Housing Matters: The Housing Trust Podcast

Ep. 16 Collections, Credit Scores & Homeownership with Cynthia Webb

In this episode of Housing Matters, host Roman Tiger Abeyta sits down with Housing Trust HUD-Certified Counselor Cynthia Webb to discuss how collections impact your credit score, mortgage eligibility, and homeownership goals. Cynthia shares practical advice on dealing with collection agencies, understanding your rights as a consumer, negotiating outstanding debts, and why paying a collection isn't always the first step. She also explains how Housing Trust counselors help clients evaluate collections as part of the homebuying process and create a plan that supports long-term financial success. Whether you're preparing to buy a home or simply looking to improve your financial health, this episode offers valuable insight into navigating collections with confidence. Learn more about The Housing Trust:  https://www.housingtrustonline.org/ [https://www.housingtrustonline.org/]

Ep. 15 Reverse Mortgages Explained with Ron Chavez

What exactly is a reverse mortgage, and who is it really for? In this episode of Housing Matters, we sit down with Ron Chavez, HUD-certified Housing Counselor at the Housing Trust, to break down the realities of reverse mortgages, how they work, common misconceptions, and what families should consider before making a decision. From repayment questions to inheritance concerns and counseling requirements, this conversation offers a practical and honest look at a topic many people hear about but don’t fully understand.  Learn more about The Housing Trust:  https://www.housingtrustonline.org/ [https://www.housingtrustonline.org/]

Ep. 14 What It Really Takes to Build a Home with Riley Gibbs

n this episode of Housing Matters: The Housing Trust Podcast, host Roman Tiger Abeyta sits down with Riley Gibbs, Vice President of Arete Homes, to talk about what really goes into building homes in today’s market. From construction costs and labor challenges to design trends, fire-resistant building materials, and even the future of 3D printed homes, Riley shares an inside look at the realities of homebuilding in Santa Fe and beyond. The conversation also explores the importance of affordable housing, thoughtful community design, and why partnerships like Arroyo Oeste Phase II matter for the future of New Mexico housing. Whether you’re interested in real estate, architecture, affordable housing, or the future of construction, this episode offers a thoughtful and behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to create homes and communities that last.  To learn more about The Housing Trust:  https://www.housingtrustonline.org/ [https://www.housingtrustonline.org/] Follow us:  @santafehousingtrust on Instagram & Facebook

Ep. 13 Keeping Housing Attainable in Santa Fe with Faviola Chavez

In this episode of Housing Matters, we sit down with Faviola Chavez from the City of Santa Fe’s Affordable Housing Program to talk about the future of affordable housing in our community. Faviola shares her experience working in housing across New Mexico and Arizona, what brought her back home to Santa Fe, and the innovative ideas she hopes to bring into this role. From first-time homebuyer programs to sustainable funding solutions, this conversation explores what it takes to create long-term housing opportunities for future generations. We also discuss why keeping young people in Santa Fe matters—and how housing plays a major role in the future of our community.  Learn more about The Housing Trust:  https://www.housingtrustonline.org/ [https://www.housingtrustonline.org/]

Ep. 12 How Affordable Housing Gets Funded with Danny Maki

In this episode of Housing Matters, we’re joined by Danny Maki to talk about a side of housing that often goes unseen, how it all gets funded. Danny shares insight into the process behind securing funding and why it plays such a critical role in expanding affordable housing across New Mexico. From what happens behind the scenes to the challenges and opportunities in the work, this conversation helps break down how housing decisions take shape. If you’ve ever wondered how housing programs come to life or what it takes to support them, this episode offers a helpful look at the bigger picture. Learn more about The Housing Trust:  https://www.housingtrustonline.org/ [https://www.housingtrustonline.org/]