8. New Construction vs Resale Homes: What Buyers Need to Know with Emmy Sorrells & Taylor Pair

8. New Construction vs Resale Homes: What Buyers Need to Know with Emmy Sorrells & Taylor Pair

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] “You do have to have a little bit of a special brain to sell new construction... the amount of brain space that it hooked up,” says Emmy Sorrels, veteran real estate agent with the home team at 360 Real Estate, who brings more than a decade of deep builder and buyer expertise to Start a Conversation. Emmy—joined by colleague Taylor Pair—dives into the “adventure” of new construction, revealing how every builder and client is different, why staging transforms the buying process, and how agent-builder partnerships turn empty land into coveted homes. From the savvy first-time buyer to the customization-obsessed client, Emmy’s perspective sheds light on the juggling, organization, and creativity it takes to thrive in the ever-changing world of new builds. If you want to know what really happens behind the scenes of those picture-perfect new homes, you’ll want to hear more from Emmy. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Strong communication with builders is everything—build solid relationships and share your expertise to shape better homes and deals. 2. Know your market and pricing—help builders back into land and development costs for real profit and quick sales. 3. Treat staging as non-negotiable—stage homes to show buyers the possibilities and boost your chances of closing. 4. Guide clients through every step—use technology, walk-throughs, and personalized touches to help buyers visualize and trust the process. 5. Embrace adaptability—every builder and project is different; stay organized and flexible to deliver top-tier results every time. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "I find that clients who are maybe at the lower end of the budget are sometimes even more picky than those who are building half-million up to million dollar plus houses, because those people are savvy but not quite as particular since they know their dollar is going to go a little bit further." > "The selection process is always really fun too. I love to take it from beginning to end with a buyer client because they'll say, ‘I love the fireplace in this house, but I really love the tile in the bathroom in this other house,’ so it's kind of like mixing and matching Lego pieces to make their own unique home." > "I think if builders are smart, they will stage a home because it really shows how you can use a space in so many different ways. Staging is very important, and that's true in resale as well; if you go in and your house is full of personal pictures, take them down." CONNECT WITH EMMY Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/agent/emmy-martin-sorrells [https://concepttoclosing.com/agent/emmy-martin-sorrells] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmysorrells/ [https://www.instagram.com/emmysorrells/] CONNECT WITH TAYLOR Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/agent/taylor-pair [https://concepttoclosing.com/agent/taylor-pair] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpair/ [https://www.instagram.com/taylorpair/] RESOURCES MENTIONED Matterport (Virtual Home Tours) - https://www.matterport.com/ [https://www.matterport.com/] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

7. Women in Business: Finding Balance Without Burning Out

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "Strength does not require hardness, right? So you can be amazing and a leader, but that doesn't necessarily mean strength is a weakness," says Nonet Reese, real estate expert, business builder, and community leader, on Start a Conversation. Drawing on her 25+ years of industry experience, Nonet delves into the law of polarity, sharing insights on how women in business can navigate life's dualities—from rest versus ambition, to pain versus purpose—while leading with both compassion and grit. Her refreshingly honest take on failure, emotional balance, and the pressures women entrepreneurs face will make you rethink what real strength means. Don’t miss Nonet’s reflections on thriving in chaos, turning setbacks into wisdom, and why believing a challenge is preparing you—not punishing you—can transform your journey. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. See setbacks as stepping stones—every challenge holds a lesson that can push you closer to success. Lean into adversity and ask: what strength is emerging right now? 2. Balance your drive with true rest—ambition requires self-care to sustain. Schedule downtime and protect your energy as fiercely as your goals. 3. Lead with both strength and empathy—you don’t have to choose. Speak your truth directly while remaining compassionate and empowering toward others. 4. Pause before reacting—emotions are fleeting, but actions linger. When tension rises, breathe and respond intentionally rather than impulsively. 5. Embrace every season of growth—life will shift, and so will you. Trust that pain or confusion now may be shaping your purpose and expanding your wisdom. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "You're not confined to one moment, one emotion, or one season. You're always capable of shifting, which plays into several of the things it was talking about." > "Strength does not require hardness. You can be amazing and a leader, but that doesn't mean strength is a weakness. We all feel like we've got to be nice and cordial all the time, when really, you can still lead with compassion and empathy." > "Rest versus ambition—those are the two polars. I really have to lean into self-care for myself, because it's not laziness. It's part of what we need to be better humans, not just better leaders, moms, or spouses." RESOURCES MENTIONED The Kybalion - https://amzn.to/4o3aT3S [https://amzn.to/4o3aT3S] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

6. Building Client Relationships in Real Estate: What Most Agents Miss with Sandi Williams & Josh Wyckoff

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "It's very easy to get someone to try your product once. It's getting them to come back a second time and a third time and so on. That is the secret to success," says Josh Wykoff, a former Delta flight attendant turned real estate agent, who joins Start a Conversation to reveal how airline-style customer service and relationship-building underpin his standout approach to real estate. Alongside Josh, seasoned agent Sandi shares how, for her, success starts with people, not property. She emphasizes, "You have to get to know somebody and figure out what they want. Sometimes you have to help them figure it out themselves," highlighting the transformative power of authentic relationships and ongoing client support—even long after the closing table. Together, Josh and Sandi offer an inside look at the boutique brokerage mindset: from delivering "first class" service and hands-on teamwork to navigating negotiation challenges and nurturing client loyalty for years to come. Whether you're fascinated by the parallels between hospitality and real estate or want to discover how top agents turn transactions into lifelong partnerships, their conversation on Start a Conversation will leave you wanting more. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Build real relationships from the start—focus on understanding your clients’ unique stories and needs, not just transactions. 2. Always clarify client expectations—offer tiered levels of service and ensure they know the difference so they get exactly what they want. 3. Stay proactive throughout the process—anticipate issues, communicate clearly, and arrive with solutions ready. 4. Maintain connections after the sale—follow up with past clients, offer ongoing support, and be their trusted resource long after closing. 5. Embrace the changes—discuss buyer agreements early, adapt to new industry standards, and confidently guide clients through evolving processes. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "I try to provide as top notch of a level of service as I can because I believe in building relationships from the very first moment that I meet a client." > "It's very easy to get someone to try your product once. It's getting them to come back a second time and a third time and so on—that is the secret to success." > "I think it's always about people, not property. I want them smiling when they get up from the closing table—whether it's because they have keys in their hand or a check in their hand—I want them to just be happy." CONNECT WITH JOSH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshwrealtor [https://www.instagram.com/joshwrealtor] CONNECT WITH SANDI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunny_wms [https://www.instagram.com/sunny_wms] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

5. Grounding in Nature: The Secret to Beating Burnout at Work

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] “Being in nature isn't a luxury. It's for everybody,” says Nonet Reese, a real estate professional and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience, on "Start a Conversation." In this refreshing solo episode, Nonet reflects on how stepping outside—even for just a few minutes each day—can ground and energize us, both in life and business. From feeding birds by hand to soaking up the sun and seeking stillness by the water, Nonet shares simple, actionable ways anyone can reconnect with nature, regardless of their schedule or environment. Tune in to discover how Nonet's unique approach to being “solar powered” could inspire realignment, creativity, and growth, leaving you eager to find your own peace in the natural world. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Nature is for everyone, not a luxury—step outside daily, even for five minutes, and let nature recharge your mind and energy. 2. Break the cycle of distraction—use grounding moments outdoors to reset your focus and conquer negativity fast. 3. Reconnect with your roots—schedule quiet time in nature each week to realign your goals and intentions. 4. Find your simple nature ritual—feed the birds, walk the block, or just feel grass under your feet, and let it restore your balance. 5. Don’t keep it to yourself—share how you ground yourself in nature and encourage others to find their own peace outside. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "Being in nature isn't a luxury. It's for everybody. Young, old, boy, girl. It's out there and we need to get out and enjoy it." > "I feel taking those five or ten minutes to be outside, to feel the warmth on your skin, eyes, hair, and feet—whether in shoes or not—is important. Being restful and appreciative, feeling thankful and present in nature, makes a difference." > "Your environment matters, how you’re taking care of yourself matters. Whether you're using the sun, the water, or the beauty of a space you've created and cultivated yourself, those are all moments where you really need to take the time to come back to center." NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]

4. The Secret Behind Thriving Gardens and Thriving Communities with Rex Ponder

📺 Watch the Video on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/6RqgT6bTyqAjQDGr67XyTH?si=5d1566cd22ce41c0] & YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@startaconversationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1] "It's about beautifying the world one customer at a time," says Rex Ponder, third-generation horticulturist and community connector, who joins Start a Conversation to share wisdom from a lifetime spent in Alabama's soil. In this episode, Rex unearths the secrets behind thriving gardens and thriving communities, revealing why relationships—not just roots—grow deepest when it comes to plants, people, and place. From the best plants for the Southeast, to demystifying organics and native species, and even how talking to your houseplants might just make all the difference, Rex offers learnings that go far beyond the garden gate. Whether you're nurturing curb appeal or cultivating resilience, his practical tips and storytelling will leave you eager to learn more about growing both your green thumb and your neighborhood. 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Building relationships is the root of great gardening and thriving communities—connect with your local experts and neighbors for advice and camaraderie. 2. Don’t just pick plants by looks—ask questions about soil, sunlight, and native varieties before you buy to ensure lasting success. 3. Be proactive, not reactive—prep your gardens early with proper fungus and insect controls, tailored to your environment, to avoid headaches later. 4. Go organic when you can—research animal- and kid-friendly products so your gardening enhances your home safely for all. 5. Invest in knowledge for houseplants too—learn about lighting, repotting, and specific needs so your indoor oasis flourishes rather than flops. MEMORABLE QUOTES > "I told you we set up kind of our philosophy as beautifying the world one customer at a time. And that's kind of what we do—helping them go back and beautify their yard or business, and that overall helps beautify the world." > "It's more about those relationships with people that I have had as customers for many years that have become just friends. As I work with them, it's more than just selling a plant or telling them how to plant it." > "If you're killing ivy, we've got a problem. We're not selling you any more ivy until I talk to you and find out what you're doing, why this ivy isn't thriving. Because I said, if you're killing ivy, we've got a problem. So I talked to her about her conditions and where she was using them, pots, how often to water, and the sun/shade factor. After a while, she got to where she was doing well." CONNECT WITH REX Ponders Nursery Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Ponders-Nursery-Inc-61553233033044/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Ponders-Nursery-Inc-61553233033044/] NONET REESE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonetparmerreese/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese [ https://www.instagram.com/nonetparmerreese] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn [https://www.youtube.com/@threesixtyauburn] THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE Website: https://concepttoclosing.com/ [https://concepttoclosing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/ [https://www.facebook.com/concepttoclosing/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/ [https://www.instagram.com/threesixty.realestate.eal/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/three-sixty-development-sales-management/] Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate [https://www.zillow.com/profile/ThreeSixtyRealEstate] 🎙️🎙️🎙️ Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast: https://fullcast.co [https://fullcast.co] Discover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/ [https://www.thepodosphere.com/]