The Brick buy Brick Podcast

Saving Made Simple

In this episode of Brick buy Brick, hosts Kim Von Dohren and Ed Marko explain why saving matters and how to start — from building an emergency fund and trimming everyday expenses to using compounding interest and maximizing employer 401(k) matches. They offer practical tips to reduce spending, prioritize short- and long-term goals, and begin retirement savings so listeners can steadily build financial security.

Why Mortgage Rates Jump When the Fed Cuts Rates

On this episode of Brick buy Brick, realtor Kim Von Dohren and banker Ed Marko explain why mortgage rates can rise even after the Federal Reserve lowers its overnight rate. They clarify that mortgage rates track the bond market and Treasury yields, so market uncertainty can push investors into bonds and raise mortgage costs. Key takeaways: short-term spikes often follow Fed actions or talk, watch Treasury yields instead of headlines, and consider locking a mortgage for certainty if you don’t want to gamble on future rate moves.

Money Problems Aren't About Money — Fix the Mindset First

Hosts Kim Von Dohren and Ed Marko explore why most money problems come from mindset, habits and relationships — not just income. Through real-life stories (from Ferrari's to gambling) they explain how honest budgets, delayed gratification and understanding your spending motives create financial freedom. The episode offers practical advice: put all spending in your budget, confront the emotional drivers behind purchases, seek guidance from people who model healthy finances, and take disciplined steps to break cycles of poverty and build lasting wealth.

Interest Rates, maybe not the most important part of your mortgage payment

Join Kim Von Dohren, your realtor, and Ed Marko, your banker, in an insightful episode of Brick by Brick, Building Wealth Through Homeownership. Dive deep into understanding that while interest rates are part of, they aren't the sole factors influencing your monthly mortgage payment. Discover how principal, taxes, insurance, and PMI can significantly impact your borrowing power, often more than interest rates themselves. This episode takes you through a historical journey of interest rate fluctuations over the past 50 years, highlighting the importance of focusing on elements you can control, such as taxes and insurance, to make informed homeownership decisions. Learn how each $100 variance in non-mortgage costs can shift your home-buying capacity by up to $15,000, and find out how your credit score can vastly alter your PMI expenditure. Perfect for potential home buyers and seasoned homeowners alike, this dialogue aims to equip you with the necessary knowledge to manage your home investment smartly and strategically. Don't let interest rates dictate your property dreams—tune in to find out how you can maximize your financial leverage and build wealth effectively through homeownership.

Home Interior Maintenance

Join hosts Kim VonDohren and Ed Marko in this insightful episode of 'Brick by Brick, Building Wealth Through Homeownership.' In the second part of their maintenance series, they delve into the importance of maintaining various aspects of your home's interior. From painting walls and cleaning carpets to servicing HVAC systems and ensuring plumbing and appliances are in good shape, they cover it all. Discover practical tips on how to keep your home in great condition, whether it's replacing filters monthly, draining water heaters or maintaining wood and tile flooring. Learn the importance of regular servicing contracts for your heating and air conditioning systems and explore the benefits of home warranties. This episode is packed with valuable advice for homeowners who want to maximize their property's longevity and value. Don't miss out on these expert tips to ensure your home remains a safe and welcoming space.