. In this episode, Mike Mills and Conrad Jackson discuss: ✔ Current market trends and how realtors can thrive in 2025 ✔ How mortgage lending has evolved & what buyers need to know ✔ The truth behind builder incentives & their impact on home values ✔ Social media strategies for real estate agents to attract more clients ✔ How top-performing realtors are generating leads despite slow sales If you’re a real estate agent looking to scale in a challenging market, this episode has actionable insights to help you succeed! 🔑 Key Takeaways: How Realtors Can Thrive in 20251️⃣ The 2025 Housing Market Requires a Smarter StrategyThe real estate market is shifting, and buyers are more hesitant than ever. Realtors need to educate clients, set realistic expectations, and focus on long-term investments to drive home sales. 2️⃣ Realtor Lead Generation: Prospecting Smarter, Not HarderCold calling is out—relationship-based marketing is in! Realtors must build trust through social media, referral networks, and consistent follow-ups to close more deals. 3️⃣ Builder Incentives in 2025: Are They a Trap?With new construction making up nearly 30% of sales, agents must explain the risks of builder incentives, including higher long-term costs and slower equity growth. 4️⃣ Mortgage Lending 2025: What Realtors Must KnowLoan approvals are stricter than ever, but requirements haven’t officially changed. Buyers should expect longer underwriting times, more documentation requests, and detailed credit scrutiny. 5️⃣ Social Media & Branding: Realtors Must Stand Out OnlineThe best agents are winning business through Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn by providing educational content, market updates, and engaging video marketing strategies. 🎙️ About Our Guest: Conrad JacksonConrad Jackson is a real estate agent, builder, and investor in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. With years of experience in residential and multifamily real estate, he specializes in new construction projects, housing market trends, and real estate investment strategies. As a mentor and educator, Conrad shares insights on business growth, mortgage lending, and adapting to changing market conditions. He is also deeply involved in community development and youth sports coaching,...

    1h 6m
  4. 2025 Housing Forecast: Market Trends, Mortgage Rates & Real Estate Insights

    FEB 4

    2025 Housing Forecast: Market Trends, Mortgage Rates & Real Estate Insights

    The 2025 housing market is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years—will home prices crash, or will they keep rising? In this episode, we break down housing trends, mortgage rate predictions, and real estate industry shifts that every realtor and mortgage professional needs to know. Don’t get left behind—tune in now to get ahead of the competition! Episode OverviewThe 2025 Housing Forecast is filled with uncertainty—will home prices drop, mortgage rates stabilize, or affordability continue to be a challenge? In this episode, host Mike Mills sits down with James Kleimann, Managing Editor at HousingWire, to break down the latest real estate trends, policy changes, and mortgage industry shifts that will shape the market in 2025. They dive deep into the impact of rising interest rates, housing supply shortages, and the role of AI in real estate and mortgage lending. Will Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac leave conservatorship? What do proposed real estate commission reforms mean for agents? And how will new federal housing policies affect buyers and sellers? Get the expert insights you need to stay ahead in the fast-changing real estate market. Key TakeawaysMortgage Rates in 2025: What to Expect Experts predict that mortgage rates will likely stay in the 6% range, with potential fluctuations depending on inflation, economic policies, and Federal Reserve actions. While some hope for a return to 4% rates, the bond market and U.S. debt levels make this unlikely in the near future. Housing Affordability Challenges Continue Home prices remain historically high, making affordability a top concern for buyers, real estate agents, and lenders. Rising insurance costs, credit reporting fees, and property taxes add additional strain, preventing many from entering the market despite strong demand. AI and Automation Are Reshaping Real Estate & Mortgage Lending AI-driven tools are making real estate agents and mortgage lenders more efficient, but they also threaten traditional roles like underwriters and processors. Big players in the industry are already investing heavily in AI, signaling major shifts in how loans are processed and real estate transactions are handled. Real Estate Commission Lawsuits Could Reshape the Industry The DOJ’s focus on real estate commissions and agent steering could lead to major changes in how agents are compensated. New regulations may affect MLS structures, buyer commissions, and the role of brokerages, making it crucial for realtors to stay informed on legal updates. 2025 Will Be a Defining Year for Real Estate Professionals With fewer home sales, tighter inventory, and evolving regulations, real estate agents and mortgage lenders must adapt to stay competitive. Whether through leveraging AI, improving marketing strategies, or adjusting to new commission structures, professionals who embrace change will have the best chance at success in 2025. Guest BioJames Kleimann – Managing Editor, HousingWire James Kleimann is the Managing Editor at HousingWire, the leading news source for real estate and mortgage professionals. With years of experience covering the housing market, mortgage industry trends, and...

    1h 16m
  5. Mastering Real Estate Cycles: Strategies for Realtors to Thrive in Any Market

    11/22/2024

    Mastering Real Estate Cycles: Strategies for Realtors to Thrive in Any Market

    What does it take to succeed in a slowing real estate market? This week, Julie Holly reveals the keys to thriving during downturns, scaling your business, and leveraging relationships to uncover hidden deals. If you’re a Realtor looking for practical tips and long-term strategies, this episode is a must-listen! Mastering Real Estate Cycles is essential for any Realtor looking to succeed in a shifting market, and in this episode, we dive deep with seasoned investor and strategist Julie Holly. Julie shares her insights on navigating today’s challenging real estate landscape, building strong client relationships, and discovering hidden opportunities. From leveraging social media to creating clear sales cycles, she offers practical strategies for Realtors to implement immediately. We also discuss the emotional cycle of change in real estate, the importance of professionalism, and scaling wealth through multifamily investments. If you’ve been wondering how to grow your business during a slowdown, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Whether you're looking for new opportunities or refining your processes, Julie's expertise is sure to inspire and educate. Key TakeawaysDefine Clear Goals for Success Julie emphasizes the importance of setting specific, measurable goals to guide your real estate career. By defining what success looks like for you, you can focus your efforts on achieving results that align with your objectives. Relationships Are the Foundation of Real Estate Building strong relationships within your community and network is a cornerstone of real estate success. Julie explains how nurturing these connections can uncover hidden deals and establish you as a trusted professional. Adapt to Market Cycles Julie highlights why slowing markets are often the best time for growth, as competition decreases and new opportunities emerge. Realtors who remain proactive and embrace market shifts are more likely to thrive. Leverage Social Media Strategically Rather than chasing vanity metrics, Julie advises Realtors to use social media to reinforce expertise and maintain visibility with their sphere. Strategic posting can enhance your reputation and expand your reach. Treat Real Estate Like a Profession Julie underscores the importance of adopting a professional mindset, from creating clear sales cycles to implementing effective systems. Treating your business with the same rigor as a top company ensures long-term success in any market. Guest BioJulie Holly is the founder of Three Keys Investments and the host of The Conscious Investor podcast. As a third-generation real estate professional, Julie brings decades of experience to the table, ranging from residential sales to multifamily investments and assisted living facilities. Her expertise lies in helping investors protect, preserve, and grow their wealth through scalable, strategic investments. Having been both a limited and general partner in large apartment complexes, Julie has navigated complex markets and developed a reputation for her clear, proven strategies. Beyond real estate, Julie is a sought-after speaker and coach, empowering others to achieve financial freedom while staying true to their purpose. ResourcesHere are the updated resources mentioned in this episode: Three Keys Investments Website: Learn more about Julie Holly’s work and explore resources for multifamily investing at https://www.threekeysinvestments.com/. The Conscious Investor Podcast: Listen to Julie’s podcast for actionable advice on purpose-driven investing: a...

    1h 20m
  6. Trump’s Housing Market Impact: Rates, Policies, and Affordability in 2025

    11/15/2024

    Trump’s Housing Market Impact: Rates, Policies, and Affordability in 2025

    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. Key TakeawaysMortgage Rates Remain Volatile Amid Economic UncertaintyMortgage 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 AffordabilityWith 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 IntensifiesHome 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 TrendsRising 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 ToolsThe 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 EpisodeNational 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: a href="https://chat.openai.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    35 min
  7. Top Strategies for Developing Real Estate Teams That Thrive

    11/06/2024

    Top Strategies for Developing Real Estate Teams That Thrive

    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. Episode OverviewIn 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. Key TakeawaysElevate 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. Guest BioAlex 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: a...

    1h 6m
  8. Realtor’s Guide to 2024: Trump vs Kamala Housing Policies Explained

    11/02/2024

    Realtor’s Guide to 2024: Trump vs Kamala Housing Policies Explained

    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! Episode OverviewIn 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. Key TakeawaysThe 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. Guest BioMichael 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...

    1h 24m
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About

Dive deep into the heart of Texas Real Estate with Mike Mills, your dedicated guide through the intricate world of home loans and beyond. The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast isn't just another industry show—it's an exploration of opportunities, a masterclass from industry titans, and a beacon for those aiming for the pinnacle of success. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, Mike brings to the table not only his expertise as a home loan professional but also heart-pounding conversations with top experts and leaders from the realms of Real Estate, mortgage, finance, and other real estate-centric sectors. Our promise? No fluff, just smart, actionable advice distilled from the experiences of those who have carved niches and built legacies. Every episode is a journey – a step towards achieving your potential, realizing your goals, and making informed decisions in the world of real estate and finance. Are you ready to redefine success, shatter your ceilings, and journey through the vast landscapes of opportunity? Join Mike and his esteemed guests and step into a realm of inspiration, motivation, and success. Your potential awaits, and together, we'll help you seize it. Subscribe now!

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