Ready to buy your dream home but worried about costly missteps?
In this episode of Your Real Estate Mama, host Jan Scott—with over 35 years of real estate wisdom—breaks down the top 10 home buying mistakes that can derail your journey. From skipping pre-approval to ignoring hidden costs, Jan shares practical tips to save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner, this episode is your guide to smarter home buying decisions.

What You Will Learn

• How to sidestep the pitfalls that trap unsuspecting home buyers.
• The critical steps to take before you even start house hunting.
• Strategies to ensure your dream home fits your budget and future plans.

Key Topics Discussed

• Why skipping pre-approval could cost you your dream home (and how to fix it).
• The sneaky extra costs that catch buyers off guard—what are they?
• Location traps that turn a great deal into a lifelong regret.
• Is a home inspection worth it? The answer might surprise you.
• How emotions and bidding wars can push you past your limits.

Show Resources and Links

• Related Episodes: Check out episodes 6 and 8 for Jan’s deep dive into home inspections with a master inspector
• Bible Reference: Matthew 7:24-27 – Explore the scripture Jan mentions about building on a solid foundation.

Quotes

• “You wouldn’t shop for a Mercedes if you only had money for a Chevrolet—same with a home.” – Jan Scott
• “A great house in the wrong location can be tough to resell and might make everyday life a headache.” – Jan Scott
• “Invite Jesus into your space and let him be the cornerstone upon which every room is built.” – Jan Scott

Conclusion

Jan wraps up this episode with a heartfelt reminder: avoiding these 10 mistakes isn’t just about saving money—it’s about building a home that’s a true haven. With her practical advice and a touch of faith, she empowers you to approach home buying with confidence and clarity.

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Thinking about selling your home but not sure where to start? The market is stabilizing, which means homes are taking longer to sell—making preparation more important than ever. In this episode of Your Real Estate Mama, Jan Scott shares expert advice on how to get your home market-ready to attract the highest offers. From decluttering and deep cleaning to curb appeal and strategic repairs, Jan walks you through every step to make your home stand out. Plus, hear a real-life success story of how small changes helped one family sell their home in just three weeks after months of struggle.

Follow the show for new episodes, and let’s get your home sold the right way!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The essential first steps to take when preparing your home for sale
• Why decluttering and depersonalizing can make or break a sale
• The most overlooked yet impactful home improvements buyers love
• How to compete with new construction homes in today’s market
• Why having a clear financial plan before listing is a game-changer

Key Topics Discussed:

• A real-life case study: John and Nancy’s home-selling transformation
• The psychology behind home staging and what buyers really look for
• Curb appeal tricks that make your home irresistible
• Addressing major maintenance issues before they become deal-breakers
• Why now is the best time to start preparing for a spring sale

Quotes from the Episode:

"Selling a home isn’t just about moving on—it’s about moving forward." – Jan Scott

"The moment you put that for-sale sign in the yard, your home becomes a product on the market. Make sure it’s one buyers want to buy." – Jan Scott

Final Thoughts:

Spring might seem far away, but the work you do now will pay off in the long run. A well-prepared home sells faster and attracts stronger offers, setting you up for a smooth transition into your next chapter. So, take it one step at a time, trust the process, and as always—listen to your mama!

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Ever wondered what role appraisals play in the home-buying journey? Is an appraisal just another box to check—or could it make or break your real estate deal? In this episode of Your Real Estate Mama, Jan Scott unravels the mystery of home appraisals, explaining why they matter, how they work, and how they protect buyers, sellers, and lenders alike. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a beloved property, or just curious about real estate, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

What You’ll Learn:

• What a home appraisal is and why it’s critical in real estate.
• When you need an appraisal (and when you don’t).
• How appraisers determine a home’s value using comps, location, and condition.
• The difference between appraisals and home inspections.
• Options if an appraisal doesn’t match the purchase price.
• Modern trends in appraisals: desktop and drive-by options.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Definition of an Appraisal: What it is, who performs it, and why it’s necessary.
• When You Need an Appraisal: Mortgage requirements, cash deals, and waivers.
• How Appraisals Work: The role of comps, home condition, and location.
• Agent and Appraiser Interactions: What’s allowed, what’s not.
• Challenges with Low Appraisals: Handling discrepancies and protecting your investment.
• Tech-Driven Appraisals: Desktop and drive-by methods explained.
• Appraisal Contingencies: Protecting yourself in a competitive market.
• Mama Wisdom and Inspiration: A heartfelt story about value and legacy, featuring Jan’s father.

Show Resources:

• Follow Jan on Facebook: @yourrealestatemamapodcast
• Email Questions: Jan@YourRealEstateMama.com
• Bible Verse Mentioned: Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know the plans I have for you..."
• Quote of the Episode: "Appraisals don’t just determine a home’s value—they help us reflect on the value we create in our own lives."

Inspirational Story Highlight:
Jan shares a touching story about her father, his determination to rewrite his life’s narrative, and the legacy of love, faith, and hard work he left behind. This lesson reminds us that no matter where we’ve been, we have the power to embrace change and step into a hopeful future.

Conclusion:
Appraisals may not be glamorous, but they’re a cornerstone of smart real estate decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just dreaming about your future home, understanding the appraisal process can save you money and heartache. Remember, value is about more than dollars—it’s about the life you build.

Until next time, happy house hunting—and as Jan says,

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Are you curious about what the future holds for the housing market? In this episode, Jan Scott, Your Real Estate Mama, dives into the top predictions for the 2025 housing market. From stabilizing mortgage rates to increasing home sales, discover how these trends could impact your buying or selling decisions. Whether you're preparing to purchase your first home, upgrade, or sell, you'll find actionable advice and plenty of encouragement to make the most of the coming opportunities.

What You’ll Learn:

• Key housing market predictions for 2025 and 2026.
• Why mortgage rate stability around 6% is good news for buyers and sellers.
• The financial benefits of homeownership compared to renting.
• Practical tips for buyers to prepare for the upcoming market rebound.
• How job growth and increased inventory are driving market changes.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The projected 9% increase in existing home sales for 2025.
• Wealth-building through homeownership (homeowner vs. renter net worth).
• Preparing financially for future real estate opportunities.
• How new market trends can make your dream home a reality.
• Encouraging insights and wisdom from Jan, rooted in faith and hope.

Show Resources & Links:

• Episodes to revisit: Episode 4 and Episode 5 (Renting to Owning: Making the Transition).
• Contact Jan: Send questions to jan@yourrealestatemama.com.
• Follow on Facebook: Your Real Estate Mama Podcast.
• Quote of the Episode:
  "May the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." – Romans 15:13

Conclusion:

As we navigate 2025’s housing market together, remember that brighter days are ahead. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply dream, now’s the time to prepare. With the promise of hope and expert advice from Jan, your dream home could be closer than you think.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who’s also excited about the future of real estate. Happy house hunting, and remember to always listen to Your Real Estate Mama!

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Are you ready to wrap up the year with a mix of real estate wisdom, unforgettable stories, and a few good laughs? Your Real Estate Mama host Jan Scott takes us on a journey through the best moments of 2024. From must-ask questions for real estate agents to shocking home inspection tales and essential mortgage tips, this episode is jam-packed with practical advice and heartwarming reflections.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The one question to always ask your real estate agent before hiring them.
2. Why title insurance is a must and what hidden risks it can save you from.
3. Mortgage tips to simplify the lending process, especially for self-employed buyers.
4. The importance of home inspections—even for new homes!
5. The ultimate decluttering guide to sell your home faster and for top dollar.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Buying a home is the biggest investment you’ll ever make. Don’t trust it to a rookie!”
• “Your agent should know the land—what’s under it, what’s around it, and its history.”
• “Decluttering isn’t just for showings; it makes moving out easier for you, too.”
• “People build houses, and people make mistakes. That’s why a good inspection is priceless.”

Sources:

• Tracy Newby, Anchor Title: Title policy and protecting your home ownership.
• Rose Roush, Mortgage Expert: Essential mortgage insights for buyers.
• Rion Du Plessis, Home Boss Inspection: Hidden dangers in old and new homes.

Conclusion:
From hilarious “crappy subdivision” stories to hard-hitting real estate advice, Jan Scott reminds us why experience and preparation matter. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, this year’s highlights prove that “a little love, a lot of laughter, and always listening to your mama” is the key to success—both in real estate and in life.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and here’s to an even better 2025!

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Are you ready to save money on your taxes this year?

In this episode, I dive into essential year-end tax tips for homeowners and homebuyers. Learn how to maximize deductions like mortgage interest, property taxes, and home office expenses, and discover tax breaks for new homebuyers, including homestead exemptions and energy-efficient upgrades.

Whether you’ve owned your home for years or just purchased your first, this guide will help you prepare and organize for tax season while keeping more money in your pocket.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why year-end tax planning is crucial for homeowners and buyers.
• Key tax deductions for homeowners, including mortgage interest, property taxes, and home office expenses.
• Special tax breaks for recent homebuyers, such as deducting points and claiming homestead exemptions.
• How energy-efficient upgrades and medical-related home modifications can save you money.
• Important reminders for Alabama listeners and military families.
• How to stay organized with tax documents and avoid penalties for new 2024 regulations.

Resources Mentioned:

• BOIR Filing: bioefiling.fincen.gov
• Homestead Exemption Details: Contact your local tax assessor’s office.
• Proverbs 16:9 for Inspiration

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Are you waiting for the "perfect time" to buy a home? With so many people holding off for lower interest rates or other reasons, let’s unpack why homeownership might still be the smarter move—right now!

I’m Jan Scott, your Real Estate Mama, and today I’m joined by Rose Rauch, the mortgage gal with Magnolia Mortgage. Rose is my go-to miracle worker when it comes to navigating the world of mortgages, and she’s here to share her wisdom on why owning a home beats renting every time.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• The financial benefits of owning a home—including building equity and tax advantages.
• How homeownership fosters stability for your family and strengthens communities.
• Creative financing options for buying a home, even with a small down payment.
• Why the home you buy today can be the stepping stone to your dream home.
• How to create a plan to move from renting to owning—no matter where you are financially.

We’ll also bust some common myths about interest rates and help you see why waiting might cost you more in the long run. Whether you’re ready to buy now or just starting to dream, this episode is packed with insights to get you on the path to homeownership.

Tune in and let’s make sure that lease you’re in now is your last!

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the mortgage process and unsure where to start on your homeownership journey? In this eye-opening episode of Your Real Estate Mama Podcast, mortgage expert Rose Rauch pulls back the curtain on the complex world of home lending, providing listeners with a comprehensive roadmap to securing their dream home.

What you'll learn:

• The essential documents needed for mortgage approval
• Different types of home loans (FHA, VA, conventional, USDA)
• How debt-to-income ratio impacts your loan eligibility
• The difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval
• Tips for self-employed borrowers navigating the mortgage process

Packed with insider knowledge and practical advice, this episode breaks down the mortgage process step-by-step, demystifying everything from credit requirements to loan types. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to understand the intricacies of home financing, Rose Rauch offers actionable insights that can save you time, money, and stress. Learn how to prepare your finances, choose the right loan, and confidently move through the mortgage approval process with expert guidance from two industry professionals.

Send Jan a text

Follow for Real Estate Tips and Expert Advice!
Looking to buy or sell a home? Tune in for real estate tips, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate the housing market with confidence! 🏡 Plus, get a little mama wisdom to make your home journey smoother.

Have Real Estate Questions or Comments?
I’d love to answer them in an upcoming episode! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your real estate questions, whether it’s about buying, selling, or getting your home ready for the market.

Need a Trusted Realtor?
Connect with me to find a trusted and experienced realtor in your area. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Email: jan@yourrealestatemama.com
Follow on Facebook: @YourRealEstateMamaPodcast