Call the Closer with Lauren Risley Realty

Episode 100: Episode 100 Special 🎉 Can You Buy a Home With Student Loans? New Fed Chair Incoming: What It Means for Mortgage Rates

We’re celebrating our 100th episode with one of our favorite returning guests, mortgage expert Jayson Hardie! 🎉 In this milestone episode of Call the CLOSER, we discuss what a new Federal Reserve Chair could mean for interest rates, inflation, and the housing market. We also tackle one of the biggest misconceptions among buyers: Can you still buy a home if you have student loan debt? Whether you’re a first-time buyer, carrying student loans, or simply wondering where mortgage rates may be headed next, this episode is packed with practical advice and timely insights to help you make informed decisions. Topics Covered: ✔️ How the next Fed Chair may influence mortgage rates ✔️ Buying a home with student loan debt ✔️ Common myths that keep buyers on the sidelines ✔️ Strategies to improve affordability in today’s market ✔️ What prospective buyers should watch for in the months ahead https://homesteadfinancial.com/ [https://homesteadfinancial.com/] https://www.laurenrisleyrealty.com/ [https://www.laurenrisleyrealty.com/]

Episode 99: What To Do After Your Home Doesn’t Sell + The Hidden Drivers of Real Estate Growth

A home sitting on the market can feel frustrating, emotional and confusing. We talk about the practical steps sellers should take next and how growing retail corridors, restaurants and commercial investment influence everything from buyer traffic to property values. https://homesteadfinancial.com/ [https://homesteadfinancial.com/] https://www.laurenrisleyrealty.com/ [https://www.laurenrisleyrealty.com/]

Episode 98: Why Investors Are Shifting Away From Major Coastal Cities

The hottest markets in 2026 aren’t always the flashiest cities. Today’s strongest housing markets are being driven by affordability, stable job growth, lower inventory and buyers looking for value. We break down the top performing markets and what makes them attractive for both homeowners and investors. We also dive into why real estate in certain cities just doesn’t make sense to invest in.

Episode 97: Why the Market Feels Worse Than It Actually Is

Consumers are overwhelmed by headlines, uncertainty and social media noise, but the real estate market often tells a different story. Plus, we reveal the top things buyers notice within seconds of entering a home and why first impressions matter more than ever.

Episode 96: Why More Homeowners Are Finally Moving Again

The fear of giving up a low interest rate kept many homeowners frozen in place but life changes are starting to outweigh rate anxiety. We break down the fading lock-in effect and the difference between homes designed for Instagram versus homes designed to emotionally connect with buyers.