What happens when you trade a big rig for open houses? In this high-energy episode of Realty Talk, we sit down with Justin Mercer — a tattooed, trailblazing realtor who's redefining success in real estate. From building a brand that turns heads to turning challenges into closings, Justin shares how authenticity, hustle, and heart built his booming business. We dive into market trends, lead generation, personal branding, and the mindset shift that turns agents into entrepreneurs. Whether you're new to the game or scaling your empire, this episode is packed with raw insights, real stories, and the blueprint to level up.

🎙 Welcome back to Real(ty) Talk Podcast! This week, Paul “Fix It All” and Suzanne, the queen of the closing table, sit down with special guest Evan Tando, a real estate and lending expert.

We dive into:

• The current state of the real estate market, from interest rates to inventory.

• How a background in psychology and social work influences Evan's approach to real estate.

• Why retirement isn't in Evan's vocabulary and his passion for helping clients achieve their dreams.

• The importance of homeownership and the creative ways to get a loan.

• How the real estate industry is more about service than transactions.

Plus, our fun segment Homes Gone Wild returns with a jaw-dropping story about a chaotic home showing that ends with a broken glass door.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or an agent looking for a fresh perspective, this episode is packed with insights and an uplifting message about the power of community and service.

🎙 Welcome back to Real(ty) Talk Podcast! This week, Paul “Fix It All” and Suzanne, the queen of the closing table, sit down with special guest Stephen Couig — the King of Lending and CEO of Center Street Lending.

We dive into:

• The origin story behind Center Street Lending (and how it got its name).

• How the fix-and-flip industry has evolved since the 2008 crash.

• What a typical private loan looks like for investors.

• Common pitfalls new flippers face (and how to avoid them).

• The surprising trends shaping real estate in 2025.

Plus, our fun segment Homes Gone Wild returns with a jaw-dropping attic discovery you won’t want to miss. 🐍

Whether you’re an agent, investor, or just curious about the world of lending and flipping, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and stories from the frontlines of real estate.

🎙 7 Things You Can Ask a Seller to Pay For in 2025

If you’re buying a home in 2025, don’t just focus on the price—focus on the perks. In today’s market, sellers are more flexible than ever, and smart buyers know how to take advantage of it.

In this episode, we break down 7 powerful things you can negotiate for, including:
✅ Closing costs (saving you thousands upfront)
✅ Mortgage rate buydowns (making monthly payments more affordable)
✅ Repairs & upgrades before closing
✅ Prepaid HOA fees or property taxes
✅ Home warranty coverage
✅ Appliances & even furniture
✅ Credits for cosmetic updates

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, these tips could save you serious money and stress at the closing table.

👉 Tune in to learn how to maximize your deal in 2025’s buyer-friendly market!

From an avocado-eating skunk standoff to a special ops mission in a crawlspace, we're sharing our wildest real estate stories. But we're also getting real about the current housing market. This episode is packed with concrete numbers you'll want to hear, including:

• Why 35% of major U.S. markets are seeing a decline in value year-over-year, while Southern California remains relatively stable.

• The difference between the 14,000 homes listed in Orange County in 2007 versus the 5,000 listed today.

• How the 10-year treasury rate of 4.22% influences today's mortgage rates.

• The argument that waiting for interest rates to drop could cost you years of appreciation.

But beyond the numbers, we’re talking about the mental game of real estate. We dive into how to deal with the pressure of a shifting market, why you shouldn't "play the victim," and the power of getting just 1% better every day. You'll hear us discuss how to reframe stress as a positive tool for growth, and how a challenge in one part of your life can prepare you for another.

Ready to shift your perspective and close more deals? We've got you covered.

Welcome to the podcast that brings you the world's most famous real estate insights! In this episode, we're joined by Darryl, a dynamic real estate agent with a fascinating journey from roofing to thriving in the competitive real estate market.

• The Power of "Why": Discover why a strong "why" is crucial to sticking with your goals, especially when facing challenges in real estate or any other career.

• Embracing Rejection: Hear a profound discussion on why rejection, though difficult, can be a roadmap to success. Learn how to reframe your mindset and use "no" as a learning opportunity.

• Darryl's Inspiring Journey: Get the full story of Darryl's transition from the fitness and roofing industries into real estate, sparked by an unexpected injury.

• The Art of the Cold Call & Door Knock: Unpack the nuances of prospecting, including tips on handling resistance and even a "hack" for dealing with a surprise dog encounter!

• Setting Goals for Success: Darryl shares his ambitious plans for 2025 and how he's leveraging proven strategies like open houses and door knocking to achieve them.

• "Rate That Listing": Join our hosts in their favorite segment as they guess the price and features of a unique Florida home, complete with red velvet couches and skeletons!

Whether you're a seasoned agent, just starting your real estate journey, or simply looking for inspiration to overcome challenges, this episode offers valuable insights and a dose of humor. Tune in to learn how to turn obstacles into opportunities and keep "Cruising with You" through your biggest goals!

Cruising Through Real Estate: From Roofing to Riches!In This Episode:

In Episode 40, join us for an engaging and insightful conversation. We delves into thought-provoking topics such as the latest trends in technology, the impact of social media on our daily lives, and tips for maintaining mental wellness. Additionally, we explore personal stories and experiences that highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in today's fast-paced world. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode promises to deliver a memorable experience. Don't miss out on this enriching discussion. Subscribe now and stay updated with our latest episodes!

Welcome back to Realty Talks! In Episode 39, hosts Suzanne “Queen of the Closing Table” and Paul “Fix It All” Hansen dive deep into the wild world of real estate. This week, they tackle hot-button topics like the impact of immigration and labor shortages on the California housing market, the challenges of rebuilding after wildfires, and the ongoing struggle with red tape in new construction.

Plus, don’t miss their signature segments: “Homes Gone Wild,” featuring a truly one-of-a-kind Flintstones-inspired listing, and “Rate That Listing,” where the duo gives their honest (and hilarious) takes on some of the most unique properties on the market. Whether you’re a real estate agent, investor, or just love real estate news and tips, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and laughs.

Keywords: real estate, housing market, real estate investing, home buying, property, California real estate, real estate agent, real estate news, real estate tips, investing.

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