Maria Whitlach, Sales & Marketing Operations Manager at McKinley Homes.

Sam Bass, Vice President of Sales at Dream Finders Homes

On this episode of Building Brands, we sit down with Sam Bass, Vice President of Sales at Dream Finders Homes, for a real conversation about leadership, longevity, family, and the evolving housing market. With nearly 40 years in homebuilding, Sam shares his journey from on-site sales agent to executive leadership, the lessons that shaped his people-first approach, and why staying connected to the sales floor matters more than ever. We also dive into how becoming a grandfather has shifted his perspective on life, family, and the emotional side of homebuying. From recruiting and motivating teams to navigating today’s housing market, Sam brings wisdom, positivity, and authenticity to every part of the conversation. Plus, we talk about: * The biggest difference between today’s market and 2008 * What makes Dream Finders Homes stand out * The future of Atlanta homebuilding * Leadership advice for anyone wanting to grow into VP-level roles * Why culture and energy matter in sales Recorded inside the beautiful Concord Oaks community in Powder Springs, Georgia.

Maria Whitlach, Sales & Marketing Operations Manager at McKinley Homes.

In this episode of the Building Brands Podcast, Arlene sits down with Maria Whitlach, the Sales & Marketing Operations Manager at McKinley Homes, for an honest and fun conversation about the realities of new home sales, leadership, family, and what’s really happening in today’s housing market. Maria shares her journey from being a single mom hustling in New Jersey to becoming a key leader in the homebuilding industry, while opening up about the dedication, pressure, and reward that comes with new construction sales. From hilarious “per my last email” moments to her biggest community pet peeves, spooky model home stories, and the truth behind the McKinley Homes name, this episode blends real industry insight with authentic personality. The two also dive into: * Why buyers should “marry the house, date the rate” * Current market trends builders and buyers need to watch * The emotional side of helping families find a home * Multi-generational living and changing buyer demographics * What makes McKinley Homes different * Exciting new communities coming soon across Georgia Filmed at Somerset at Riverbrooke in Gainesville, GA, this episode is full of laughter, leadership, and behind-the-scenes conversations from the world of homebuilding and branding.

Dana Wiggins President & CFO of Kerley Family Homes

From her early days running track to leading high-level financial decisions, Dana shares what it really takes to succeed in the homebuilding industry—and it’s not just about numbers. We dive into: * The real advice every professional needs when stepping into finance or leadership * Why understanding why people ask questions will set you apart in any role * Key 2026 market indicators (interest rates, inflation, employment) and how they directly impact buyer behavior * Behind-the-scenes truths about homebuilding decisions—and what buyers often misunderstand * A look inside Ford Landing and what makes this Signature Series community stand out Plus, a few laughs, real stories, and the kind of industry insight you don’t hear anywhere else. This episode is for anyone who wants to understand how smart decisions, clear communication, and market awareness truly build powerful brands in real estate. https://www.kerleyfamilyhomes.com/ [https://www.kerleyfamilyhomes.com/]

Teaser Trailer | Building Brands

A podcast that takes you inside the world of homebuilding—through the leaders shaping it. From sales and finance to construction and operations, each episode brings real conversations with the people responsible for turning land into communities. The decisions, the pressure, the timelines—and the teams behind it all. This isn’t surface-level insight.It’s a closer look at how the industry actually works. Get to know the people behind the build—their experience, their roles, and the companies they represent. Hosted by Arlene Rodriguez, founder of Club de Brands.