Keys & Gears

Most buyers fear the home inspection — but understanding what’s actually happening can turn fear into confidence. In this episode, Bess Dickson and Mark Liesner share a clear, practical guide to what you should expect during a home inspection so you can make informed decisions about your purchase. You’ll learn the real cost of an inspection, why reports are often 30–70 pages long, and how inspecto...

Choosing the right home inspector can make or break how confident you feel about your home purchase. In this episode, Bess Dickson and Mark Liesner walk through the exact qualities, qualifications, and communication style you should look for when selecting a home inspector. You’ll learn why inspectors function like general practitioners — trained to identify issues, not diagnose future problems —...

If you’ve ever wondered why your electric bill is so high — or how much it truly costs to own a home — this episode is essential. Mark Liesner and Bess Dickson break down the hidden energy drains that drive up your monthly expenses and show you how to calculate your home’s real operating costs. You’ll learn why poor HVAC efficiency, bad insulation, and aging windows have a massive impact on your e...

Most homeowners plan for their mortgage. Few plan for the repairs. In this episode of Keys & Gears, Mark Liesner and Bess Dickson break down the financial systems every homeowner needs to avoid going into debt when sudden repairs happen. Mark explains the 1% Rule — the essential formula for estimating annual maintenance costs — and walks through exactly how much you should store in a dedicated...

Condo ownership comes with more than just monthly fees. In this episode of Keys & Gears, Bess Dickson and Mark Liesner break down the hidden financial dangers that many buyers overlook — especially special assessments . You’ll learn what special assessments really are, why they happen, and how they can instantly derail even the most careful budget. Bess and Mark also share the red flags buyers...

Buying into an HOA comes with financial obligations, legal considerations, and long-term implications for your resale value — which is why doing proper due diligence is essential. In this episode, Bess Dickson and Mark Liesner break down the exact checks buyers should perform before buying an HOA home. You’ll learn why HOA lawsuits affect financing, how to assess board transparency through meeting...

Buying in an HOA community comes with rules, financial responsibilities, and potential red flags — which is why asking the right questions upfront is essential. In this episode of Keys & Gears, Bess Dickson and Mark Liesner walk you through the six most important questions every homebuyer must ask before purchasing an HOA property. You’ll learn how to identify financial red flags in an HOA bud...