What if Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac went private? Could mortgage rates rise—or could competition actually help buyers? This week, we break down the high-stakes debate and what it means for your next home loan.

In this episode of Real Estate Pros of Houston, we unpack the complex issue of privatizing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Since entering conservatorship in 2008, these government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) have played a critical role in stabilizing the mortgage market and keeping 30-year fixed-rate mortgages accessible. But what would happen if they were returned to private hands? Experts warn it could mean higher rates and stricter lending—but others argue it could drive competition and innovation. We’ll explore the history, the congressional debates, FHFA’s preparations, and practical implications for homebuyers and mortgage brokers in today’s market. If you want to understand how these potential changes could impact your home financing options, this episode is a must-listen.

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

12841 Jones Rd.#245

Houston, TX 77070

Ofc: 832-504-9014

TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

www.NextStepHomeLoans.com

NMLS# 1746763

Welcome back to Real Estate Pros of Houston!

Today, we’re tackling one of the hottest topics in real estate right now—Mortgage Rates, Housing Affordability, and the Fed’s Influence. Everyone talks about how interest rates move the housing market, but the truth is, it’s not always a straight line from the Fed’s decision to your mortgage payment.

In this episode, we dig into the complex relationship between the Federal Reserve, mortgage rates, and home affordability. Conventional wisdom says lower rates mean cheaper homes—but that’s only part of the story. We’ll explore how inflation, supply and demand, economic growth, and the “lock-in effect” of homeowners holding historically low mortgage rates all factor into today’s housing challenges.

You’ll learn:

• Why lower rates don’t always equal more affordability
  How supply shortages and buyer demand can push prices up even as rates drop

• The ripple effect of Fed policy on regional housing markets

• What buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals should be watching right now
  

Whether you’re a buyer hoping for relief, a seller wondering about timing, or a real estate pro guiding clients, this episode will give you a clear, grounded look at how the Fed really shapes the housing market.

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

12841 Jones Rd.#245

Houston, TX 77070

Ofc: 832-504-9014

TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

www.NextStepHomeLoans.com

NMLS# 1746763

A very special guest today. My nephew and future Texas A&M Linebacker, Hudson Zachary.

As the 2025 season approaches, we talk Heisman hopefuls, top recruiting classes, early season picks, and best jerseys in the country.

Listen in. Great knowledge and insight into the upcoming year. Thank you Hudson for being my guest and sharing your college football insight! See you at Kyle Field.

Thinking about selling your home? 🏡
Here’s the truth: clutter, dark rooms, and outdated décor could cost you thousands—maybe even kill your buyer’s loan approval.

First impressions matter—especially in real estate. In this episode, we explore how home staging can directly impact how quickly your home sells, how appraisers value it, and ultimately how smooth your financing goes on your next purchase.

You’ll learn:

• Why staging isn’t just about looks—it’s a financial strategy.

• How clutter, lighting, and decor can influence both buyers and appraisers.

• Staging tips that transform your home without breaking the bank.

• A real client story that shows how a “one-weekend transformation” made all the difference.

• Common misconceptions about staging (and the truth behind them).

If you’re getting ready to sell in Texas, don’t skip this step. Staging could be the difference between a stressful listing and a fast, top-dollar sale.

Here to help!

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

12841 Jones Rd.#245

Houston, TX 77070

Ofc: 832-504-9014

TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

www.NextStepHomeLoans.com

NMLS# 1746763

Welcome back to Real Estate Pros of Houston! In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the FHA property standards — the minimum requirements a home must meet in order to qualify for FHA financing. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, understanding these standards can save you time, money, and headaches in the homebuying process. We’ll talk about what FHA looks for during an appraisal, common issues that can cause delays, and how to prepare so your transaction goes smoothly.”

You’ll learn:

• Why FHA property standards exist and how they protect buyers and lenders.

• The top repairs that can delay an FHA loan approval.

• How sellers and agents can prepare a home to meet FHA requirements.

• What buyers should look for before making an offer on an FHA-financed property.

If you’re navigating the FHA loan process, this episode will help you avoid surprises and keep your deal on track.

Enjoy this very informative episode.

Sponsored by:Next Step Home Loans, LLC

12841 Jones Rd.#245

Houston, TX 77070

Ofc: 832-504-9014

TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

www.NextStepHomeLoans.com

NMLS# 1746763

Welcome to another episode of Real Estate Pros of Houston! Today we're going to be talking about real estate essentials, focusing on seller-paid closing costs and the role of real estate attorneys in property transactions. Here's a brief description of what you can expect from this episode.

Understanding Seller Contributions: We'll explore when and why sellers might cover closing costs for buyers, including the specific rules for different loan types like FHA, VA, and conventional loans. This will cover how much sellers can contribute, with limits up to 3-9% for conventional loans, up to 6% for FHA loans, and potentially all closing costs plus an additional 4% in concessions for VA loans

Negotiating Concessions: Learn about seller concessions, also known as seller contributions or seller credits, and why they are a common negotiation strategy, especially in a buyer's market. We'll discuss what closing costs a seller can legally cover, such as attorney fees, title insurance, transfer taxes, real estate commissions, and municipal fees

Seller's Perspective on Costs: We'll touch on common closing costs for sellers, which can range from 6% to 10% of the sale price, including real estate agent commissions and transfer taxes and fees. We'll also cover other potential costs like paying off existing mortgages, prepayment penalties, and liens

The Importance of Legal Counsel: Discover why consulting a real estate attorney is crucial throughout the process, particularly when structuring requests for seller concessions or navigating complex transactions. We'll also discuss the typical costs associated with hiring a real estate attorney, which can range from $500 to over $3,000 depending on the complexity and location

Real Estate Market Insights: We'll discuss how these topics relate to overall market conditions and how the week's news may affect housing and mortgage rates.

Remember, today’s podcast is being presented and sponsored by Next Step Home Loans out of the Houston area. Next Step Home Loans is a mortgage broker licensed to originate and close loans throughout the state of Texas. They can be reached at 832-504-9014 or you can visit their website at www.NextstepHomeLoans.com. Ask for Mark or anyone on his team and they'll take great care of you. Or, you can drop Mark or his team an email at TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com.

Today’s podcast is being presented and sponsored by Next Step Home Loans out of the Houston area. Next Step Home Loans is a mortgage broker licensed to originate and close loans throughout the state of Texas. They can be reached at 832-504-9014 or you can visit their website at www.NextstepHomeLoans.com.

Ask for Mark or anyone on his team and they'll take great care of you. Or, you can drop Mark or his team an email at TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com.

Hope you enjoy the episode and find it educational!

Welcome back to Real Estate Pros of Houston, the show where we bring clarity, strategy, and local insight to everything real estate. I'm your host, Mark Zachary.

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most critical—and misunderstood—factors in a successful home sale: pricing. In 2025, overpricing has become the leading reason homes sit on the market with no offers. While professional advice urges the use of comps, online value tools, and the pricing pyramid, everyday sellers and buyers on forums like Reddit echo the same truth: any house will sell if the price is right.

We’ll dive into how current mortgage rates—still higher than recent lows but under the historical average—are shaping buyer behavior, and why adapting your price to market shifts is more important than ever. Whether you're a listing agent, a homeowner, or just curious about today’s real estate dynamics, this episode will show you how strategic pricing can mean the difference between sold and stuck.

Let’s get started.

Next Step Home Loans, LLC

12841 Jones Rd.#245

Houston, TX 77070

Ofc: 832-504-9014

TeamMark@NextStepHomeLoans.com

www.NextStepHomeLoans.com

NMLS# 1746763

Welcome back to Real Estate Pros of Houston — where we dive deep into the market forces, legislative changes, and professional strategies shaping real estate in Texas.

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the latest housing reforms — both at the federal level and right here in Texas. From new legislation impacting affordability and fair housing to state-level initiatives that could reshape development and zoning — we’re breaking down what it all means for homebuyers, investors, and real estate professionals alike. Whether you’re in lending, real estate, or looking to buy or sell, this episode gives you the insights you need to stay informed and ahead of the game.

We’ll cover:

• Key provisions of the new federal housing legislation

• Texas-specific reforms affecting builders, cities, and homeowners

• The potential impact on affordability and access to financing

• What real estate professionals need to prepare for

• How buyers and sellers can adjust their strategies

Whether you're a Realtor®, builder, investor, or buyer, this episode delivers the context and clarity you need to navigate what's coming next in housing policy.

Let’s get into it.