Welcome to the Top Podcast

What do you see when you look at a market report? For some, it’s just data. For others, it’s a story waiting to be told. In this episode, Past President David Long and Broker/Owner Chris Tye break down how they each interpret market reports—and how those insights can be used to educate clients, influence strategy, and stay ahead of market trends. Whether you're data-driven or more focused on...

In this episode, we welcome back Marvin Jolly, Regional President and Past NAR RVP, to explore the mission and impact of the American Property Owners Alliance (APOA). Marvin discusses how this nonprofit and nonpartisan organization partners with NAR to amplify advocacy for property rights, not just for REALTORS®, but for homeowners nationwide. Tune in to hear how APOA is helping shape legislation...

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Welcome to the Top tackles one of the most important, and often overlooked, aspects of professional success—mental health. Hosts Jennifer Parker and Jonna Fernandez are joined by CCAR’s own Becky Pfaff, a former addictions counselor and current Professional Development team member, who brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to the conversation. Together...

In this episode of Welcome to the Top , we're joined by Vanessa Martin, Co-Founder of Tether RE—an award-winning transaction platform transforming how real estate professionals communicate and collaborate. After winning top honors at both the 2024 NAR iOi Summit and the T3 Technology Summit Pitch Battles, Tether RE is making major waves, and CCAR is proud to be the first association to offer...

In this episode of Welcome to the Top , CCAR President Jennifer Parker breaks down the complex world of property taxes. Parker explains why values aren’t the villain, the importance of understanding local budgets and how to best prepare if you plan to file a protest this year. Whether you're a real estate professional or a homeowner, this episode is packed with must-know info that will empowe...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jason Petrie, CCAR’s Government Affairs Director, and Marvin Jolly, Past Chairman of Texas REALTORS® and Past President of CCAR. Together, they’ll share key takeaways from the recent Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting and discuss the critical policy issues shaping our industry today. Tune in to learn: The most important legislative updates for real estate professionals...

In this episode of Welcome to the Top , we sit down with Luke Hamlett, Vice Chair of CCAR's Community Outreach Committee, to talk about the upcoming Roadmap to Homeownership event. On March 29, this event will provide information for homebuyers to better understand and prepare for the home-buying process in North Texas. Luke shares how this hyper-local event is designed to guide attendees thr...

In this episode of Welcome to the Top , we sit down with Kristin Smith, a REALTOR®, investor, and speaker who made waves on HGTV’s Battle on the Beach . From flipping homes on national TV to sharing tips on creating a standout social media presence, Kristin offers an exclusive look behind the scenes of her HGTV experience and how it’s impacted her real estate career. Learn about the challenges and...

In this special episode of Welcome to the Top , we sit down with Kara Shrum from the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County (CACCC) to discuss their vital mission of providing safety, healing, and justice for children and families affected by abuse. Kara shares the impactful work CACCC does, from housing comprehensive services under one roof to empowering the community through education and a...

In this compelling episode of Welcome to the Top , we sit down with Amy Hanson, President of the National Association of Residential Property Managers and Texas REALTORS® Director, to discuss a critical situation involving HOAs and property rights. Hanson shares insights from her over 20 years in property management, recounting how a proposed rental ban in a Texas subdivision threatened property o...

In this week's episode, we sit down with Jason Craig, President of IRA Resources, Inc., to explore the world of self-directed IRAs. Jason breaks down everything you need to know, from the basics to the finer details that could reshape your financial future. Here's what we cover: What is a self-directed IRA? Understand the concept and its unique flexibility. Who can have a self-directed I...

Are you feeling stuck? Do you have big goals for 2025? If so, this is the episode for you. Listen as top-producing agent, Co-Founder of VIVO Realty and Managing Broker Bernice Maez shares how her passion for education began and what courses can help you get ahead. 

In honor of Veterans Day, we’re thrilled to welcome Mark Alexander, DFW Mortgage Business Development Officer for Navy Federal Credit Union, to a special episode of Welcome to the Top. Mark brings a wealth of knowledge on VA loans, and he's here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about how these loans can open doors to homeownership for veterans and their families. Join us...

Are you real-estate-curious? Planning a new career for your new year? Then this is the episode for you! Listen in as Linda Chase, Champions School DFW Regional Manager, covers the educational process, pass rates and requirements to unlock a career in real estate. 

On this episode of Welcome to the Top, Chase Crenshaw and Ross Gillispie from Alliance Bank discuss what effects the NAR Settlement has had on the lending side of a real estate transaction. Hint: The ball is always in your court. 

Required practice changes have been implemented. Now what?  On this week's episode of Welcome to the Top Melissa Hailey, CCAR Instructor, Broker and TREC Broker/Lawyer Committee member discusses how to discuss NAR Settlement changes with your clients and the forms you should be using. 

On this episode of Welcome to the Top, Meredith Martin, American Home Shield Market Manager, discusses what a home warranty is, what transactions need one, who pays for it and more. Don't be shy. Home Warranties are back in style, and this is what your clients need you to know. 

In this episode of Welcome to the Top, Glynn Mosier, Business Development for Independence Title, discusses who the Title Company works for, its key responsibilities, how often a title report contains surprises, what happens if a title problem comes to light after closing and much more. This is one for you to listen to and share with your clients! 

Did you miss NAR's 2024 Legislative Meeting in Washington DC? Have no fear, Kayla Click, CCAR TREPAC Chair and TREPAC Trustee Region 4, and David Long, CCAR Past President and We Are Real Estate Broker/Owner, share all the highlights you need to know in this Welcome to the Top episode. 

Who better to market yourself than YOU?   On this week's podcast Sam Smith, REALTOR®,  Director of Training,  Coach and Mentor, shares tech tips that you can implement today to streamline and grow your business. 

The good, the bad and the ugly. Listen to hear the emerging trends Sean Clemmensen, Attorney at Law and Tiago Title General Counsel, is seeing.    In this information-packed 15-minute episode, you will hear legal counsel discuss imposter fraud, contract issues, increased closings, assumable loans, and more.

On this week's Welcome to the Top episode, Pius Dawson, NAR Global Ambassador to Austria & Germany and Texas Realtor Global Liaison, discusses how REALTORS® can expand their geographic area of practice.  Listen as Dawson addresses competency concerns, how global starts at your doorstep, and how the Certified International Property Specialist Designation (CIPS) can help you open doors in n...

In this episode, we sit down with Brandi Snowden, the Director of Member and Consumer Survey Research at the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Snowden sheds light on the fascinating world of real estate market research and survey creation.  Have you ever read NAR's Homebuyer report and wondered how reliable the data is or how survey participants are selected? If so, this episode is for...

Guiding clients on schools and the age of a neighborhood can quickly turn into steering if an agent is not careful. On this week's episode of Welcome to the Top,  Ericka Alvarez, Managing Broker at Coldwell Banker Rockwall, Past President of the Collin County Women’s Council of Realtors and Texas Realtors Director, discusses how agents can best serve their clients as they find a place to call...

Listen as CCAR President Jamuna Thill,  President-Elect Jennifer Parker, Secretary/Treasurer Kyle Paris, and Immediate Past President Shana Acquisto discuss NAR's proposed settlement.  Listeners will hear from CCAR Executive Committee members as they share their thoughts on how this will affect the real estate industry, key practice changes you should prepare for and a timeline for key milest...