Benchmark Happenings

How far can affordable housing go in transforming communities and fostering true independence? Join us as we navigate this intriguing terrain with our esteemed guest, Laura Kelly, the Executive Director of Holston Habitat for Humanity. Laura unpacks the impressive work of Habitat for Humanity, explaining their three-pronged role as a builder, lender, and retailer for homes that cater to lower-income families. Her insights into the process of qualifying for a zero-percent loan, the associated criteria, and the geographical coverage of their operations are truly enlightening.

Fancy a deep dive into the universe of affordable housing? In this episode, we explore this critical topic with Laura Kelly, whose leadership at Holston Habitat for Humanity has positively impacted countless lives. We examine the compelling need for affordable housing in our communities, and how Habitat for Humanity doesn't just build homes but equips families with the skills to maintain them. Laura walks us through the three core components of their program - demonstration of need, education, and sweat equity. Closing off, she shares how you can get involved, whether as an individual or a business, and make a tangible difference. An episode packed with knowledge and inspiration, this is one conversation you won't want to miss!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Have you ever wondered how you could make a difference in the life of a shelter animal? Join us as we sit down with the tireless Brandi Perky, director of Sullivan County Animal Shelter, and unravel her remarkable 10-year journey in animal welfare. From the cat room to the kennels and finally the office, Brandy recounts her experiences with passion and empathy, reminding us of the deep emotional connection between animals and their human counterparts.

Brandy's story is not just about caring for animals; it's about making substantial changes in their lives. Imagine reducing a shelter's euthanasia rate from a heart-wrenching 40% to a mere 3% in just four years! That's exactly what Brandy and her dedicated team accomplished through strategic protocols, community education, and robust programs. The measures not only provided immediate relief but also focused on the long-term welfare of the animals, such as low-cost spaying and neutering services. Also, get insights into the surprising benefits of microchipping and how social media plays a vital role in reuniting lost pets with their owners.

But what does it take to adopt a pet? Brandy walks us through the process, emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary care, dental health, and a solid understanding of the commitment involved. She also shares about the unique volunteer opportunities at the shelter, and upcoming events like the National Night Out in Bristol. This conversation is a treasure trove of information for animal lovers, potential pet owners, and anyone passionate about animal welfare. Join us and let's explore the world through the eyes of our furry friends!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

How do you navigate the treacherous waters of transitioning leadership in an organization? And how can a founder's exit be a catalyst for growth, rather than a hindrance? Join us as we explore these riveting questions with Dave McCauley and Matt Overby, the dynamic duo at the helm of Summit Leadership. Through intimate conversations around their unique approach to leadership, they give us a keyhole view into the four pillars of their service - connecting, consulting, coaching, and caring - all aimed at fortifying communities and shaping leaders.

Discover in our candid chat, how McCauley, in a deliberate move, stepped down after a 10-year tenure at the organization he founded. He speaks about the necessity of succession planning, the value in finding the right successor, and creating a system that lives beyond the founder. Overby, the torchbearer, speaks about the importance of a seamless handoff and how to avoid becoming a tragic Olympic relay team - a story that is sure to pique your interest. 

As we round off our enlightening conversation, we delve into the power of collaboration and the concept of a 'three-way win'. McCauley and Overby speak passionately about a business model where the business community isn't just a bystander but a primary funder, generating services for nonprofits and churches. We also touch upon the 'abundance mentality' and the significance of connecting the right people with the right resources, at the right time. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and insights, sure to leave you motivated, inspired and raring to make a difference in your own leadership journey.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Ever dreamed of cracking the code to happiness as a homebuyer? This lively conversation with Steve and Jonathan from Benchmark Home Loans might just be your roadmap to success. Guiding us through the world of home buying and mortgages, they offer unique insights on how to strategize for the best outcome. Key to this is sourcing a trustworthy loan officer and planning ahead, as these can significantly enhance your mortgage experience. They also emphasize the importance of face-to-face interactions and remaining flexible, crucial factors to ensure you get the most out of your home buying journey. 

Our discussion also takes a deep dive into the competitive market of East Tennessee and why having a Benchmark approval could elevate your offer above the rest. Jonathan, lending his expertise, unpacks why now might be the best time for you to buy a home. He also teases out the seemingly paradoxical notion of how higher rates could potentially open doors for buyers previously priced out of the market. Pair this with an insightful discussion about interest rates, guidelines, and home prices, and you've got a comprehensive guide to all things mortgage. Whether you're dipping your toes in the home buying market or eager to learn more about the process, this episode is an absolute must-listen.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Welcome to an intimate conversation with the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Azlinn Edwards and Carlina Alder, masters of fashion and curators of the exquisite boutique, Azlinn Hope. They've built more than just a store, but a community that nurtures personal style and confidence, while supporting other small businesses. The pair are not just entrepreneurs but style evangelists, transforming the way women see and dress themselves.

Can you imagine the thrill of sourcing beautiful clothes for your own fashion boutique? Azlinn and Carlina share an adrenaline-fueled glimpse into the exhilarating world of fashion buying. Every choice, from color selection to pricing, is a result of a calculated, swift decision. And it's not just about the clothes, but how to wear them. The duo uses their sartorial wisdom to guide customers on how to make the most of their wardrobes.

But there's more! We're jazzing things up at Aslan Hope with a series of exciting events. From open houses to fashion shows and product launches, there's a vibrant social calendar on the horizon. And as part of our community ethos, we're always finding ways to give back to women in need. Brace yourself for the big reveal - we're launching our own fashion show podcast! Stay tuned to get the inside scoop.

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To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Ever dreamed of organizing a memorable event that brings people together and leaves them with a sense of achievement and joy? Meet Karen Hubbs, owner of Goose Chase, a full event management company that breathes life into those dreams. In this lively and inspiring episode, Karen shares her journey in the sports marketing industry and how her passion for entrepreneurship and small business led her to create Goose Chase. With a background in athletics and experience hosting a national championship for NAI track and field in Johnson City, Karen's story is a testament to her drive to follow her passions and to the power of the Holy Spirit.

What sets Karen's events apart from the rest? Her mission to bring joy through unique experiences like 5Ks, half marathons, and more. We explore how Karen's events often incorporate local bands, artists, and even pets to create unforgettable atmospheres that connect people face-to-face. Discover the various awards and trifectas available at her events and how they motivate people to reach their goals. Karen's enthusiasm for her work is contagious, and this conversation is sure to leave you feeling inspired and ready to chase your own passions. Don't miss this uplifting episode with the incredible Karen Hubbs!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Get ready for a flavorful journey as we chat with John Brady, the mastermind behind Patriot Popcorn in downtown Johnson City, Tennessee. Discover the inspiring story of how John started this unique business, and how his creativity led to the mouthwatering flavors of Birthday Cake, Crack, Blend 1776, Maple Bacon Pecans, and Caramel & Cheddar Mix. You won't want to miss how John keeps his popcorn fresh and the secret lessons he learned with his brother on the different heats for caramel.

But this episode is more than just a love for popcorn; it's about the passion for giving back. Join us as John, a veteran himself, shares his dedication to helping fellow veterans and creating a supportive community. Learn about his involvement with organizations such as the ETL community, the Warrior's Canvas, and Support Over Stigma, and how they provide much-needed support and care to those in need. You'll be inspired by the heartwarming story of Patriot Popcorn and the amazing difference John is making in the lives of veterans.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Funfest, Northeast Tennessee's beloved nine-day festival that's been uniting communities for over four decades. Our honored guest today is Emily Thompson, the luminous director and coordinator of Funfest, who paints us a vivid picture of the festival's rich history and its enduring impact on the region. Brace yourself for pulse-pounding stories of pre-events, the launch on July 14th, and the ways in which Funfest has etched East Tennessee onto the global festival map.

We then pull away the veil, revealing the intricate planning and dynamic headliner lineup that makes Funfest a musical mecca. With an eclectic blend of musicians that grace Kingsport, Tennessee, we discuss how Visit Kingsport strives to keep the festival wallet-friendly for everyone. Hold onto your seats as we recount tales of some of the biggest names in music who have set the Funfest stage on fire before skyrocketing to fame.

As we reach the climax of our episode, we celebrate the unsung heroes of Funfest - the diligent volunteers and dedicated businesses that are the beating heart of the festival. We ponder on the power of social media in showcasing the myriad aspects of the event, and salute the generous spirit of the East Tennessee community. The episode concludes with a snapshot of the tapestry of unique events that define Funfest, from the lively downtown street fair to the kids fishing derby. We also take a moment to reflect on how invaluable feedback from attendees continues to shape and evolve the festival. So tune in, and immerse yourself in the invigorating spirit of community unity, and the enchanting allure of Funfest.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Imagine transforming humble childhood ventures into groundbreaking businesses that shape the future of luxury experience in East Tennessee. Join us for an insightful conversation with creative entrepreneur and designer, Deb Hatley, the founder and CEO of Coffee Ridge, a luxury resort set to redefine vacation expectations in the area. Deb shares her incredible journey from selling rocks at five years old to owning the successful Bloutique hair salon, and how her passion for service and creativity led her to the world of hospitality.

Deb gives us a sneak peek into Coffee Ridge, a luxury resort designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of East Tennessee throughout all four seasons. With all-inclusive amenities and a focus on sustainability, Deb and her husband, Dave, are committed to creating an unforgettable experience. Moreover, their chance encounter with the previous owner of Wolf Ridge Ski Resort led them to seize another exciting opportunity, proving that serendipity and determination often go hand in hand.

Apart from her flourishing entrepreneurial ventures, Deb's heart for service extends to organizing America's Bash, a celebration of veterans and America. Discover the event's humble beginnings and how it has grown over the past decade, thanks to Deb's dedication and hard work. She also shares invaluable advice for young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of discovering their unique talents and starting small. Don't miss this episode filled with wisdom, inspiration, and a vision of luxury that East Tennessee has never seen before.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com. 

Confused about the recent changes in Fannie Mae guidelines for conventional loans? Don't worry, we've got you covered in this episode of Benchmark Happenings, featuring Steve Reed and Jonathan Tipton from Benchmark Home Loans. Together, we'll debunk common misconceptions and help you get a handle on what these changes mean for you and your home loan.

We'll explore the complexities of the mortgage industry, from the ever-changing bond market to the variety of risk factors that can determine the rate of a loan. You'll learn about the impact of the loan level price adjustment (LLPA) and how it serves as a risk factor for loans. Plus, we'll discuss the silver lining for first-time home buyers who may benefit from waived fees and better pricing. So, join us for valuable insights and advice on navigating the mortgage market in light of these recent changes, and don't hesitate to reach out to Steve and Jonathan if you have any questions about mortgages. Trust us, you won't want to miss this one!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.