Are fireplaces a dream feature or a hidden danger? In this episode of The Den, hosts Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen tackle everything homeowners overlook when it comes to fireplaces. Whether it's chimney safety, outdated inserts, or the pros and cons of gas versus wood burning, this conversation is packed with insights for buyers, sellers, and homeowners alike. From potbelly stoves to modern gas logs, the team unpacks safety risks, insurance implications, and practical advice for maintaining and upgrading fireplaces in the Four Corners region and beyond.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Fireplace maintenance is essential for homeowner safety
• Chimney caps and spark arrestors help prevent roof fires
• Creosote buildup can cause dangerous flue fires
• Pellet stoves are efficient but rely on electricity and fuel supply
• Insert systems help protect old chimney structures
• Gas logs offer convenience but require upkeep
• Electric fireplaces are low-maintenance but add no real value
• Fireplaces may not impact home value but are preference-driven
• Old fireplace setups can hide major safety issues
• Annual inspections are critical, especially before winter use

BEST MOMENTS

00:03:13. “The soot, the creosote buildup in the flue? That is highly flammable.”
00:04:30. “You could easily have an ember go straight up your chimney and... then you've got a problem.”
00:05:03. “So when you said open air fire pit, I was like, that's not code in New Mexico.”
00:06:44. “It's not safe. So we haven't used that one.”
00:10:00. “I love listening to the crackling fire... not when it fills my house with smoke.”
00:13:13. “Electricity goes out. That’s what the pellet stoves work on.”
00:16:39. “That gas log fireplace almost burned us out of there.”
00:17:19. “I can’t even sleep with my Christmas tree on, let alone a fire.”
00:26:09. “Gas log fireplaces are a little bit more desirable because they’re easy.”

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Is renting the new reality? In this episode of The Den, hosts Ben, Paul, Shannon, and Aspen tackle the ongoing migration from homeownership to renting. With local housing inventory shrinking and affordability tightening across the Four Corners, they ask the tough question - is this a long-term shift or a temporary fix? Whether you're a first-time buyer, long-time homeowner, or active real estate professional, this candid roundtable breaks down current market pressures, personal finance choices, and strategic timing in today’s market. Tune in for insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

Key Takeaways:
• Affordability is the top factor driving more people to rent
• Shrinking inventory under $300k is limiting buyer options
• Interest rates are still making renting more attractive for many
• Families may be priced out of “starter homes” completely
• Renting offers flexibility without the maintenance burden
• Wages are not keeping pace with housing or living costs
• Builders lack incentives to create truly affordable housing
• New Mexico’s free childcare and education programs could help
• Real estate timing should align with personal financial readiness
• Owning remains the top path to long-term wealth, but only when the time is right

Best Moments:

00:02:03. “Affordability - I think that's our biggest issue right now.”
00:03:14. “74 homes under $300k in San Juan County - and most aren't family-ready.”
00:04:15. “You're paying $2,200 a month for a home that might not meet your needs.”
00:06:11. “If you're a traveler or a nomad, renting might make more sense.”
00:09:24. “Right now, I think it's a good idea to just sit and wait. Stack your chips.”
00:11:05. “Wages are so low, even renting is unaffordable for many.”
00:13:46. “Somebody has to take a hit for affordability... and right now, it's the buyer.”
00:28:08. “Homeownership builds wealth, but renting is a great strategic step.”

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Is a 50-Year Mortgage the Key to Homeownership or a Debt Trap?
In this episode of The Den, powered by the Lyons Group, hosts Ben Lyons, Paul Barry, and Shannon Martinez dive into one of the most hotly debated real estate trends emerging in the market: 50-year mortgages. Are they a strategic tool to increase affordability or a dangerous path to long-term financial strain? Backed by real-world numbers, personal experiences, and insights from over 400 million in real estate sales, this episode breaks it all down. Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or real estate professional, this conversation will challenge your thinking and expand your strategy toolkit.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• 50-year mortgages are being floated as a new affordability tool
• Most homeowners don’t keep their mortgage for the full term anyway
• Lower monthly payments could help entry-level buyers get in the game
• Real-life example comparing 15, 30, and 50-year mortgages
• Total interest paid on 50-year loans is significantly higher
• These long-term loans are best viewed as flexible tools, not long-term commitments
• Renting vs. building equity through ownership, even with minimal principal paid
• Portable mortgages are already in use in Canada and could hit the U.S.
• Down payments and closing costs remain the biggest barrier to ownership
• Strategic planning is key to using these tools wisely and avoiding future debt traps

BEST MOMENTS:

00:02:05. “Nobody ever really pays off a 30 year loan. So who cares about the back end of a 50 year?”
00:03:40. “50 year mortgage. You’re looking at a total monthly payment of $1,275.”
00:05:02. “The total interest paid on a 50 year mortgage would be $765,000.”
00:08:15. “Even if you don’t pay down a penny, market growth can still give you equity.”
00:13:09. “We don’t want people to necessarily pay 50 years, but use it as a tool to build wealth.”
00:17:50. “It’s the long game. That’s the idea with real estate and student loans too.”
00:21:00. “I would buy an investment property and pay on it like a 15, but with flexibility.”
00:24:38. “In Canada, you can move your current interest rate to a new asset. That’s wild.”

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