The Kevin Smith Podcast

What happens to your home if something happens to you? It's not a fun question, but it's one of the most overlooked parts of selling a home, and the answer can mean the difference between a smooth closing and a two-year probate process. In this video, I sit down with my title rep Austin Kikuchi from Ticor Title to break down what most homeowners get wrong about trusts and probate before it becomes a problem at the closing table. If you own a home in Southern California, this is worth a few minutes. Watch my video to make sure you're set up the right way.

If you're looking at new construction in Orange County, the options right now are better than most people realize. Whether you're 55+ and looking for resort-style living, a first-time buyer exploring communities like Irvine's Great Park, or a family looking for space, schools, and neighborhood activities, there's a community designed for your stage of life. In this video, I walk you through three lifestyle categories, the builders behind each one, and some energy-saving features that come standard with new builds that most buyers don't know about. Watch my video to find out which one fits you.

Is the spring housing market finally heating up in Southern California? Mortgage applications have jumped significantly, interest rates have come down, and more inventory is hitting the market than we've seen in months. In this video, I break down what the latest numbers mean for buyers and sellers, including where rates stand right now, what's happening with inventory in Orange County, and why this spring could be a strong window to make a move. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, refinance, or explore investment options, this update is worth your time. Watch my video for the full breakdown.

Want more consistent clients without chasing every lead? One of the most overlooked strategies for vendors is partnering with real estate agents. They work with buyers and sellers every day and constantly need trusted vendors. In this video, I’ll explain how to build those relationships and turn them into steady referrals. Click below to learn how to grow your business the smart way.

Are you thinking about buying a property in cash or with an LLC? New rules will apply in 2026, and they could impact your transactions. The government is increasing transparency by requiring background checks for real estate purchases. This video covers everything you need to know about the new rule and what steps you should take to ensure smooth transactions.

Inheriting a property in California can come with complex decisions, including understanding trusts, probate, and taxes. With nearly 80% of estate transactions in California being handled through inheritance, it's essential to know how to avoid probate and manage your inheritance properly. In this video, I will guide you through the probate process and how setting up a trust in advance can save you time and money. I’ll also dive into the impact of Prop 13 on property taxes. If you want to make the inheritance process smoother, check out the full video.

Orange County kicked off 2026 with fewer listings and a fast-moving market. But are we still in a seller’s market? In this video, I’ll share what mid-January inventory tells us and how interest rates are reshaping buyer urgency. You’ll also learn what today’s market conditions mean for timing your next move. Get the full breakdown by clicking the link below.

Is your credit score ready for your next move in Mission Viejo? Whether you're looking to rent or buy, small missteps, like a missed payment or a high balance, can delay or derail your plans. In this video, I’m sharing the smart credit habits that make the biggest difference for local renters and buyers. If you want to boost your score before applying, this video is for you.

The holiday season is here, and I’m feeling all the good vibes! I’m grateful for all the amazing people I’ve gotten to meet, and helping you find new spaces or start fresh has truly been one of the highlights of my career. You’ve made this journey meaningful and a whole lot of fun. Here’s a quick, festive holiday message from me to kick off the season.

Looking for the best mortgage options? If you’re looking for ways to lower monthly payments on a home, I’ll go over the three best mortgage strategies in today’s market, from 50-year mortgages to buy-downs. I’ll break down how these mortgage strategies compare with others. Whether you’re buying, selling, or helping clients, you’ll want to see this to get ahead in today’s market.