Tapping into built‑up home equity, rental properties, and real‑life money decisions in the Lethbridge housing market, this episode of The Legge Up Podcast dives deep into homes, loans, and what it really means to build wealth through real estate as a regular family in southern Alberta. Host Tevi sits down with powerhouse cousins Mercedes Burgwal (Mortgages with Mercedes) and realtor Kassi Iwaasa to talk about growing up in a third‑generation real estate family, becoming young moms, and turning flexible “assistant” jobs into thriving careers as top‑producing professionals in Lethbridge real estate and mortgage brokering.

You’ll learn how today’s Lethbridge real estate market stacks up against 2020, why so many homeowners are suddenly sitting on six‑figure equity, and how to know if refinancing to pull money out of your home actually makes sense. The trio unpack practical, no‑fluff strategies: using a refinance to wipe out high‑interest credit cards, choosing between renovating your current place or upsizing, and using existing equity to buy your first rental property in an in‑demand Lethbridge rental market with strong cash‑flow potential.

Mercedes shares what buyers should never compromise on (hello, location), where sellers actually see a return when preparing to list, and why a simple conversation with a trusted Lethbridge realtor can save you from wasting thousands on the wrong upgrades. Kassi breaks down mortgage rates in clear language, the difference between renewals and refinances, why “date the rate, marry the home” is more than a cute saying, and how current rates in the high‑3% to low‑4% range fit into the bigger picture of the Alberta housing market.

If you’ve wondered whether to tap into home equity, are curious about Lethbridge rental properties, or just want to understand how real estate fits into your long‑term financial plan, this episode is packed with real stories, specific numbers, and easy‑to‑follow advice tailored to the Lethbridge and Alberta real estate landscape. You’ll also hear honest talk about working motherhood, hustle, burnout, boundaries, and how these two working moms build careers they love without sacrificing the hockey games, dance lessons, and family time that matter most.

Tune in to learn:

• How much equity many Lethbridge homeowners gained since 2020 and what that means for you.

• When refinancing to consolidate debt or fund renovations is smarter than selling your home.

• Why Lethbridge’s tight rental inventory and strong market rents attract local and out‑of‑province investors.

• What to look for in a solid long‑term home and how to think about location, suites, and future rental potential.

• How busy working moms in real estate and mortgages build flexible, family‑friendly businesses in a high‑pressure industry.

Whether you’re a first‑time buyer, a move‑up family, or an aspiring real estate investor, this homes‑and‑loans masterclass will leave you smarter, more confident, and ready to take your next step in the Lethbridge real estate market.