Hustle Humbly Podcast

Latest Episodes:

99: Lender Q&A Jun 28, 2021

Show notes

Ever feel like you *kind of* understand lending… but not enough to confidently explain it to your buyer?

Real talk — if you've ever crossed your fingers and hoped the lender would "just handle it," this episode is for you.

After nearly 100 episodes, we finally brought in a real-life lender to walk us through what every Realtor should know about lending. Meet Jamie Taylor from Assurance Financial — Katy's go-to lender for more than a decade. She breaks down underwriting, loan types, rate shopping, and buyer strategy in a way that actually makes sense.

Because here's the truth: when you understand financing, you protect your client. And when you protect your client, you build trust.

In this episode, we chat about:

- What really happens in underwriting (and why it feels so intense) - Why clean, organized files lead to smoother approvals - The difference between Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, RD, and portfolio loans - Lender vs. broker: what's the difference? - How rates are priced and why fees matter just as much - The truth about discount points and "too good to be true" rates - Strategies to help your buyers win in multiple offer situations - Appraisal waivers and lender credits explained - How strong pre-approvals make offers more competitive - The biggest buyer mistakes during the loan process - Jamie's "10 Commandments of Lending" - What Realtors should look for in a pre-approval letter - Contract terms that can create financing issues - Hard money loans, escrow repairs, and underwriting timelines - How Jamie balances lending, motherhood, and boundaries

Understanding lending is not optional if you want to operate like a professional. The more you know, the calmer you'll feel when questions come up — and your clients will feel that confidence too.

Resources Mentioned: Assurance Financial

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Music: Straight A's by Connor Price → https://connorprice.shop/ The Good Life by Summer Kennedy → https://soundcloud.com/summerkennedy/the-good-life Be The One by Matrika → https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one

98: Kicking Negativity to the Curb Jun 21, 2021

Show notes

Let's be honest. Real estate can feel negative.

From public perception about Realtors to online trolls, Facebook group drama, difficult co-op agents, and even your own self-doubt… negativity shows up everywhere.

In this episode, we're kicking negativity to the curb in real estate and talking about how to protect your mindset, your professionalism, and your peace.

We cover: - Why the public perception of Realtors can feel harsh - How to respond when friends or family question your career choice - Why professionalism is your greatest defense - Handling social media trolls and vulgar listing comments - When to delete and block - Realtor Facebook group drama and how to avoid it - Messaging agents privately instead of publicly shaming - Killing difficult co-op agents with kindness - Why boundaries do not equal negativity - Setting client expectations to prevent conflict - Industry cynicism and the low barrier to entry problem - 10 practical ways to reduce negativity in your daily life

The truth is, you cannot live a positive business life with a negative mindset. You can't control what others say, but you can control how you respond.

Perspective matters. A roof issue is not a life crisis. A rude comment is not a character assessment. It's just a puzzle to solve.

If you want to raise the standard of this industry, start with yourself. Professionalism is contagious.

Resources: Free Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/resources Leave us a review: http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Submit topic ideas or toasts: team@hustlehumblypodcast.com

— Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts If you love Hustle Humbly, leaving a review helps us reach more Realtors who want to build confident, professional, relationship-first businesses.

97: Completing a CMA for Offers & Listings Jun 14, 2021

Show notes

WTF is an accurate CMA in this market?

If you've ever stared at your MLS screen thinking, "There is no right answer here," this episode is for you.

Today we're breaking down completing a CMA for offers and listings step-by-step using two real, tricky properties—one urban with a pool and guest house on a busy road, and one rural with acreage, a workshop, and a mother-in-law suite.

Spoiler alert: one property had a $50,000 pricing spread… and the other we comped separately and landed on the exact same list price.

Here's what we cover: - What CMA actually stands for (and what to call it with clients) - Why you should never say "CMA" to a seller - How we use the MLS polygon tool strategically - Why location comes first when choosing comps - How to bracket square footage properly - When to expand your search to zip code - Using price per square foot as a guide (not gospel) - How to handle unique properties with no good comps - When to suggest a pre-listing appraisal - How to price in a hot market without ignoring the data - What to do when neighbors question your price - Clear Tidewater Act explained (VA appraisal disputes) - Fighting for value when an appraisal comes in low - Adjusting for busy streets, pools, workshops, and updates - Why CMAs are part data, part experience

Key takeaway: there is no "perfect" CMA. Completing a CMA for offers and listings is a blend of data, intuition, market knowledge, and clear communication.

Resources: Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com Free Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/resources Leave a review: http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Submit topic ideas or toasts: team@hustlehumblypodcast.com

— Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts If you love Hustle Humbly, leaving a review helps us reach more Realtors who want to build confidence and professionalism in their business.

96: Rental Property How To Jun 07, 2021

Show notes

Rental properties can feel overwhelming until you break them into steps. In this episode, Katy and Alissa answer listener follow-up questions from their earlier investing episodes and walk through a practical rental property how-to—without making it feel like you need a finance degree or a personality transplant to get started.

Alissa shares what helped her feel confident buying her first rental, what numbers she looks for, how she screens tenants, and the systems that make managing rentals feel manageable. Katy adds real-world tips for listing, safety, and creating a process that keeps you professional and consistent.

This is a grounded, step-by-step conversation for agents (and humans) who want to build wealth slowly and thoughtfully.

Here's what we cover: - Step one: saving and building financial cushion - Why 20% down matters (and alternatives if you can't do that yet) - The "buy, live, rent, repeat" strategy - Why professional photos are worth it for rentals - Where to list rentals (and why you shouldn't post everywhere at once) - A copy-and-paste "non-negotiables" message that filters inquiries fast - Open-house style rental showings for efficiency and safety - Screening: credit/background checks + landlord reference calls - What to ask a previous landlord (including the one question that tells you everything) - Insurance updates when converting a home to a rental (and why over-insuring can be smart) - Rental reserves and why you shouldn't spend rental cash flow - Short-term vs. long-term rentals and property management realities - Selling rentals in a hot market, 1031 timing pressure, and "what would you buy next?" - LLC myths and why most mortgaged rentals can't be titled in an LLC - Tracking expenses and write-offs with a simple spreadsheet - What to do if you move out of state (and why it might not matter)

People, Products & Resources Mentioned: - Zillow rental listings / Zillow applications (policies may vary) - Tenant screening services (credit/background) - Venmo / Zelle for electronic rent collection - Airbnb / VRBO (short-term rentals) - Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University - Jamie Trull + "Financial Literacy for Women" - Excel/Spreadsheet tracking - Umbrella insurance policies - 1031 exchange concept (talk to a CPA)

Leave us a review at http://ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly Get your FREE Database Template: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com/starthere Email Templates 101: http://emailtemplates101.com Agent Systems 101: http://agentsystems101.com All Resources: http://hustlehumblypodcast.com Submit your topic ideas and toasts to Team@HustleHumblyPodcast.com

— Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts If you love Katy and Alissa and the Hustle Humbly Podcast, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more Realtors who want practical systems and a sustainable business.

95: Man Vs. The Machine May 31, 2021

Show notes

Technology is changing real estate fast. But here's the real question: will you let the machine win?

In this episode, we're talking about how to create a high touch client experience in real estate when everything around us is becoming more automated, digitized, and "efficient." Inspired by a Brad Inman article contrasting two very different agents—one glued to his phone and one fully present—we break down what actually makes clients feel cared for.

Efficiency is not the same thing as service. And being constantly on your phone may be hurting your client experience more than you realize.

We chat about: - Why phone usage during showings erodes trust - How to explain what you're doing when you pull out your phone - Why serving current clients well is more important than chasing new leads - Simple, free ways to create a high touch experience - Handwritten notes, vendor lists, and thoughtful follow-up - Setting up inspections to maximize relationship-building - How small gestures create long-term referrals - Why slow dimes are better than fast nickels - The danger of becoming "dangerously digitized" - How Zillow and tech platforms fit into the future of real estate - Why professionalism and presence protect your commission

This is a mindset episode. It's about remembering that your value isn't speed. It's service.

Products, People & Resources Mentioned: - Brad Inman article (Inman News) - Zillow - Redfin - ShowingTime - Trello - Email Templates 101

94: Your Vibe Will Attract Your Tribe May 24, 2021

Show notes

What happens when you choose authenticity over aesthetic in your real estate business?

In this episode, Katy chats with Amy Cotney, a top-producing Realtor in Auburn, Alabama, who has built a thriving business by being unapologetically herself online. With 800,000 followers on TikTok and over 60,000 on Instagram, Amy proves that authentic real estate branding works.

From dancing in the kitchen with her husband to posting bold, colorful content that stands out in a crowded market, Amy shares how consistency, personality, and humor helped her rise into the top 25 out of nearly 800 local agents.

If you've ever felt nervous about showing up on video, this conversation is your permission slip to stop taking yourself so seriously.

Here's what we cover: - How Amy stood out in a small town full of Realtors - Why entertainment marketing works - What happened after her first viral TikTok - How social media leads turn into real clients - Why your vibe attracts your tribe - Branding yourself instead of copying other agents - Why millennials and Gen Z crave authenticity - Handling negative comments without losing confidence - Short-form video vs long-form content - Why being known is better than being perfect

Connect with Amy: Instagram: @sweethome.auburnal TikTok: @amybartoncotney Website: www.sweethomeauburnal.com Email: amybcotney@gmail.com

93: When to Make Exceptions May 17, 2021

Show notes

We talk a lot about boundaries in real estate. But what happens when you have to bend them?

In this episode, we're diving into real estate boundaries and the gray area that no one talks about. When is it okay to make an exception? When should you hold the line? And how do you know the difference?

This conversation is honest, practical, and rooted in mindset. Because boundaries aren't about being rigid. They're about being professional. And sometimes professionalism means making a thoughtful exception—not abandoning your standards altogether.

We cover real examples from our own businesses, including late-night offers, response deadlines, buyer pre-approvals, "Pop Tart" showings, competitive markets, and online leads who suddenly want everything right now.

Here's what we chat about: - Why boundaries are a mindset issue - Urgent vs. "it can wait" tasks in real estate - Setting offer response times that protect your evenings - Why 11:59 PM deadlines create chaos - How to prevent emergencies by planning better dates and times - When it's okay to bend your schedule in a hot market - Pop Tart agents and showing homes without pre-approval - Protecting sellers by properly vetting buyers - Client pushback and how to respond professionally - Seasons vs. routines in your business - When hiring help is the right solution - Why being unavailable 24/7 is not bad service - The difference between having boundaries and being unreachable

Products, People & Resources Mentioned: - Buyer pre-approval process - Email draft scheduling - ShowingTime notifications - Assistant support in competitive markets

— Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts If you love Katy and Alissa and the Hustle Humbly Podcast, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us encourage more Realtors to build healthy, sustainable businesses.

92: Surviving Multiple Offers May 10, 2021

Show notes

Multiple offers are no longer a rare occurrence—they're the norm in many markets. In this episode, we break down what's really happening behind the scenes and how both buyers and agents can survive multiple offers without burning out or making costly mistakes.

Katy and Alissa walk through why inventory is so low, what that means for today's buyers, and how agents can better prepare their clients before emotions take over. This is a tactical, honest conversation designed to help you stay professional, calm, and confident in a very competitive market.

We also spend time on the listing side—how to communicate clearly, manage multiple offers ethically, and protect yourself with solid systems and documentation.

Here's what we cover: - Why housing inventory is so low - How investors, low rates, and generational demand affect buyers - Setting expectations with buyers before showing homes - Why speed and preparation matter more than ever - Writing clean, competitive offers - Earnest money, escalation clauses, and appraisal strategies - How lenders can make or break an offer - What listing agents should communicate upfront - Managing buyer emotions and discouragement - Legal risks, documentation, and fair housing considerations - Why buyer "love letters" can be a problem - Protecting yourself with clear systems and paper trails

Products, People & Resources Mentioned: - Local lenders and pre-approval strategies - Escalation clauses - Earnest money and option fees - Realtor.com market data - Fair housing considerations

— Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts If you love Katy and Alissa and the Hustle Humbly Podcast, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more Realtors who need clarity and confidence in today's market.

91: Modern Agent Monday May 03, 2021

Show notes

Social media doesn't need to feel awkward, salesy, or exhausting. In this episode, Katy sits down with returning guest Chelsea Peterson to talk about smarter, more human social media strategies for real estate agents who want real results—not just likes.

Chelsea is the founder of Modern Agent Social Club and the voice behind Modern Agent Monday, where she highlights agents who are using creative, strategic marketing that actually connects. Together, Katy and Chelsea break down what's working now, what to stop posting, and how to build trust online without losing your personality.

They also unpack a viral "private sale" story that made selling without a Realtor look trendy—and why moments like that are actually marketing opportunities for agents who are willing to educate instead of complain.

This episode is a pep talk and a practical roadmap for agents who want social media to feel simpler, more fun, and more effective.

Here's what we cover: - Why "private sales" are misleading—and how to turn them into educational content - Looking outside real estate for marketing inspiration - Why "just sold" posts don't help your audience - Sharing the story behind the sale instead of the result - Building a foundation before expecting leads - How long social media actually takes to work - Creating a funnel from follower to client - Using Instagram feed, stories, reels, and highlights strategically - Why stories are the easiest place to show up - Making social media fun again - Community over competition on social platforms - How to optimize your Instagram bio - Spotlight on a Modern Agent doing it right

Products, People & Resources Mentioned: - Chelsea Peterson - Modern Agent Social Club - Modern Agent Monday - @thechelseapetersen - @modernagentsocialclub

90: In Our New Mom Feelings Apr 26, 2021

Show notes

What happens when maternity leave meets real estate reality? In this episode, we chat honestly about what it's like navigating real estate with a newborn—without pretending to have it all figured out.

Alissa is just three weeks postpartum and joins Katy for an unplanned, very real conversation about the mental load of new motherhood, the guilt that shows up from every direction, and the systems that make it possible to stay present for both family and clients. Baby Tate is literally in the room, which feels exactly right for this episode.

This is not a how-to guide. It's a permission-giving chat for any Realtor trying to balance work, rest, identity, and a brand-new human.

Here's what we cover: - The emotional whiplash of early postpartum life - Why real estate with a newborn feels like being at war with yourself - Client reactions to honesty and transparency - How Alissa leaned on her assistant and agent friends for support - Asking for help and learning to say yes - Judgment, comparison, and social media pressure - Why routines can feel grounding—and exhausting - Letting go of "shoulds" and lowering your standards - A powerful Ruth Bader Ginsburg quote on work and motherhood

Products, People & Resources Mentioned: - Assistant support and showing coverage - Agent-to-agent collaboration - Ruth Bader Ginsburg quote on work-life balance

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