How Agents Are Paid — and How It’s Changing

First-Time Homebuyers with Keith Freeland of Movement Mortgage

🎧 Episode: First-Time Homebuyers with Keith Freeland of Movement Mortgage With the average first-time buyer now reaching age 40, Liz and Keith break down the real barriers holding buyers back — from student loans and credit card debt to misconceptions about credit scores, down payments, and affordability. You’ll learn: • Why homeownership is still one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available • The truth about buying a home with student loan debt • Credit score myths that may be costing buyers years of opportunity • How renting long-term impacts financial growth • What first-time buyer programs are available today • Why local market knowledge matters more than national headlines • How some buyers may qualify for little to no down payment financing If you’ve ever wondered whether buying a home is still possible — or worth it — this episode offers practical insights, real numbers, and encouragement for today’s buyers. 🎧 Listen now and discover why buying sooner may make a dramatic difference in your long-term financial future.

Assumptions – Can I Get a 3% Mortgage?

🎧 Episode: Assumptions – Can I Get a 3% Mortgage? In this episode of HouseTalk, Liz Moore breaks down one of today’s most talked-about topics in real estate—assumable mortgages. With interest rates higher than we’ve seen in years, many buyers are asking: Can I assume a seller’s lower-rate loan? Liz explains how assumable loans work, who qualifies, and what pitfalls to watch out for before jumping in. From VA and FHA loans to the fine print that lenders don’t always highlight, Liz shares real-world examples and practical advice drawn from her 40 years of experience in Virginia’s housing market. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or agent trying to help clients navigate creative financing, this episode gives you the tools to separate fact from fiction when it comes to assumptions. Tune in and learn how assumable loans might open new doors in today’s challenging market!

Flipping Houses with Stefanie Hall, REALTOR

🎧 Episode: Turning “Before” Into “After” with Stefanie Hall Episode Description: What does it really take to turn a fixer-upper into a dream home? In this episode of House Talk, Liz Moore sits down with agent, investor, and fearless house flipper Stefanie Hall to go behind the scenes of the flipping world—far beyond what you see on TV. From her early inspiration watching home renovation shows to tackling her very first “trial by fire” project, Stefanie shares how passion, patience, and smart decision-making have shaped her journey. You’ll hear what she looks for when evaluating a potential flip, how she balances design with budget, and why location and structure matter more than any trendy finish. Stefanie also opens up about unexpected challenges (including costly surprises!), the importance of building the right team, and the real timelines behind successful renovations. Plus, she shares: * What buyers actually value in today’s market * How her experience as an agent gives her a unique edge as an investor * Why preparation and patience are key for first-time flippers * The stories hidden inside older homes—and why she loves preserving their character Whether you're considering your first flip, searching for a fixer-upper, or just love a great transformation story, this episode is packed with practical insight and inspiration. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to spot potential, avoid common pitfalls, and make smarter real estate decisions.

How Agents Are Paid — and How It’s Changing

🎧 Episode: “How Agents Are Paid — and How It’s Changing” In this episode of HouseTalk, your host Liz Moore—with 40 years of local real-estate experience in Southeastern and Central Virginia—takes you behind the scenes of how real-estate agent compensation really works, and what the landmark National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit settlement means for buyers, sellers and agents here in Virginia. What she’ll cover: * A clear breakdown of the traditional model: how sellers have typically paid a commission—often around 5%-6% of the sale price—that gets split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent * What changed as a result of the NAR settlement: * The MLS (Multiple Listing Service) can no longer show the commission being offered to a buyer’s agent. * Buyer-agents now must have a written agreement with their clients up front that outlines compensation and services…before they look at property * Sellers are no longer automatically required to pay the buyer’s agent’s commission — the commission is more negotiable, and potentially the buyer may pay their agent some or all of the commission directly. * What this means for you in Virginia’s market: how to negotiate agent fees, how this may affect your costs as a buyer or seller, and what questions to ask your agent so you’re informed and protected. * Liz’s practical tips based on decades of local experience: the dos & don’ts, what to watch out for when contracts change, and how to evaluate value and service, not just the fee. Whether you’re planning to sell your home, buy your first place, or just curious about how the real estate world operates, this episode gives you clarity on one of the most opaque parts of real estate—and helps you navigate it with confidence.

Getting Your Home Market Ready

🎧 Episode: Getting Your Home Market Ready Thinking about selling your home? In this episode of HouseTalk, Liz Moore shares expert insights on how to make your property shine before it ever hits the market. With 40 years of experience helping sellers across Southeastern and Central Virginia, Liz knows exactly what today’s buyers are looking for—and what simple steps can make a big difference in your home’s value. From curb appeal and decluttering to smart updates and pre-listing inspections, Liz walks you through how to prepare your home so it stands out in any market. You’ll learn which improvements pay off, how to avoid common seller mistakes, and why first impressions matter more than ever. Whether you’re getting ready to list next week or just starting to plan your move, this episode will help you approach the process with confidence—and maximize your return when it’s time to sell.