Real Talk with Leigh Brown

Latest Episodes:

Can Seniors Afford to Age in Place? The Housing Problem We Need to Talk About Aug 13, 2026

Show notes

Can seniors afford to age in place? Millions of older Americans want to remain in their homes as they age, but rising housing costs, property taxes, home repairs and a shortage of accessible housing are making that increasingly difficult.

This week on From the Rooftops, I'm digging into the senior housing issues REALTORS® and homeowners need to understand, including aging in place, affordability, accessibility, downsizing, ADUs and some creative ways we may need to rethink the housing we already have.

One number stopped me cold: roughly 12.4 million older households are housing cost-burdened, according to research cited by Governing.

And here's the question I want my real estate people thinking about: when an older homeowner says, "I want to stay in my home," do we actually know how to help them do it?

We're talking about that Thursday at 9 AM ET.

Bring your coffee. Bring your questions. And tell me what you're seeing in your market.

#FromTheRooftops #LeighBrown #AgingInPlace #SeniorHousing #RealEstate #REALTORS #HousingAffordability #OlderHomeowners #ADU

?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=remainder-lf&utm_content=hmx0TEylrMo

Chapters:

0:00 Why are seniors struggling to age in place?

4:25 How does capital gains tax affect senior homeowners?

5:25 What housing features limit aging in place?

8:07 Why is rent control a bad solution for seniors?

10:48 What are the risks of outsourcing elder care?

13:09 How do universal design requirements increase costs?

16:31 What role do faith-based properties play in housing?

19:33 Why are senior renters more at risk of homelessness?

23:16 How do property taxes burden fixed-income seniors?

30:20 What are the risks of home equity extraction?

Ready to grow your real estate business? Start with Leigh Brown University: https://www.leighbrownuniversity.com?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=remainder-lf&utm_content=hmx0TEylrMo

The New Appraisal Rules Every REALTOR® Needs to Know | Peter Gallo & Leigh Brown Aug 06, 2026

Show notes

The appraisal process is changing, and every REALTOR®, appraiser, lender, buyer, and seller should understand what's coming.

This week I'm joined by veteran appraiser Peter Gallo, a nationally respected appraisal leader with more than 30 years of experience, to discuss the biggest appraisal changes in years, what they mean for the real estate industry, and why this conversation matters far beyond paperwork.

Together we'll answer questions including:

• What are the new appraisal rules?

• What is UAD 3.6?

• Why is the appraisal report changing?

• Will appraisals take longer?

• How could these changes impact REALTORS®, buyers, sellers and lenders?

• Where does AI fit into the future of appraisals?

Whether you're a REALTOR®, broker, lender, appraiser, investor, or homeowner, this conversation will help you understand what's changing and how to prepare.

Join us live and bring your questions.

📺 New livestream every Thursday at 9 AM ET.

#realestate #appraisal #UAD36 #realtor #housingmarket #mortgage #appraisers #leadership

Chapters:

0:00 What are the new appraisal rules affecting Realtors®?

2:49 What changes on November 2nd for appraisals?

7:49 Why are data collectors a problem in appraisals?

10:20 How do certified appraisers differ from data collectors?

15:17 Why should buyers request a certified appraiser?

24:21 How did the 2009 HVCC impact appraisers?

32:54 What advantages do AMCs have over independent appraisers?

38:53 How will the new 41-page form affect appraisal times?

45:35 What due diligence time frames protect buyers?

56:38 Who owns the companies behind AVMs and AMCs?

Ready to grow your real estate business? Start with Leigh Brown University: https://www.leighbrownuniversity.com?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=remainder-lf&utm_content=dzVi4tx_roQ

Are We Asking the Wrong Questions? Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

Sometimes the biggest problem isn't the answer. It's the question. This week we're looking beyond the headlines to ask what really matters.

We'll talk about:

Why the debate over AI may be missing the bigger issue.
What a North Carolina HOA assessment teaches us about homeownership and financial responsibility.
The continuing battle over private listings, consumer access, and who really benefits.
Whether housing affordability conversations are focused on symptoms instead of causes.

When we ask better questions, we make better decisions.

Private Listings: Are Consumers Getting the Full Story? Jul 30, 2026

Show notes

This week's headlines all point to one important question.

Private listings are expanding. Buyers are wondering how to find every available home. Sellers are hearing more about selling without an agent. Brokerages are debating listing policies, and ethics complaints are making national news.

So here's the question.

Are consumers getting the full story?

Resources for this episode

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ExaK3ixAvI

Join the Conversation Live

Thanks for spending part of your day with me.

Every Thursday at 9:00 AM ET, I go live on YouTube to talk through the week's biggest housing and real estate headlines. The best part is hearing your questions and perspectives while we're live.

I'd love for you to join the conversation.

Subscribe and turn on notifications here:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/@LeighBrownSpeaker

I'll see you From the Rooftops.

About Leigh Brown

Leigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF

👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com

DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

3 Quick Housing Headlines & A Reminder of the American Promise Jul 23, 2026

Show notes

Three headlines. One bigger conversation.

This week, I'll share my perspective on three stories shaping the real estate industry:

AI's growing role in the homebuying journey
Zillow, MRED, and Compass taking their listing control fight back to federal court
Why more older adults are choosing "Golden Girls" style housing

They're very different stories, but they all point to one question:

What does the future of homeownership look like?

I'll also share a reminder about the American promise that has made homeownership one of the greatest wealth-building opportunities in history—and why that still matters today.

Join the Conversation Live

Thanks for spending part of your day with me.

Every Thursday at 9:00 AM ET, I go live on YouTube to talk through the week's biggest housing and real estate headlines. The best part is hearing your questions and perspectives while we're live.

I'd love for you to join the conversation.

Subscribe and turn on notifications here:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/@LeighBrownSpeaker

I'll see you From the Rooftops.

About Leigh Brown

Leigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF

👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com

DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

The Housing Headlines You Can't Ignore: AI, Affordability & What's Next Jul 16, 2026

Show notes

If your inbox looks anything like mine, you've probably seen the same headlines I have. Housing crisis. AI. Interest rates. Mergers. Rent control. Everybody's yelling, and somehow we're all supposed to figure out what's actually important.

I'm sharing a few of the stories that landed in my inbox this week and giving you my take on what they actually mean for REALTORS®, homeowners, landlords, and anybody trying to make sense of today's housing market. Some of these headlines deserve your attention. Others? Not so much.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why I don't believe real estate will ever become a commodity
Thoughts on rent control and the unintended consequences that follow
Where AI can actually help your business and where it can't
Why housing policy deserves more attention from real estate professionals
How to decide which headlines are worth paying attention to

Resources mentioned in this episode

REALTORS® Legislative Meetings

Join the Conversation Live

Thanks for spending part of your day with me.

Every Thursday at 9:00 AM ET, I go live on YouTube to talk through the week's biggest housing and real estate headlines. The best part is hearing your questions and perspectives while we're live.

I'd love for you to join the conversation.

Subscribe and turn on notifications here:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/@LeighBrownSpeaker

I'll see you From the Rooftops.

About Leigh Brown

Leigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF

👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com

DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

Can Young People Still Buy a Home? with Justice Bigot Jul 09, 2026

Show notes

Everybody keeps saying the same thing: young people can't afford to buy homes anymore.

Justice Bigot isn't ignoring today's market, but he also isn't buying into the idea that homeownership is out of reach. At just 26 years old, he's helping clients navigate a challenging market by focusing on honesty, relationships, and practical advice instead of hype.

If you've been wondering whether homeownership is still possible or whether the next generation of real estate professionals is ready to lead, this episode is worth your time.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why saying "I don't know" can actually make clients trust you more
How AI can support great REALTORS® without replacing them
Why consistency matters more than years of experience
What first-time buyers need to hear in today's market
Justice's "Like. Value. Trust." philosophy for building a lasting business

Resources mentioned in this episode

About Justice Bigot

Justice Bigot is a REALTOR® serving the Central Florida area, where he helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with honesty, clear communication, and a relationship-first approach. Passionate about making homeownership more attainable, Justice embraces new technology while believing that trust and genuine human connection will always be at the heart of great service.

Connect with Justice

Instagram: @justice.big
TikTok: @justbigrealty
YouTube: Just Real Estate
X: @JusticeBigotRE
Email: justice.bigot@cbrealty.com
Contact Number: (407) 676-9431

About Leigh Brown

Leigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF

👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com

DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

The Smart Way to Sell Highly Appreciated Property with Chad Ettmueller & Monty Walker Jul 02, 2026

Show notes

Selling a highly appreciated asset can trigger a devastating tax bill, but it doesn't always have to.

In this episode, Chad Ettmueller and Monty Walker break down a little-known tax strategy called the Structured Installment Sale. This approach allows sellers of investment real estate, farmland, timberland, or even closely-held businesses to defer their capital gains taxes while securing a guaranteed stream of income.

Before you sign on the dotted line, discover how this unique financial tool works, who qualifies for it, and why it offers significantly more flexibility than traditional tax-deferral options.

Key takeaways to listen for

How a Structured Installment Sale differs from a traditional 1031 exchange
Why timing matters when planning for capital gains taxes
Which types of property owners can benefit most from this strategy
How installment sales can help preserve wealth for future generations
Why building the right advisory team before selling is critical

Resources mentioned in this episode

https://sisresource.com

About Chad EttmuellerChad is Senior Vice President of JCR Settlements, LLC. Chad specializes in both personal and commercial general liability, trucking/transportation industry claims, medical malpractice and workers' compensation claims. Chad possesses significant experience working with Medicare Set-Asides (MSA's) in both Workers' Compensation and Liability negotiations.

About Monty WalkerMonty is a Certified Public Accountant with a diversity of experience in the private closely-held business arena. Monty supports Entrepreneurial Clients throughout the country. He is an extremely innovative advisor in the Business Transfer Industry providing support to Small Business Owners in the areas of Business Transactions, Business Structuring & Design, Business Tax Planning and Business Exit Planning.

Connect with Chad & Monty

Website: JCR Settlements | Structured Installment Sales
LinkedIn: Chad Ettmueller | Monty Walker
Phone Number: (404) 661-3507 | (770) 886-7400

About Leigh BrownLeigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

Want No Broke Months? Here's the Real Secret with Dan Rochon Jun 25, 2026

Show notes

Everybody wants consistent income but very few people are willing to do what it actually takes to get there.

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Rochon to break down what creates predictable success in a business that feels anything but predictable.

In a world where everyone is chasing shortcuts and quick wins… this conversation is a reality check on what actually works and why most people never stick with it long enough to see results.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why consistency is the real driver of long-term success
The 4 pillars that create predictable income in any business
How belief impacts your ability to generate and convert leads
Why aligning your strengths with your strategy matters more than doing "everything"
How to handle rejection without letting it derail your progress

Resources mentioned in this episode

Teach to Sell by Dan Rochon

About Dan Rochon

Dan is a real estate coach, speaker, and former brokerage owner who helps professionals create consistent, predictable income in their businesses. After starting his real estate career during the 2007 market downturn, he quickly rose to success, eventually purchasing and operating a brokerage for over a decade.

Today, Dan focuses on coaching entrepreneurs and sales professionals using a framework built on mindset, lead generation, systems, and leadership—helping them close the gap between effort and results.

Connect with Dan

Website: nobrokemonths.com

About Leigh Brown

Leigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF

👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com

DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

California Landlord Laws Are Out of Control! with Niv Davidovich Jun 18, 2026

Show notes

Owning rental property sounds simple… until you see what landlords in California are actually dealing with.

In this episode, I sit down with landlord-tenant attorney Niv Davidovich to break down the reality of managing property in one of the most heavily regulated states in the country - from eviction laws to tenant fraud to policies that can leave owners stuck with major risk.

In a market where rules are constantly shifting and one mistake can cost you everything… this conversation will make you rethink what it really means to be a landlord today.

Key takeaways to listen for

Why eviction laws in California have become so complex and difficult to navigate
How tenant fraud is becoming more organized—and harder to detect
What "just cause" eviction really means (and why it limits property owners)
Why one bad tenant can create major financial risk for landlords
How local regulations can dramatically change depending on the city or county

Resources mentioned in this episode

About Niv DavidovichNiv is an experienced litigator and counselor and has a diverse legal experience which focuses his practice on representing private developers, landlords/owners, property managers, architects, engineers, contractors, and investors in contract construction litigation and also includes representing clients in real estate matters, landlord/tenant litigation, commercial lease negotiations, land use issues, intellectual property and entertainment matters, employment disputes, wage and hour claims, general business transactional matters and commercial business litigation.

Connect with Niv

Website: Davidovich Stone Law Group
Contact Number: (818) 661-2420

About Leigh BrownLeigh Brown is a keynote speaker and leadership expert who helps organizations navigate growth, conflict, and change with clarity and courage.

Her message resonates with leaders facing real-world pressure—whether that's housing challenges, organizational friction, or cultural shifts.

Her latest book, Next Is Now, equips leaders to stop reacting and start leading with intention.

👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF👉 Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

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