Welcome to the Top Podcast

Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable tips from Kyle Paris, CCAR Secretary/Treasurer, on how to build and leverage professional relationships in the real estate industry.  In this episode, Paris answers essential questions such as: 1) How crucial is it for a real estate professional to cultivate a robust network? 2) Is networking a skill that can be learned, or is it an innate talent? 3...

Today’s episode is for anyone who is considering buying an investment property but feels stuck. Our guest, Nancy Wallace-Laabs, Coach, Consultant and Short-Term Rental Educator, meets you where you are but refuses to leave you there!  If locating and evaluating an investment property overwhelms you, this episode contains your guide. Does funding the purchase seem insurmountable? Listen to hear how...

The Seller Disclosure Notice is a critical part of a residential transaction. Spend ten minutes with Bob Baker, Broker and Instructor, to hear how to respond to incomplete forms, who is exempt from completing the form, what sellers are required to disclose, what to do with new information, and more. 

Homeowners' insurance policies are increasing, and everyone is feeling the burn! On this episode of Welcome to the Top, insurance expert Barney Schwartz discusses where and why insurance rates are increasing, if they will go back down, and strategies that can help homeowners get a lower rate. 

In this episode, guests Chase Crenshaw and Mike Jumper delve into the latest developments in lending policies and potential changes in credit scoring, providing insights that every real estate agent and investor should know. 

In the latest episode of Welcome to the Top, Broker and CCAR Instructor Barry Hardman dives deep into the often-overlooked world of MLS (Multiple Listing Service) violations.  MLS plays a crucial role in the real estate industry, impacting both professionals and their clients. Barry sheds light on the importance of MLS and why it's a cornerstone for real estate success. Listen as we address t...

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Welcome to the Top," where we bring you the insights and expertise of top professionals in the real estate industry. In this episode, we ask special guest Stephen Etzel, a renowned Real Estate Instructor, to share how he integrates RPR into his daily practice. Etzel sheds light on what he believes is the most responsible way for agents to interact...

In this powerful episode, Kara Shrum, Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County (CACCC) Corporate Relations Manager, shines a spotlight on the inspiring work of the Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County (CACCC), a beacon of hope for children who have experienced abuse and trauma.  Listen as Kara uncovers the comprehensive services they offer to young survivors and their families,...

Dive into the complex realm of real estate appraisals as Welcome to the Top hosts Vaughn Kerkorian, Independent Appraiser at Kerkorian Appraisal. In this episode, learn about the emergence of desktop appraisals and the role of Private Data Collectors (PDCs). Explore the implications for both buyers and sellers and gain insights into the challenges and benefits associated with this evolving landsca...

Do you have a beef with the One to Four Family Residential Contract? Do you want to know more about the consideration that goes into making forms user-friendly and legally compliant?  Then you need to know about TREC’s Broker-Lawyer Committee, and appointee Melissa Hailey is here to share!

Listen as Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Senior Business Economist Laila Assanie discusses the National Economy's effect on our local real estate market. 

This week, two phenomenal industry leaders and CCAR Past Presidents, Amoret Cain and Melissa Hailey, discuss what happened in their year as CCAR President. Can you guess what changes they made to ensure CCAR members had access to the tools, training, and technology needed to succeed? 

On this episode of Welcome to the Top Real Estate Finance Coach, Tristan Sherrill discusses what lenders look for in a loan and how you can strategize now for your next home purchase.  

This week we delve into the inspiring world of the Women's Council (WCR), also known as Women's Council of REALTORS®, with WCR 2023 Collin County President Shannon Vizcarra.  Join us as we explore the mission, initiatives, and success stories of this organization dedicated to advancing its members' standing in the communities they serve.

In this episode of "Welcome to the Top," we are honored to have Leslie Rouda Smith, the 2022 President of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), as our distinguished guest. Join us as we delve into Rouda Smith's remarkable journey of leadership and service, exploring the insights gained from her time at the helm of America's largest trade association, representing more th...

How much value does having a pool add? That can vary depending on how well-maintained the pool is!  Join us as we attend poolside school with Lindsay Barker, Poolwerx Franchise Partner, and learn how to maintain a pool for your health and wealth! Did you know the health of a pool can go south in a manner of days? Dog owners, beware. It’s even fast for you.

This week's topic is too important to ignore. Join us on this Welcome to the Top episode as we dive into estate planning, life insurance, wills, and more with our guest, Will Ramsey. Will Ramsey sheds light on the importance of estate planning, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting the essential elements that go into crafting a comprehensive plan. Ever wondered about the difference...

Join us on the latest episode of Welcome to the Top as we gain valuable insights from esteemed economist Dr. Blake Bennett. Dr. Bennett brings his extensive knowledge and expertise to the table as we explore the current economic indicators and trends and their potential implications. Whether you're an aspiring economist or simply curious about the forces shaping our financial future, this epi...

As Independent Contractors, agents are often isolated while carrying heavy mental burdens that come with the role. In this Welcome to the Top episode, Katie Sholty,  Yoga Instructor and Wellness Coach, provides practical tools to build resilience and cope with stressful situations.  Sholty provides listeners access to a self-care toolbox designed to prevent burnout and promote your overall well-be...

In this episode, we dive into the world of financial wellness with Brittany Schanck, NAR’s Financial Wellness Manager, and explore the valuable resources provided by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) through the Center for REALTOR® Financial Wellness. Whether you're just starting your financial wellness journey or looking to enhance your existing strategies, the Center for REALTOR®...

On this Welcome to the Top episode, Mike Acquisto, Real Estate Broker, joins podcast host and wife Shana Acquisto to discuss working with your spouse. Listen to this candid conversation to hear techniques for separating work from life, dividing roles and responsibilities, dealing with disagreements, and more. 

What potential clients see on your social media is often their first, and sometimes only, impression of you. Listen to this week's podcast to learn how to harness the power of social media for the good, not bad, but sometimes ugly. 

Join hosts Jonna and Shana as they welcome Jennifer Parker, a licensed Property Tax Consultant since 2001, and a licensed REALTOR® since 1995, to discuss your upcoming property taxes.  Collin County homeowners will receive their 2023 property valuations as early as mid-April. They can expect a 6 to 10% increase in their home’s value, which is lower than the previous year, but still a sizable incre...

Did you know 25% of people have zero savings and owe an average of $80,000? Debt is one of the largest problems in America, which keeps many workers from investing or saving their hard-earned money. The average American works their entire life and reaches retirement with only $60,000, which is only a fraction of the amount needed. Are you 100% sure you’ll retire and have a great retirement, or do...

In this episode, Shelyna Tinglin, author and REALTOR®,  meets you where you are and refuses to leave you there.  Bad News: If you are failing to plan, you are planning to fail.  Good News: You can change today! Listen to today's podcast to make a plan for your success.