The Chip Hodgkins Podcast

If you're getting ready to sell your home in Central New York, be careful about who you take renovation advice from. A lot of contractors will tell you that certain upgrades will dramatically increase your home's value, but in our experience, that's not how it works. In this video, we break down why the advice you're getting from contractors about home improvements and value could cost you thousan...

If you can't find what you want on the resale market right now, new construction might be the move. But walking into a builder's office without your own representation is a mistake that can cost you in ways most buyers don't see until it's too late. In our video, we explain why having a skilled Realtor on your side when buying new construction changes the entire outcome. Watch our video before you...

When buyers walk into a home, the first thing they notice isn't the kitchen or the layout. It's the smell. Most sellers either ignore it or try to cover it up with candles and air fresheners, and both approaches can backfire in a big way. In this video, we break down the specific smells that push buyers away and the right way to handle them before your next showing. Watch our video to make sure yo...

Your home can look modern and buyer-ready without spending a fortune. In this video, we show the top updates that make living spaces shine, catch buyers’ eyes, and leave a lasting impression. These updates should keep your home looking great for the next three to five years. Check out our video for more tips.

Are you worried about picking the wrong person to sell your biggest asset? In 2026’s selective market, the agent you choose is your single biggest advantage—or your biggest liability. We’ll walk you through the four-point vetting process we’d use ourselves: how to spot a hyperlocal expert, dissect a marketing plan, demand real data, and ensure the personal chemistry is right. If you’re serious abo...

The holiday season is here, and I’m feeling all the good vibes! I’m grateful for all the amazing people I’ve gotten to meet, and helping you find new spaces or start fresh has truly been one of the highlights of my career. You’ve made this journey meaningful and a whole lot of fun. Here’s a quick, festive holiday message from me to kick off the season.

Looking for a real estate expert who knows Syracuse inside and out? We're excited to introduce our newest local expert at the Hodgkins Home Team! Meet your newest Syracuse real estate expert, Ed Molloy. With experience, care, and deep local knowledge, he’s here to guide you through every step of your real estate journey. Click here to see why he’s an incredible addition to our team.

Are you wondering if it makes sense to wait until spring to sell your Central New York home? Many homeowners assume the busiest season is always the best, but that’s not the full story. Today, I’ll walk you through why fall and winter often bring less competition, more motivated buyers, and stronger negotiating power. You’ll discover how the timing of your life can matter more than the timing of t...

Is your home ready for the winter season? As temperatures drop, homeowners could encounter expensive repairs that they could have avoided with a little preparation. In this video, I’ll share simple yet crucial steps to safeguard your home from the cold months ahead and prevent common problems like frozen pipes, roof leaks, and more. Check out my latest video to know how to winter-proof your home a...

We’re thrilled to introduce Heather Morgan as the newest member of our team! Heather grew up in the Manlius area and knows the Syracuse region inside and out. Today, we'll talk about how her background in land acquisition and residential real estate brings fresh value to our clients. You’ll see how her local knowledge and professional insight make her a strong resource for buyers and sellers. Take...

AI-powered home value tools are everywhere in 2025, but how accurate are they? If you’re relying on an algorithm to price your biggest asset, it might be undervalued. Today, I’ll break down when AI gets it right, when it misses the mark, and why working with a local agent still makes all the difference when it’s time to sell. I’ll tell you this: it’s great at giving you a quick home estimate, but...

We’re so excited for you to meet the newest member of the Hodgkins Homes team! Taylor Kanavy brings years of experience and a strong background in customer service. In this video, I will introduce Taylor and share how he’s already making an impact with local buyers. You’ll see what makes him a valuable addition to the team and how he’s helping clients meet their goals. Take a minute to meet Taylor...

Are you thinking about selling your home this spring but unsure which upgrades will actually add value? With so many options out there, you might end up wasting money on improvements that won’t make much of a difference. That’s why today, I’ll walk you through high ROI upgrades that can effectively boost your home’s value without breaking the bank. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes and foc...

Are you curious about what your home is actually worth? Whether you’re looking to sell in the near future, are considering refinancing, or just want to know how much equity you have, your real estate plans should start with an accurate home valuation. I’ve helped countless homeowners find out their property’s true value, which is why today, I’m sharing three ways to find out what your house is wor...

What is the best way to stage a home while you’re still living in it? The truth is that this process can be a little tricky, but it’s worth it: staged homes sell 13% higher on average and often bring in more money. Fortunately, I’ve helped countless homeowners stage their properties while living in them, so today, I’ll go over five of the best tips I’ve learned on the job. First, declutter and pac...

Buying or selling a home in Syracuse can be challenging without the right guidance. Too many buyers overpay, and sellers miss out on maximizing their home’s value. That’s why people trust us to provide expert insight and unmatched service. I’m sharing Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran’s testimony and why she trusts us for all her real estate needs in Syracuse. We outsell the average agent 40 to 1,...

Are you struggling to find a real estate agent who truly has your back? The right agent should be detail-oriented, well-connected, and committed to a smooth process. Meet Wan’que Green, the newest addition to Hodgkins Homes, who brings experience and precision to every transaction. From contracts to contractor recommendations, she knows exactly who to call. Just watch our video to learn more.

Want to sell your home but don’t know how to get it ready for the open market? I know it can be overwhelming to prepare your home for sale, but it’s worth it: In this market, quality homes sell fast, while others run the risk of sitting for a long time without any offers. That’s why today, I’m sharing three simple tips you can follow to attract the most buyer attention possible. You’ll learn how t...