A to Z of Houston Real Estate

🚀 In this episode of The A to Z of Houston Real Estate, Amy Zebra sits down with licensed home inspector Eric Christie of Boxer Inspection to break down what really happens during a home inspection in Texas. From licensing requirements and inspection standards to stucco surprises, drones, thermal imaging, termites, and new construction mistakes — this episode covers it all. Whether you're buying a historic Heights bungalow or a brand-new build, this conversation will help you understand what to expect and how inspections protect your investment.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🏡 Eric Christie – Licensed Professional Home Inspector, Owner of Boxer Inspection

Eric Christie is the owner and Professional Home Inspector at Boxer Inspections LLC, a licensed residential and commercial inspection firm serving Houston, Sugar Land, and the surrounding Texas markets. Drawing on more than 26 years of mechanical and electrical engineering experience, Eric is a Certified Professional Inspector® through InterNACHI with additional credentials from the National Swimming Pool Foundation and TPREIA. Boxer Inspections provides phased new-construction, investor, thermal-camera, pool/spa, and commercial inspections, and has been featured on the national TV show Designing Spaces for its education-focused approach to inspections.

💡 Key Topics Covered:

✔️ Texas inspection licensing & standards of practice

✔️ Code changes vs. functional deficiencies

✔️ Stucco risks and moisture intrusion

✔️ Specialized certifications (WDI, pools, drones, thermal imaging)

✔️ The importance of phased inspections in new construction

🎵 Whether you're an investor, agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers valuable insights!

💼 Connect with Eric Christie:

🌐 Website → https://www.boxerinspections.com/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/
⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode of the A to Z of Houston Real Estate, Amy Lynch Kolflat interviews Felizabeth Smiley Burnham about leading a family-owned scrap metal business in a male-dominated industry. Felizabeth Smiley Burnham shares insights into JD Metals, recycling regulations, and sustainability practices, while also discussing her creative Can Tabula brand, where scrap materials are transformed into unique crafts through upcycling and design.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Felizabeth Smiley Burnham – Entrepreneur & Co-Owner, JD Metals

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Scrap metal recycling operations

✔️ Industry regulations and sustainability

✔️ Women entrepreneurs in industrial businesses

✔️ Creative upcycling and design

✔️ Family-owned business leadership

📇 Connect with Felizabeth Smiley Burnham:

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.burnham

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

In this episode, Amy Lynch Kolflat sits down with Gordon Fox of Fox Inspection Group to discuss what really happens during a home inspection. Gordon Fox explains common issues inspectors uncover, from plumbing and roofing to sewer lines and new construction mistakes, and why inspections protect both buyers and sellers. They also explore market conditions, negotiation realities, and how inspections support smarter real estate decisions.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Gordon Fox – Owner, Fox Inspection Group

⭐ Guest Bio

Gordon Fox is the founder and President of Fox Inspection Group, a Houston-based home inspection company he began with his wife Lesley in 1989, growing it from a solo inspector to a multi-inspector team serving the Greater Houston area. He holds professional home inspector credentials and leads the firm with a focus on detailed, client-centered property inspections. Under his guidance, Fox Inspection Group has built a reputation for thorough service and long-term client trust.

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Home inspection essentials

✔️ Plumbing and sewer line issues

✔️ New construction inspections

✔️ Negotiation insights for buyers and sellers

✔️ Reducing risk in real estate transactions

📇 Connect with Gordon Fox:

🌐 Website → https://www.foxinspectiongroup.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/FoxInspectionGroup/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordon-fox-4418b014/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode, Amy Lynch Kolflat sits down with title expert James Navarre to break down what title insurance really is, why it matters, and how it protects buyers, sellers, and agents. They discuss fraud prevention, heirship issues, closing costs, and the role a title company plays in creating a smooth, secure, and memorable closing experience.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 James Navarre

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Title insurance explained

✔️ Fraud and wire safety awareness

✔️ Heirship and lien issues

✔️ Closing costs and fund handling

✔️ Building a trusted real estate team

📇 Connect with Guest:

🌐 Website → https://linktr.ee/jamesnavarrehtx

📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jamesnavarrehtx/?hl=en

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode, Amy Lynch Kolflat speaks with mortgage expert Steve Kyles about navigating today’s Houston real estate market with clarity and confidence. They break down why reputation matters in multiple-offer situations, how early mortgage planning removes uncertainty, and why buyers who understand financing, timing, and local expertise gain a real competitive advantage.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Steve Kyles – Co-Owner, Pro Lending Mortgage

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Mortgage clarity and early planning

✔️ Reputation-driven transactions

✔️ Houston market stability

✔️ Multiple-offer strategies

✔️ Removing uncertainty in real estate

📇 Connect with Guest:

🌐 Website → https://houstonmortgageexpert.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/steve.kyles/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevekyles/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode, Amy Lynch Kolflat sits down with entrepreneur Ann Tran to discuss her journey from accounting, real estate, and mortgages into building Albedo Return Power Washing. Ann shares insights on entrepreneurship, the science behind power washing, transitioning into a labor-based business, and how purpose, systems, and community impact drive sustainable growth in a male-dominated industry.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Ann Tran – Founder, Albedo Return Power Washing

⭐ Guest Bio

Ann Tran is the founder of Albedo’s Return Power Washing, a Houston-based, woman-owned fire-prevention and commercial cleaning company specializing in kitchen exhaust and vent-hood compliance. A University of Houston accounting graduate and lifelong entrepreneur, she blends financial expertise, real estate experience, and operational leadership to help restaurants stay safe, compliant, and inspection-ready. Ann is committed to building strong teams, creating local jobs, and serving the Houston community with integrity.

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Power washing vs. pressure washing

✔️ Accounting as a foundation for entrepreneurship

✔️ Scaling a labor-based service business

✔️ Commercial kitchen exhaust safety

✔️ Community-focused business models

📇 Connect with Guest:

🌎 Website → https://albedosreturn.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/AlbedosReturn/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/albedosreturnpowerwashing/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/anntrantexas/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode, Amy Lynch Kolflat sits down with Avis Milburn to explore the vital role of in-home care for seniors and families in Houston. Avis Milburn shares her journey of building a trusted home care business rooted in faith, compassion, and professionalism, while discussing services, caregiver standards, and the emotional realities of caring for aging loved ones at home.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Avis Milburn – Owner, Elevated Home Care

Avis Milburn is a health service provider in Houston, Texas, registered as an individual healthcare practitioner with a National Provider Identifier (NPI) active since December 2024. Her primary classification in the NPI registry is Clinic/Center—Health Service, indicating her professional role in outpatient health services.

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ In-home caregiving services

✔️ Trust, licensing, and caregiver standards

✔️ Aging in place and family support

✔️ Emotional aspects of caregiving

✔️ Building a purpose-driven care business

📇 Connect with Avis Milburn:

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/avis-milburn-32386083/

📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/talkaroundhouston/?

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/avis.milburn/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode, Amy Lynch, known as Amy Zebra from Zebra Properties, is joined by Robert Searcy, a mid-century modern specialist. They discuss their experiences and challenges working in the Houston real estate market, specifically focusing on mid-century modern homes. The conversation covers the unique characteristics of these homes, historical significance, and the importance of preservation. Both Amy and Robert share anecdotes about notable properties and the importance of finding the right buyer who appreciates the distinct style of mid-century modern homes.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch Kolflat

👤 Guest:🖋 Robert Searcy – Mid-Century Modern Specialist

⭐ Guest Bio

Robert Searcy is a Houston-based Broker and founder of Robert Searcy Properties, specializing in mid-century modern and historic homes. Featured in Dwell, Atomic Ranch, and The Wall Street Journal, Robert is recognized nationally for his expertise in architectural heritage and neighborhood preservation. His work was instrumental in establishing Houston’s Glenbrook Valley Historic District—now the world’s largest post–WWII locally designated neighborhood and a landmark success in preservation.

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Mid-century modern architecture fundamentals

✔️ Houston neighborhoods with modern homes

✔️ Preservation vs. redevelopment challenges

✔️ Buyer demand and market trends

✔️ Renovation mistakes to avoid

📇 Connect with Guest:

📱 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/houstonmodster/?hl=en

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

In this episode of 'The A to Z of Houston Real Estate with Amy Zebra,' Amy interviews Steven Sellers, known as the 'Heights Santa.' The conversation delves into Steven's journey from a simple dare to becoming a professional Santa Claus, spreading joy and kindness throughout the Houston area. Steven shares touching stories of his interactions with children, the significance of making people feel seen and heard, and insights into his other ventures, including jewelry making under 'Tick Jewelry.' The episode highlights the true spirit of Christmas and the impact of small acts of kindness, making it a heartfelt and inspiring discussion for all.

🎧 Hosted by: Amy Lynch

👤 Guest:🖋 Steven Sellers – Professional Santa, Creative Entrepreneur & Community Ambassador

⭐ Guest Bio

Steven Sellers is a professional Santa Claus performer known as “The Heights Santa", based in Houston, Texas. He portrays Santa Claus for seasonal appearances, community events, and family experiences, focusing on authenticity and tradition. Through his work, he has become a recognizable holiday figure within the Houston Heights community.

💡 Key Topics Covered

✔️ Community connection and compassion

✔️ Life as a professional Santa

✔️ Creativity and self-expression

✔️ Mental health awareness

✔️ Houston culture and service

📇 Connect with Steven Sellers:

📘 Facebook  → https://www.facebook.com/steve.sellers.7758

📺 YouTube → https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-sellers-2b41a215/

🎙 Follow Amy Lynch Kolflat:

🌎 Website → https://www.teamzebraproperties.com/

📘 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/amylynchkolflat/

📷 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/homewithamyzebra/

🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzebra/

⭐ Produced by Icons of Real Estate - https://iconsofrealestate.com/

Hosted by real estate expert Amy Zebra, Houston A to Z is your go-to guide to Houston real estate and the people shaping the city. With over 15 years of experience and a family legacy in the industry, Amy brings insight, authenticity, and fresh perspective to every episode. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, the podcast delivers practical strategies, market wisdom, and conversations with builders, investors, officials, and community leaders—helping you navigate Houston real estate with confidence.