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Welcome to Keeping It REal, the podcast where we bring you down-to-earth conversations about real estate, community, and everything in between! Whether you’re buying your first home, exploring investment opportunities, or just fascinated by the ever-changing real estate landscape, we’ve got you covered. Each episode blends expert insights, fun stories, and practical tips, all while keeping things real and relatable. Join us as we dive into the world of properties, people, and the connections ...
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Simplifying the Sell: Real Estate Investing with Marco Suarez
31:20
31:20
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In this episode of Keeping it REal, Kelly and Amanda sit down with Houston-based investor Marco Suarez to talk all things investment properties. Marco shares how he got started in the real estate game and breaks down the process of working with an investor — whether you’re looking for a total flip or just want a fast, stress-free sale. From easing …
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Fix, Flip, Fund: Investment Strategies Unlocked
24:14
24:14
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24:14
On this episode of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we sit down with George Shumate from Lend Mortgage to break down the world of investment loans — from fix-and-flip projects to turning dreams of a wine bar, wedding venue, or vacation rental into a real estate reality. George walks us through how to secure properties and build an investment …
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Legacy Starts at the Top: Roofing with Purpose, BYLT to Last
39:28
39:28
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39:28
Educational? Definitely. Surprisingly fun? You bet. Even a little sentimental. Let’s keep it REal — this one’s BYLT to last. Think roofing’s boring? Think again! In this episode, we chat with Steven and Nicole Ball of Modern BYLT Roofing — a family-owned company all about Building Your Legacy Together. It’s not just about the roof over your head — …
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New Home, Who Dis? Why You Need a Warranty
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32:23
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32:23
On this episode of Keeping It REal with Kelly and Amanda, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of home warranties—what they cover, how to get one, and why every homebuyer should pay attention. Joining us is none other than Maurie Reynolds, the home warranty guru from Choice Home Warranty, and she’s bringing the goods! If you’ve ever wondered what ha…
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Breaking Up Without Breaking Down: Divorce & Real Estate
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33:51
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This week, we’re joined by Matt & Shelley Mitchell from Divorce Equity Solutions—a powerhouse expert duo (and married couple!) who specialize in helping individuals navigate the real estate and financial complexities of divorce. With a deep understanding of both emotional and financial challenges, they guide clients through customized strategies to…
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Transforming Spaces and Renovations with Creekwood Construction
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13:56
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13:56
In this episode of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we’re joined by Damon Johnson, a remodeling expert from Creekwood Construction. With experience transforming homes, Damon specializes in bringing properties back to life—whether you're starting with a clear vision or need guidance along the way. From the initial concept to the final walkthro…
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The Price is Right? Understanding Real Estate Appraisal
32:07
32:07
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32:07
Ever wonder what really goes into determining a home’s value? In this episode of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we sit down with real estate expert Linda Wilkins — a powerhouse in sales, appraisals, and staging — to demystify the appraisal process. From curb appeal to square footage and everything in between, Linda breaks down what appraise…
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VA Loans: Serving Those Who Served – with Firehouse Mortgage
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28:16
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28:16
In this episode of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we’re joined by Megan Walker, a Loan Officer at Firehouse Mortgage, a Veteran-owned lender based in Humble, TX. Megan explains the ins and outs of VA Loans—offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)—and how they serve military veterans, active duty service members, national…
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From Treasure Hunts to Transitions with New Chapter Estate Sales
29:42
29:42
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29:42
Welcome to Keeping It REal with Kelly and Amanda — the podcast where curiosity meets conversation. In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating world of estate sales with special guest Tiffany Craig from New Chapter Estate Sales. Whether you’re thinking about hosting one, love hunting for hidden treasures, or simply want to understand how est…
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From Dirt to Dream Home: Navigating Construction Financing with Erin Merryman
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29:07
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29:07
This week on Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of construction loans with our amazing guest, Erin Merryman, loan officer at Highlands Residential Mortgage. If you’ve ever wondered how to go from owning a piece of land to living in your custom-built dream home—or even creating a full-blown family compound—thi…
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Zero down, big possibilities: USDA loans with Motto Mortgage
17:03
17:03
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17:03
When most people hear “USDA,” they think of food labels—not home loans. But in this episode of Keeping it REal, Kelly and Amanda sit down with mortgage broker Gavin Foley from Motto Mortgage to talk about one of the most overlooked financing options out there: USDA loans. Designed to help buyers in rural and some suburban areas, USDA loans offer un…
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Don’t Let Insurance Be a Dealbreaker – Advice from Brian Reese
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18:36
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18:36
This week on Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, we’re talking insurance—but don’t worry, it’s way more interesting (and important) than you think! Our guest, Brian Reese from Cash & Forbes Insurance Group, LLC, breaks down why homeowners insurance should never be an afterthought. Brian shares why you should get a sort of “insurance pre-approval…
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Educate & Elevate: Making Sense of Conventional Loans
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23:33
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23:33
In this episode of Keeping it REal, Kelly and Amanda are joined by Lance LaGarce, a loan officer from Nations Lending, for a clear and informative conversation about conventional loans. Lance breaks down key aspects like credit scores, down payments, and debt-to-income ratios, making the process easy to understand. He shares practical advice and re…
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The Ins and Outs of Home Inspections with Clint Fischer
21:27
21:27
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21:27
Buying or selling a home? A home inspection can make or break a deal, but knowing what to expect can help you navigate the process with confidence. In this episode of Keeping it REal, Kelly and Amanda sit down with Clint Fischer of Falcon Real Estate Inspections to walk through the inspection process from start to finish. Clint breaks down what ins…
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How You Make People Feel: Creating Lasting Connections That Matter
17:43
17:43
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17:43
In this episode, Kelly and Amanda are keeping it real! Join them as they open up about their own lives, the moments that brought them together, and the experiences that shaped their friendship. They’re also diving into the framework and content that will matter most to listeners — sharing stories, laughter, and a few hard truths. Their mission? To …
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FHA Loans: Breaking Down the Basics - The Buyers Are Back!
22:55
22:55
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22:55
Kelly and Amanda chat with Grant Oneal from Fulcrum Home Loans about FHA loans—one of the most accessible financing options for homebuyers. They discuss qualification requirements, the loan process, and common misconceptions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or re-entering the market, this episode offers key insights to help you navigate FHA loans…
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Spring Forward – Extra Time, Fresh Starts, Endless Possibilities
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13:15
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13:15
In this episode of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda, the hosts dive into the spirit of spring – a season of new beginnings, renewal, and growth. As they “spring forward,” Kelly and Amanda reflect on the valuable insights shared in past episodes and the expert advice from their guest speakers. They discuss how this guidance can help listeners t…
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Welcome to Episode 8 of Keeping it REal with Kelly and Amanda! Today, we’re excited to have Paula Griffin May, loan officer at Success Mortgage Partners, with us to talk about one of the most important factors in your financial journey—your credit. Paula will guide us through the steps to get your credit where it needs to be, whether you’re looking…
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Busting Through the Brick Wall: Moving the Needle on Property Taxes
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16:35
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In Episode 7, Kelly and Amanda sit down with Jacob Richardson from HomeTown Title to shed light on the often-overlooked side of property taxes during a home purchase. They discuss tax prorations, escrowing, protests, exemptions, and the responsibilities every home buyer should be aware of when preparing for closing. Jacob offers expert advice on na…
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Becoming a Champion of Your Own Life with Wealth Strategist Jeanna Bumpas
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16:11
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16:11
Episode 6: Becoming a Champion of Your Own Life - With Wealth Strategist Jeanna Bumpas In this episode, wealth strategist Jeanna Bumpas shares her holistic approach to success—going beyond financial achievement to becoming a champion of your own life. Jeanna explores how breaking free from limiting beliefs and setting systems, not just goals, can h…
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Embracing the Shift: Navigating the Challenges of Change
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16:22
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16:22
In Episode 5, Kelly and Amanda reflect on past motivation tips and how stepping out of your comfort zone opens the doors to success. From there, the path you take is up to you. They remind you, “If you’re not changing it, you’re choosing it.” Whether it’s adjusting your eating habits, tweaking your morning routine, or making bigger life changes, th…
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Keys to Confidence: First-Time Homebuyer Tips with Jeff Shealey of HMA Mortgage
22:49
22:49
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22:49
🎙 Podcast Announcement: Episode 4 🎙 🏡 Are you a first-time homebuyer or know someone feeling overwhelmed by the home-buying process? This episode is just for you! We’re thrilled to welcome Jeff Shealey with HMA Mortgage as our special guest on Episode 4. Jeff brings his expertise and a wealth of experience to the table, helping ease the fears of fi…
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Driven by Success: A Conversation with John Altic, Owner of JLA Realty
19:49
19:49
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🎙️ New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎙️ We’re thrilled to announce the 3rd episode of Keeping it REal is now live! 🎉 This episode features our very first guest, John Altic, the incredible owner of JLA Real Estate. John’s motivational story and powerful insights are sure to leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on your next challenge! 🙌 He opens up …
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In this episode, we dive deep into the emotions and challenges that come with facing fear. Whether it’s navigating major life changes, taking the leap into homeownership, or stepping outside your comfort zone, fear is a natural part of growth. We share personal experiences, practical tips, and inspiring insights to help you push past fear and embra…
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Debut Episode: “Welcome to Keeping it REal!” In this debut episode of Keeping it REal, we’re introducing you to the heart of the podcast! Meet your hosts, Kelly Swartz and Amanda Mabry of the Swartz Realty Group, powered by JLA, in Texas, and learn what we’re all about. We’re bringing you a perfect blend of expert real estate advice, fun discussion…
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