Selling your home successfully isn’t about luck. And in today’s market, hope is definitely not a strategy.

In this episode of the All Things Real Estate Podcast, Laci LeBlanc sits down with Chris McAllister, founder of ROOST Real Estate Co., to talk about his new book, Your Guide to Becoming a Home Selling Genius: The Eight Mindsets That Make the Difference Between Home Selling Success and Disappointment.

Together, they break down why selling a home may be an even bigger financial decision than buying one—and why homeowners need more than a good agent and a little optimism to make the most of it. Today’s sellers are navigating different buyer expectations, higher interest rates, new compensation rules, dramatically different technology, and a market that has changed considerably since Chris first wrote about home selling in 2019.

At the heart of the book are eight mindsets designed to help sellers think more strategically about the entire process. Because while tactics change with the market, the ability to prepare intentionally, price intelligently, market effectively, evaluate offers carefully, and keep emotion from driving financial decisions never goes out of style.

From preparing your home without overspending and treating pricing as a marketing strategy to creating an emotional connection with buyers, understanding what makes a strong offer, and navigating changes to buyer-agent compensation, this episode offers a practical framework for becoming a more confident, informed, and strategic home seller.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hope is not a strategy. Selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever make, and maximizing the equity you’ve built requires preparation, strategy, and intentional decision-making.
• Mindsets outlast tactics. Checklists and specific selling tactics can change from year to year—or even month to month—but strong mindsets help sellers make better decisions no matter what the market is doing.
• The best sellers think strategically, not emotionally. Your home may be deeply personal to you, but once it enters the market, it becomes an asset competing with other properties for buyers’ attention and dollars.
• Preparation doesn’t have to mean renovation. Deep cleaning, decluttering, fixing obvious problems, touching up paint, and making the home feel cared for can have a significant impact without requiring a massive remodeling budget.
• Buyers decide emotionally and justify logically. Sellers should keep their own emotions in check while intentionally creating a presentation that helps prospective buyers picture themselves living in the home.
• Pricing is a strategy, not just a number. Your initial price positions the property in the market and influences attention, urgency, and competition. Overpricing can waste the critical launch window and ultimately work against your bottom line.
• The first showing happens online. Photography, video, 3D tools, presentation, storytelling, and broad online exposure all matter because buyers are often deciding which homes deserve an in-person visit while scrolling on their phones.
• The highest offer isn’t necessarily the best offer. Net proceeds, financing strength, contingencies, closing timeline, concessions, risk, and the likelihood of actually reaching the closing table can matter more than the headline number.
• Sellers need to understand the new compensation landscape. Changes to buyer-agent compensation affect negotiations, expectations, pricing, and potential concessions. Sellers don’t need to become industry experts, but they do need enough clarity to understand what affects their bottom line.
• A great agent should educate, not simply take over. Understanding the process allows sellers to ask better questions, evaluate advice, participate intelligently in decisions, and feel genuinely in control of the transaction.
• The best time to prepare is before you’re ready to list. Sellers who begin educating themselves six months—or even a year—ahead have more time to understand the market, prepare their property, interview agents, and make thoughtful decisions without unnecessary pressure.
• Successful home selling comes down to preparation, strategy, and execution. The most successful sellers aren’t necessarily the ones with the fanciest homes. They’re the ones who think clearly, prepare intentionally, and make decisions based on facts.

LINKS

Get Your Copy of Your Guide to Becoming a Home Selling Genius: Visit https://roostrealestateco.com/your-guide-to-becoming-a-home-selling-genius-free-book-for-home-sellers/ to get your copy and start preparing for a smarter, more strategic home sale.

More Guides & Resources from ROOST: Visit https://www.LearnWithROOST.com for more practical resources designed to help you make smarter real estate decisions.

Let's Work Together: Visit https://www.SellWithROOST.com or find an agent at https://ROOSTRealEstateCo.com/agents/

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

Artificial intelligence is changing real estate fast — but using more technology doesn’t automatically mean providing better service.

In this special ROOST Real Estate Company podcast episode, Chris McAllister, founder of ROOST Real Estate Co., is joined by Laci LeBlanc to break down the ROOST AI Manifesto and the philosophy guiding how ROOST uses artificial intelligence across the company.

Together, they explore how AI can make real estate faster, clearer, smarter, and more consistent without replacing the human judgment, relationships, and accountability that clients depend on. The goal isn’t to use AI simply because the technology exists. It’s to use it where it genuinely helps good people do better work.

From automating repetitive “backstage” work and preparing for better client conversations to protecting sensitive information, verifying AI-generated answers, and keeping humans responsible for every outcome, this episode offers a practical framework for embracing AI without losing sight of what matters most: trust, service, and people.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• AI should make real estate more human, not less. Automating repetitive backstage work should create more time for conversations, relationships, problem-solving, and personal service.
• AI is a thought partner, not a decision-maker. One of its most valuable uses is helping people organize their thinking, challenge assumptions, ask better questions, and prepare to make better decisions.
• People still own the outcome. AI can draft, summarize, analyze, and prepare, but it cannot replace human judgment, responsibility, follow-through, or accountability.
• Our core systems remain the source of truth. AI can help us work with information more effectively, but official platforms and records—not an AI-generated answer—remain authoritative.
• Privacy and trust come before convenience. Sensitive owner, tenant, transaction, and financial information requires thoughtful safeguards, regardless of what AI makes technically possible.
• AI magnifies the person using it. In the hands of thoughtful, disciplined, accountable people, it can make them dramatically more effective. Careless use can simply make mistakes happen faster.
• Make AI show its work. When using AI for research or factual information, ask for sources, check the links, and independently verify important claims.
• Start with friction. Look for repetitive tasks, messy notes, difficult emails, complicated summaries, or meetings you wish you were better prepared for. Use AI to create a stronger first draft—then review it, improve it, verify it, and make it yours.

LINKS

Read the full ROOST AI Manifesto: https://roostrealestateco.com/the-roost-ai-manifesto-better-tools-better-judgment-better-service/

AI News & Insights: Chris recommends The AI Daily Brief: Artificial Intelligence News and Analysis, hosted by Nathaniel Whittemore: https://www.aidailybrief.ai/

Real Estate Professionals: Visit https://www.CareerWithROOST.com to learn more about building a better real estate practice.

Property Owners and Investors: Visit https://www.InvestWithROOST.com to learn more about investing and building a profitable real estate portfolio.

Home Buyers and Sellers: Visit https://www.ROOSTRealEstateCo.com to find your next ROOST.

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

In today’s competitive housing market, finding the right home is only half the battle — winning it is where strategy matters most.

In this episode of the All Things Real Estate Podcast, Chris McAllister and Laci LeBlanc break down the real-world tactics buyers can use to compete smarter in bidding wars without simply throwing more money at the problem. From escalation clauses and appraisal gap coverage to lender strategy, contingencies, and the power of agent reputation, this conversation gives buyers a practical roadmap for navigating one of the most frustrating parts of today’s market.

If you’ve ever lost out on a home despite making what felt like a strong offer, this episode explains why. Sellers aren’t always choosing the highest price — they’re choosing the offer that feels most likely to close smoothly and with the least stress. Chris explains how preparation, flexibility, and strong relationships with experienced agents and lenders can often outweigh price alone.

You’ll also learn:

• How escalation clauses actually work — and where buyers get into trouble
• Why the “Two Lender Strategy” can strengthen your offer
• What the new buyer agency rules mean for buyers in 2026
• How to structure contingencies strategically instead of recklessly waiving them
• The right (and wrong) way to use personal letters to sellers
• Why HOA and condo rules can derail deals at the last minute
• What makes a “perfect offer package” stand out to listing agents
• Why flexibility and preparation often beat emotion in competitive markets

Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating, downsizing, or trying to compete in a fast-moving market, this episode is packed with actionable advice that can help you stay competitive while still protecting your financial future.

Visit https://10TipsToWinABiddingWar.com to download the free “10 Tips to Win a Bidding War” guide discussed in this episode and learn how to compete with confidence — not panic.

#AllThingsRealEstate #HomeBuyingTips #BiddingWar #RealEstatePodcast #BuyWithROOST #RealEstateAdvice #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #CompetitiveHousingMarket

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

Most homeowners believe spring is the only “right” time to sell — but that assumption may be costing you time, money, and leverage.

In this episode of the All Things Real Estate Podcast, host Laci LeBlanc sits down with Priscilla McNamee, Director of Sales at ROOST Real Estate Co., to break down why winter can actually be one of the strongest seasons to list and sell a home — even in Ohio and the Midwest.

Together, they unpack what’s really happening in the winter housing market and why serious buyers, lower competition, and faster timelines often work in sellers’ favor.

🎙️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode

✔️ Why waiting for spring isn’t always the smartest move
 ✔️ How lower winter inventory helps listings stand out
 ✔️ Why winter buyers are more serious (and better qualified)
 ✔️ How homes often show more honestly in cold weather
✔️ Why winter sales can close faster than spring transactions
✔️ How relocation buyers, investors, and estate sales drive winter demand
✔️ What sellers can do to make their homes feel warm, inviting, and move-in ready
✔️ Why pricing and preparation matter even more heading into a more “normal” 2026 market

This conversation is especially helpful if you’re:

• Thinking about selling in December, January, or February
• Unsure whether to wait for spring
• Navigating a relocation, estate sale, or life change
• Curious how shifting market conditions affect your home’s value

❄️ The Big Takeaway

Winter isn’t a bad season to sell — it’s a different season.

With fewer listings, more motivated buyers, and professionals who can move faster, the quiet season is often where the best opportunities show up.

Strategy matters more than season.

📍 Thinking About Selling?

If you’re considering a move, now is the time to talk with a local expert who understands your market.

👉 Connect with a ROOST real estate professional:
https://SellWithROOST.com

Find out what your home could be worth right now — while many sellers are still waiting for spring.

#AllThingsRealEstate #WinterHomeSelling #SellYourHome #OhioRealEstate #HousingMarket #ROOSTRealEstate #HomeSellingTips #RealEstatePodcast

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

In this annual State of the Union–style episode, ROOST Founder & CEO Chris McAllister reflects on a pivotal year of rebuilding, professionalization, and strategic positioning—and lays out a clear, grounded vision for 2026 and beyond.

Joined by ROOST’s Marketing Director and longtime podcast partner Laci LeBlanc, Chris breaks down what actually moved the needle in 2025—not buzzwords, not vanity metrics, but real operational upgrades that improved owner profitability, team effectiveness, and long-term scalability.

This is not a highlight reel. It’s a candid operating report from inside a real, growing real estate company—what worked, what had to be rebuilt, and what’s now possible because the foundation is finally right.

Whether you’re a landlord, investor, agent, property manager, or business owner thinking about scale without losing your soul, this episode offers practical insight and a clear lens for evaluating your own next season.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• How Rehab & Maintenance 2.0 evolved from a reactive cost center into a profitability engine
• Why Owner Portfolio Reviews became the most valuable—and personal—work ROOST does
• How ROOST intentionally became a media company, using YouTube and avatar-driven content to educate, attract, and scale trust
• The team investments that had to happen before meaningful growth was possible
• Why migrating marketing and referrals into HighLevel changed everything
• A deep look at “Hey Chris, Buy Me a Beer”, ROOST’s referral partner program built for modern agents and professionals
• The launch of a unified investor ecosystem combining Invest With ROOST and ROOST Portfolio Management
• New initiatives in publishing, recruiting, leasing, and brand experience heading into 2026
• The long-term vision behind Boutique@Scale—and why it’s harder (and more valuable) than it sounds

LINKS

• ROOST Rehab & Maintenance – The Key to Your Profitability (and Ours) 
• ROOST YouTube Channel – Content You Can Trust
• GoHighLevel – CRM Software that Automates What Makes Sense so We Can Personally Manage Relationships (Full Disclosure: This is an affiliate link!)
• Invest with ROOST – For Investors with Fewer than 50 Properties
• ROOST Portfolio Management – For Investors with More than 50 Properties
• Learn With ROOST – View our evergrowing library of resources at the All Things Real Estate Hub.

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

Selling a home isn’t just putting a sign in the yard and waiting. In this episode of All Things Real Estate, Chris McAllister and Laci LeBlanc break down what a professional listing agent actually does—step by step—and what you’ll need to take on if you decide to sell on your own.

You’ll learn how to think like the CEO of your home sale (not a homeowner), why emotions can quietly sabotage pricing and negotiations, and how today’s marketing and tech tools (photos, 3D tours, digital scheduling, e-signatures) can either elevate your listing—or amplify the wrong strategy.

Whether you’re hiring an agent or being your own agent, this conversation will help you make better decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and get to the closing table with fewer surprises.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Think like a CEO, not a homeowner: make decisions based on evidence, not nostalgia.

Your home needs a coordinated marketing plan: consistent story + strong presentation across every channel buyers use.

Professional photos matter: not just for “pretty pictures,” but for perceived value and competitiveness.

Prep wins: Chris’s top 3 must-dos are Tidy Up (declutter), Clean Up (spotless), Fix Up (small repairs).

Pricing isn’t a guess: use recent comparable sales, supply/demand, days on market—and avoid “testing the market.”

The first 2 weeks are critical: online platforms reward “fresh” listings; overpricing can cost you attention and credibility.

Zillow Zestimate is a data point, not a strategy: useful for context, risky as a final answer.

Offers are the beginning, not the finish line: financing strength, contingencies, timelines, and closing probability matter.

Quiet professionalism = calm + proactive management: deadlines, inspections, appraisal, lender/title coordination.

Minimum communication rhythm: weekly updates at minimum; after-showing updates when possible (even if there’s “no news”).

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

Welcome back to the All Things Real Estate Podcast, with Chris McAllister. Today we’re talking about one of the biggest and most exciting transitions a homeowner can make: moving from your current home into your next home.

We call this episode My Next ROOST, because for many of us, there comes a time when the house we’re in just doesn’t fit our lives anymore. Maybe your family is growing. Maybe you’re ready for a shorter commute or a better school district. Maybe you’re downsizing and simplifying. Whatever the reason, this step isn’t just about buying and selling houses. It’s about creating a home that matches the life you’re living now — and the future you’re building.

But let’s be honest — moving up can feel overwhelming. How do you sell one home and buy another at the same time? What if the timing doesn’t line up? What if you end up stuck carrying two mortgages? The good news is, there are smart strategies that can make this transition not only possible, but exciting and joyful.

And I’ve got the perfect guests with me to dig into this. Joining me is a familiar voice — Priscilla McNamee, our Director of Sales at ROOST Real Estate Co., who has helped countless families navigate this process with confidence.

Together, we’re going to explore what homeowners are really worried about, what they should be thinking about, and the strategies that can make moving from one home to another a seamless, even empowering experience.

So if you’ve been thinking about your next ROOST, you’re in the right place.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Start with your why. Moves stick (and feel better) when they reflect real life changes—kids, schools, commute, lifestyle—not just “a good deal.”
• First-time seller realities. Your Zestimate isn’t your net. Expect closing costs, tax prorations, payoff nuances, repairs, and commissions to affect proceeds.
• Know your numbers early. A clear Net Seller Sheet up front can prevent last-minute disappointments and keep your plan on track.
• Market check. Pricing based on last year’s comps can stall your sale. Today’s market requires right-now data and realistic list prices.
• Contingency options go both ways.
• Buy subject to selling your current home (no “bump clause” if structured well).
• List subject to finding suitable housing so you’re not rushed out.
• Use time-boxed clauses (e.g., “under contract in 3 weeks or we revisit”).
• Same-day success is possible. Many clients sell at 1 PM and buy at 4 PM—with funds disbursed the same day—when the plan and parties are aligned.
• Financing tools (use thoughtfully). Bridge loans, HELOCs, and lender programs can help—but fees add up. Contingencies often save $5–10k in closing costs when viable.
• Rent-back & possession. Less common locally, but still a tool—especially for relocations—when structured to protect both sides.
• Beware the “We Buy Houses” blitz. Mailers and contracts can look easy—but may cost you far more than any saved commission. Run offers by a trusted agent or attorney.
• The winning combo. A counselor-level agent + a fiduciary-minded lender = less anxiety, better timing, and a move that actually fits your life.

LINKS

• What Is a Seller Net Sheet? And Why a Great Listing Agent Always Provides One
• Download the Buy with ROOST Brochure
• Download the Sell with ROOST Brochure
• Ready to buy with confidence? Check out <

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

In this episode of The All-Things Real Estate Podcast, Chris McAllister and Priscilla McNamee break down the entire process for first-time homebuyers, focusing on ROOST Real Estate Co.'s My First ROOST™ program.

Designed to guide first-time buyers through each step with clarity and confidence, this episode covers everything from getting pre-approved for a mortgage to navigating inspections and closing on your first home.

Chris and Priscilla also acknowledge the protective family members or friends who may be involved in the decision-making process, emphasizing that ROOST embraces their input while ensuring that buyers make the final call.

Additionally, if you’re stuck in a rental lease, Chris discusses strategies for negotiating an early release, so you can take advantage of great home-buying opportunities without waiting.

If you’re ready to take the leap into homeownership with a team that’s passionate about your success, this episode is a must-listen!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• First-time buyers aren’t alone—the process can (and should) be clear and guided.
• Listening and building trust are essential.
• Financing help, down payment assistance, and special loans may be available.
• Good agents help navigate the process, from negotiations to inspections.
• Relationships matter more than transactions—ROOST’s goal is to be your lifelong real estate partner.

RESOURCES

• Ready to buy with confidence? Check out BuyWithROOST.com
• Download the Buy with ROOST Brochure
• Call Priscilla and Start Packing – Work with top listing agent Priscilla McNamee. Get in Touch

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

In this episode, Chris, Laci, and Priscilla walk home sellers through what to expect during their first meeting with a real estate listing professional. 

Whether you're selling with ROOST or interviewing other agents, this episode outlines the questions to ask, how to set expectations, and what a truly professional listing experience should look like. 

Using the Sell with ROOST brochure as a guide, they cover everything from listing contracts to marketing plans, pricing strategy, and managing the transaction from start to finish.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Why your agent might already have a buyer for your home
• Understanding the listing agreement and commission structure
• The power of the Home Enhancement Checklist (and how to declutter effectively!)
• What goes into a successful marketing plan, including photos, videos, and analog touches like brochures and mailers
• Clear communication standards and how agents should manage feedback
• Navigating multiple offers, contingencies, and inspection hurdles
• How experienced agents handle stress, support clients, and offer realistic expectations
• The critical role of the seller net sheet
• Staying connected after the sale through ROOST’s client appreciation programs

LINKS

• Take a look at our Sample Seller Net Sheet
• Download the Home Enhancement Checklist
• Download the Sell with ROOST Brochure
• Download the Buy with ROOST Brochure
• Connect with Priscilla at CallPriscillaAndStartPacking.com

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub

In this episode of the All Things Real Estate Podcast, host Chris McAllister is joined by co-host Laci LeBlanc and special guest, top-producing listing agent Priscilla McNamee. They dive deep into the National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit settlement, breaking down exactly what it means for home sellers and how it’s reshaping the real estate industry.

This episode covers:

• Why the NAR settlement is a game-changer for sellers
• How home sellers now have more control over commission negotiations
• The biggest challenges and opportunities this creates
• How ROOST Real Estate Company is leading the way in helping sellers maximize their profits in this new landscape

If you're a homeowner considering selling, a real estate investor, or just want to stay informed on the biggest shift in real estate in decades, this episode is a must-listen!

Key Takeaways:

• The NAR Settlement Explained – The lawsuit challenged how real estate commissions were structured and disclosed. The settlement eliminates the requirement for sellers to pay a buyer’s agent commission. More transparency is now required in all transactions.
• What This Means for Sellers – More control over costs – Sellers decide whether to offer compensation to buyer agents. Increased flexibility – New options for negotiating and structuring deals. Greater transparency – Clearer breakdowns of costs in all contracts.
• The New Reality for Buyer Agents – Buyer agents must now have a signed agreement with their clients before showing homes. Buyers may need to cover their agent’s commission themselves or negotiate it with the seller. Some buyer agents are pressuring sellers for compensation, making negotiations trickier.
• How ROOST Real Estate Company is Helping Sellers Win – We may already have a buyer for your home! Thanks to our extensive database of buyers, sellers benefit from our proactive marketing. 
• Market Trends & Future Predictions – Some sellers refuse to pay buyer agent commissions – Priscilla shares insights from an upcoming listing where the seller won’t offer buyer compensation. Expect to see more unrepresented buyers approaching listing agents directly. Some agents and buyers still don’t fully understand these changes – leading to confusion and frustration. More lawsuits could be on the horizon as unethical practices emerge.

Resources:

• NAR Settlement Overview – Learn more about the lawsuit and its impact. Read More
• Call Priscilla and Start Packing – Work with top listing agent Priscilla McNamee. Get in Touch
• Ready to buy with confidence? Check out BuyWithROOST.com
• Ready to Sell Your Home for Top $$$ FAST? Check out SellWithROOST.com

P.S. Want more practical tips for buying and selling real estate? Our ever-growing library of books, blog posts, podcast episodes, masterclasses, documents, and other tools is at your fingertips.

Learn More >>> The All Things Real Estate Resource Hub