Meet Your Neighbor

Getting a home under contract feels like the finish line but the real work is often just beginning. Steve and Kjersten discuss why a home may need to be “sold” three times: first to the buyer, then through the inspection process, and finally to the appraiser. They also look at what buyers and sellers must do after the contract is signed, why emotions can change quickly, and how unexpected issues can still affect the deal. An accepted offer is worth celebrating, but as Steve learned on his very first transaction, accepted isn’t closed.

In this episode of What It Meant, Steve revisits two conversations that stayed with him long after the microphones were turned off.

David Sterling shares how he and his wife, Vicki, faced an uncertain future, chose a new place to call home in an unforgettable way, and started over together as a family.

Then Steve looks back on his conversation with Brad Nahrstadt, who knew from the sixth grade that he wanted to become an attorney and followed that calling all the way to a successful career in Chicago.

These are more than interesting stories. They are reminders of courage, purpose, strong relationships, and what we can learn when we take the time to truly listen.

This month’s Real Estate Review is less of a market report and more of a conversation with Steve and Kjersten about life in Westbrook Village during the summer. They talk about the quiet July season, where everyone disappears to, what’s happening in the neighborhood, and how the real estate market fits into everyday life.

Steve shares simple market thoughts on inventory, buyer behavior, and the best time to sell in a seasonal retirement community, while Kjersten keeps the conversation light, fun, and relatable.

On this episode of Meet Your Neighbor, Steve sits down with his good friend, Jim Meeker. Growing up in New Jersey as one of six kids, Jim learned early that life was meant to be an adventure. From a month long family trip through Europe with his parents, siblings, and grandmother to a lifetime of entrepreneurship, Jim has never been afraid to explore new opportunities and chart his own course.

Join us as Jim shares stories from his childhood, his entrepreneurial journey, and the experiences that shaped his outlook on life. It's a conversation about family, adventure, business, and the people who influence us along the way.

This month, Realtor Steve is joined by a familiar voice that many listeners know and love, his wife, Kjersten Merila.

As summer arrives in Westbrook Village, Steve and Kjersten discuss the seasonal changes around the community, where all the neighbors seem to have gone, and what Steve is seeing in today's real estate market. They also tackle questions about solar homes, foreclosure headlines, and what it all means for local homeowners.

Plus, Steve shares his "One Number That Matters" for the month and offers a practical, neighborly perspective on the market.

Whether you're a full-time resident, a snowbird, or considering a move to Westbrook Village, join Steve and Kjersten for a conversation about community, real estate, and life in Arizona.

On this episode of the Meet Your Neighbor Podcast, Steve sits down with Annette Murphy, a woman whose story is filled with independence, resilience, and the power of friendship. Single since 1974, Annette has built a life on her own terms and continues to inspire those around her with her positive spirit and determination.

In her eighties, instead of slowing down, Annette started the “Eighties Ladies” club in Westbrook Village—a group focused on connection, laughter, support, and making the most out of life. In this conversation, Annette shares her journey, what inspired her to create the club, and why building community and friendships becomes even more important as we age.

This episode is a wonderful reminder that purpose, joy, and new beginnings don’t have an expiration date. If you love stories about strong people, meaningful connections, and the special spirit of Westbrook Village, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This month’s Real Estate Review is a little different.

Instead of starting with numbers, Steve shares a real story from right here in Westbrook Village—a couple who came down planning to rent… and ended up finding something more.

From that story, Steve breaks down what’s really happening in today’s market—inventory levels, days on market, and why buyers finally have time to make thoughtful decisions again.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it makes more sense to rent or own… or what it feels like to truly belong here… this episode is for you.

This week on Meet Your Neighbor, I sit down with Russ Fuller, a man whose life has been built around service, faith, and strong Midwestern roots.

Russ grew up in Bettendorf, Iowa, where his love for the Iowa Hawkeyes runs deep. He went on to serve our country in the United States Air Force, carrying that same commitment to service into the next chapter of his life.

After his time in the military, Russ spent 17 years in ministry, helping guide and support others through life’s challenges. And today, he continues that work right here in our community, serving at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Peoria.

Russ’s story is a great reminder of what it means to stay grounded, give back, and live with purpose—and I think you’re really going to enjoy getting to know him.

This week on the Meet Your Neighbor Podcast, I sit down with Kjersten Merila, president of the Minnesota Club here in Westbrook Village.

Kjersten shares her journey from Minnesota to Arizona and how she’s helped build a strong sense of community for fellow Midwesterners through the Minnesota Club. From organizing events to creating meaningful connections, she’s played a big role in making Westbrook feel like home for so many.

It’s a great conversation about community, connection, and the little things that make this neighborhood special.

If you’ve ever thought about making a move to Westbrook Village or know someone who would love the lifestyle here, I’d be happy to help.

This week on the Meet Your Neighbor Podcast, I sit down with one of Westbrook Village’s true originals—Zina Tosto.

At 92 years young, Zina brings the kind of energy and personality you just don’t see every day. Born in Sicily, she later raised her family in the Bronx, working 12 different jobs along the way. Her story is filled with grit, humor, and a deep love for family and life.

Before we even started the interview, Zina gave me a tour of her collection of over 200 hats—each with its own story and then insisted on cooking me a full Italian meal. Let’s just say… I got a lot more than a podcast out of this one.

Zina is also one of the original homeowners in Westbrook Village, offering a unique perspective on how this community has grown and why so many people love calling it home.

This is a conversation about resilience, tradition, and living life with passion, no matter your age.

And as always, if hearing stories like Zina’s makes you think about your own next chapter, I’d love to help you make that move.