Most people think getting pre-approved is a simple yes or no, but there’s a smart way to do it that keeps you from getting in over your head. In this episode, I sit down with my friend McCain Marrow from United Home Loans to break down what approval really means and how to approach it with confidence.

We talk about the difference between pre-qualification, pre-approval, and a full pre-underwrite, why your “CIA” (credit, income, and assets) matters, and how understanding your real numbers helps you avoid stress later on.

We also get into comfort budgets, closing costs that buyers forget about, and simple ways to strengthen your offer without spending more money.

It’s all about clarity, smart planning, and making decisions that let you sleep at night, not stretch your finances too thin.

🎧 If you want to get approved the right way, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Elliott Wittstruck tackles one of the biggest questions for anyone moving to Middle Tennessee: Where should I live? From understanding the real costs of different neighborhoods to knowing when it makes sense to look just outside the city, he shares practical advice to help you find a spot that truly fits your life.

If you’re trying to get a feel for Nashville and the surrounding towns, this episode gives a clear, simple starting point without the overwhelm.

In this episode, Elliott Wittstruck shares the real story behind his first fixer-upper, what it actually cost him, what went right, and what he wishes he knew before starting. From living in a construction zone to learning how far a budget can really stretch, Elliott’s experience gives a clear, honest look at the true cost of “fixing it up.”

If you're thinking about tackling a remodel or buying a home that needs work, this episode will give you a grounded perspective before you jump in.

Did you know the smartest time to start preparing for a home purchase is six months before you’re ready to buy? In this episode, I sit down with my friend McCain Marrow from United Home Loans, to break down what you should be doing right now if you’re planning ahead.

We talk about getting pre-qualified early, checking your credit, understanding your true comfort payment, and why giving yourself a few months of prep time makes your offer stronger and the whole process smoother.

It’s all about reducing stress, building clarity, and making confident decisions without rushing.

🎧 A little preparation now can make your homebuying journey feel a whole lot easier.

What are the three questions I have to answer before I even start looking at homes?”

In this episode, I walk you through them one by one. Your why, your where, and your real comfortable monthly payment—these three things shape every decision you’ll make in the homebuying process.

Buying a home can get emotional and expensive fast, especially in a market like Nashville. That’s why getting clear on these basics matters. This isn’t about selling you a house, it’s about giving you the clarity and confidence to make the right move for you.

Thinking about buying a home soon? Whether it’s your first or your fifth, this episode breaks down five simple and practical steps to get you ready, from knowing your finances to finding the right agent. In just five minutes, you’ll learn how to avoid being “house poor,” plan your savings wisely, and make confident moves in today’s housing market.

If homeownership is on your 2026 vision board, this is your quick-start guide to making it happen!

Think you need perfect credit to buy a house? Think again. In this episode, I sit down with my friend Christy Wiedig from CMG Home Loans, and we talk about the biggest credit myths that keep people from buying a home.

We talk about how to build and improve your credit, what lenders actually look for, and simple steps to start your home buying journey with confidence.

Remember, clarity beats fear every time.

In the final part of the So You Want to Buy a House in 12–16 Months series, we’re putting it all together — your one-year roadmap to homeownership. From setting your vision and budget, to connecting with lenders and narrowing down your ideal location, this episode walks you through what to focus on month by month.

🎧 Because buying a home isn’t about rushing the process, it’s about following a plan that gets you there with confidence.

In Part 3 of the So You Want to Buy a House in 12–16 Months series, we’re talking money — turning “I hope I can afford it” into clear numbers that make sense. Learn how to plan your down payment, understand debt-to-income ratios, and why getting pre-approved early can set real guardrails for your search.

🎧 Because buying a home isn’t just about dreaming big, it’s about doing the math that gets you there.

Did you know there’s a way to save up to two months of mortgage payments just by timing your closing right? In this episode, we break down how escrow, prepaids, and closing dates really work and how a little planning can save you thousands.

We also talk about reducing stress when moving, creating a smoother transition, and trusting that the right timing always works out.

🎧 Smart timing can make your first months of homeownership a whole lot easier.