Real Estate Right Now

Luxury and Ultra-Luxury A Different Way of Thinking About Real Estate When does a home shift from “luxury” to “ultra-luxury,” and why does that distinction matter significantly to your bottom line? The high-end real estate market is often viewed as a monolith, but the strategies required to navigate the stratosphere of ultra-luxury properties are vastly different from standard luxury transactions. From marketing reach to negotiation psychology, understanding these nuances is critical for buyers and sellers looking to protect their assets. In this episode, we sit down with Tony Fink, Senior Listing and Buyers Expert with Linda Craft REALTORS, to dissect these differences. Tony brings years of experience navigating the complex landscape of high-value properties. He walks us through exactly what clients should expect when stepping into the ultra-luxury arena and the specific hurdles that often trip up the unprepared. We also introduce a pivotal evolution in the industry: the RFA (Real Estate Financial Advisor). As real estate holdings comprise a massive percentage of personal net worth, the role of an agent is shifting from a transactional facilitator to a strategic wealth partner. We discuss why you don’t just need a Realtor anymore—you need an RFA who understands the financial implications of your portfolio. Don’t miss this deep dive into the upper echelon of real estate.  Whether you are an investor, a homeowner, or an industry professional, this conversation will change how you view high-end real estate representation. Linda Craft Team, Realtors   Linda built her business in 1985 one relationship at a time, and her team and her continue to do the same things she did 40 years later. They have provided thousands of people the ability to help people sell or buy their next home with personalized legendary customer service. They have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of the home industry.  They also understand you and what you want and need from your next home purchase or sale. What is more they can help you regardless of where you live.  Ready to buy or sell your next home or your first…click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

Declutter and Increase Your Home Selling Value Is your home working for you, or are you working for your home? Whether you are preparing to put your house on the market, in the middle of a chaotic move, or simply drowning in “stuff,” the state of your environment directly impacts your peace of mind and your property value. In this episode of Real Estate Right Now, we are tackling the clutter crisis head-on to help you reclaim your space. I am thrilled to be sitting down with Sara Howard, the expert behind Elevate Your Environment. Sara isn’t just about tidying up; she is a master at creating functional systems that transform chaotic spaces into serene sanctuaries. We are going to dive deep into how professional organizing can be the secret weapon in real estate—from staging a home to sell for top dollar, to making your move seamless and stress-free. If you have ever stared at a packed garage or an overflowing closet and felt overwhelmed, you cannot afford to miss this conversation. Sara will be sharing actionable tips on how to purge what you don’t need, organize what you love, and elevate the way you live. We’ll discuss the psychology behind the mess and practical strategies to maintain a home that looks as good as it feels. Learn how to finally take control of your space. Catch the livestream or listen in—this is the episode that changes how you look at your home forever. Linda Craft Team, Realtors   Linda built her business in 1985 one relationship at a time, and her team and her continue to do the same things she did 40 years later. They have provided thousands of people the ability to help people sell or buy their next home with personalized legendary customer service. They have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of the home industry.  They also understand you and what you want and need from your next home purchase or sale. What is more they can help you regardless of where you live.  Ready to buy or sell your next home or your first…click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

This week on Real Estate Right Now we’re going to talk about something every homeowner eventually faces but almost nobody plans for: what do you do with a lifetime of “stuff” when it’s time to move on? My guest is Gavin Martin, Owner and CEO of Grandma’s Basement Estate Sales & Services, a veteran-owned company right here in North Carolina that specializes in estate sales, cleanouts, antiques, and vintage furniture. Gavin went from the U.S. Army to corporate life to turning his passion for finding hidden treasures into a full-time business helping families downsize, declutter, and uncover value in what’s been sitting in the attic, garage, or yes… grandma’s basement. We’re going to dig into the real estate side of estate sales: how do you time a sale when you’re listing a home? What should you sell, donate, or toss—and in what order? How can a smart estate sale and professional cleanout actually increase your home’s appeal and bottom line when it hits the market? Gavin will walk us through the process step-by-step, share the biggest mistakes he sees sellers make, and give you practical tips for turning “old stuff” into extra cash that can help with your next chapter, whether that’s upsizing, downsizing, or relocating across the country. And of course, we’re going to talk about the emotional side—because these aren’t just objects, they’re memories. Gavin will share stories of how he helps families honor those memories while still moving forward, and how bringing in a pro can take the stress, conflict, and overwhelm out of an already stressful move. So join us live tomorrow at 9am Eastern for Real Estate Right Now—watch the show, jump in with your questions, and if you can’t catch it live, make sure you listen or watch the replay. If you own a home, love someone who does, or you’re staring at a house full of “someday we’ll deal with this,” this is an episode you do not want to miss. Linda Craft Team, Realtors, fully locally owned and operated, and unaffiliated with a national brand for more than 40 years. They have developed relationships with the world’s best real estate professionals to help people like you have an amazing experience when it comes to selling their home or buying a new one. So, if you are looking to connect with the best person in your area…why not start with Linda Craft Team, Realtors drive on over to www.LindaCraft.com

  What’s Going On with Mortgages? Paul Fitts of Advantage Lending joining us to break down what’s really going on in mortgages right now. First off: rate talk. The 30-year fixed is hovering near the low-to-mid 6% range—down from the peaks, yet still above what many buyers hope for. That means timing and strategy matter. We’ll dive into smart lock-windows, what “good enough and done” means in this market, and why waiting for the perfect dip could cost you. Next: the Fed & bond markets. Even though the Federal Reserve has signaled a more passive policy stance, mortgage rates don’t simply march in lockstep. Instead, they follow bond market sentiment, inflation surprises, and employment surprises. We’ll ask Paul how he coaches Triangle buyers and sellers on navigating volatility, especially when refinancing becomes more appealing. We’ll also highlight an under-the-radar trend: the re-emergence of 50-year mortgages. Yes—they’re back in the spotlight. These extended-term loans can offer lower monthly payments by stretching amortization, but they come with trade-offs: more interest paid over time, slower equity build-up, and fewer lenders willing to offer them. Paul will walk us through when a 50-year loan makes sense (flexible budget, long-term hold) and when it’s a red-flag for future resale or refinance risk. Finally: the moving parts in runway and outlook. With higher refinance activity, rising conforming loan limits, and competitive structures like temporary buydowns, there’s more opportunity—but also more complexity. We’ll ask Paul what buyers and sellers in the Raleigh/Triangle market should keep top-of-mind: Conventional vs. FHA/VA, Jumbo vs. conforming, timing your offer and lock-in strategy for when rates wobble. Bring your scenarios live—we’ll dig into which path fits your strategy. Linda Craft Team, REALTORS®, for more than 40 years they have created relationships that last a life time. That is why when it comes to real estate they are known as the “legends of customer service”. They know that your home is personal.  It’s part of a life transition and it is part of your legacy of life. And over the years they have been perfecting their service and skills to help reduce the stress out of buying and selling your home as well as helping thousands of others. The Linda Craft Team would love to get to know you so that they can help you sell your home in the way it should be sold, and help you buy the home to start your next chapter of life.  Click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

Get ready for a really powerful episode of Real Estate Right Now dropping tomorrow, November 6, 2025 at 9 a.m. Eastern! I’m pumped to welcome the incredible Cara Gibbons, Closing Attorney and Branch Manager at Sterling Law in Apex, NC. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply keeping your finger on the pulse of the market, this is not one you’ll want to miss. Cara brings the sharp, boots-on-the-ground insight that turns confusion into clarity—especially when it comes time to cross the finish line and hold those keys. If you’ve ever wondered what really happens in those final moments of a real-estate transaction—what to watch out for, how to avoid hidden cost traps, and how to move with confidence—Cara is going to break it all down, real talk style. She’s seen firsthand how today’s market shifts are impacting closings in North Carolina: from title issues, shifting rates, disclosure surprises, to timing snafus that can derail a deal. With her guidance, you’ll walk away with questions you didn’t even know you needed to ask. But this episode isn’t just for the pros or the super-savvy—it’s for anyone who wants to feel empowered. Whether you’re prepping to sell this winter, buying your first home, or advising family or friends, you deserve to feel ready and confident. We’re going to shift you out of uncertainty, help you anticipate what’s coming, and equip you to act with precision. Because in this market, knowledge isn’t just power—it’s peace of mind. And peace of mind is priceless. So mark your calendars, set your reminders, and invite your network. Join us live and get ahead of those home-closing curveballs. With Cara’s legal expertise and my coaching-style breakdowns, we’re going to make closing in 2025 a strategic win, not just a stressful scramble. I can’t wait to see you there—let’s make tomorrow’s podcast a game-changer. Linda Craft Team, REALTORS®, for more than 40 years they have been known as the “Legends of Customer Service”, because it is ingrained in their culture.  Linda started as an individual agent in 1985.  From then to today the main focus has always been a great customer experience and amazing customer service.  To this day her first clients still come by to say hello and help them with their real estate needs. They have helped people from all over the world find the right professional to sell or buy their home.  That is because they are connected to the right people.  And because they are unaffiliated with any national brokerage, they recommend you the absolute best agent regardless of the company they work for.  Give them a call they can help you! And if you are located in the greater Raleigh – Research Triangle Park (RTP) area stop in and get a FREE bottle of water…head on over to www.LindaCraft.com for more details. Are you a real estate broker in the Raleigh area looking for a place to grow, learn and excel in real estate?  Check out Linda Craft Team Careers, they would love to talk with you!

The real estate market has changed—and if you’re a home seller, you’ve probably felt it. This week on Real Estate Right Now, I’m joined by Home Selling Expert Steve Kruger of Linda Craft Team, Realtors, who will help us make sense of what’s really happening. We’re diving into the truth behind today’s inventory increase, why homes are sitting a little longer, and how pricing strategies need to evolve. If you’re thinking about selling, this episode could save you both time and money. Steve will bring in some of the latest market data that paints a much clearer picture of what’s happening across our area. The days of double-digit appreciation may be behind us—for now—but that doesn’t mean you can’t win in this market. Understanding the numbers, reading the trends, and adjusting your expectations are the keys to selling smart in today’s environment. We’ll also discuss how emotions, timing, and strategy can make or break a home sale. Many sellers are still anchored to what their neighbors sold for six months ago. Steve will help you understand why the market you wish you were in isn’t the one you’re actually selling in—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage. Whether you’re planning to sell this year or just curious about what’s really going on, this conversation will give you an honest, data-driven, and empowering perspective on where the market stands. Join us from the Linda Craft Team Studios, for a show that will reset expectations and reveal what it truly takes to sell successfully right now. Linda Craft  Team, REALTORS located at 7300 Six Forks Road in Raleigh North Carolina, they have been serving the Research Triangle Park area for more than 38 years. In that time Linda created a culture of “Legendary Customer Service”.  It is not a slogan it is part of their DNA. And in that time, they have developed relationships with the world’s leading real estate professionals to help you find the best professional to help you sell your home or buy your next one. Why not head on over to the “Legends” Linda Craft & Team, REALTORS www.LindaCraft.com

When you’re buying or selling a home, one number can make or break the deal — the appraisal. On this week’s Real Estate Right Now, I’m joined by Everett “Vic” Knight, one of North Carolina’s most respected appraisers and former Chair of the NC Real Estate Commission. With decades of experience in real estate and property valuation, Vic brings the inside scoop on how appraisals really work and what every buyer and seller needs to know right now. Here’s the first thing most people don’t realize: the appraiser doesn’t work for you — they work for the lender. Their job is to make sure the home is worth what the bank is lending, not necessarily what you think it’s worth. And with today’s tight schedules, appraisers often have only a short window to visit your property, review comps, and submit the report. That means preparation matters more than ever — clean, accessible, well-documented homes make a stronger impression and often smoother reports. We’ll also talk about what’s changed in how appraisers measure and value homes. Ever wondered why your finished basement or bonus room doesn’t seem to “count” like the rest of the house? Vic will explain the current standards that determine what’s considered true “living space” — and why square footage isn’t as simple as grabbing a tape measure and doing the math yourself. Understanding those rules can save you a lot of confusion and frustration. Finally, we’ll look at the new appraisal forms being rolled out nationwide. While they’re designed to be more detailed and consistent, they’re also creating longer turnaround times and more complexity. Vic will help us unpack what that means for you as a consumer — and what you can do to make the process as smooth as possible. If you’re planning to buy or sell a home soon, this episode could be the difference between stress and success. Linda Craft Team, Realtors no matter where you live in the world, Linda Craft and her team can help you find the best professional in your area to help you sell or buy your next home. While most real estate professionals belong to a nationally affiliated company where they are obligated to use the people in their company’s network. The Linda Craft team are privately owned and operated.  That means they can find the absolute best professional from ANY company to ensure you get the best service. Located in the Raleigh Research Triangle Park of North Carolina…they are indeed legendary when it comes to service.  Learn more  by going to Linda Craft Team, Realtors  www.LindaCraft.com

Join us live on Real Estate Right Now as we take a closer look at one of the fastest-growing sectors in today’s housing market—senior living. My special guest is Paige Van Lenten, Vice President of Placement and Marketing at Always Best Care Senior Living. Paige has been on the frontlines helping families navigate the often emotional and complex decisions around senior housing, and she brings a wealth of insight you don’t want to miss. If you’ve ever wondered when the “right time” is to start thinking about senior care options, or what choices really exist for loved ones as they age, Paige will break it all down. From assisted living to memory care, to the financial and real estate implications that often come with these transitions, this conversation is packed with practical information that will help you make informed decisions with confidence. But this show isn’t just about senior housing—it’s about families, futures, and the peace of mind that comes with making proactive choices. Paige will share real stories, common pitfalls, and the surprising opportunities that many people overlook when they start exploring senior living options. If you’re a homeowner, a child of aging parents, or even planning for your own future, you’ll walk away with clarity and confidence. Trust me, this is a powerful conversation you’ll want to share with friends and family. Linda Craft  Team, REALTORS located at 7300 Six Forks Road in Raleigh North Carolina, they have been serving the Research Triangle Park area for more than 38 years. In that time Linda created a culture of “Legendary Customer Service”.  It is not a slogan it is part of their DNA. And in that time, they have developed relationships with the world’s leading real estate professionals to help you find the best professional to help you sell your home or buy your next one. Why not head on over to the “Legends” Linda Craft & Team, REALTORS www.LindaCraft.com

When it comes to buying a home, mistakes can be costly—and sometimes unforgettable. On this week’s episode of Real Estate Right Now, we’re going to laugh, learn, and get real with Kim Crump, Senior Listing and Buyer’s Specialist with Linda Craft Team, Realtors. The title says it all: “Home Buying Lesson: I Was Dumb So You Don’t Have to Be.” Kim isn’t afraid to share her own cringe-worthy experience of discovering that her pool wasn’t even on her property. Yes, you read that right—and the story only gets better from there. Kim’s personal journey is more than just a cautionary tale—it’s a wake-up call for buyers and homeowners alike. Back in 2004, like many of us, she trusted what the seller said about her lot lines. Years later, thanks to interactive mapping tools like iMAPS and her own training as a Realtor, she realized the truth: her pool, deck, and jacuzzi were sitting on land she didn’t even own. And while the county gave permits, permits only answer the question “Can you build it?”—not “Do you actually own the land?” So what are the lessons here? Whether it’s getting a survey, verifying lot lines, understanding permits, or working with your HOA, Kim’s story shines a light on the must-do’s to avoid serious headaches. If you’ve ever thought, “Well, the seller said it was fine” or “The county gave me a permit, so I’m good”—think again. Kim will break down why prevention is not only easier than untangling mistakes later, but also far less expensive. Join us from the Linda Craft Team Studios as Kim candidly shares her “dumb” mistakes so you don’t repeat them. From humor to hard-earned wisdom, this episode will give buyers, sellers, and even seasoned homeowners the insight they need to protect their biggest investment. Don’t miss it—your property (and wallet) will thank you! Linda Craft Team, REALTORS they have literally helped thousands of clients with the sale and purchase of homes. And many of those clients return over and over again to get access to what they are known for around the world…” Legendary Customer Service”. It has been Linda’s culture for more than 40 years, and they are continuing to find ways to improve it every single day. Learn more about the legends of customer service, and how they can help you from selling or buying a home to commercial real estate.  Just click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make—but hidden risks in your property’s history could cost you thousands if you’re not prepared. That’s why title insurance is so important. But here’s the real question: do you actually know what it is, what it covers, and why you need it? On this episode of Real Estate Right Now, we’re pulling back the curtain to give you the answers. Joining me live is Ron Fredrick of Epic Title Insurance, an expert who has helped countless buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals navigate the complexities of protecting property ownership. Together, we’ll explore the basics of title insurance in plain language—what it does, how it works, and why skipping it could be a costly mistake. We’ll also dive into common misconceptions about title insurance. Many buyers don’t realize the potential risks that can pop up after closing—like liens, undisclosed heirs, or paperwork errors—that could put their ownership in jeopardy. Ron will share real-world insights that will make you rethink how essential title insurance is to your peace of mind and financial security. So whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or simply curious about the real estate process, this show is for you. Don’t miss your chance to learn how to protect your property from the unexpected and walk into closing with confidence. For more information go to Partner Title Linda Craft Team, Realtors, fully locally owned and operated, and unaffiliated with any national brand. For more than 40 years Linda Craft Team has developed relationships with the world’s best real estate professionals to help people like you have an amazing experience when it comes to selling their home or buying a new one. If you are looking to connect with the best person in your area…why not start with Linda Craft & Team, Realtors drive on over to www.LindaCraft.com

Starting out in real estate is never easy—but what if you had the right team and mentorship from day one? On this week’s Real Estate Right Now, I’ll be joined by Eli Wachtman, one of the newest Buyers Professionals at Linda Craft Team, REALTORS®. Eli may be new to the business, but his journey so far has been packed with lessons, surprises, and insights that every buyer, seller, and aspiring agent will want to hear. We’ll dive into what it’s really like to step into real estate for the first time. From the steep learning curve to the moments of breakthrough, Eli will share the realities behind the shiny “sold”[...]

If you’ve got a move on the horizon—or just want to save future-you some headaches—this episode is your shortcut to less chaos and more control.

Buying or selling a home is exciting—but let’s be honest, the home inspection can feel like the scariest part of the process. For buyers, it’s that moment of truth: will the dream home you’ve fallen in love with come with hidden nightmares? For sellers, it can feel like judgment day—where every crack, leak, or outdated feature is put under a microscope. On this week’s Real Estate Right Now, we’re going to tackle those anxieties head-on. I’ll be joined by Luke Mitchell from Home Cloud, a trusted home inspection and repair service that knows how stressful this step can be for everyone involved. Together, we’ll pull back the curtain on what[...]

Buying a home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. Between the stacks of paperwork, inspections, and unexpected surprises, it’s easy to miss critical details that could cost you big down the road. This week on Real Estate Right Now, I’m sitting down with James IaDanza, owner of James at All Trades, a seasoned home repair expert who’s seen it all. From hidden inspection red flags to maintenance must-knows, James will share the hard-earned wisdom every homeowner wishes they had before signing on the dotted line. Whether you’re buying your very first home or you’ve been through the process before, there’s a lot that can slip[...]

When it comes to commercial real estate, going solo might sound like a money-saving move—but it could end up costing you far more than you bargained for. On this episode of Real Estate Right Now, host Jay Izso welcomes back Commercial Broker and Principal of Avison Young, Baxter Walker, to reveal the hidden dangers of navigating commercial leases and purchases without a licensed expert by your side. From murky zoning regulations and confusing lease terms to hidden costs buried deep in contracts, Baxter will break down the biggest mistakes people make when they try to go it alone. Whether you’re looking to lease office space or invest in a commercial[...]

Ready to make your home look like it belongs on the cover of a magazine—or sell faster than the one next door? This week on Real Estate Right Now, Jay Izso welcomes the incredibly talented Rhonda Benvie Plummer, founder of Help Me Rhonda Interiors, to talk all things home design, staging, and style strategy. Whether you’re staying or selling, this episode is packed with insights that can transform your space—and your return on investment. What’s hot (and what’s not) in paint colors? How do you design a space that speaks to buyers—or simply feels more like you? Rhonda shares her professional take on the latest trends, timeless techniques, and[...]

The Buyer’s Market is Here! Follow the Bread Crumbs… Is the housing buying power finally shifting to the buyer? On the next Real Estate Right Now with Jay Izso, we’re diving into what may be the biggest change we’ve seen in the housing market in years. Join us as Jay welcomes Paul Fitts, Senior Lending Officer with Advantage Lending, to unpack what’s really happening in today’s real estate climate—and why buyers may finally be getting the upper hand. Fresh research from the Triangle MLS reveals something surprising: when you remove new construction from the equation, resale home values have actually declined compared to this time last year. That’s right—after years[...]

Welcome to Real Estate Right Now with Jay Izso, the show where we tackle the truths, trends, and tips that matter most to today’s home buyers and sellers. If you’re a homeowner—or planning to become one—then you’ve probably had your fair share of questions about home insurance. Unfortunately, it’s an area filled with confusion, assumptions, and flat-out myths. So today, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to protecting your biggest investment. Joining me is Bryce Williams, a seasoned insurance expert with Harbor Trust Insurance. Bryce has seen it all—people underinsured, overpaying, or thinking they’re covered when they’re not. He’s here to help[...]

Real Estate Right Now goes live from the Linda Craft Team Studios with a truly eye-opening episode you can’t afford to miss. Host Jay Izso is joined by Senior Lending Officer Paul Fitts of Advantage Lending to tackle a topic that hits home for millions: credit repair. If you’ve ever wondered how your credit score impacts your ability to buy a home—or if you’ve been denied before—this episode will give you the tools to turn your finances around. Buying a home is one of life’s biggest financial decisions, but many potential buyers hit a wall because of poor credit. Paul Fitts brings decades of lending experience to the table and[...]

This week on Real Estate Right Now, we’re diving into the exciting world of smart home technology and custom AV solutions with a true industry leader. Join us as we welcome Michelle Vedder, owner of Synergy Integrated Systems in Raleigh, NC. Michelle brings years of expertise in audio, visual, and home automation systems designed to transform everyday living into extraordinary experiences. In this episode, we’ll uncover how Synergy Integrated Systems is reshaping the way homeowners and real estate professionals think about technology in the home. From integrated lighting and climate control to state-of-the-art home theaters and whole-house audio, Michelle will share how her team customizes smart home solutions to meet[...]