Educating Homebuyers.

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t have someone in your corner guiding you through the process.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, Brady sits down with Des Moines mortgage lender Luis Solis to talk about how he built his personal brand “Loans with Luis” and why relationships and culture are the foundation of a great mortgage experience.Luis shares how he entered the mortgage industry with no prior real estate background, what he learned navigating one of the most challenging housing markets in recent history, and how focusing on people instead of transactions helped him build a growing business.They also discuss the culture inside Key Mortgage Group, the transition to Atlantic Coast Mortgage, and how technology, communication, and teamwork help create a better experience for homebuyers and real estate partners.If you're thinking about buying a home, working in real estate, or simply curious how the mortgage process works, this episode offers valuable insight from professionals who live it every day.Follow Luis SolisInstagramhttps://instagram.com/_loanswithluisBe sure to follow Luis for mortgage tips, social media content, and behind-the-scenes looks at the homebuying process.Connect with BradyApply for a mortgagehttps://teambhaye.comFollow BradyInstagram: https://instagram.com/bradyhayeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@bradyhaye⏱️ YouTube Chapters0:00 Intro0:33 Meet Luis Solis2:04 How Luis Got Into the Mortgage Industry4:23 Starting a Mortgage Career in a Tough Market6:06 Controlling What You Can in Real Estate7:29 Creating a Better Client Experience9:28 The Culture Inside Key Mortgage Group11:55 Transition to Atlantic Coast Mortgage16:15 Technology and Systems in the Mortgage Process17:32 How Luis Built “Loans with Luis” on Social Media20:32 Why Most Mortgage Content Doesn’t Work23:21 The Right Way to Create Real Estate Content26:06 Sharing Client Stories vs Just Sold Posts28:29 Why Relationships Matter in Mortgage Lending29:24 Final Thoughts

He helped win back-to-back national championships. Now he’s bringing that same discipline into the mortgage world.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, we officially introduce Tucker Dickherber — the newest loan officer at Key Mortgage Group.Tucker grew up along the Mississippi River, played college football at Grand View University, and was part of two national championship teams. What made those teams successful? Discipline. Accountability. Showing up every single day.Now he’s applying that exact mindset to serving homebuyers.We talk about:• Growing up in a competitive household• What it really takes to win back-to-back national titles• Passing the mortgage licensing exam on the first try• Why consistency matters more than early success• Treating every client like a teammateIf you’re buying, refinancing, or you’re a realtor looking for someone hungry and coachable — Tucker is someone you want in your corner. CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome & Introduction00:33 Small-Town Roots03:34 Grand View & National Championships07:53 Translating Football Into Business11:16 Passing the Mortgage Exam14:52 Building Relationships in Mortgage17:02 Execution & Referrals19:16 Why Now Is the Time to Connect

She’s 21 years old, licensed since October 2025, and already making an impact.In this episode, I sit down with Allison Colyn to talk about what it’s really like starting a real estate career right out of college. From growing up in Baxter, Iowa to double majoring in Marketing and Real Estate at the University of Northern Iowa, Allison shares how she found her path — and why confidence, mentorship, and fighting for your clients matters more than experience alone.We cover:• What real estate school doesn’t teach you• Why young agents can be a huge advantage• The importance of mentorship and team structure• How to build confidence early in your career• What first-time buyers should do before looking at homes• The behind-the-scenes mortgage processIf you’re a young professional thinking about real estate, or a first-time homebuyer wondering where to start, this episode will give you clarity.00:00 – Intro01:13 – Growing Up in Baxter, Iowa03:30 – Why She Double Majored in Marketing & Real Estate05:57 – Joining a Team Right Out of College09:22 – Advice for New Agents11:38 – Fighting Tooth and Nail for Clients15:31 – Taking Risks at 2119:13 – The Parrot Listing Story 🦜21:33 – What First-Time Buyers Should Do First22:22 – Inside the Mortgage Consultation Process28:03 – Final Thoughts 

Most buyers think negotiation is about offering less.It’s not.It’s about leverage, timing, positioning, and understanding what sellers actually care about.In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Russell to break down how negotiation has shifted in today’s market — and why buyers who move strategically right now have real opportunity.We discuss:• Why 2026 favors prepared buyers• Builder concessions and hidden leverage• Resale negotiation strategies that actually work• When price reductions beat rate reductions• The mindset shift buyers need• Why rushing into 17-offer situations is a mistake• Payment strategy vs rate obsessionIf you’re thinking about buying, building, or selling — this conversation will change how you approach your next move. Chapters0:00 – Intro1:05 – From Architecture to Real Estate3:40 – The 3 Big Decisions When Building7:45 – Lessons from Investing Personally11:10 – Short-Term Rental Strategy20:05 – Staging & Pricing Psychology22:00 – Construction vs Resale in 202627:00 – Where Buyers Have Leverage Right Now30:30 – Why Payment Matters More Than Rate34:00 – The Danger of Emotional Buying38:45 – Intentional Decision Making41:00 – Culture & Doing Business the Right Way

Most people think clients choose a real estate agent or lender because of the company name behind them.That’s not true.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, I sit down with Mark Charter to talk about why your personal brand matters more than the brokerage or company logo — and how building a career around who you are leads to longer-lasting success.We cover what 20+ years in real estate teaches you about branding, identity, imposter syndrome, purpose, and why chasing volume or awards alone often leads to burnout. Mark also shares why he built an agent-first brokerage, why agents should own their relationships, and how clarity in your “why” changes everything.This episode is for real estate agents, lenders, and business owners who want to build something sustainable, authentic, and aligned with their life. 00:00 – Intro01:15 – Mark’s real estate journey03:00 – Getting through downturns and hard seasons04:30 – Why most agents struggle06:10 – Time, priorities, and defining your why08:10 – Enjoying the process, not chasing the finish line10:00 – Why awards and volume don’t equal fulfillment11:20 – Belief, confidence, and deserving success13:00 – Selling yourself without feeling salesy14:50 – Building a process you believe in15:10 – Why Mark started his own brokerage17:00 – Why the agent should be the brand19:15 – What agents really deserve to earn21:55 – Imposter syndrome in real estate24:25 – Losing everything and redefining identity26:00 – Gratitude and perspective28:20 – Comparison as the thief of joy29:40 – Content, podcasts, and personal platforms31:30 – Relationship-based business vs chasing virality33:15 – Staying positive in a tough market35:00 – Real estate as a people business37:25 – Final thoughts

Most buyers and sellers never see what happens after a real estate contract is signed — until something goes wrong.In this episode, I sit down with a licensed transaction coordinator to walk through what actually happens behind the scenes of a real estate transaction and why clean contracts, timelines, and compliance matter more than most people realize.We cover:What a transaction coordinator really does day-to-dayWhy missed deadlines and small contract errors can derail dealsThe difference between amendments and addendums (and why it matters legally)How systems, calendars, and automation protect buyers, sellers, and agentsWhy “nothing happening” often means everything is running smoothlyWhether you’re buying, selling, or working in real estate, this episode gives you a clear look at the work that keeps transactions moving forward and protects everyone involved.⏱️ YouTube Chapters 00:00 – Why transaction coordinators are often overlooked01:10 – Background and role of a licensed transaction coordinator03:00 – What actually happens behind the scenes05:00 – Compliance, contracts, and legal responsibility07:30 – Why clients don’t see most of the work09:30 – Communication gaps and client anxiety12:00 – Automation, calendars, and accountability14:45 – Appraisals, waivers, and lender coordination18:30 – Amendments vs addendums (explained clearly)22:30 – How small errors can void contracts26:00 – Systems agents should have in place30:00 – When to hire help and what to look for33:30 – Final thoughts on protecting clients 

Buying a home in the Quad Cities in 2026 looks very different than it did just a few years ago.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, I sit down with a Quad Cities real estate professional with over 16 years of experience helping buyers and sellers navigate changing markets across Iowa and Illinois. We break down what today’s housing market really looks like, why so many buyers chose to wait over the last two years, and what’s bringing them back into the conversation heading into 2026.We talk through how buyers should be thinking about timing, affordability, taxes, and location within the Quad Cities, including Davenport and surrounding areas. Most importantly, we focus on how the right education and guidance can help buyers move forward confidently, without pressure or guesswork.If you’re considering buying or selling a home in the Quad Cities, or you’ve been on the fence waiting for the “right time,” this episode will help you understand your options and what actually matters in today’s market.YOUTUBE CHAPTERS (COPY/PASTE)00:00 – Welcome to Educating Homebuyers00:33 – Real estate background and years of experience01:47 – Early career lessons and long-term client relationships03:51 – How technology and social media changed real estate05:12 – Building trust through authentic content06:41 – Helping buyers who feel stuck on the sidelines07:59 – Educating buyers without pressure09:45 – Why early conversations matter10:23 – Iowa vs Illinois market differences11:43 – Taxes, affordability, and payment considerations13:40 – Brokerage changes and evolving business models15:31 – Technology, culture, and collaboration17:23 – Outlook for the 2026 housing market19:29 – Why trust matters when choosing a realtor21:44 – Final thoughts and how to follow along

What does it actually take to build a relationship-based business that scales without losing authenticity?In this live podcast event, we break down the real, behind-the-scenes work of growing a referral-driven business in real estate, lending, and insurance. From early-stage hustle and hundreds of coffee meetings to implementing systems that protect your time, energy, and relationships, this conversation dives into what works and what most professionals get wrong.We unpack:Why most networking doesn’t translate into growthHow to turn relationships into predictable referralsThe Pillars framework for managing high-value connectionsWhen coaching actually makes sense (and when it doesn’t)How to scale intentionally without burning out or losing balanceThis episode is especially valuable for real estate agents, lenders, and business owners who want to grow in 2026 with clarity, systems, and purpose. Big thanks to all our Sponsors: 515 Exteriors, Key Mortgage Group, Avanti Group Insurance, Amplified, and Key Closing Services! Be sure to check them out.CHAPTERS (TIME-STAMPED)00:00 – Why this live event matters01:15 – Why unscripted conversations scale better than content videos03:00 – Turning a podcast into a platform for others05:40 – Sponsors & why relationships fuel everything12:10 – Guest introduction and career transition story16:00 – Starting from zero and rebuilding a relationship-based business18:30 – Why experience alone doesn’t differentiate you21:15 – The reality of doing 400 coffees in a year24:30 – Protecting time while staying intentional27:00 – Why most networking doesn’t convert29:00 – The coaching decision that changed everything34:50 – When knowledge stops scaling your business38:00 – Introducing the Pillars framework39:30 – What PILLARS actually stands for42:00 – Organizing relationships by value and intention46:30 – Using systems (and AI) to manage relationships49:00 – How agents should categorize their own networks52:00 – Scaling relationships without burning bridges55:00 – Final takeaways for 2026 growth  

A US veteran shares how authenticity, relationships, and process helped him become a top 5% realtor. A powerful conversation on trust, people over transactions, and doing business the right way.

Brady Haye sits down with Des Moines real estate leader Eric Webster to break down what today’s housing market really looks like. From interest rates and inventory to affordability and equity, this episode delivers real-world perspective from someone who’s seen every market cycle. A must-listen for buyers, sellers, and agents heading into 2026.

After ten years as a mortgage lender, I’ve learned one core truth: a mortgage is never just a loan. It’s a life moment.In this solo episode of Educating Homebuyers, I reflect on a decade of helping first-time buyers, growing families, investors, and repeat clients navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. I break down the 10 lessons that consistently create smoother closings, less stress, and more confident homebuyers.This episode is not about chasing the lowest rate or timing the market perfectly. It’s about clarity, preparation, communication, and aligning your mortgage strategy with your life.Whether you’re buying your first home, thinking about your next move, or just want to understand how the mortgage process actually works, this episode will help you feel informed, educated, and comfortable before you ever write an offer.

Most buyers never see what really happens behind the scenes when a home is built—but they feel it every step of the way.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, Brady Haye sits down with custom home builder Derek Lines to unpack what separates a smooth, well-run custom home build from a stressful one. From communication and budgeting to design decisions and vendor relationships, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the parts of the process most people never get explained.If you are considering building a home now or in the future, this episode will help you feel more informed, educated, and comfortable before ever breaking ground.🏡 Topics covered:What actually makes a custom home build a great experienceWhy communication matters more than finishesHow most homes go over budget and how to avoid itDesigning homes around real life, not just floor plansWhat buyers should know before choosing a builderHow mortgage planning fits into the custom build process🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts📩 Questions about building or financing a home? Reach out anytime00:00 – Welcome to Educating Homebuyers00:33 – What Buyers Never See Behind the Build01:02 – Meet Derek Lines03:33 – From Farm Kid to Custom Home Builder06:23 – Starting a Construction Business at the Wrong Time08:02 – Transitioning From Roofing to Custom Homes09:45 – What Actually Differentiates a Great Builder10:44 – Why Most Builds Go Over Budget11:32 – Communication vs “Stress-Free” Promises14:17 – Handling Mistakes Without Finger-Pointing16:27 – Why Builder–Vendor Relationships Matter18:47 – Designing Homes Around How People Live19:23 – The Discovery Meeting Explained22:00 – Why the Final Walkthrough Is So Emotional24:15 – How Many Homes a Custom Builder Can Handle25:53 – How Buyers Discover Builders Today27:07 – Avoiding Being Pigeonholed Into One Style29:34 – Designing a Spec Home Without a Buyer31:49 – Selling the Home Before the Show Opened32:53 – Mortgage Perspective on Custom Builds36:06 – Education vs Sales39:44 – Long-Term Reputation in a Small Market42:00 – Final Advice for Future Homebuilders

Today’s episode features someone whose journey perfectly blends education, real estate, and authentic connection. Emma Jordison—better known across Des Moines as Your DSM Home Girl—shares how she went from the classroom to becoming a trusted local real estate resource for buyers, sellers, and renters preparing for their next step.We walk through her transition from teaching to real estate, the lessons she carries over from the classroom, why early planning dramatically improves the homebuying and selling experience, what today’s buyers truly care about, and how new construction compares to resale in a shifting market.Emma’s perspective is rooted in education, service, and helping people feel confident and comfortable—values that align closely with what this podcast stands for. Whether you're planning to buy, preparing to sell, or simply want to understand today’s Des Moines market, this conversation will help you take your next step with clarity.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome to Educating Homebuyers00:19 – What this show is all about00:33 – Introducing DSM Homegirl01:11 – Emma’s journey from teaching to real estate02:27 – Early signs she loved the housing world03:11 – Their first rental and entry into investment property04:38 – Why owning real estate strengthens how you serve clients05:52 – The importance of early buyer conversations07:10 – Preparing renters 6–12 months out08:14 – Buyer confidence and market readiness08:56 – Why reaching out early improves outcomes10:16 – Navigating the personal side of finances and privacy11:09 – Why Brady connected with Emma’s approach11:27 – The story behind “DSM Homegirl”13:22 – Authenticity, community, and local resource building14:16 – The meaning of home vs. a house15:16 – Guiding sellers: maintenance, expectations, and presentation16:42 – What buyers pay attention to in 202617:58 – Red flags and inspection considerations19:39 – Should sellers update before listing?20:18 – When renovations help—and when they don’t22:03 – Why updates should be done for YOU, not the next buyer23:23 – Changing timelines and unexpected moves24:19 – Equity, improvements, and long-term value26:18 – Spec homes, new construction, and resale dynamics27:07 – Personalizing new construction after move-in28:14 – Are spec neighborhoods more common now?29:23 – Buyers returning after sitting out 2021–202230:45 – New construction advantages and warranties32:23 – How the market has shifted for agents and clients32:43 – Semi-custom homes and blending build styles33:19 – Closing thoughts and where to follow Emma

Today on Educating Homebuyers, I sit down with Cedar Rapids & Iowa City’s top agent, Alexis Kemp — a powerhouse who has built a $60M+ real estate business in just four years by leading with care, high standards, and a deep commitment to her clients’ success.We talk through what a normal market actually looks like, how buyer conversations have changed since 2021, and why understanding resale value is more important than ever. Alexis also shares the emotional realities of helping both first-time homebuyers and long-time homeowners who are selling after 40+ years.We also dive into affordability, interest rates, the recent conversation around 40–50 year mortgages, and how buyers should think about long-term equity and comfort level over simply “what they qualify for.”If you want a grounded, honest look at what buyers and sellers can expect in 2026 — this episode delivers.00:00 – Intro00:33 – Meet Cedar Rapids & Iowa City’s top agent: Alexis Kemp01:00 – Alexis’ path to real estate02:17 – From marketing coordinator to team leader04:01 – Growing a $60M+ business05:27 – Market changes: 2021 vs. now06:39 – How buyer conversations have shifted07:34 – What a normal market actually looks like07:56 – Iowa City vs. Cedar Rapids09:15 – Emotional differences: first-time buyers vs. long-time sellers10:39 – Using client stories to market homes11:07 – Des Moines vs. her market13:27 – How far she travels to help clients15:59 – Alexis asks Brady about the lending side16:14 – What buyers really need to understand about affordability17:18 – Why rates aren’t the whole story18:02 – The truth about 40- and 50-year mortgages20:23 – Equity, amortization & realistic timelines21:14 – Why the lender consultation matters22:08 – Evaluating resale value23:13 – Long-term appreciation & expectations24:21 – Closing thoughts24:42 – How to connect with Alexis

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with someone who’s played a massive role in my career — mentor, leader, investor, and friend, Louie Wickett. Louie has spent over a decade helping families buy homes while also running a growing investment company AND raising a family.We break down what buyers should actually be thinking about heading into 2026: budgeting, variable income, cash-to-close, equity strategy, debt payoff, timing the market (and why you really can’t), and the mindset shift today’s market requires.Whether you’re a first-time buyer, move-up buyer, or a realtor wanting sharper tools to guide your clients — this episode is filled with real, practical, no-nonsense guidance for the year ahead.Louie Wickett — welcome to Educating Homebuyers.CHAPTERS:00:00 – Intro01:10 – How Louie entered mortgage lending04:00 – Learning the business the hard way at Wells Fargo06:30 – What makes Key Mortgage Group different09:45 – Why accurate pre-approvals matter in 202612:15 – Understanding variable income (and common surprises)15:50 – The preliminary income review and why it’s a game changer17:30 – Balancing two businesses + family life19:40 – How fatherhood changed Louie’s perspective23:10 – Advice for first-time buyers in 202625:40 – Budgeting, comfort levels, and lifestyle planning27:00 – Cash-to-close explained simply29:30 – Loan Estimate videos: why they matter31:20 – Should you wait or buy now?33:00 – Leveraging equity to eliminate debt35:20 – The hidden danger of easy consumer credit37:50 – Protecting your future refinance options40:20 – Why timing the market doesn’t work42:30 – Closing thoughts + gratitude

Today’s episode features a 20-year real estate veteran whose career spans commercial real estate, custom new construction, and leading one of the top real estate teams in Ankeny. Ankeny Real Estate Group’s own Colin Panzi breaks down how the new construction process really works — from selecting the right lot, to budgeting properly, to the biggest surprises buyers don’t realize until it’s too late.Whether you’re comparing new construction to resale or thinking about building a custom home someday, this episode will help you feel informed, educated, and comfortable as you plan your next step.Chapters:00:00 — Intro00:34 — Colin’s Story and Start in Real Estate02:40 — Fargo New Construction + Extreme Home Makeover05:30 — How Builders Plan Fast Build Schedules08:00 — Budgeting, Floor Plans & Lot Selection11:00 — Common Costs Buyers Forget (blinds, landscaping, appliances)14:30 — Why Rooms Look Small During Construction17:00 — How Pricing Changes During the Build19:00 — The 8-Foot vs 9-Foot Ceiling Mistake21:00 — Entry-Level New Construction vs Resale23:40 — Local Builders vs National Builders26:00 — Understanding What You Get For the Money29:00 — What to Ask Before Building30:50 — Wrap Up + Colin’s Contact Info

In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, Brady sits down with Jalan Jones — a Des Moines Realtor known for his sharp style, construction background, and genuine care for his clients.From working in sales and running a renovation business to becoming one of the metro’s most personable and respected agents, Jalan’s story is all about growth, mindset, and standing out for the right reasons.They dive into what it really takes to be successful in today’s real estate world — from communication and preparation to handling tough transactions with professionalism and grace.You’ll hear real stories, practical advice, and plenty of laughs as Brady and Jalan talk about:The transition from construction to real estateWhy clients should interview multiple lenders (and what questions to ask)The lessons learned from tough deals and delayed closingsThe importance of working with local professionals who actually pick up the phoneStaying grounded in business, family, and life — because “this too shall pass”A fun, real, and relatable conversation with Des Moines’ self-proclaimed best-dressed Realtor — and a reminder that doing things the right way never goes out of style. 

In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, Brady Haye sits down with Bo Cosens, a RE/MAX Precision agent who’s been on every side of real estate — from mortgage lending to title closing to now representing clients as a top-producing Realtor.After more than 1,900+ closings, Bo shares what most agents get wrong about this business — and how to do it differently.From chasing volume instead of relationships, to ignoring what clients actually care about (their payment and comfort, not the price tag), Bo brings a refreshing and brutally honest perspective that every agent, lender, and homebuyer needs to hear.They talk about:Why so many agents are too transactionalWhat actually happens behind the scenes before a deal closesHow understanding lending and title gives Realtors a massive edgeWhy posting about rates isn’t helping your businessAnd what it really means to build a business on relationships, not dealsWhether you’re an agent looking to sharpen your approach or a buyer who wants to know how things really work, this episode will leave you informed, educated, and comfortable — the way every transaction should be.

This week, Brady sits down with central Iowa realtor Steven Bunting of RE/MAX Concepts to talk about what real estate is really about — people, not properties.From growing up in Ames and investing in fourplexes, to becoming a full-time realtor during the height of COVID, Steven shares how his focus shifted from selling homes to educating and empowering people.They dive deep into what it means to build trust through education, how to guide clients before they fall in love with a home, why structure and systems matter, and how to keep balance while being “on” 24/7 in this business.Whether you’re a homebuyer, a realtor, or just someone curious about how great real estate pros operate — this one’s packed with wisdom, heart, and real stories from the field.

What you don’t see can cost you thousands — or even your health.In this episode of Educating Homebuyers, I sit down with Mariah Klemp, a 12-year Des Moines real estate pro who opens up about the hidden side of homeownership — from radon and roof age to toxic mold and water damage.Mariah’s story is personal: after battling mold poisoning in her own home, she’s made it her mission to help clients avoid the same fate. Together, we unpack how to protect your investment, the home inspections most people skip, and how real estate success isn’t about selling more — it’s about living well.Whether you’re buying your first home, investing, or just want to avoid costly surprises, this episode will help you feel informed, educated, and comfortable in your next move.