From Rents to Roots: Conversations in Real Estate

Work Hard Mortgage

🏡 From Rents to Roots: Conversations in Real Estate explores the real stories and expert insights behind homeownership. Hosted by Ryan Harding of Work Hard Mortgage, each episode dives into the experiences of buyers, realtors, and professionals shaping today’s market. Tune in weekly for practical advice, inspiring journeys, and honest conversations about turning rents into roots.

  1. How Three Buyers Beat Rising Housing Costs by Co-Purchasing a Home

    08/22/2025

    How Three Buyers Beat Rising Housing Costs by Co-Purchasing a Home

    How Three Buyers Beat Rising Housing Costs by Co-Purchasing a Home 🏡 From Rents to Roots: The Journey to Home Ownership In this episode of From Rents to Roots with Work Hard Mortgage, we sit down with Betsy, Lynn, and Nicole to hear their inspiring journey from renting to owning a home—together. Faced with rising housing costs and a desire for stability, they found a creative path: co-purchasing a home. In this conversation, they share the real-life ups and downs of the process—navigating the market, leaning on trusted professionals, and handling the emotional highs and lows that come with one of life’s biggest decisions. You’ll hear: ✅ How they decided to buy a home together ✅ Challenges and surprises along the way ✅ What made the loan process smooth and stress-free ✅ Their heartfelt advice for anyone dreaming of homeownership Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just curious about how others are making it happen, this episode is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and proof that there’s more than one way to put down roots. ⏱ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Home Buying Journey 00:39 – Meet the Home Buyers: Betsy, Lynn, and Nicole 02:09 – The Decision to Buy a Home 03:31 – Navigating the Home Buying Process 05:11 – Challenges and Surprises in Home Buying 11:52 – Finding the Perfect Home 15:53 – Smooth Sailing: The Loan Process 17:55 – Long-Term Client Relationships 18:22 – The Emotional Roller Coaster of Buying a Home 20:26 – Settling into Your New Home 22:19 – Advice for Future Home Buyers 29:23 – The Importance of Trust in the Home Buying Process 31:34 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement 32:09 – Conclusion and Next Steps Related Topics: Co-Purchasing a Home, First-Time Homebuyer Tips, Home Buying in Utah, Navigating the Loan Process, Buying a Home with Friends or Family 💬 Connect with Work Hard Mortgage Podcast: From Rents to Roots — Real homebuyer stories and practical advice 🏠 Apply Now: https://workharding.com 📋 Take the 60-Second Homebuyer Readiness Quiz — link in bio #FromRentsToRoots #HomeBuyingJourney #FirstTimeHomebuyer #WorkHardMortgage #MortgageTips #UtahRealEstate #HomeOwnership #MortgageBroker #CoBuyingAHome

    33 min
  2. From Renting to Rural Living: One Couple’s Homeownership Journey

    08/12/2025

    From Renting to Rural Living: One Couple’s Homeownership Journey

    🏡 From Rents to Roots | How One Utah Couple Overcame Credit Challenges & Bought Their Dream HomeIn this very first episode of From Rents to Roots with Work Hard Mortgage, host Ryan Harding sits down with first-time home buyers Matthew and Kaylee to share their inspiring journey from renting in Eden, Utah, to purchasing their dream home in Tremonton, Utah.They open up about the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way—how they improved their credit, overcame the disappointment of losing their first home under contract, and eventually qualified for a USDA Rural Housing Loan. You’ll hear why they love rural living, the lifestyle benefits they’ve discovered, and what it took to finally close on a home they truly love.If you’ve ever wondered whether homeownership is possible for you, Matthew and Kaylee’s story proves that with persistence, the right guidance, and a clear plan, you can make the leap from renting to owning.🎧 Whether you’re dreaming of your first home or simply looking for tips to navigate the process, this episode offers encouragement, practical insight, and hope for the journey ahead.⸻⏱ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to From Rents to Roots00:37 – Meet Matthew and Kaylee01:12 – Starting the Home Buying Journey01:51 – Choosing the Right Location04:13 – Overcoming Financial Hurdles06:26 – The USDA Rural Housing Loan07:25 – Living in a Rural Area08:37 – Navigating the Loan Process09:33 – Closing the Deal11:24 – Settling into the New Home12:38 – Advice for Future Home Buyers15:14 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts⸻Related Topics: USDA Rural Housing Loan, First-Time Homebuyer Tips, Credit Repair for Homeownership, Rural Living Benefits, Buying a Home in Utah💬 Connect with Work Hard MortgagePodcast: From Rents to Roots — Inspiring real homebuyer stories and practical advice🏠 Apply Now: https://workharding.com📋 Take the 60-Second Homebuyer Readiness Quiz: Link in bio⸻#FromRentsToRoots #HomeBuyingJourney #FirstTimeHomebuyer #USDALoan #WorkHardMortgage #MortgageTips #UtahRealEstate #HomeOwnership #MortgageBroker #RuralLiving

    16 min
  3. Ep. 42 - From Business Trips to Real Estate Triumphs: Chris Mickelsen's Path

    05/28/2024

    Ep. 42 - From Business Trips to Real Estate Triumphs: Chris Mickelsen's Path

    Welcome to the Work Hard Play Hard podcast! In this episode, host Ryan Harding is joined by Chris Mickelsen, the number one real estate agent in Utah County. Chris's journey into real estate began in 2013, driven by a desire for a better work-life balance after years of exhaustive business-to-business sales and international travel. Despite initially believing real estate might be easier, Chris quickly learned the challenges of the industry and has since mastered the art of selling homes. Chris shares candid insights into his early years, including the steep learning curve and his innovative use of social media to build his brand and reach clients. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in his videos, showcasing his real personality and approach to real estate, which sets him apart in a crowded market. Listeners will learn about Chris's strategies for success, including his effective use of Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to engage with potential buyers and sellers. He also discusses the impact of recent industry changes, like the NAR settlement, and how he adapts to new challenges to continue thriving. Beyond real estate, Chris is deeply committed to giving back. He talks passionately about his annual trips to Guatemala, where he and a dedicated group build homes for families in need. This charitable work has created a strong community bond among participants and made a significant impact on the lives of many. Throughout the episode, Chris provides valuable advice for aspiring real estate agents and anyone looking to succeed in a competitive field. His story is a testament to hard work, consistency, and the power of maintaining a balance between professional dedication and personal enjoyment. If you're seeking inspiration and practical tips to enhance your career, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Chris's journey and discover how he balances his professional and personal life while making a positive difference in the world. #RealEstate #TopAgent #UtahCounty #WorkHardPlayHard #RealEstateJourney #SocialMediaMarketing #Authenticity #HomeBuilding #GivingBack #Podcast #SuccessStory #RyanHarding #ChrisMikkelson #RealEstateSuccess #Inspiration #BusinessJourney

    31 min

  4. 04/30/2024

    Ep. 41 - Paws & Properties: Conversations with Darcee Oliva, the Dog-Friendly Realtor

    Welcome to the "Work Hard, Play Hard" podcast, where we explore the balance between ambitious work ethic and the pursuit of joyful living. This week, we're thrilled to welcome Darcee Oliva, the dog-friendly realtor who's revolutionizing the way we think about home-buying for pet lovers. In this episode, Darcee shares her passion for both real estate and furry companions, discussing how her unique approach to home buying considers the needs of not just the homeowner but their beloved pets as well. Join us as we delve into Darcee's journey in the real estate industry, her tips for pet-friendly house hunting, and the heartwarming stories of families finding their dream homes with their furry companions in tow. Whether you're a pet owner looking for your next home or simply a real estate enthusiast, this episode offers insights, laughs, and plenty of tail-wagging moments. So grab your headphones, leash up your pup, and get ready to be inspired by Darcee Oliva's passion for pairing humans with their perfect pet-friendly properties. Tune in to the "Work Hard, Play Hard" podcast for an episode that's sure to leave you barking with excitement!

    26 min
  5. Ep. 40 - Impact of NAR Settlement on the Utah Housing Market - with veteran agent Ammon Childs

    04/15/2024

    Ep. 40 - Impact of NAR Settlement on the Utah Housing Market - with veteran agent Ammon Childs

    Join us this week on the "Work Hard / Play Hard" podcast as we delve into the intricacies of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) real estate settlement with our esteemed guest, Ammon Childs. Ammon, a seasoned expert in the field, offers a profound analysis of the settlement's impact on the vibrant Utah real estate market. Through his years of experience and deep-rooted knowledge, Ammon sheds light on the far-reaching effects of the NAR settlement, providing invaluable insights for both industry professionals and aspiring homeowners alike. From regulatory shifts to market dynamics, he navigates the complexities with finesse, offering clarity in uncertain times. Tune in as Ammon shares his unique perspective, drawing from his wealth of experience in real estate. Gain exclusive access to his wisdom as he unravels the lessons learned along the way, offering actionable advice for success in the ever-evolving landscape of real estate. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey through the intricacies of the NAR real estate settlement and its implications for the Utah market. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's finest minds. Join us on the "Work Hard / Play Hard" podcast for a discussion that transcends the ordinary and offers profound insights into the world of real estate. https://stan.store/workharding

    31 min
  6. Ep. 39 - A Subscription Based Handyman Service - Conversation with owner Tim Leary

    03/19/2024

    Ep. 39 - A Subscription Based Handyman Service - Conversation with owner Tim Leary

    Welcome to the latest episode of the "Work Hard / Play Hard" podcast, where we delve into the lives of individuals who have mastered the art of balancing their professional endeavors with their personal passions. This week, we sit down with Tim Leary, the innovative mind behind a subscription-based handyman service that's revolutionizing the home maintenance industry. Join us as Tim shares his journey from traditional handyman work to the inception of his unique subscription model, offering homeowners hassle-free access to regular maintenance and repairs. Discover how Tim's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to exceptional service have propelled his business to success, all while allowing him to maintain a fulfilling personal life. In this episode, Tim offers invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of running a subscription-based business, as well as practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to carve out their niche in a competitive market. From managing workload to fostering a culture of excellence, Tim's story is sure to inspire listeners to find their own balance between work and play. Tune in to gain exclusive access to Tim Leary's expertise and learn how embracing innovation and creativity can transform not only your business but also your overall quality of life. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or simply curious about the evolving landscape of service-based industries, this episode promises to deliver inspiration and actionable advice to help you thrive in both your professional and personal pursuits. Find Us On:   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ryan_work.harding/   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/findaloan   Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-hard-play-hard/id1608054829 https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/0E2OjtOpexb   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/workharding/   YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@workharding

    36 min

  7. 02/20/2024

    Ep. 38 - Moving Markets: Navigating Brokerage Transitions in Real Estate Slowdowns with Boo Maddox

    Welcome to the "Work Hard, Play Hard Real Estate Podcast" – the ultimate destination for all things real estate, where we combine the thrill of hard work with the joys of play in the world of property investment!     Join us in this episode of the Work Hard / Play Hard Podcast as we dive into navigating making the switch from brokerages with Boo Maddox.   Don't miss out on the "Work Hard, Play Hard Real Estate Podcast." Subscribe now and start your journey towards financial success and a life filled with adventure, fun, and freedom. Remember, it's not just about working hard; it's about playing hard too!    Find Us On:     Instagram  ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ryan_work.harding/⁠⁠    Facebook  ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/findaloan⁠⁠     Podcast  ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-hard-play-hard/id1608054829⁠⁠  ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/0E2OjtOpexb⁠⁠    LinkedIn  ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/workharding/⁠⁠    YouTube  ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@workharding⁠⁠    #podcast #utah #utahrealtors #utahrealestatemarket #utahrealestateagents #mortgagebroker #firsttimehomebuyer #realestateinvesting

    38 min
  8. Ep. 37 - Mastering the Market: Insights from a 25-Year Real Estate Veteran with Ned Chidester

    01/31/2024

    Ep. 37 - Mastering the Market: Insights from a 25-Year Real Estate Veteran with Ned Chidester

    Welcome to the "Work Hard, Play Hard Real Estate Podcast" – the ultimate destination for all things real estate, where we combine the thrill of hard work with the joys of play in the world of property investment!     Join us in this episode of the Work Hard / Play Hard Podcast as we dive into the ins and outs of real estate over the last 25 years with Real Estate Veteran Ned Chidester.   Don't miss out on the "Work Hard, Play Hard Real Estate Podcast." Subscribe now and start your journey towards financial success and a life filled with adventure, fun, and freedom. Remember, it's not just about working hard; it's about playing hard too!    Find Us On:     Instagram  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ryan_work.harding/⁠    Facebook  ⁠https://www.facebook.com/findaloan⁠     Podcast  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-hard-play-hard/id1608054829⁠  ⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/0E2OjtOpexb⁠    LinkedIn  ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/workharding/⁠    YouTube  ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@workharding⁠    #podcast #utah #utahrealtors #utahrealestatemarket #utahrealestateagents #mortgagebroker #firsttimehomebuyer #realestateinvesting

    42 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

🏡 From Rents to Roots: Conversations in Real Estate explores the real stories and expert insights behind homeownership. Hosted by Ryan Harding of Work Hard Mortgage, each episode dives into the experiences of buyers, realtors, and professionals shaping today’s market. Tune in weekly for practical advice, inspiring journeys, and honest conversations about turning rents into roots.

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