Ep 5: Inside Info: How a Mortgage Actually Works

Ep 5: Inside Info: How a Mortgage Actually Works

Most homebuyers fear PMI and hidden costs — but what if those fears are based on misconceptions? In this episode of the Branneky Team podcast, mortgage expert Jake Versman from New American Funding breaks down why PMI can be a smart, manageable step toward homeownership, not a roadblock. Jake reveals why most lenders encourage getting into a home before saving a full 20% down payment, how PMI can be lowered, and the appraisal strategies buyers can use to remove it sooner. He also walks through low-down payment programs like FHA and MHDC, and the overlooked costs (closing costs, inspections, insurance, and escrow) that catch first-time buyers off guard. Whether you're buying your first home or planning your next move, this episode turns uncertainty into a clear action plan. Learn why connecting with a lender and realtor early is your smartest first step, and how the right strategy can accelerate your path to long-term wealth through real estate. 00:00 Understanding PMI and Down Payments 06:00 Exploring Loan Types and Down Payment Assistance 12:08 Navigating Closing Costs and Payment Timing 18:09 Loan Denials and Financial Preparedness Have a question or want to be a guest? Drop a comment below! Connect With Us: Tim Branneky II | 314-496-9577 | Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com [Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com] | FB: Tim Branneky II | IG: @Tbranneky_84 Jayme Bertish | 314-359-8380 | jayme.bertish@stlre.com [jayme.bertish@stlre.com] | FB: Jayme Bertish | IG: @Jayme.bertish | TikTok: @JB Homes & Media Dillon Seabaugh | 636-487-3042 | Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com [Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com] | FB: Dillon Seabaugh

Ep 4: Understanding The Business Side of The Real Estate World

Most real estate agents believe that freedom and flexibility are the core benefits of the profession, but behind the scenes, 87% drop out after just five years. What separates the successful ones from the ones who quit? In this episode, our team reveals the gritty truth about how real estate actually works and why many get lost in the hype. Discover how running your real estate career as a true business, complete with systems, structure, and strategic prospecting can turn you into the top 13% who thrive long-term. Whether you're just starting out or already in the game, missing out on these insights risks burnout, stagnation, and ultimately, quitting. But with the right approach, you can build a resilient, scalable business that rewards your hard work. Perfect for aspiring agents, seasoned pros, or anyone frustrated by the industry’s stereotypes—this episode unlocks how to truly succeed in real estate’s unpredictable landscape. Tune in to learn from seasoned insiders and get ready to shift your mindset from ‘gig’ to ‘business’ because in real estate, the difference is in the details. 00:44 – What does a real estate agent's day actually look like? 3:07 – Why does your hustle matter more than your brokerage? 5:00 – Why do so many agents quit within five years? 7:26 – How does communication make or break your career? 13:10 – How do you qualify clients and set the right expectations? 15:31 – Why does personality style matter in real estate? 20:52 – How do you protect your personal life in a 24/7 industry? 27:05 – Did you know 71.1% of realtors didn't sell a single home in 2025? 30:00 – Is real estate still worth it? Here's the honest truth. Have a question or want to be a guest? Drop a comment below!  Connect With Us: Tim Branneky II | 314-496-9577 | Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com [Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com] | FB: Tim Branneky II | IG: @Tbranneky_84 Jayme Bertish | 314-359-8380 | jayme.bertish@stlre.com [jayme.bertish@stlre.com] | FB: Jayme Bertish | IG: @Jayme.bertish | TikTok: @JB Homes & Media Dillon Seabaugh | 636-487-3042 | Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com [Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com] | FB: Dillon Seabaugh

Ep 3: Answering YOUR Questions about Real Estate in 2026

Most homebuyers skip pre-approval, and it's costing them. In a competitive market, being prepared isn't just helpful, it's the difference between getting the house and losing it. In this episode, The Branneky Team breaks down the practical moves that make offers stand out: how to use earnest money strategically, why a shorter inspection period signals serious buyers, and how getting an appraisal before you close can create instant equity and eliminate last-minute surprises. You'll also learn why accurate pricing matters more than offering high, how to read local market data like an agent, and what actually makes sellers say yes. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or getting back into the market, this episode gives you a clear, concrete blueprint for buying smarter and faster, without overpaying. 🎧 Hit play and start your home search ahead of the competition. 💬 Have a question or want to be a guest? Drop a comment below! 📲 Connect With Us: Tim Branneky II | 📞 314-496-9577 | ✉️ Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com [Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com] | FB: Tim Branneky II | IG: @Tbranneky_84 Jayme Bertish | 📞 314-359-8380 | ✉️ jayme.bertish@stlre.com [jayme.bertish@stlre.com] | FB: Jayme Bertish | IG: @Jayme.bertish | TikTok: @JB Homes & Media Dillon Seabaugh | 📞 636-487-3042 | ✉️ Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com [Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com] | FB: Dillon Seabaugh

Ep 2: Is For Sale By Owner Actually Worth It?

Thinking about selling your home without an agent? Before you plant that "For Sale By Owner" sign in the yard, you need to hear this. In this episode, we break down the real numbers behind FSBO sales. What the stats reveal, where most sellers get tripped up, and why it's harder than it looks. We also dig into one of the most overlooked forces shaping today's housing market: generational priorities. From Boomers to Millennials to Gen Z, what buyers want, and how they want to buy, is shifting fast, and it changes everything about how homes get sold. Whether you're a homeowner weighing your options, a buyer navigating a complicated market, or just someone who wants to understand what's really happening in real estate right now, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. In this episode: * FSBO by the numbers — the stats that might surprise you * The biggest challenges sellers face going it alone * How generational priorities are reshaping the home buying experience * What it all means for buyers and sellers today NAR Link: https://store.realtor/2025-nar-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers-digital-download/ [https://store.realtor/2025-nar-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers-digital-download/] 💬 Have a question or want to be a guest? Drop a comment below! 📲 Connect With Us: Tim Branneky II | 📞 314-496-9577 | ✉️ mailto:Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com [Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com] | FB: Tim Branneky II | IG: @Tbranneky_84 Jayme Bertish | 📞 314-359-8380 | ✉️ mailto:jayme.bertish@stlre.com [jayme.bertish@stlre.com] | FB: Jayme Bertish | IG: @Jayme.bertish | TikTok: @JB Homes & Media Dillon Seabaugh | 📞 636-487-3042 | ✉️ mailto:Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com [Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com] | FB: Dillon Seabaugh

Ep 1: Is Your Offer Final? The Real Estate Rules Every Buyer & Seller Must Know

Can you change your mind after submitting a real estate offer? Whether you're buying or selling, this episode is your guide to understanding your rights, deadlines, and strategic options. We break down critical timelines, the inspection resolution process, and exactly when you can back out without penalty. Covering everything from rescinding an offer before acceptance to the nuances of inspection contingencies and "as is" properties. You'll discover: * When you can legally cancel or retract an offer * Why timely communication (calls vs. texts) matters * How to handle inspection contingencies and urgent house issues * The difference between "as is" properties and informational inspections * Key questions to ask your realtor to protect your investment In real estate, knowing your rights and deadlines is the difference between a smooth transaction and a costly mistake. Don't get trapped in an unwanted contract — knowledge is power. 💬 Have a question or want to be a guest? Drop a comment below! 📲 Connect With Us: Tim Branneky II | 📞 314-496-9577 | ✉️ Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com [Tim.Branneky@STLRE.com] | FB: Tim Branneky II | IG: @Tbranneky_84 Jayme Bertish | 📞 314-359-8380 | ✉️ jayme.bertish@stlre.com [jayme.bertish@stlre.com] | FB: Jayme Bertish | IG: @Jayme.bertish | TikTok: @JB Homes & Media Dillon Seabaugh | 📞 636-487-3042 | ✉️ Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com [Dillon.Seabaugh@stlre.com] | FB: Dillon Seabaugh