Episode: Flipped, Fumbled, and Fighting to Close

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Elevate and Execute, the team dives into the chaos of a recent flip deal gone sideways, highlighting the importance of knowing your contracts, preparing for worst-case scenarios, and navigating real estate deals with confidence. From over-the-top inspection requests to last-minute buyer fallout, they share a real-world story of how one seller nearly lost everything (and what they did about it).

They also discuss the tricky legal gray areas of lease-option buyers, final walkthrough issues, and how storms, yes, literal tornadoes—can derail closings. Full of lessons, war stories, and hard-earned advice, this episode is a must-listen for flippers, agents, and real estate investors.

What You’ll Learn:

• What to do when a buyer backs out days before closing
• How legal contracts protect sellers (and what to look for)
• The truth about buyer inspection negotiations
• Final walkthrough horror stories and how to prevent them
• Why working with experienced agents (and attorneys) matters
• Navigating tornado damage and escrows during closing
• Why Saint Louis’s contract structure is unique and how to use it wisely
• Creative deal ideas for solving last-minute move-out and funding issues

Notable Quotes:

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Episode: Getting Out of the Rat Race

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

Episode Summary:

In this raw and honest episode, the team dives into what it really means to "get out of the rat race"and why so many people are stuck in it without realizing. Drawing from their own experiences leaving corporate jobs, Kyle, Brian, and David talk about the mindset shifts, risks, failures, and small wins that eventually led them to freedom.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's ever felt trapped in the 9-to-5 grind and wants to break out. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or just want more control over your time, this conversation offers both the inspiration and the practical reality of what it takes to make that leap.

What You’ll Learn:

• What the “rat race” really is (beyond just a job you don’t like)
• How corporate America lulls people into a false sense of security
• The real risks of staying in a job you hate
• Why mindset is the first battle you have to win
• The importance of side hustles and proof of concept before quitting
• How to mentally and financially prepare to leave your job
• The value of surrounding yourself with people who’ve done it
• Why having your spouse or family’s support makes all the difference

Notable Quotes:

⚠️ Content Note:

This episode contains some explicit language.

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If this episode inspired you to take action or re-evaluate where you’re headed, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

You don’t have to stay stuck. There’s a way out—and it starts here.

Hosts: Kyle Fernandez, Brian Preston, David Ounanian

Episode Summary:

In this practical and timely episode, the Elevate and Execute team breaks down everything sellers (and agents) need to know heading into the summer real estate market. They discuss the sudden surge in seller activity as people get off the sidelines, what home improvements actually help you get top dollar, and how to prepare your home so it sells quickly and profitably in a hot market.

The team also shares why pricing strategy is key, how to navigate competing offers, and what sellers should expect in the Saint Louis market—plus tips on finding your next home once your current one sells.

What You’ll Learn:

Why clutter and personalization matter (and when personal photos can help or hurt)

Which updates pay off and which don’t (like roofs and HVAC)

How Zillow’s Zestimate can mislead sellers, and why expert pricing is essential

The two reasons homes don’t sell: price and location

Why negotiating up is always better than negotiating down

Strategies to get multiple offers and leverage competition

The importance of great media—drone, 3D tours, high-def photos—in marketing your home

How to vet an agent, especially if you’re buying or selling investment property

Notable Quotes:

“The home doesn’t sell for two reasons: price and location.”

“Price cures everything—it’s the easiest way to create competition.”

“There are a lot of bad agents out there. Do your homework before you hire one.”

Subscribe & Review:

If this episode gave you insight into selling your home faster, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone planning to sell this summer. An educated seller is an empowered seller.