Escuchar The Real Estate Education Podcast

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson, chat about something pretty surprising – how recessions actually affect the housing market in ways you might not expect. They break down the weird pattern that happens: home sales usually dip when a recession hits, but then they often pick up steam midway through and at the end as interest rates drop. The hosts share some eye-opening stats from Housing Wire's economist showing that despite 2023-2024 having historically low sales, more people are submitting purchase applications, suggesting buyers are getting ready to jump back in. They also discuss the new Colorado law that's shaking things up for short-term rental owners – now unincorporated counties can bump their lodging tax from a measly 2% all the way up to 6%, just like cities can. If you've got a vacation rental in the mountains or rural areas, this is definitely something to watch! James, who works with short-term rental investors across the country, explains how these taxes show up on the guest side through platforms like Airbnb, which automatically handles all the local tax stuff. Airbnb is programmed to know all the different Airbnb laws in each area – it won't even let you list a short-term stay in places with minimum-night requirements. Throughout their conversation, they provide tons of practical insights for anyone thinking about real estate investment during economic uncertainty or jumping into the short-term rental market. Enjoy this crash course in navigating the housing market during weird economic times! Contact James: james@jamescarlsonRE.com Contact Erin: Erin@erinspradlin.com For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson break down why 2025 may be one of the most confusing years ever for real estate investors. With the Trump administration’s new tariffs and aggressive deportation policies in full effect, construction materials are more expensive, labor is scarcer, and residential construction costs are rising fast. The hosts reference a new NAHB study showing how even common items like washing machines are now significantly more expensive to install in new homes. More importantly, they explain how this filters down to both investors and homebuyers, who are now forced to make major financial decisions in a climate of fear and unpredictability. Erin discusses what she’s seeing in the rental space—owners feeling nervous about bookings and pricing, especially as travel slows and spending tightens. James adds that even active buyers are showing signs of second-guessing their moves, unsure if rates, insurance, or home values are stable enough to trust. They also explore global forecasts suggesting home insurance premiums could rise by 30–40%, as rebuilds take longer and cost more due to disrupted supply chains. This episode is an honest, grounded look at buying property during economic instability, and what savvy investors can do to navigate a volatile market. Contact James: james@jamescarlsonRE.com Contact Erin: Erin@erinspradlin.com For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson examine two urgent real estate issues facing buyers and investors in 2025. First, they take a close look at the growing interest in office to housing conversion, especially in cities struggling with high vacancy rates and lack of affordable housing. They explore how local governments are incentivizing developers to repurpose commercial buildings, and why co-housing might be the only financially viable option in many of these conversions. Erin shares why the rise in remote work is pushing companies to reevaluate office space, while James warns of the unintended consequence of turning corporate buildings into glorified company dorms. Then they unpack the implications of the Fannie Mae condo blacklist, which quietly renders thousands of condo buildings ineligible for traditional financing due to stricter post-Surfside regulations. From insurance issues with HOAs to outdated building maintenance, Erin and James reveal how being labeled a non-warrantable condo can trap sellers and scare off buyers—especially since there's no public access to the list. They offer a helpful reminder to always ask about a condo’s loan eligibility and recommend working with agents who understand how to interpret HOA financials and compliance documents. Whether you're looking to invest in co-living spaces or buy a condo, this episode is packed with actionable advice and critical insights into the realities of urban housing in 2025. Contact James: james@jamescarlsonRE.com Contact Erin: Erin@erinspradlin.com For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson break down how newly implemented tariffs and immigration policies are reshaping the housing market. Referencing a recent New York Times article, they analyze a case study showing that labor and material costs for a new home in Phoenix jumped by nearly 9%, mainly due to deportations affecting construction labor and tariffs inflating imported material prices like concrete and insulation. Erin highlights how even though not every buyer will purchase a new build, these increased costs will reduce supply and place upward pressure on prices across the market. They also discuss how mortgage rates in April 2025 have hit a temporary low, providing a rare moment of increased buying power. With interest rates dropping from 7.25% to 6.5%, buyers can now afford more house—but the hosts caution that this window may be short-lived. James explains how first-time homebuyer challenges continue to mount, especially as affordability remains out of reach and rate fluctuations create uncertainty. While this could be an ideal moment to buy for confident, secure buyers, they warn that volatility may discourage others from jumping in. The episode closes with a grounded conversation about whether now is the time to sell. Despite lower rates, Erin and James explain why they’re still holding—highlighting how real estate investing during political uncertainty calls for patience, not panic. If you're looking for data-driven, real-talk perspectives on the state of real estate in 2025, this episode has you covered. Contact James: james@jamescarlsonRE.com Contact Erin: Erin@erinspradlin.com For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson, seasoned real estate agents and investors, introduce the concept of the lifestyle landlord—an investor focused on real estate investing for passive income rather than full-time hustle. They discuss how real estate can enhance your life rather than overtake it, and why so many mid-term and short-term rental investors are leaning into flexible strategies that support freedom, travel, and balance. Erin explains how landlords are increasingly shifting from a “money-maximization” mindset to one that values time, simplicity, and long-term appreciation. James shares how his own journey from STR hustle to a more relaxed investing style reflects this shift. Later, they dive into the untapped potential of how to rent out an extra bedroom. Referencing a New York Times report, they explain why 32 million bedrooms across the U.S. are sitting empty and how house hacking—especially for beginner landlords or retirees—can solve both financial and housing crises. They also talk about co-housing rental strategy, how aging Americans can reduce loneliness and earn supplemental income, and why cities like Colorado Springs offer excellent opportunity. If you're looking for real estate investing strategies that work for your lifestyle—not the other way around—this episode is for you. Contact James: james@jamescarlsonRE.com Contact Erin: Erin@erinspradlin.com For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/