In this solo episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan breaks down one of the biggest financial questions homeowners face: does it make sense to refinance right now? With mortgage rates hitting their lowest point of 2025, many borrowers are wondering whether they should act or wait.

Ryan explains why a refinance is more than just a rate play—it’s an investment with a measurable return. He shares a simple framework you can use to calculate costs, savings, and breakeven points, so you can confidently decide whether refinancing benefits you today.

What you’ll learn:

• Why refinancing should be viewed as an investment, not speculation
• How to calculate your break-even point and return on investment
• Common misconceptions that cause people to miss opportunities
• The real cost of waiting for “better” rates
• Why refinancing multiple times can still make sense when rates drop again

If you’ve been debating whether to refinance, this episode gives you the math and logic to cut through the noise and make a clear decision.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards is joined by returning guest Spenser Molloy, a real estate agent with Next Home Realty based in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Together, they pull back the curtain on the real estate process—where not every deal is smooth, and sometimes major challenges arise that can put deposits, financing, and even entire transactions at risk.

Ryan and Spenser break down a recent set of complex transactions that nearly fell apart, and how having the right team in place made the difference between disaster and successful closings. They share stories of last-minute financing pivots, rushed appraisals, and the importance of stepping up when other professionals in the deal drop the ball.

Beyond deal war stories, the conversation dives into what they’re both seeing in the 2025 market. In Lebanon and across New England, buyers are becoming more selective, homes are sitting longer, and seller credits are back in play. Spenser and Ryan discuss why these shifts may signal the early stages of a buyer’s market and how both buyers and sellers can benefit if they adapt.

What you’ll learn:

• How the right lender–agent partnership can save a deal when things go sideways
• Why more transactions today involve “moving parts” that require creative solutions
• The return of seller credits and how they improve affordability for buyers
• Why vetting your real estate team for responsiveness and commitment is critical
• Market insights from Lebanon, NH, and New England heading into the second half of 2025

If you’re buying or selling in today’s evolving market, this episode is a reminder that the team you choose matters more than ever. Spenser and Ryan share unfiltered lessons, candid insights, and a passion for making the home buying process both successful and enjoyable.

GUEST INFO:

• Spenser Molloy, Managing Broker
• Next Home Modern Realty, West Lebanon, NH

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this solo episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards breaks down a topic that’s often overlooked but can have a huge impact on your mortgage approval and investment returns: home insurance.

Drawing from his experience as a residential loan officer and real estate investor in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Ryan explains how insurance premiums are estimated during the lending process, why certain properties can cause costs to skyrocket, and what every buyer should look out for before making an offer.

From old wiring and roof conditions to coastal risk and flood zones, he shares real examples of how small oversights in underwriting can lead to thousands in unexpected expenses—and how to avoid them.

What you’ll learn:

• The biggest property factors that drive up home insurance costs in New England
• Why Rhode Island premiums often exceed Massachusetts rates
• How flood zone changes can add $5K–$20K in annual insurance costs overnight
• How a $50/month increase in insurance can affect your mortgage approval by tens of thousands
• Practical estimates for multi-family and single-family properties in different markets
• Key questions to ask your lender and insurance broker before closing

Whether you’re buying your first home, adding to your portfolio, or refinancing, this episode will help you factor insurance into your deal analysis so you don’t get blindsided after the purchase.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards sits down with returning guest Ben Carbone of the We Close Deals team at Lamacchia Realty for a deep dive into entrepreneurship, market strategy, and the realities of building a team.

Since Ben’s last appearance, a lot has changed—he’s switched brokerages, launched a team that’s already grown to 17 agents, and doubled down on impact through real estate, leadership, and community giveback. Ryan and Ben unpack the real challenges that come with scaling: from managing people to delegating tasks, creating internal systems, and balancing growth with service.

You’ll also hear their take on the shifting 2025 New England housing market—what they’re seeing with buyer and seller behavior, price adjustments, seller credits, and how multifamily deals are holding steady. The conversation wraps with a powerful reflection on mentorship, legacy, and why both Ryan and Ben are focused on building a business that lasts.

What you’ll learn:

• Why growing a real estate team is harder—and more rewarding—than it looks on social media
• The biggest mistakes agents and entrepreneurs make when hiring
• How the We Close Deals team is structuring charitable givebacks and supporting agent-owned brands
• What’s really happening in the New England market this summer
• How top agents are educating sellers in a slower, more competitive market
• Why smart investors are still buying—and how bonus depreciation and tax code changes affect the decision
• The difference between owning a rental and optimizing your portfolio
• What to expect from the next phase of The Informed Investor mastermind series

If you’re a real estate agent, investor, or entrepreneur building for the long haul, this episode is packed with insights on what it really takes to grow—and how to keep your values at the center of it all.

GUEST INFO:

• Ben Carbone, Lamacchia Realty
  • [email protected]
  • (860) 382-6184
  • @ben.carbone
  • @weclosedealsteam

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards sits down with Mike Sweeney, owner of House Doctor Home Inspections—serving Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. From real estate investing to leadership to the nuts and bolts of the home inspection process, this episode goes deep into the business of protecting homebuyers and scaling a service-driven company.

Mike shares how he went from financial advisor and first-time homebuyer to renovating properties, becoming an inspector, and eventually acquiring the very company that did his original inspection. He breaks down how House Doctor delivers consistent, high‑quality inspections, and what differentiates their systems from the competition.

What you’ll learn:

• The biggest inspection mistakes buyers and investors make
• What to look for in a basement to spot water intrusion
• Why new construction inspections still reveal costly issues
• How House Doctor trains inspectors to maintain consistency
• The mindset shift from technician to business owner
• Why personal discipline and business systems go hand in hand
• How coaching, masterminds, and family values shaped Mike’s vision

Whether you're a first-time buyer, experienced investor, or entrepreneur looking to grow a service-based business, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways on leadership, property analysis, and building for the long term.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards sits down with Mike Sweeney, owner of House Doctor Home Inspections—serving Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. From real estate investing to leadership to the nuts and bolts of the home inspection process, this episode goes deep into the business of protecting homebuyers and scaling a service-driven company.

Mike shares how he went from financial advisor and first-time homebuyer to renovating properties, becoming an inspector, and eventually acquiring the very company that did his original inspection. He breaks down how House Doctor delivers consistent, high‑quality inspections, and what differentiates their systems from the competition.

What you’ll learn:

• The biggest inspection mistakes buyers and investors make
• What to look for in a basement to spot water intrusion
• Why new construction inspections still reveal costly issues
• How House Doctor trains inspectors to maintain consistency
• The mindset shift from technician to business owner
• Why personal discipline and business systems go hand in hand
• How coaching, masterminds, and family values shaped Mike’s vision

Whether you're a first-time buyer, experienced investor, or entrepreneur looking to grow a service-based business, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways on leadership, property analysis, and building for the long term.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this solo episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan dives into one of the most common challenges he sees among real estate investors, flippers, and business owners: how to qualify for a mortgage when your tax returns don’t show enough income.

Ryan breaks down two powerful lending options his team uses to help clients with non‑traditional income secure financing. Whether your business write‑offs leave you with minimal net income on paper, or your income fluctuates season to season, there are ways to make your numbers work with the right lender.

What you’ll learn:

• How bank statement loans can be used to calculate qualifying income
• How profit‑and‑loss statement loans factor in year‑to‑date income
• Why 1099 income can sometimes be used directly without tax returns
• Real examples of buyers who were turned down elsewhere but got approved
• Why it’s important to work with a lender who understands these programs

If you’re self‑employed, in the trades, or building a real estate business and think you can’t qualify for a home loan, this episode shows you options you might not know exist.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this solo episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards shares his honest, behind-the-scenes experience flipping a single-family home for the first time. From budget overruns to unexpected code violations, Ryan walks through what worked, what didn’t, and the real numbers that shaped the outcome of the project.

Whether you’re planning your first flip or just curious about the realities of managing a residential renovation, this episode gives you a candid look at the process, along with actionable takeaways to help you avoid costly mistakes.

What you’ll learn:

• The true cost of carrying a flip, beyond just taxes and interest
• Why small code violations can snowball into major expenses
• How poor subcontractor coordination can cost you time and money
• Why landscaping and exterior work should never be an afterthought
• The value of building a clear timeline and task tracker before you start

If you’re thinking about flipping a property, this episode is essential listening before you take on your first project.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

In this episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan welcomes back top Rhode Island real estate agent Brooke Buckett for her third appearance on the show. Brooke specializes in relocation and first-time homeownership, and in this conversation, she breaks down why Rhode Island continues to attract buyers from across the country—and how to navigate a multi-state move without the stress.

Brooke and Ryan discuss what’s driving the relocation trend, how Rhode Island’s small size offers big lifestyle variety, and what you really need to consider if you’re selling in one state and buying in another. Whether you’re thinking about moving to Rhode Island or just want to understand one of the market’s fastest-growing segments, this episode is packed with practical insights.

What you’ll learn:

• Why Rhode Island was ranked a top 10 inbound state in the U.S.
• How affordability and access to Boston/NYC are fueling demand
• What buyers love about Rhode Island’s walkable small towns and coastal vibe
• How to manage the logistics of selling and buying in two different states
• Why working with a trusted, collaborative team is essential for relocation success

Guest: Brooke Buckett, Rhode Island Real Estate Agent and Relocation Specialist

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards

If you're thinking about a career in the mortgage business, this episode is for you. In this solo episode of The Real Estate Lens, Ryan Richards takes you inside the day-to-day reality of being a residential loan officer—what the job entails, how it differs from working at a bank, and what separates great loan officers from the rest.

Ryan shares what his typical day looks like, from fielding dozens of phone calls and reviewing pay stubs to hosting events, marketing his services, and managing time-sensitive client questions. Whether you’re considering a career in the industry or just want to better understand how to choose the right loan officer for your next purchase, this episode offers a detailed and honest look behind the curtain.

What you’ll learn:

• What a loan officer actually does each day
• Why attention to detail and availability make or break a deal
• How strong loan officers validate documents and avoid costly mistakes
• The importance of marketing, relationship-building, and being on-call
• Key differences between loan officers at banks vs. mortgage companies

If you're considering becoming a loan officer or want to know how to find a great one, this episode lays it all out.

Interested in connecting?

HOST
Ryan Richards | Branch Manager, Northpoint Mortgage | NMLS 1987735
[email protected] | www.financewithteamrichards.com
204 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA 01581
Licensed in MA, CT, FL, NC, NH, PA, RI
Follow us on Instagram @financewithteamrichards