Ep. 21 One Year of Keys to the Coast: The Highs, The Lows & Everything In Between

Ep. 21 One Year of Keys to the Coast: The Highs, The Lows & Everything In Between

One year. We honestly can’t believe we’re saying that. 🎉 In this special anniversary episode, we’re looking back on the first year of Keys to the Coast and sharing everything we’ve learned along the way, from the exciting moments to the behind-the-scenes challenges no one sees. Over the last year, we’ve had incredible conversations, welcomed amazing guests, shared stories from our community, and learned that the moments people connect with most aren’t always the polished ones—they’re the honest, real conversations. In this episode, we talk about: ✨ What inspired us to start the podcast ✨ The biggest surprises and lessons from year one ✨ The struggles, wins, and moments that almost didn’t make it to air ✨ Our favorite guests and memorable conversations ✨ What listeners have taught us about connection, community, and authenticity ✨ Why real conversations matter—whether we’re talking life, local business, or real estate ✨ What’s next for Keys to the Coast 👀 This podcast has become so much more than we expected, and we’re incredibly grateful for every listen, share, message, and conversation along the way. As we head into year two, we want your input! 🎙️ What topics do you want us to cover? 🏡 Who should we bring on as a guest? 🌊 What conversations are happening around West Michigan that you want to hear more about? Thank you for being part of this journey and letting us be a small part of your week. Here’s to another year of stories, connection, community… and keeping the coast close. 💙 #KeysToTheCoast #PodcastAnniversary #WestMichigan #Community #RealEstatePodcast #TheSandiGentryTeam #CoastalLiving #WestMichiganRealEstate #PodcastLife

Ep. 20 Spring Market Prep: What you Need to Do Now to Win Big🌷

Spring is one of the most competitive—and opportunity-filled—times to sell your home.  In this episode of Keys to the Coast, Kensie, Kelly, and Sandi break down exactly how to prepare your home for the spring market so you can stand out, attract serious buyers, and maximize your value. And also how to prepare as a buyer to be competitive. From timing and prep strategies to pricing and common mistakes, this episode is your guide to selling and buying with confidence this season. 📍 Serving West Michigan & the Lakeshore 📲 Thinking about selling? Let’s connect.

Ep. 19- Home Insurance 101: What Every Buyer Should Know with Ben Kacprzyk from MIAFS

Home Insurance 101: What Every Buyer Should Know with Ben Kacprzyk Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make — and protecting that investment is just as important as purchasing it. In this episode of Keys to the Coast, Kensie and Kelly sit down with Ben Kacprzyk from Michigan Insurance & Financial Services (MIAFS) to break down the basics of home insurance. We discuss why home insurance matters, what policies typically cover (and what they don’t), how costs are determined, and common mistakes buyers should avoid. Whether you’re preparing to buy your first home or simply want to better understand your coverage, this episode will help you feel more confident navigating the process. 🔑 In This Episode We Cover * Why home insurance is essential when buying a home * What a standard homeowner’s policy typically covers * Common misconceptions about coverage * How insurance costs are calculated * When to start shopping for insurance during the buying process * Mistakes first-time buyers should avoid * Tips for saving money on premiums * The importance of reviewing coverage annually 🎯 Who This Episode Is For * First-time home buyers * Future buyers planning ahead * Homeowners wanting to better understand their coverage * Anyone navigating the home buying process 🏡 Key Takeaway Having the right insurance coverage provides financial protection, peace of mind, and confidence as a homeowner. Building your team early — including your real estate agent, lender, and insurance professional — helps create a smoother and more successful buying experience. Ben Kacprzyk Michigan Insurance & Financial Services (MIAFS) 📞 Phone: 616-918-6868 📧 Email: Ben@miafs.com [Ben@miafs.com] 🌐 Website: https://www.miafs.com/contactus [https://www.miafs.com/contactus] 📍 Location: Michigan Kensie & Kelly — Keys to the Coast Real Estate Along West Michigan’s Lakeshore If you’re thinking about buying or selling along the lakeshore, we’d love to help guide you through the process. 📞 616-502-5551 ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? If you found this episode helpful: * Subscribe to Keys to the Coast * Leave a review * Share with a friend who might benefit Your support helps us continue bringing you valuable local insights and education!

Ep. 18- Home Loan Myths, Mistakes & Must-Knows with Eric Hessee with LMCU

In this episode of Keys to the Coast, Kensie and Kelly sit down with Eric Hesse from Lake Michigan Credit Union to break down the home buying and lending process in a way that’s clear, approachable, and empowering. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning ahead for a future move, understanding financing is one of the most important steps in the journey. Eric shares expert insights on pre-approvals, credit scores, common lending myths, down payment expectations, and how buyers can prepare themselves financially to purchase with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered what lenders really look for — or felt unsure about whether you’re ready to buy — this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take the next step. 📌 Key Topics Covered * Pre-approvals and why they matter * Common lending myths and misconceptions * Credit scores and mortgage eligibility * Down payment options and expectations * How to financially prepare for buying a home * Choosing the right lender * Communication during the loan process 🎤 Guest Eric Hesse Loan Officer, Lake Michigan Credit Union Contact information: Eric.Hesse@lmcu.org (616) 638-5713 (mobile)

Ep. 17- From the Field to the Front Door: Welcoming Ryan Slack to the Team

In this episode of Keys to the Coast, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of the Sandi Gentry Team — Ryan Slack. Ryan’s path to real estate is anything but traditional. Before stepping into the world of buying and selling homes, Ryan spent years serving students and families as an Athletic Director at a local Christian high school. In that role, he built strong relationships, led with integrity, and supported families through important moments — skills that now translate seamlessly into his real estate career. Host Kensie is joined by Kelly on the second mic as they sit down with Ryan to talk about his background in education and athletics, his family life, and what ultimately led him to plant roots here in West Michigan along the lakeshore. Ryan shares how his faith, leadership experience, and passion for helping others continue to guide the way he shows up for his clients today. From coaching and communication to navigating high-pressure decisions with confidence and care, this episode highlights why Ryan is such a natural fit for both real estate and the Keys to the Coast community. Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, relocating to the lakeshore, or just love hearing stories about the people who make our coast feel like home — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST Keys to the Coast is hosted by Kensie with the Sandi Gentry Team and highlights the people, places, and properties that make life along the West Michigan coast so special. From real estate conversations to community spotlights and local business owners, this podcast is all about connection, service, and coastal living. 📣Thinking about buying, selling, or relocating to West Michigan?  Connect with the Sandi Gentry Team — we’re always here to help you find your place along the coast. Text HOME to 616.502.5551