#InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDigest #HomeDecor #RealEstate #DesignTrends #Starbuck #LennyKravitz

Welcome to Coffee With Real Estate, where design meets lifestyle over a steaming cup of coffee. Hosted by Susan, a seasoned real estate enthusiast, and produced by Kurt, this podcast dives into the latest trends in home design, interior decor, and the cultural quirks that shape our living spaces. Each episode, we flip through the pages of Architectural Digest to explore bold wallpapers, luxurious kitchens, and celebrity homes, offering witty commentary and practical insights for homeowners and design lovers alike. From mid-century modern revivals to Starbucks cup doodles, we cover it all with humor and a touch of skepticism.

In our May 2025 episode, we dissect the latest Architectural Digest issue, spotlighting heavy, retro-inspired wallpapers, vibrant kitchen color palettes, and eclectic celebrity spaces like Lenny Kravitz’s Parisian studio. Susan shares her take on whether these daring trends belong in your home, while Kurt questions the practicality of $50,000 ovens and drapery-covered walls. We also venture into the quirky world of Starbucks’ barista doodles, debating whether smiley faces and affirmations on coffee cups can recapture the cozy coffeehouse vibe. Expect lively banter, design tips, and a fresh perspective on what makes a house a home.

Beyond the magazine, Coffee With Real Estate connects design trends to everyday life. We discuss how peel-and-stick wallpapers empower renters, why terrazzo is making a comeback, and how to balance bold aesthetics with timeless simplicity. Susan’s real estate expertise shines as she advises on staging homes with trendy yet personal touches, while Kurt keeps it grounded with his no-nonsense take on over-the-top decor. Whether you’re renovating, redecorating, or just love a good design debate, this podcast is your go-to for inspiration and entertainment.

Join us every month for a fresh brew of design talk, cultural observations, and plenty of laughs. Subscribe on your favorite platform, follow us on Instagram for exclusive visuals, and share your thoughts on the trends we love (or love to hate). Whether you’re a design aficionado or just curious about what’s hot in home decor, Coffee With Real Estate is your perfect companion. Grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s talk real estate and design!

#homeelevator, #homelifts,#luxuryhomes, #accessibility

Susan gives the scoop on home elevators and what to know and consider.

#RentalProperty, #PassiveIncome, #PropertyManagement, #LandlordTips, #GrayHairJoin Susan, a seasoned real estate expert, on Coffee With Real Estate as she dives into the nitty-gritty of preparing a home to become a profitable, long-term rental property. In this episode, Susan breaks down the essentials of achieving a strong return on investment, emphasizing the importance of a cap rate around 8% and the rule of thumb that rental rates should be about 1% of the home’s purchase price. For example, a $200,000 home should ideally fetch $2,000 monthly rent, factoring in expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance reserves. She highlights the need to keep expenses manageable, avoid high HOA fees, and select properties that balance cashflow with equity growth, offering practical advice for both new and experienced landlords.

The episode explores how to make a rental property durable and appealing to attract high-quality tenants while minimizing turnover costs. Susan recommends investing in solid surfaces like granite countertops, which cost around $3,000-$4,000 but enhance durability and elevate the property’s appeal, reducing maintenance headaches. Flooring choices like tile or luxury vinyl plank are favored for their resilience, especially in pet-friendly rentals, while carpet is a temporary solution to be replaced strategically. Neutral, washable paint and sturdy hardware, like door handles and cabinet pulls, further ensure the property withstands tenant wear and tear, saving landlords from frequent repairs.

Beyond physical upgrades, Susan discusses the financial realities of vacancies and tenant transitions, including relet fees and make-ready costs to restore a property to move-in condition. She advises planning for downtime—typically a week to a month—when no rent is collected and stresses the importance of showing properties 60 days before tenants move out to minimize gaps. For appliances, Susan suggests opting for decent, possibly scratch-and-dent models to keep costs low while maintaining rentability, and shares a tip about sourcing used appliances from reliable vendors who deliver and warranty their products, like a $650 stackable washer-dryer set compared to $1,700 new.

The episode wraps up with a lighthearted “fun topic” on society’s obsession with avoiding gray hair, from herbal supplements like Fo-ti to bizarre remedies like onion juice. Susan and her producer banter about aging, stress, and cultural trends, with Susan opting for traditional hair dye over experimental solutions. Whether you’re a landlord looking to optimize your rental or just enjoy real estate talk with a side of humor, this episode delivers actionable insights and a few laughs, encouraging listeners to subscribe and make their rental properties as profitable as possible.

#HomeEquity, #HousingWealth, #BackyardChickens, #FinancialPlanning, #RealEstateTrendsJoin Coffee With Real Estate for a lively dive into the paradox of housing wealth. This episode tackles the concept of being "house rich, house poor," where skyrocketing home equity—$35 trillion across American households—comes with hidden costs. From soaring property taxes to rising insurance and HOA fees, Susan breaks down how increased home values can strain cash flow, even as owners feel wealthier on paper. With humor and real-world examples, like a Miami couple whose home equity jumped by $525,000, the discussion reveals why many are hesitant to cash out.

The conversation gets spicy as Susan and Kurt explore the "Jones Effect," where neighborhood upgrades tempt homeowners to overspend to keep up. They unpack an article highlighting how property taxes in states like New Jersey and Ohio have surged, forcing some to cut discretionary spending. Yet, not all is grim—states like Alabama offer low tax rates, and exemptions can ease the burden. With their signature banter, the duo questions where all that tax money goes, poking fun at government spending while keeping the insights grounded.

Beyond real estate, the episode takes a quirky turn to backyard chickens, sparked by a trend of 11 million U.S. households raising hens in 2024. Susan debates the pros (fresh eggs, waste reduction) and cons (noise, costs, and rats), sharing stories of neighbors and clients embracing the fad. Is it a savvy move or an expensive hobby? With startup costs hitting $1,500 for the first egg, the answer’s not simple. Kurt’s skepticism and Susan’s enthusiasm make for a fun clash, tying the episode’s theme of balancing wealth and lifestyle.

Wrap up with Coffee With Real Estate as Susan and Kurt blend wit, skepticism, and expertise to unpack financial decisions—whether it’s sitting on home equity or raising chickens. Perfect for homeowners, dreamers, or anyone curious about the true cost of wealth, this episode leaves you questioning your next move. Tune in for practical tips, like navigating exemptions or weighing a reverse mortgage, delivered with a side of coffee-fueled charm.

#FaithAndFamily, #HousingGodsWay, #PodcastBlessings, #ChristianLiving,#religioushome

Step into Coffee With Real Estate, where the aroma of faith-infused dialogue fills the air, hosted by Susan and featuring Pastor Jack, a man whose ministry began in a home and blossomed into a beacon of hope. This podcast isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about building a life on the unshakable foundation of God’s will. This episode weaves together stories of home ownership with timeless biblical wisdom, exploring how faith shapes our homes, marriages, and the way we face a rapidly changing world. From Psalms to Proverbs, we unpack scriptures that remind us: unless the Lord builds the house, our labor is in vain.

Here, the conversation turns to the spiritual struggles and triumphs of today’s generation, where skyrocketing housing costs and shifting family dynamics test our trust in God’s provision. Pastor Jack shares how he counsels young couples to prioritize faith over debt, drawing from decades of ministry to highlight the peace that comes from living free of financial burdens. We dive into the sacred calling of marriage and parenting, reflecting on how Jesus as the center of a home can transform stress into strength. It’s a space where listeners are invited to reconsider societal norms—like the rush to buy a house or medicate restlessness—and instead seek God’s slow, steady path to stability.

The podcast shines a light on the modern soul’s search for meaning, contrasting fleeting trends like ‘California sober’ with the enduring joy of a Spirit-filled life. Through Jack’s lens, we see a world where mushrooms and ketamine promise escape, but only the Holy Spirit delivers true renewal—restoring minds, marriages, and purpose without a single dose. We explore how the church, like the one Jack leads at West Houston Christian Center, offers a refuge from the chaos of rising mental health struggles and cultural pressures. It’s a call to trade selfish quick fixes for selfless service, echoing Jesus’ mission to make others’ lives better, not just our own.

Ultimately, Coffee With Real Estate is a heartfelt invitation to root your life in faith, whether you’re buying a home, raising a family, or simply seeking direction. We wrestle with big questions—how do we raise kids in a world without boundaries, or find contentment when savings feel out of reach? With humor, humility, and a pastor’s perspective, we point to God’s promises: houses built by wisdom, vineyards planted in obedience, and a future where we dwell in the fruit of our labor. Tune in for a blend of real talk and divine truth, to inspire you to build a home—and a life—that lasts.

#TitleInsurance101, #TitleInsuranceBasics, #ClearTitleTips, #TitleCompanyInsights, #ProtectYourProperty,

Susan and Kurt sit down with Jennifer Arga from Texas American Title for an engaging look at the often-overlooked world of title companies. With 11 years of experience at one of Houston’s biggest firms, Jennifer walks listeners through the nuts and bolts of what her team does—handling escrow, clearing liens, and ensuring properties transfer with a clean title. It’s a must-listen for anyone involved in real estate, whether you’re buying, selling, or brokering deals, as she breaks down the essentials in an approachable way.

The discussion digs into the nitty-gritty of how Texas American Title takes a signed contract and turns it into a closed deal. Jennifer explains the process of coordinating surveys, HOA fees, and lender details while tackling potential title issues like IRS liens or hidden judgments. She also sheds light on title insurance, a safeguard that protects new owners from surprises—like an unknown heir claiming rights to the property years later—making it clear why her role is so vital to a smooth transaction.Things get lively when Susan and Jennifer explore the "D’s" that spark real estate moves: diamonds, diapers, diplomas, divorce, and death. They toss in some local flavor too, adding Houston-specific drivers like "distance," "downsizing," and "disgusted"—think sprawling commutes or frustration with zoning quirks. Jennifer connects these life events back to her work, showing how emotional triggers can ripple through title processes, especially when big changes like divorce come into play.

With both professional insight and personal experience, Jennifer dives into the messy intersection of divorce and real estate. She offers hard-earned advice for navigating property deals during a split, noting Texas’s firm rule: you’re either married or you’re not—no in-between. From steering clear of flimsy quitclaim deeds to ensuring divorce decrees cover every detail, she shares tips for agents and homeowners, warning against hasty choices that could haunt you later.The episode wraps with a fun twist, as the trio chats about a surprising trend: upscale gun ranges morphing into social hubs, likened to "Top Golf for guns." Jennifer and Susan riff on how these spots blend shooting with gourmet food and date nights, sparking ideas about glamming up other activities for broader appeal. It’s a blend of real estate know-how, personal stories, and a sprinkle of levity—perfect for listeners who want both substance and a smile. Subscribe now to catch it all!

#RealEstateTips, #SellYourHome, #SpringMarket2025, #Snapchatsecrets, #HousingMarket

Welcome to Coffee With Real Estate, where your host Susan and producer Kurt brew up the latest real estate insights with a side of fun. In this episode, recorded on March 25, 2025, we dive into the spring housing market and explore six compelling reasons why selling your home right now—before the spring rush—could be a smart move. From low inventory to stable prices, we’ll break down why acting early might give you the edge, whether you’re in a cozy Michigan suburb or a bustling city market. So grab your coffee and settle in for some practical tips to beat the competition!

We kick things off with a look at the current market trends. Housing inventory is still tight, but experts predict more listings are on the horizon—meaning less competition for sellers who list early. Susan shares her take on why being the first desirable home in a sought-after school district can attract eager buyers before the floodgates open. Kurt chimes in with data, noting that homes in February 2025 sat on the market for a median of 66 days, signaling we’re still in a seller’s market—but one where pricing right is key.

Next, we unpack the numbers: stable home prices mean you’re not likely to miss out on a bigger payday by waiting, and mortgage rates, hovering around 6.67%, are low enough to tempt homeowners out of the “lock-in effect” from those ultra-low refinance rates of years past. Susan reflects on how the gap between old and new rates isn’t as daunting as it once was, while Kurt questions whether buyers or sellers hold the upper hand. Spoiler: it’s still a seller’s game, but buyers are getting pickier, so timing and strategy matter more than ever.

Finally, we wrap up with a fun detour into the world of Snapchat—specifically, a quirky teen dating trend that’s leaving girls heartbroken over “half-swipes.” Susan and Kurt admit they’re out of their depth but have a blast dissecting how this disappearing-message drama mirrors the emotional rollercoaster of real estate decisions. With actionable advice like pricing correctly and choosing the right agent, plus a lighthearted look at modern romance, this episode is perfect for anyone ready to sell—or just craving a good story over coffee.

Topics by Time

0:00 - 5:00: Introduction and Spring Market Overview

Susan and Kurt set the stage, discussing why March 25, 2025, is a pivotal moment for sellers as spring begins.

5:00 - 20:00: Six Reasons to Sell Now

Detailed breakdown of low inventory, stable prices, easing mortgage rates, winter selling perks, beating buyer competition, and personal timing.

20:00 - 30:00: Real Estate Tips and Stories

Susan shares advice on pricing, updates, flexibility, and agent selection, with a recent seller story tying it all together.

30:00 - 45:00: Fun Topic: Snapchat’s Half-Swipe Heartbreak

A lively chat about teen dating woes on Snapchat, with Susan and Kurt connecting it to emotional market moves.

#GenZRealEstate, #SmallTownLiving, #TownLifePerks, #NatureAndNest, #SmallTownBoom, #RealEstateReset

Get ready for Coffee with Real Estate by Susan and Kurt, the podcast where we sip on the latest trends with Gen Z moving to smaller towns under 250,000 and spill the beans on men’s fashion do’s and don’ts. Hosts Susan and Kurt unpack why Gen Z is vibing with spots like Sioux Falls, South Dakota, or Flagstaff, Arizona—think cheap digs, epic nature, and remote work freedom. Then, they grind into fashion: do’s like rocking clotheswith a clean fit, and don’ts like skipping the tailor or clashing colors. Grab your brew and join us for bold takes on real estate and style, Gen Z style."