In this episode, we dive deep into the unique real estate landscape of Ocean City, NJ, with seasoned local expert Nick Deckard. Buying in a vacation market comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities, and Nick breaks it all down for us.

We explore the reality of owning a home in this high-appreciation market, where only a small percentage of people can make this dream a reality. Nick shares valuable insights on: How long homes tend to sit on the market and what that means for buyers and sellers. The upfront costs and considerations of buying in a vacation destination. Turning a property into a true asset through smart renting strategies. Nick also sheds light on how realtors and property management companies can help streamline the rental process to secure the best rates, including the costs associated with their services. A key takeaway from our conversation is the importance of working with an island-based agent who knows Ocean City’s streets like the back of their hand. Nick shares insider knowledge about the pros and cons of different streets and the nuances of this beach town market, including the role of flood insurance, mold risks, and the importance of home inspections.
 
We also discuss the longer-than-usual buying process for vacation homes and the value of educating clients throughout their journey. Nick is passionate about helping buyers and offers incredible resources through his social media platforms:
Facebook: *Tips for Buying in OCNJ*
 YouTube:    @LivinginOceanCity  

Whether you’re considering an investment property or your dream vacation home, this episode is packed with actionable advice and expert tips. Don’t miss out on Nick’s in-depth knowledge and the many nuggets of wisdom he shares about the OCNJ market.

Be sure to give it a listen and connect with Nick for more insights!

Build your Dream Home!  We had the pleasure of speaking with Peter Rotelle, owner of Rotelle Builders, and Sheila Contento, a key member of their sales and client team, about what sets Rotelle apart in the local building market. Their innovative approach combines client-focused services with a commitment to excellence, distinguishing them from larger, publicly traded builders. 
One standout feature is their proprietary in-house land development "scrub," a unique process that ensures the best use of land before construction even begins. This service empowers agents and buyers to envision the full potential of a property. Additionally, Rotelle Builders incorporates a builder addendum into their contracts, offering added protection to buyers during the critical land acquisition phase.
An essential part of the building process involves guiding clients through budgeting and design decisions, helping them balance true needs with wants. They also work with clients to identify which aspects of a property should be completed by the builder and which could be handled by the client over the next few years, allowing for potential cost savings.
We also explored their seamless approach to design, financing, and addressing challenges during construction, as well as their unwavering commitment to agents. By helping agents market land and providing prospective buyers with clear options for what they can build, Rotelle Builders demonstrates their leadership and dedication to the local real estate market. 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the building process and the value a company like Rotelle brings to the industry.

Real Estate Is Changing: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know - August 17th

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of real estate, focusing on the significant changes that took effect in August 2024, affecting both buyers and sellers.

For Buyers:

It's now mandatory to sign a buyer agency contract before viewing homes with an agent. Gone are the days when agents would show homes based on good faith alone. This shift requires buyers to formally "hire" an agent as part of their home-buying process. Additionally, the way agents are compensated has undergone a major overhaul. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has removed the requirement to market buyer broker coop compensation. While sellers may still offer compensation to buyer agents, it won't be listed on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Buyers might now have to cover their agent's fees out of pocket as part of closing costs. With these changes, understanding real estate commissions and negotiating with informed agents is more crucial than ever.

For Sellers:

The new rules prohibit the marketing of cooperating broker compensation on the MLS, the primary platform where realtors market properties. However, sellers can still offer compensation through other means, such as word-of-mouth, websites, or social media. "Seller concessions" are another tool that can effectively accomplish the same goal. As these changes take hold, selecting a seasoned listing agent who knows how to price and market your property effectively is critical. The goal is to attract multiple qualified buyers, negotiate the best terms, and close with a solid plan in place for the proceeds.

We explore how these shifts may lead to fewer but more experienced agents dominating the market, and why it’s more important than ever to have an informed and strategic approach to buying or selling a home. Tune in to learn how to navigate this new era of real estate and ensure you make the best decisions for your financial future.

This podcast is meant to brief you on the topic, if there are more questions you email me [email protected]

In a recent interview with Ethan Seeley, the dynamic owner and operator of Malvern Lawn Care, we delved into the fascinating world of entrepreneurship in the lawn care industry. Ethan, who leads a robust team of over 20 employees organized into five specialized crews, shared his journey of growing Malvern Lawn Care and his ambitions for the company's future.

Starting a Business vs. Working for Someone Else
Ethan began by reflecting on the contrasts between launching his own business and working under someone else's direction. He highlighted the immense satisfaction that comes with building something from the ground up, compared to the relative security but limited autonomy of being an employee. Starting a business, according to Ethan, demands a high level of dedication, resilience, and strategic planning, but the rewards are significant. It allows for a personal touch and the ability to directly impact the community, which he finds incredibly fulfilling.

Overcoming the Age Objection
A significant part of our conversation revolved around the challenges young entrepreneurs face, particularly the age objection. Ethan explained that while some clients may initially question a young business owner's experience, this can be swiftly addressed with a blend of knowledge, skill, and confidence. He emphasized the importance of hiring the right people and seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals to build credibility and trust. By demonstrating expertise and reliability, Ethan has successfully navigated and overcome age-related skepticism.

Specialization and Value-Adding Services:
Ethan also provided insights into the specific services that Malvern Lawn Care specializes in. These include comprehensive lawn maintenance, landscape design, and installation, as well as seasonal cleanups. He noted that certain jobs, such as custom landscape designs and sustainable lawn care practices, add substantial value for homeowners. These services not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of properties but also contribute to environmental sustainability, which is increasingly important to today's clients.

Future Aspirations:
Looking ahead, Ethan is eager to expand Malvern Lawn Care further. He envisions scaling the business by continually improving service quality and broadening the range of services offered. His focus remains on maintaining a strong, knowledgeable team and leveraging innovative landscaping techniques to stay ahead in the competitive lawn care industry.
In summary, Ethan Seeley's journey with Malvern Lawn Care underscores the importance of passion, perseverance, and strategic growth in entrepreneurship. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring business owners, demonstrating that with the right mindset and resources, age is merely a number, and success is well within reach.

Welcome to our latest episode where we sit down with Ryan Langan, the dynamic owner of YourPathFI, a trailblazing flat fee financial advisory firm dedicated to helping millennials build and manage their wealth. In this insightful interview, Ryan shares his expertise on a range of topics designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to navigate your financial journey.
Discover the benefits of the flat fee model, a revolutionary trend in financial advising that offers tremendous value at a fraction of the cost of traditional advisory services. Ryan breaks down how this model can democratize financial planning, making expert advice more accessible to young professionals looking to secure their financial future.
We delve into current stock market trends, offering actionable insights and strategies to help you make informed investment decisions. Ryan also provides an overview of the real estate market, discussing opportunities and challenges for millennials considering property investments.
In addition to market trends, Ryan emphasizes the importance of sound money management practices. From budgeting tips to retirement planning, he offers practical advice to help you maximize your financial potential. 
Tune in as we also explore the role of certified financial planners, uncovering how their guidance can be a game-changer in achieving your financial goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your financial strategy, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you take control of your finances.

Join us for a compelling conversation that promises to enhance your financial literacy and set you on the path to financial independence with Ryan Langan and YourPathFI. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in flat fee financial advising!

Easiest way to get in touch with Ryan is through Facebook & Instagram pages "YourPathFI"

In this longer conversation, we sit down with Troy Good, a seasoned real estate investor, educator, mentor, speaker, and owner of a contracting business in Berks County, PA. With over 30 years of experience in real estate investing, Troy shares invaluable insights into his investment journey, focusing primarily on Berks and Schuylkill counties, including areas like Reading, Boyertown, Bechtelsville, Shennandoah, and more. Delving into why he chooses these specific locations, Troy sheds light on the nuances of investing for cash flow versus appreciation. What does it take to succeed as an investor? Troy breaks it down, emphasizing his preference for investing in properties catering to "D" tenants, as opposed to higher-end areas. He offers practical advice for agents looking to thrive while working with investors like himself, drawing from his own experiences managing properties both independently and in partnerships. Speaking of partnerships, Troy shares candid insights into the complexities that come with shared ownership, whether it's his investment company with his two sons or properties with other individuals. From navigating differences in vision to maintaining accountability, he highlights the essential ingredients for successful partnerships in real estate. Ultimately, this conversation underscores the importance of accountability in driving success in real estate investing. Troy's journey serves as a testament to the power of dedication, strategic decision-making, and a relentless focus on the bottom line. Tune in for an episode packed with actionable advice and wisdom for both seasoned investors and newcomers alike!

Whether you are a homeowner who needs work done, a real estate investor who wants to get connected or you just love real estate content -You can find Troy on Instagram at @troy_l_good @goodcontractingllc or @goodfamilyinvestorsllc

BONUS Episode 59. The tables have turneed! I was invited onto a podcast with Simmons Media & The Tall Lender where they have on entrepreneurs like myself to talk about their business and life in general. This was a unique opportunity to be interviewed because I typically am the interviewee on the QRE pod. If you do not know who I am, this is going to be a great way to get accuainted with the type of real esate agent I am and what my lifestyle is lke outside of real estate.

Join us for an enlightening episode as we explore the verdant landscapes of Southeastern Pennsylvania with the visionary minds behind Arbor Craft. Matt and Taylor, the passionate owners of Arbor Craft, take us on a journey through the roots of their business, which began seven years ago with a shared commitment to education, service, and uncompromising quality. In this captivating conversation, we uncover the essence of arboriculture, distinguishing the role of an "Arborist" from that of a conventional tree service company. Matt and Taylor share invaluable insights into the specialized knowledge and personalized care they bring to each project, ensuring the health and longevity of the region's lush greenery. Discover the best chainsaw options for homeowners seeking to embark on tree maintenance tasks with confidence and safety, guided by the expertise of Arbor Craft's seasoned professionals. Moreover, prospective property buyers and sellers receive indispensable advice on evaluating the arboreal aspects of a landscape, empowering them to make informed decisions and nurture thriving ecosystems. As Matt and Taylor unveil their playbook for success, they underscore the unparalleled value of working with a small business versus a big-box company in the area. Through personalized attention, dedication to craft, and a deep-rooted connection to the community, Arbor Craft offers a level of service and care that sets them apart from the competition. Embark on a journey through the canopy-covered landscapes under Arbor Craft's stewardship, and discover the transformative power of nurturing nature's guardians. Connect with Arbor Craft on Instagram @arbor_craft or on Facebook at Arbor-Craft to witness their arboricultural prowess firsthand. Tune in to this enriching episode and embrace the beauty of nature with Arbor Craft's passionate arborists at your side.

Welcome to Episode 57 of the QRE Podcast, where we delve into the intersection of community flavor and real estate insights. Join us as we explore the essence of our neighborhoods, from the sizzle of the best fries to the beat of local artists’ creations. In this episode, we're joined by special guest Chris Nelson @WhoMovesYou a local realtor with a pulse on communities like Lansdale, Pottstown, Phoenixville, Norristown, Boyertown, and beyond. Together, we unravel the fabric of these towns, discussing how their unique culinary scenes and artistic hubs contribute to their growth and appeal. But the conversation doesn't stop there. As we indulge in discussions about the crispiest wings and the hottest spots for local talent, we also dive into the current state of the real estate market. Chris shares his expertise, addressing pressing questions about market stability and our culture's spending habits. Whether you're a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a real estate aficionado, Episode 57 of the QRE Podcast offers something for everyone. Tune in as we celebrate the flavors and rhythms of our communities while gaining valuable insights into the housing market landscape. Don't miss out—join us on the QRE Podcast for a flavorful exploration of community and real estate. Be sure to check out all of Chris’ food & entertainment highlights at “go_mont_co_pa" on Instagram

Wholesaling in real estate is a strategy where an investor, known as a wholesaler, contracts a property with a motivated seller and then assigns that contract to a buyer for a fee. The wholesaler essentially acts as a middleman, connecting sellers with potential buyers without actually taking ownership of the property. This method requires minimal capital and is often considered a low-risk entry point into real estate. In today's episode, we're joined by Jake Burhans, a successful entrepreneur in the real estate wholesaling sector. Jake shares valuable insights on how to get started in wholesaling with as little as $30, emphasizing the importance of purchasing a list of property owners to initiate contact. The conversation explores Jake's journey, highlighting the growth and development of his business over the years, including the expansion to include multiple team members and where he plans to take the business in future years. Listeners can expect to gain practical advice on the initial steps of wholesaling, the significance of building a team, and the transformative impact of Jake's experiences starting in college. Tune in to discover the keys to success in real estate wholesaling and gain inspiration from Jake Burhans' entrepreneurial journey.