Brick x Brick: Navigating Real Estate, Finances, and Life for Women

In this episode of Brick x Brick, host Roxann Klepper sits down with longtime Red Deer resident and dedicated volunteer Valdene Callin. Since 1997, Valdene has devoted countless hours to local organizations, from the Red Deer Public Library and Urban Spirits Rotary Club to 100 Women Who Care and Dress for Success. Together, they discuss the critical role volunteers play in supporting nonprofits, the challenges organizations face in recruiting and retaining help, and practical steps for anyone looking to get involved. Whether you're offering time, resources, or financial support, this episode explores how small actions can make a big impact in building stronger communities.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• The Importance of Volunteering in the Community

• How to Get Started with Volunteering

• Challenges Facing Nonprofits and Volunteerism Today

TODAY’S GUEST

Valdene Callin

Organizations volunteered for:

Newcomers Club - 1997-2000

Parent council for my son’s elementary and middle school 2001-2008

Red Deer Childcare Society 2003-2006

Red Deer Public Library – 2003-2010 and 2021-2024

Crime Prevention Committee – 2008-2010

Red Deer Soccer Association – 2008-2014

Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools – 2010-2016

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) – 2016-2022

Mayor’s Special Recognition Committee 2015-2021

Canada Winter Games – Bid Committee 2013 and 2016-2019 Special events committee

100 Women Who Care – 2015-2025

Children’s Wish Breakfast 2016-2023

PCN Fun Run – 2011-2023

Society for Hospital Expansion of Central Alberta (SHECA) 2017-2025

Bull Skit – 2017-2023

Urban Spirits Rotary Club – 2017-2021

Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery 2020-2025

United Way of Central Alberta 2014-2024

This is all on my own time. I worked for Family Services of Central Alberta from 2001-2013 and hosted many special events with many volunteers.

Special events and limited time volunteering – Mastercard Memorial Cup 2016, Scotties Tournament of Hearts 2004 and 2012, World Juniors, Dress for Success many different roles, The Outreach Centre – fundraising, Dancing with the Stars for a couple of different charities, Fire and Ice Gala, making meals for Ronald McDonald House

HELPFUL LINKS

• Search of Registered Charities: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/charities-giving/list-charities/list-charities-other-qualified-donees.html

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 403-872-4546

On this episode of Brick x Brick, host Roxann Klepper breaks down Red Deer's new zoning bylaws and what they mean for homeowners, buyers, and investors. With changes to secondary suites (now called house suites), backyard suites, and duplex zoning, the city is creating more flexible housing options while maintaining neighborhood balance. Roxann covers key updates, including rental opportunities, affordability benefits, and what homeowners need to know before adding a suite. Whether you're looking to buy, build, or invest, these bylaw changes could open new doors. Tune in to learn how they might impact you!

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• Changes to Secondary Suites & Backyard Suites

• Duplex Zoning Updates

• Key Considerations for Homeowners & Investors

HELPFUL LINKS

• Interactive City Map - https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/cbce9c2f83ea4ed985a4081b71eed6f7/

Choose “Secondary Suites” on the right hand side. You can navigate to the neighbourhood you are interested in, or search for a specific address with the search bar. It will tell you how many secondary suites are permitted per neighbourhoodm, and how many are left.

• Read the new Bylaws here: https://www.reddeer.ca/city-government/bylaws/zoning-bylaw/

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 403-872-4546

In this episode of Brick x Brick, host Roxann Klepper speaks with mortgage expert Arlene from Turning Point Financial, who brings over four decades of industry experience. They discuss the dramatic fluctuations in mortgage rates since 2020, their impact on homeowners and buyers, and the challenges of navigating today’s market. Arlene provides insights into the year-over-year changes in fixed and variable rates, the implications of recent policy shifts like the 30-year mortgage, and strategies for choosing the right mortgage type amidst uncertainty. The conversation also highlights regional differences, with Alberta’s market showing resilience compared to challenges in Ontario and BC, and offers practical advice for those looking to make informed financial decisions in a shifting economic landscape.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

·        Fluctuations in Mortgage Rates

·        Impact of Economic Factors on Housing Markets

·        Changes in Mortgage Policies

TODAY’S GUEST

Arlene

HELPFUL LINKS

·  Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation

PODCAST

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube :

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone:  403-872-4546

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Brick X Brick in2025! Hosted by Roxann Klepper, this episode dives into a recap of 2024's real estate landscape, exploring the trends, surprises, and market dynamics that defined the year in Alberta, particularly in Red Deer. With sales volume slightly down but still significantly higher than five years ago, Roxann breaks down the reasons behind the numbers—low inventory driving a seller’s market, and the resilience of Alberta’s economy keeping a market crash at bay. She also analyzes how price ranges influence market conditions, showing that while mid-range homes remain hot, higher-priced properties face more challenges. Looking ahead, Roxann predicts continued high demand, low inventory, and a building boom that will bring more single-family and multi-family homes to market. She offers strategic advice for both buyers and sellers to navigate 2025’s evolving real estate climate. Stay tuned for more insights and tips as Brick X Brick unpacks the trends shaping your real estate journey.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

·        2024 Market Recap

·        2025 Predictions

·        Strategic Advice for Buyers and Sellers

HELPFUL LINKS

·        Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation

PODCAST

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube :

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimfoxrealestateteam.ca

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone:  403-872-4546

In this special holiday episode of Brick x Brick, join host Roxann Klepper and guest realtor Kim Fox for a lighthearted and hilarious conversation about the quirks and chaos of showing homes. From frozen doors and unexpected encounters to peculiar rooms and bizarre inspections, Roxann and Kim share their funniest, creepiest, and most unforgettable experiences in real estate.

Whether it's naked homeowners, unconventional closets, or runaway pets, this episode will have you laughing out loud and marveling at the unexpected adventures of life as a realtor. Perfect for anyone looking to relax and enjoy some candid, behind-the-scenes stories during the holiday season.

Listen now and let the laughter begin!

HELPFUL LINKS

·        Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube :

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone:  403-872-4546

In this episode of Brick x Brick, Roxann Klepper is joined by Carissa Notland, founder of Condolyzers, a company specializing in condominium document reviews. Carissa shares her journey from working in property management to identifying a critical need for condo review services in Central Alberta, leading her to establish her business in 2011. The conversation dives deep into the condo buying process, with Carissa explaining how her team meticulously examines condo documents to provide buyers with clear, jargon-free insights into their potential investment. She discusses common misconceptions about condominiums, such as the responsibilities of condo associations and how fees are allocated, and highlights the importance of understanding bylaws, financials, and unit factors. This informative episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone navigating the complexities of buying into a condominium.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• Condominium Document Reviews

• Understanding Condominium Ownership

• Condo Fees and Budgeting

THIS WEEK’S GUEST

Carissa Notland

Condolyzers

587-802-3945

[email protected]

https://condolyzers.com/

HELPFUL LINKS

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 403-872-4546

In this insightful episode of Brick by Brick, host Roxann Klepper dives into the often-misunderstood world of condominiums. Starting with the fundamentals, she clarifies that a condo is not a building style but a form of ownership, and explains key concepts like unit factors, condo fees, and reserve funds. Roxann addresses common misconceptions, like the idea that condo living eliminates maintenance costs, and discusses practical aspects such as insurance requirements, professional management, and shared expenses. She also highlights potential challenges, such as rising fees and dreaded cash calls, while emphasizing the importance of being an informed and active condo owner. With practical examples and relatable analogies, Roxann equips listeners with the knowledge they need to confidently navigate condo ownership. Plus, she teases next week’s guest, Carissa Notland, a condo document expert, who will provide deeper insights into understanding condo documents. Whether you’re a potential condo buyer or a current owner, this episode is packed with actionable advice and expert tips.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• Understanding Condo Ownership

• Condo Fees and Reserve Funds

• Potential Challenges of Condo Living

HELPFUL LINKS

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Brick x Brick, Roxann Klepper sits down with Sarah Astles, an experienced mortgage broker from The Mortgage Group, to dive into the world of credit. Sarah explains the importance of credit in securing loans, mortgages, and other financial opportunities, emphasizing how a strong credit history demonstrates trustworthiness to lenders. From understanding credit scores—ranging from 300 to 900—to tips on building or repairing credit, Sarah breaks down the essentials. She covers practical strategies, like maintaining low balances on credit cards and ensuring timely payments, while also highlighting common pitfalls, such as high utilization rates and unresolved disputes. Whether you're starting fresh or rebuilding, Sarah offers actionable advice to improve your financial standing. Listeners are encouraged to monitor their credit regularly and stay informed, with Sarah’s expertise just a call away for further guidance.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• Understanding Credit Scores

• Building and Repairing Credit

• Monitoring Credit Health

TODAY’S GUEST

Sarah Astles, Mortgage Broker

The Mortgage Group

https://sarahastles.ca/

403-704-3674

[email protected]

HELPFUL LINKS

• Credit Karma Canada - https://www.creditkarma.ca/

• Equifax Canada - https://www.equifax.ca/personal/

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoxyKRealEstate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 403-872-4546

In this episode of Brick x Brick, host Roxann Klepper dives into the topic of stress—something that impacts everyone, especially during the hectic holiday season. Reflecting on her own struggles with stress management, Roxann brings in Tammy Prince, a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) facilitator in Red Deer & Central Alberta, to shed light on practical ways to cope. Tammy shares her personal journey of battling anxiety and how mindfulness transformed her life, allowing her to break free from constant rumination and regain control. Together, they explore the basics of mindfulness, simple at-home exercises to ground yourself in the moment, and how to navigate stressful times with greater ease. Tammy also introduces her upcoming MBSR sampler course, a gentle introduction to mindfulness techniques, starting November 27th. This conversation is filled with relatable insights, helpful tools, and a shared belief in the power of living in the present. Check out Tammy’s website, mindfulnessreddeer.ca, for more details and resources. Whether you’re looking to manage holiday stress or build long-term strategies, this episode offers inspiration and actionable steps to bring more calm into your life.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

• Understanding Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

• Practical Stress Management Techniques

• The Impact of Stress on Health and Daily Life

TODAY’S GUEST

Tammy Prince, MBSR Facilitator

http://www.mindfulnessreddeer.ca

[email protected]

403-302-9310

HELPFUL LINKS

• Tammy’s Upcoming Course: Mindfulness Sampler Class, Starting November 27, 2024 - https://outlook.office365.com/book/[email protected]/

• Book mentioned: When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress - https://a.co/d/e6up5it

• Your home might be worth more than you think. Request your FREE Market Evaluation here: https://www.roxyk.ca/home-evaluation

PODCAST

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brickxbrick

Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brickxbrick-navigating-real-estate-finances-life-for-women/id1765374840

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@BrickxBrickWithRoxyK

WHERE TO FIND ROXY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimfoxrealestateteam.ca

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxklepper/?hl=en

Website: https://www.roxyk.ca

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 403-872-4546