Zillow is one of the most popular real estate platforms out there. Buyers search for homes, sellers track their home values, and for many people it’s the first place they go when they start thinking about making a move.But most people don’t really know how Zillow works behind the scenes.In this episode of Key Conversations with CJ and Katy, we break down how Zillow connects buyers, sellers, and agents, what actually happens when you click “Tour This Home” or “Contact Agent,” and why the agent who reaches out often isn’t the listing agent.We also clear up some of the biggest misconceptions people have about Zillow. Many assume the agents responding through the platform work for Zillow or are connected directly to the listing. In reality, agents pay significant money for the opportunity to connect with buyers through the site.We also talk about several newer features Zillow is rolling out, including Zillow Pro, which allows buyers to connect with their chosen agent instead of being randomly assigned. We also cover Zillow Showcase listings, enhanced visuals and interactive floor plans, new location insights like flood and weather risks, nearby amenities, and Zillow’s built in AI assistant.Zillow is an incredible home search tool, but understanding how it works can help buyers and sellers make smarter decisions and connect with the right agent earlier in the process.If you’d like to connect with us on Zillow, you can find our profiles here:CJwww.zillow.com/profile/cjnormanrealestateKatywww.zillow.com/profile/realtorkatyAnd if you have questions about buying, selling, or navigating the market, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help.Subscribe for more Key Conversations with CJ and Katy Norman each week, and explore more at www.norman-homes.com

About 4 in 10 first marriages end in divorce.Divorce may not be something you are personally facing, and we hope it never is. But when a marriage ends and a home is involved, the financial decisions can feel overwhelming. The wrong move can get expensive fast.In this episode of Key Conversations, we sit down with Brett Leschinsky, a Divorce Mortgage Specialist, to unpack what really happens when divorce and homeownership collide.What makes his role different from a traditional mortgage lender?A typical lender focuses on closing a loan.A divorce mortgage specialist focuses on strategy during a legal and financial transition.Brett works alongside mediators, divorce coaches, and attorneys to help clients:• Qualify on one income• Properly use support income• Understand timing and court order requirements• Avoid costly mistakes before agreements are finalizedWe also discuss an important reality: nearly 70% of divorces do not require attorneys. Many couples begin with a divorce coach or mediator to guide conversations and decisions. Having a clear mortgage strategy early can create options instead of panic.If you or someone you know is navigating divorce and unsure what to do about the home, this conversation is a valuable starting point.To connect directly with Brett Leschinsky:Website: www.mortgageforest.comEmail: brett@mortgageforest.comIf this episode resonates, consider sharing it with someone who may need it.Subscribe for more Key Conversations with CJ and Katy Norman each week, and explore more at www.norman-homes.com

Divorce is hard.Selling a home is hard.Doing both at the same time is a completely different level.In Episode 6 of Key Conversations with CJ and Katy, we’re talking about what really happens when divorce and real estate collide and why it’s nothing like a typical buying or selling process.We cover:• Why divorce transactions are different• The big question everyone asks: What happens to the house?• Sell and split vs buyout vs keeping the home for the kids• Where people get stuck and how things can go sideways• Why we believe two agents, one for each party, creates clarity and protection• The professional support team that makes all the differenceEmotions are high. Timelines are sensitive. Legal considerations matter. And communication can make or break the outcome.We also share real stories and how we approach these situations in a way that protects both parties while keeping the process as smooth and respectful as possible.If you or someone you know is navigating divorce in the Twin Cities, this conversation is important. Even if you’re not, understanding how this works can help you support a friend or family member going through it.Next week, we’re diving deeper with a divorce mortgage specialist to talk about financing options after divorce.If you have questions about your situation or want to talk through options, we’re always here to have the conversation.Subscribe for more Key Conversations with CJ and Katy Norman each week, and explore more at www.norman-homes.com

New construction can feel exciting, overwhelming, and full of unknowns all at once.In this episode of Key Conversations, we break down what new construction really means and who it is best suited for.We walk through:• What qualifies as new construction• The types of buyers who typically choose to build• The differences between spec homes, semi custom homes, and fully custom homes• The advantages and trade offs of each option• What to consider before deciding to build versus buying an existing homeWhether you are planning your next move, looking to design a home that fits your lifestyle, or exploring new neighborhoods in the west metro, this conversation will help you better understand your options before stepping into a model home.New construction is not one size fits all. The path you choose matters, and having clarity from the beginning can save you time, money, and stress.Subscribe for more Key Conversations with CJ and Katy Norman each week, and explore more at www.norman-homes.com

Buying or selling a home comes with a lot of questionsAnd most people are asking the same onesIn this episode, we’re answering the most common questions we hear from buyers and sellers both in person and onlineWe talk through what sellers want to know before listingHow pricing really worksWhat adds value and what doesn’tHow long selling actually takesWe also cover the questions buyers ask early in the processHow much home you can affordHow long buying really takesWhat to look for when touring homesThese are the conversations we have every single weekAnd we’re sharing our honest take to help you feel more confident moving forwardIf you’re thinking about buying, selling, or trying to time both togetherThis episode will help you better understand what to expectReach out any time if you want to talk through your own situationSubscribe for weekly conversations on buying, selling, and real estate decisions that fit your lifeExplore more at www.norman-homes.com

Thinking about selling in the next 6 months for the spring or summer market? This episode is all about getting ahead of the rush, so selling doesn’t turn into a stressful scramble.Here’s what we see all the time. Planning ahead doesn’t cost a dime and it’s all upside, even if you’re not 100 percent sure you’re moving yet. Because by the time you feel “ready,” you’re often already behind.In this episode of Key Conversations with CJ and Katy Norman, we share a simple, actionable plan you can start now to create options, reduce stress, and set yourself up for a smoother sale.In this episode, we cover:➡️ Why giving yourself a runway matters for the spring and summer market➡️ Actionable items you can knock out early (without doing everything at once)➡️ How to avoid the last-minute repair and refresh panic➡️ The true first step before pricing or prepping: know where you’re going next➡️ How to work backward from your next home so your sale supports the bigger planEven if you’re “just thinking about it,” the best time to start is before you need to. A plan creates clarity, and clarity creates better decisions.Leave a comment with your biggest question about timing, prep, or making a move while buying your next home. We read every one.Subscribe for weekly buyer/seller strategy, real-life homeowner decisions, and straight answers.

This week in Key Conversations, we’re tackling a question a lot of homeowners get stuck on:Should you renovate your home… or sell and move on?We break down a simple way to make the decision without regret, including:- How to tell the difference between a smart upgrade and a money pit- When renovations actually increase value (and when they just increase stress)- The “hidden costs” most people forget to factor in (time, disruption, carrying costs, opportunity cost)- A practical framework to compare: renovate + stay vs sell + buy- What we’d do if you’re thinking about selling in the next 6–18 monthsIf you’re not sure what the right move is for your home, this episode will help you get clear fast.Subscribe for weekly buyer/seller strategy, real-life homeowner decisions, and straight answers with no pressure. And if you want us to weigh in on your specific situation, drop a question in the comments.https://www.norman-homes.com/renovate-or-sell-home-how-to-decide-without-regret

In this first episode of Key Conversations, we’re keeping it simple and personal. We’re CJ and Katy Norman, the husband and wife Realtor team behind Norman Homes in Mound, Minnesota, and this is an intro to who we are, how we work, and what you can expect from the show.

We talk about how we got into real estate, what it’s like doing this together as a married team, and the kind of guidance we’re known for: clear, straightforward, and never pushy. We also share the topics we’ll be covering going forward, including buying and selling strategy, negotiations, inspections, new construction, lake properties, market updates, and investing.

If you’re a buyer, seller, homeowner, or just curious about the Twin Cities market, you’re in the right place. Subscribe, and drop a comment with a question you want us to answer in a future episode.

Check out our website at: www.Norman-Homes.com