In this episode of The Property Desk,  join Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon as they explore a revolutionary proposal to end the "rate lock" trap by allowing homeowners to keep their low rate mortgage when they move. We also discuss why the 1997 capital gains tax exclusion limits need to double to account for decades of home price inflation. This episode dives into practical real estate questions, covering the pros and cons of using holiday decorations in listing photos and Phil’s skeptical take on AI-edited property images. Finally, we break down how Flex Rent works for tenants and landlords, and whether these financial flexibility apps are actually worth the monthly fee.

In this episode of The Property Desk, join Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon discuss the dramatic Austin housing market drop, with prices plummeting 8.2% and mortgage originations down 41%. They tackle the issue of unscrupulous landlords trying to hide issues like mold, and whether a pushy Realtor might be bluffing about multiple offers. Plus, get answers to key questions on how property management companies handle long waits for inspectors, setting an appropriate repair threshold with owners, and what to do when a tenant sneaks a pet into the property, including breach of lease and removal charges. 

In this episode of The Property Desk, join Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon as they dive into key Texas residential real estate questions. They discuss the current DFW market, how long it takes to lease or sell a home, and the costs associated with selling a home in Texas. Get essential tips on what to disclose when selling, learn how to read a title commitment, and find out how much you need for a down payment, including details on VA, USDA, and FHA loans. 

In this episode of The Property Desk, join Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon as they discuss the recent drop in mortgage rates, with 30-year fixed rates hitting a three-year low of 6.13%. We'll also cover two new Texas laws: HB 21, which closes a loophole allowing Housing Finance Corporations to authorize tax-exempt projects outside their geographic boundaries , and SB 17, which prohibits real estate purchases by individuals and entities from countries deemed a "threat" to the U.S.. Plus, we'll dive into the Austin market, noting a 4.3% increase in transactions and discuss the Fort Worth market's shift toward a buyer's market. Don't miss this episode for key insights on these important market and legal topics!

In this episode of The Property Desk, Join Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon as they dive into a Southlake megamansion auction, a new 1,000-home development in rural Fort Bend County, and actress Emma Stone's decision to sell her Austin mansion. They also discuss SB 1968, a TREC housekeeping bill that requires brokers to take a real estate course to get their license and makes subagency illegal. Additionally, they talk about the importance of The Work Number for tenant screening and determining the right application fee amount.

In this episode of The Property Desk, Phil and Robert break down the latest shifts in the DFW and Austin housing markets, the insurance disaster facing Central Texas flood victims, and the mounting crisis in Texas’ commercial office space. They also cover the rise of senior renters across the state and tackle two key legal topics: non-disparagement clauses in leases and the risks of unwritten rental agreements. 

In this episode of The Property Desk, hosts Phil Silberman and Robert Vernon delve into the latest developments shaking up the Texas real estate scene. From ultra-luxury condo projects in Dallas—where one billionaire buyer might be installing a dinosaur skeleton—to updates on SALT tax legislation and a major Texas homestead exemption increase, there's something for every real estate enthusiast. The duo also explores the best methods for collecting rent and deposits in the “Management Minute” segment and uncovers the surprising corporate ownership behind Realtor.com in “Let’s Get Legal.” Tune in for an informative and entertaining take on the evolving residential landscape in Texas. 

In the very first episode of Property Desk, host Phil Silberman and co-host Robert Vernon break down the biggest stories in Texas residential real estate. They unpack the recent Newsweek article reporting a major housing market correction in Texas, discuss surprising new migration trends, and explain how inflation and federal economic policy are shaping mortgage rates.

Listeners also get insights in a special segment: Let’s Get Legal explores whether leaving honest buyer feedback could open up a Realtor to legal liability. A fast-paced, insightful, and practical episode for agents, investors, and homeowners alike.