The Chris Schmalz Podcast

Have you ever wondered why some homes sit for months, or even a full year, without ever selling? I want to tell you about a home right here in Pocatello that did exactly that, listed with two different agents and expired after more than a year. In this video, I walk through what was actually holding it back and the honest conversation that turned it around, including the one number I recommended t...

Are you planning to sell your home this spring? Before you start a major renovation, you should know that the most expensive upgrades are rarely the ones that give you the best return. According to the latest industry data, a new garage door can return nearly three times what you spend, while a high-end kitchen remodel returns less than 40 cents on the dollar. In this video, I’ll break down the th...

If the last time you bought or sold a home was before 2024, the commission process looks a little different now. Back in 2024, the National Association of Realtors settled a major lawsuit that changed how buyer's agent fees are handled. The headlines made it sound dramatic, but the reality is a lot more straightforward than most people think. In my video, I break down what actually changed, why se...

Selling your home as-is sounds simple. No repairs, no contractors, no extra money out of pocket. In this video, I break down the real pros and cons of selling as-is in Southeast Idaho, including the small fixes that can dramatically change what buyers offer and the one mistake I see sellers make most often when they choose this path. If you're thinking about listing as-is to save time and stress,...

So you’ve found your dream home. But how do you sell without ending up with two mortgages, or worse, having nowhere to go? Today, I’m sharing five strategies that can help you buy your next home before selling your current one. You’ll learn about options like bridge loans, rent-back agreements, and buy-before-you-sell programs. Check out my full video to see which strategy might work best for you.

If you’re planning to sell your home in Southeast Idaho, preparation matters more than most sellers realize. Many homes lose buyer interest not because of the market, but because they were never properly prepared before listing. Today, I’ll walk you through the key steps that help sellers make a stronger first impression, reduce inspection issues, and build buyer trust from the start. You’ll see w...

Think the highest offer on your home is always the winner? Some offers may look great, but hidden terms can derail your sale or cost you money. In this video, I’ll show you what to look for and how to pick the offer that really works. Your smartest sale starts here. Before you pick an offer, check out my video.

Worried a home inspection could uncover issues and slow your sale? If you’re feeling worried or anxious, don’t be. The truth is, you don’t need a perfect home to pass inspection; you just need to be prepared. I’m sharing strategies to get your home ready and avoid surprises during the inspection. You’ll get practical tips to handle common problem areas and keep the process moving smoothly. Watch t...

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. I’ll walk you through the four-point vetting process I’d use myself: how to spot a hyperlocal expert, dissect a marketing plan, demand real data, and ensure the personal chemistry is right. If you’re serious about se...

Does your home still fit the way you live today, or have your routines quietly changed around it? Many homeowners reach a point where nothing is wrong with the house, yet daily life feels less comfortable than it used to. Today, I’ll walk through the key signs that your lifestyle may have shifted and how that can affect whether your home still works for you. You’ll see how changes in work, family,...

Are you letting outdated timing advice hold you back from selling your home? In 2026, relying on the “best season” isn't enough; the real guide is your neighborhood's data. I’ll walk you through the three things that actually move the needle: competition, buyer behavior, and pricing. You’ll learn how to choose a listing window based on the local market signals that give you a better chance for mul...

Should you stage your home before selling? The truth is, it depends. You first need to assess your home, market, and goals. In this video, I’ll break down when staging makes the biggest impact, how to do it cost-effectively, and when it may not be needed at all. Whether you’re working with a vacant home, an unusual layout, or just want to stand out online, these smart tips can help you attract mor...

What will the housing market look like in 2026? Some signs point to slow price growth, possible rate relief, and changes in inventory. What that means for buyers and sellers may surprise you. Today, I’ll break down what you need to know based on the latest data so you can make a solid plan for your next move.

If you’ve inherited a property in Idaho, you may be wondering why selling it isn’t as simple as listing it on the market. The truth is, probate can stop a sale until specific legal steps are completed. Today, I’ll walk you through Idaho’s probate process and show you how to legally transfer ownership without unnecessary delays. You’ll see how families can avoid title issues and close on time while...

Selling your home? Here’s one thing sellers never anticipate: Even if you've accepted an offer, you're still not guaranteed a sale. It's incredibly frustrating to invest time and energy only to have the deal fall through from a surprise inspection or financing issue. In this video, I’ll walk you through the five most common reasons buyers back out and how to prevent them. Whether you're selling so...

Have you noticed unsettling sounds or cold air drifting through your home lately? What seems spooky may actually be your home’s way of showing signs of neglect. Today, I’ll walk you through The Haunted House Checklist, where I go over five real problems that can make your house feel haunted and explain how to repair them. You’ll learn how to spot the signs early and take action before they become...

I know that a lot of sellers check Zestimate first before listing their home, but here’s what they don’t tell you: that number isn’t always reliable. Zillow’s algorithm is smart, but it can’t see upgrades, location advantages, or your selling goals. In this video, I’ll break down how the tool works and share tips on how you can avoid costly pricing mistakes. I’ll also share a real situation where...

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...

Here you can expect to find a variety of content designed to support you at every stage of your real estate journey.