Keys to the Coast

One year. We honestly can’t believe we’re saying that. 🎉 In this special anniversary episode, we’re looking back on the first year of Keys to the Coast and sharing everything we’ve learned along the way, from the exciting moments to the behind-the-scenes challenges no one sees. Over the last year, we’ve had incredible conversations, welcomed amazing guests, shared stories from our community, and...

Spring is one of the most competitive—and opportunity-filled—times to sell your home.  In this episode of Keys to the Coast , Kensie, Kelly, and Sandi break down exactly how to prepare your home for the spring market so you can stand out, attract serious buyers, and maximize your value. And also how to prepare as a buyer to be competitive. From timing and prep strategies to pricing and common mist...

Home Insurance 101: What Every Buyer Should Know with Ben Kacprzyk Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make — and protecting that investment is just as important as purchasing it. In this episode of Keys to the Coast , Kensie and Kelly sit down with Ben Kacprzyk from Michigan Insurance & Financial Services (MIAFS) to break down the basics of home insurance. We...

In this episode of Keys to the Coast , Kensie and Kelly sit down with Eric Hesse from Lake Michigan Credit Union to break down the home buying and lending process in a way that’s clear, approachable, and empowering. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning ahead for a future move, understanding financing is one of the most important steps in the journey. Eric shares expert insights on pre-app...

In this episode of Keys to the Coast , we’re excited to introduce the newest member of the Sandi Gentry Team — Ryan Slack . Ryan’s path to real estate is anything but traditional. Before stepping into the world of buying and selling homes, Ryan spent years serving students and families as an Athletic Director at a local Christian high school. In that role, he built strong relationships, led with i...

🎙️We’re kicking off the New Year with a conversation about intentions, choosing a word for the year, and letting go of the pressure that often comes with resolutions, and goal setting. Kensie, Kelly, and Sandi share their personal words, what they’re hoping to cultivate this year, and why community and local businesses are at the heart of Keys to the Coast .  Topics We Cover: Resolutions vs. inten...

In this episode of Keys to the Coast , Mckensie introduces the newest powerhouse on the Sandi Gentry Team — Kendall Stratton , our new Social Media + Marketing Coordinator. With her beauty, wellness, and marketing background, aesthetic eye, and ability to bring strategy to the chaos, Kendall is already transforming the way we show up online. Together, Mckensie and Kendall dive into:  ✨ Kendall’s...

🎙️ Thanksgiving Special-Turkey Talk- Keys to the Coast Podcast In this light-hearted episode of Keys to the Coast , the crew gathers around the mic for a warm, funny, and nostalgia-filled conversation that feels just like sitting around the holiday table with friends. From playful debates over whether the turkey really deserved its national-bird status (sorry, eagle), to swapping stories about the...

In this cozy coffee-chat episode of Keys to the Coast , Kensie, Sandi, and Kelly catch up on life, real estate, and all things West Michigan. They dive into what’s happening in today’s market—from shifting buyer behavior to the reality behind rate changes—while sharing behind-the-scenes stories from their busy fall season. The trio also highlights their favorite local spots, seasonal traditions, a...

🎙️ Show Notes – Episode 12 of Keys to the Coast Title: Behind the Scenes of Real Estate Title with Julio Ramos When it comes to buying or selling a home, one step often feels like a mystery: title . What is it? Why do you need it? And what happens if there’s an issue? In this episode, Kensie sits down with Julio Ramos, Title Officer with Chicago Title , to demystify the world of real estate title....

🎙️ Episode 10 – “New Chapters & Community Roots with Bill Van Lopik” Keys to the Coast Podcast | Hosted by Mckensie Gentry 🔑 Episode Overview: In this episode, Mckensie sits down with someone who embodies what it means to serve — both in real estate and in life. Meet Bill Van Lopik : a former client turned real estate agent, a community leader, and a perfect example that it’s never too late t...

In this episode, Mckensie sits down with renowned interior designer Kristin McNeil , founder of Anne Rae Designs . With features in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, The NY Times , and more, Kristin has made her mark across the country — and now calls West Michigan home. Together, they talk about:  ✨ Kristin’s journey into design (and her move from California to Grand...

This week on Keys to the Coast , we’re diving into the magic that is Coast Guard Festival —and what a week it was! From hosting our 400+ person client appreciation party , to handing out 7,000 t-shirts at the parade, to sponsoring the street dance with Brena… our team was all in . Join Kensie and Sandi as they relive their favorite moments of the week—Sandi’s unforgettable ride on the Coast Guard...

🎙️ Episode 8: Rooted on the Lakeshore — The Wildflower Yoga StoryGuest: Delanie Fredricks, Owner of Wildflower Yoga Studio In this inspiring episode, Kensie sits down with local business owner and yoga instructor Delanie Fredricks, the founder of Wildflower Yoga Studio. What began as a vision for a calm, welcoming space has blossomed into a thriving studio rooted in connection, community, and coas...

🎙️ Episode Title : The Spring & Summer Real Estate Myth🌸☀️—Busted or Backed?  📍 Podcast : Keys to the Coast with Kensie & Kelly Episode Summary: Spring is the season everyone talks about in real estate—but is it really the best time to buy or sell? In this episode, Kensie and Kelly break down: Why spring gets all the hype in real estate What the data actually shows about spring sales Pro...

In this episode of Keys to the Coast, Mckensie and Sandi discuss the challenges buyers face in competitive real estate markets, particularly during bidding wars. They provide valuable tips on how to make offers stand out without exceeding budgets, emphasizing the importance of pre-approval, flexible timelines, and effective communication with sellers. The conversation also touches on the seller&ap...

Being a full-time realtor, mom, wife, and human isn’t easy—but somehow, we’re doing it… one coffee and calendar reminder at a time. In this episode we sit down with fellow agent and close friend, Hannah, for a real (and funny) conversation about what it actually looks like to balance career, family, and real life. From behind-the-scenes mom fails to honest talk about boundaries, burnout, and redef...

🎙 Episode 4 – Big Wins, Big Lessons with Tyler Cook In this episode, Kensie sits down with her brother-in-law and fellow real estate agent, Tyler Cook , for a candid conversation about the highs and lows of the real estate journey. From deals that almost fell apart to surprising wins, Tyler shares what he’s learned through it all. 🔑 Inside this episode: Tyler’s path into real estate and what drew...

In this episode of Keys to the Coast, host Kensie and real estate expert Kelly Radel discuss the current state of the West Michigan real estate market.   They explore market trends, buyer demand, and provide valuable advice for both buyers and sellers. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics, the impact of equity on home sales, and the significance of accurate p...

We're diving into the best hidden gems in West Michigan — and introducing the amazing Sarah Wood , our executive assistant and right hand! 🙌⁠ ⁠ From secret trails to cozy campsites and the dreamiest sunset beaches, Sarah shares her top picks and some local knowledge you won’t want to miss. 🌲🌅⁠ ⁠ 🌿 Hidden hikes: • Owasippe Trail (Twin Lake): owasippeadventure.com/trails • Kitchel Lindquist...

In the inaugural episode of the Keys to the Coast podcast, Mckensie and Sandi Gentry introduce their real estate team and share their passion for the West Michigan community, and why we created Keys to the Coast. We discuss our backgrounds in real estate, the importance of client relationships, and the evolution of the team over the years.  The episode emphasizes the heart of real estate beyond tr...

Introducing.... Keys to the Coast with The Sandi Gentry Team. A local West Michigan Podcast Bringing you the people, places, and properties that make our beautiful West Michigan coast home. Welcome to Keys to the Coast with The Sandi Gentry Team, join us as we explore West Michigan’s lakeshore lifestyle—one story at a time. From expert real estate tips and market trends to community spotlights, de...