Call the Closer with Lauren Risley Realty

St. Louis code violations, municipal occupancy rules and changing mortgage market trends take center stage in this episode. We break down why every municipality in St. Louis has different code requirements, what inspectors are actually looking for, and why some homes need major updates to get occupancy while others seem to sit untouched for years. If you’ve ever wondered why a simple permit turns...

In this episode we’re asking the big question Do interest rates really matter as much as people think? We break down how today’s buyers and sellers are reacting to rates and why emotion often drives decisions more than math. Then we dive into the psychology behind multiple offers, exploring what makes people compete, stretch their budgets and chase the win. Whether you’re a buyer, seller or just f...

In this episode of Call the Closer we’re breaking down what a home warranty really is, what it covers, what it doesn’t and when it’s actually worth having. We’ll share real examples that separate protection from marketing promises, so buyers and homeowners know what to expect. Then we’ll shift gears and talk about style without the design overload. How to make your home feel fresh and personal wit...

In this episode we’re asking the big question Do interest rates really matter as much as people think? We break down how today’s buyers and sellers are reacting to rates and why emotion often drives decisions more than math. Then we dive into the psychology behind multiple offers, exploring what makes people compete, stretch their budgets and chase the win. Whether you’re a buyer, seller or just f...

In this episode, we’re diving into what AI can and can’t tell you about buying a home. From mortgage predictions to neighborhood insights, AI is a powerful tool, but it’s no replacement for real-world experience and local expertise. We’re also debuting our new segment, Home Buying Myths: Busted, uncovering the biggest misconceptions buyers still believe. Whether you’re tech curious or just house h...

This week we are diving into the truth behind those Zillow “Zestimates”and why they’re not always as accurate as you think, especially here in the Midwest. We’ll share real examples of homes that sold for more (and sometimes less) than what Zillow predicted and what really drives those value differences. From neighborhood nuances to recent renovations, we’ll unpack why an algorithm can’t always ca...

This week, we’re talking all things location and how what’s around your home can either boost or break your resale value. From railroad tracks and busy intersections to power lines and pet odors, we’ll break down the surprising factors that can make buyers hesitate. Then, we’ll play a round of “What Would You Do?” real scenarios from actual showings that test how buyers and agents react under pres...

This week we’re tackling one of the biggest questions homeowners are asking right now: Why would anyone refinance at today’s interest rates? Believe it or not, there are smart financial reasons to do it and we’ll break down when it actually makes sense. Then, we’re shifting gears to the “deal killers” the hidden issues, red flags and simple mistakes that can send your home sale crashing before clo...

On this week’s show we dig into the different types of home foundations and what every buyer and homeowner should look for when it comes to cracks, settling and long term stability. Understanding foundations is key whether you are inspecting a home to purchase or maintaining the property you already own. We also tackle one of the most common questions in real estate: can you really buy a house wit...

On this week’s show, we are breaking down the 5 biggest mistakes first time homebuyers make and how to avoid them in today’s competitive housing market. From skipping inspections to underestimating closing costs, we share tips to help new buyers save time, money and stress. We are also joined by our trusted lender Jayson Hardie to talk about why 9/10 millionaires own real estate and what that mean...

On this week’s show, we dive into why home inspections are one of the most important steps in buying a house and how regular inspections can protect your investment even if you’ve lived in your home for 10 years. We’ll break down what inspectors look for, how to spot red flags, and why skipping an inspection can cost homeowners big in the long run. Then, we shift gears to the hot topic of how to s...

On this episode, we dive into a hot topic: is a college degree really worth the investment? We talk with a lender to get their perspective on the true ROI of higher education and what borrowers need to consider before taking on student debt. Then we switch gears with some jaw-dropping, unbelievable real estate stories from the whole Lauren Risley Realty Team, you won’t believe actually happened. F...

On this week’s show, we sit down with foundation specialist Weston from High & Dry Foundation to share expert foundation tips for keeping your home in top condition. We’ll also dive into small space, big design ideas from functional furniture solutions to clever design elements that make any room feel larger. Whether you’re worried about foundation maintenance or looking for space-saving inter...

Are you stuck in a rent vs. own mindset battle? In this episode, we break down the financial and lifestyle factors that help you decide if buying a home is right for you. Then, we tackle one of the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs and freelancers how to get pre-approved when you’re self employed. Learn insider tips on income documentation, credit readiness and lender requirements so you can move...

In this episode, we team up with our trusted home inspector Joe Docter what we like to call “Doctor Knows Best”. He will walk us through a full ‘home check-up’ the must-know maintenance tips that protect your investment and boost your property’s value. Then, we tackle the big question on every homeowner’s mind: will the real estate market crash in 2025? Get expert insights, market trends and pract...

It’s here! The Big Beautiful Bill that every homeowner dreads… but what if it could actually work for you? In this episode, we decode your property tax bill, reveal hidden clues about your home’s value and show you how to use real estate leverage to build serious wealth. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, you’ll learn how to turn what feels like a bill into a blueprint for financial fre...

Ready to sell? Don’t let the wrong agent or bad design cost you thousands. In this episode, uncover the exact questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent and the surprising home design mistakes that instantly turn buyers off. Learn insider strategies to hire smart, stage beautifully and sell for top dollar. Perfect for anyone who wants to avoid costly missteps and wow buyers from the moment...

This week we’re pulling back the curtain on home appraisals and answering the most common questions and revealing what really goes on behind the scenes. From how appraisers determine value to what can make or break a number, we’ve got the insider insight buyers and sellers need. Then we shift gears to explore how real estate can be a powerful hedge against inflation protecting your wealth when pri...

This week’s show dives into how bad curb appeal can kill a sale and what quick, affordable fixes make the biggest impact. We’ll cover common exterior mistakes that turn buyers off and how to boost your home’s first impression. Then we’re joined by Joe Doctor, a home inspector, to talk all things foundations from hairline cracks to major red flags. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just maintainin...

Today we are tackling the big question on everyone’s mind: what’s next for interest rates? We’ll talk about where they’ve been, where they’re heading and why the phrase “what goes up must come down” might offer some hope. Then we shift gears to explore how to create luxury on a budget, with smart design and investment tips that elevate your space without draining your wallet. Whether you’re rate w...

Join us as we sharing practical home tips every homeowner should know. From simple maintenance hacks to small upgrades that pack big value. Then we dig into the current market: is it finally cooling off or just taking a breather? We’ll break down what the latest data means for buyers & seller. Whether you’re staying put or planning your next move, this episode keeps you informed and ahead of t...

We dive into the legal storm surrounding McBride Homes and what it could mean for homebuyers past and present. Then we shift gears to one of the most debated design choices today: open concept vs. defined spaces. Whether you’re planning your next home or just love a good real estate discussion, this episode brings insight, opinions and a fresh perspective. 

Discover how the colors and designs you choose inside your home can shape mood, function, and buyer appeal. We’ll also explore how smart outdoor spaces not only enhance your lifestyle but add real value to your property. Tune in for practical tips to create spaces inside and out that truly speak to you and future buyers. 

Understanding your credit score is more important than ever, especially when it comes to what lenders are really looking for beyond just the number. We’ll break down the key factors that impact loan approval and how to position yourself for the best rates. Then, we’ll shift gears to explore smart strategies for downsizing or finding the right home as you approach or enjoy retirement. Whether you’r...

As more families embrace multigenerational living, we’ll dive into the benefits, challenges and key considerations for making it work under one roof. We’re also shedding light on the hidden value of home inspections not just for buyers but for longtime homeowners too. Discover how a proactive inspection can help you protect your investment, plan for future repairs and avoid costly surprises.