Business Episodes

Are you better off growing your business as a solo vs team Realtor in the 2026 housing market? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, host Mike Mills and guest Lauren Kerschen of ARC Realty explore how agents can thrive through market shifts using structure, technology, and strategy. Learn how commission splits really work, why burnout hits solo agents hardest, and how top teams use AI tools and CRMs to automate lead generation and client follow-up. Perfect for Realtors deciding whether to go solo or join a team as the Texas market heats up.

Realtor strategies falling rates are front and center in this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast. How should Realtors guide clients when Fed rate cuts don’t always mean lower mortgage rates? Mike Mills and guest Steve Barton, Executive VP of Sales at Service First Mortgage, break down how bond markets, inflation, and housing inventory truly drive mortgage costs. They share practical strategies for timing refinances, using seller concessions, and building databases that protect long-term business growth. If you’re a Realtor wondering how to navigate falling rates while helping clients build wealth, this episode delivers clear, actionable insights.

How can Realtors uncover new land income opportunities for clients and investors? In this episode, Mike Mills interviews Caylee Harrington, CEO of HookHub, to explore how vacant lots and rural property can generate passive income through RV rentals, storage, and long-term stays. Realtors will learn how to present listings with built-in cash flow, explain liability protections, and use real-world pricing data to show value. From travel nurses to remote workers, demand is growing fast—and agents who understand these strategies can boost property value, stand out in listing presentations, and help clients turn unused land into consistent income.

How can Realtors find motivated sellers and build stronger pipelines in any market? Texas probate real estate may be the answer. In this episode, Harvard-trained attorney Carey Worrell explains how heirs selling inherited homes create unique opportunities for Realtors ready to act. You’ll learn how to spot probate property opportunities, avoid probate title issues, and form Realtor–attorney partnerships that generate steady referrals. Mike and Carey also explore how AI probate lead generation tools are reshaping the search for hidden listings. If you want practical strategies for growth, this conversation delivers clear, actionable steps for real estate professionals.

Confused about when mortgage rates will finally drop? In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, we dive deep into Mortgage Rate Forecasting for 2025. Mike Mills sits down with Kendall Garrison, CEO of Amplify Credit Union, to break down the Fed’s recent rate decision, bond market signals, and how inflation, debt, and tariffs are shaping the future of housing. You’ll also hear why fee-free banking matters and how Realtors can guide clients with smart, long-term strategies. Packed with timely insights, this episode is a must-listen for any real estate professional navigating today’s economic uncertainty.

Unlock the power of Realtor CRM AI integration and take your real estate marketing to the next level. In this episode, Mike Mills interviews Adam Gillespie of Apex Elite AI, who shares how agents can use AI tools like Gamma.app, Notebook LM, and Suno to automate lead follow-ups, personalize outreach, and create dynamic listing presentations. From crafting better content for GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) to building smarter tech stacks, this conversation is packed with practical strategies real estate pros can apply today to save time, boost engagement, and stand out in a crowded market.

Housing crisis explained — mortgage rates remain stuck in the 6% range, national debt is ballooning, and home affordability is slipping away fast. In this episode, Mike Mills delivers a sharp, unfiltered look at what’s really keeping buyers sidelined, from $350K starter homes to soaring Treasury yields. Packed with Texas housing market data, price-to-payment comparisons, and the economic absurdities shaping 2025, this one’s a must-listen for real estate pros trying to survive the chaos.

🏡 Realtor AI Automation is transforming the real estate industry—helping agents generate leads, qualify buyers, and book appointments while they focus on closing deals. In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with Martin Tijmes, a top-producing agent and AI expert, to explore how AI-powered chatbots, smart CRMs, and automated follow-ups are revolutionizing lead management and client interactions. If you’re ready to scale your business, streamline operations, and stay ahead of the competition, this episode is a must-listen! 🚀

Texas home insurance rates are skyrocketing, and real estate professionals need to understand why. In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, Mike Mills sits down with insurance expert Brad Bingham to break down the real reasons behind rising Texas insurance rates—from extreme weather and inflation to hidden policy changes that leave homeowners underinsured. Learn how to compare policies, avoid costly mistakes, and implement smart strategies to lower insurance costs without sacrificing coverage. Don’t miss this insider guide to protecting your clients, your investments, and your wallet in today’s volatile insurance market!

The 2025 Housing Forecast is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years—will home prices crash, or will they keep rising? In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with James Kleimann, Managing Editor at HousingWire, to discuss mortgage rate predictions, housing affordability challenges, and key industry shifts impacting realtors and mortgage professionals. They explore the role of AI in real estate, potential Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac changes, and new commission regulations. Stay ahead of the competition with expert insights into housing trends and policy changes shaping the market in 2025.

Ready to transform your team into a real estate powerhouse? In this episode, we explore top strategies for Developing Real Estate Teams That Thrive with Alex Kutsishin, co-founder of Fuel. Alex shares actionable insights on boosting team performance, maintaining high standards, and fostering a growth-focused culture. Discover how to measure team progress, create impactful learning experiences, and build an environment where each member excels. Whether you're a seasoned broker or assembling your first team, this episode provides essential tools to lead with purpose and create a winning team in real estate.

In this episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we dive into the 2024 presidential election and its potential impact on real estate, focusing on Trump vs. Kamala Harris’s housing policies. Host Mike Mills and D.C. insider Michael Williams break down key policy differences, from affordable housing proposals to deregulation debates, revealing how these contrasting approaches could affect housing affordability and the real estate market. With election day just around the corner, don’t miss this essential analysis to understand how each candidate’s housing stance might shape the future of the industry for agents, investors, and loan officers.

What if organic lead generation could bring leads directly to you—without spending a dime on marketing? In this episode, we explore organic lead generation with real estate entrepreneur Kris Sachtleben, who built a massive network using Facebook Groups. Discover his proven strategies for creating thriving real estate communities that connect agents, investors, and wholesalers, leading to powerful business growth. Learn how to attract off-market property leads and generate organic connections to grow your business. Whether you're building your realtor brand or uncovering hidden opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

In this episode of the Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we explore how the Zavvie Power Buyer platform is revolutionizing real estate transactions. Host Mike Mills sits down with Maya Velasquez, Head of Growth at Zavvie, to discuss cutting-edge tools like cash offers and buy-before-you-sell programs. Discover how Zavvie helps real estate professionals close more deals and offer better solutions in today’s competitive, tech-driven market. If you’re ready to future-proof your business and provide enhanced options for your clients, this episode is essential listening. Tune in to learn more!

The Realtor Board Merger is more than just a local change—it's part of a growing national trend. In this episode, Mike Mills is joined by Corey Harris, president-elect of the Arlington Board of Realtors, to discuss how the MLS Consolidation Trends are reshaping Texas real estate. Corey shares insights on the decision-making process and what the upcoming vote means for realtors. Learn how these mergers could affect your MLS access, advocacy power, and long-term success. If you're a real estate professional looking to stay informed and navigate these changes, this episode is essential listening.

Navigating housing market regulations is challenging, especially when they affect real estate growth and affordability. In this episode, Mike Mills and Vance Ginn, Ph.D., explore key economic policies, from fiscal strategies to property tax reforms, impacting home prices and inventory. Gain insights on government interventions, commission changes, and competition laws that shape the real estate sector. This discussion offers practical advice for Realtors to understand the evolving market and thrive amid new regulations.

Maximizing property investments in today’s unpredictable market requires insider strategies that top investors use to turn undervalued properties into gold mines. In this episode, Brian Evans shares actionable advice on acquiring these properties, optimizing renovations, and managing risks, offering practical tips for both seasoned investors and beginners looking to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Unlock realtor productivity tools and secrets with Nikki Miller, VP of Lever by Movoto. Learn to use cutting-edge tools and systems to transform your business. Join Mike Mills as he and Nikki explore top Realtor productivity tools for 2024, discussing robust real estate systems, technology for lead management, and effective mentorship. Nikki shares her favorite tools that have helped her and other realtors excel. Don't miss this episode to enhance your productivity and close more deals!

Join Mike Mills in this enlightening episode as he explores refinance tips for 2024 and their significance for Texas homeowners. Covering declining mortgage rates and refinancing strategies, this episode offers valuable insights for Texas realtors and investors. Mike discusses current mortgage trends, the impact of inventory levels, and the rise of single women in homeownership. Tune in for expert advice on navigating the ever-changing Texas real estate market

Are you prepared for the changes coming to real estate commissions? Tune in to uncover the essential strategies for mastering your Realtor value proposition and clearly communicating your worth to clients. Join us as we explore invaluable tips and techniques to elevate your listing presentations and secure more listings. In this episode of the Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, we focus on mastering your Realtor value proposition in light of the recent changes to real estate commission structures. Host Mike Mills, a North Texas mortgage banker, is joined by luxury listing specialist Susan Mills. Together, they discuss how to clearly communicate your worth as a listing agent, prepare for listing presentations, and highlight your unique skills and experience. Key questions include how to justify your commission, strategies for effective home showings, and marketing tactics to stand out in the market. Tune in for actionable advice and expert tips to elevate your real estate busine…

What if you could spend less time on back-office work and more time building client relationships? Chris Heller, CEO of OJO and Movoto, discusses how real estate tech is transforming the industry. Join us to explore how technology can make your realtor tasks more efficient and effective. Real Estate Tech is at the forefront of this enlightening episode with Chris Heller, CEO of OJO and Movoto. Discover how Lever by Movoto is transforming the daily operations of real estate agents, making their jobs more efficient and effective. We delve into the specifics of leveraging technology for marketing, lead generation, and transaction management. Chris shares invaluable insights on how to maintain a personal touch while utilizing advanced tools. Learn about the integration of AI in real estate, the importance of database management, and how to keep up with industry changes. Tune in to get answers to your pressing questions about modern real estate practices and gain practical tips to enhan…

Leveraging Home Equity to Transform Your Financial Future: How can the value locked in your home work harder for you? Join us to uncover the secrets of using home equity not just for debt management, but as a stepping stone to financial prosperity. In this enlightening episode, join Mike Mills and guest Michael Kelleher as they delve into the myriad ways to use home equity for wealth building. They discuss innovative financial products and strategies that can maximize your real estate investments and provide insights into the current mortgage market. Learn how to use home equity to solve financial challenges and hear real-life examples of successful equity strategies.

With mortgage rates experiencing significant fluctuations, the upcoming summer housing market poses new challenges and opportunities. Will these mortgage rate trends lead to a buyer's market or a seller's slowdown? Find out in our latest deep dive into 2024's economic indicators. Mortgage Rate Trends are taking center stage in this episode as we explore the summer 2024 housing market. Discover what recent economic events mean for interest rates and how they could affect home sales. Gain insights into Federal Reserve policies, inflation influences, and what the latest job reports suggest for realtors and investors alike.

Are you ready to discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping the real estate market? This episode dives deep into Real Estate innovation and ways AI is influencing how properties are bought and sold, without a realtor in sight. Join us to uncover how these advancements could revolutionize your approach to real estate. Navigating New Technologies in Real Estate: In this episode, we explore how innovative platforms are challenging the traditional real estate transaction model. Hear from Amanda Orson of Galleon, who shares how her company uses AI to empower consumers directly. This detailed overview includes discussions on the broader implications for the real estate market and professional strategies in response to these tech-driven changes.