The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast with Mike Mills Mike Mills

What if you could spend less time on back-office work and more time building client relationships? Chris Heller, CEO of OJO and Movoto, discusses how real estate tech is transforming the industry. Join us to explore how technology can make your realtor tasks more efficient and effective.
Real Estate Tech is at the forefront of this enlightening episode with Chris Heller, CEO of OJO and Movoto. Discover how Lever by Movoto is transforming the daily operations of real estate agents, making their jobs more efficient and effective. We delve into the specifics of leveraging technology for marketing, lead generation, and transaction management. Chris shares invaluable insights on how to maintain a personal touch while utilizing advanced tools. Learn about the integration of AI in real estate, the importance of database management, and how to keep up with industry changes. Tune in to get answers to your pressing questions about modern real estate practices and gain practical tips to enhance your business.
Key Takeaway 1: Lever by Movoto Streamlines Realtor TasksLever by Movoto is a revolutionary platform designed to make real estate professionals' lives easier. By automating routine tasks such as marketing, lead generation, and transaction management, it allows agents to focus more on building relationships with clients. This tool is a game-changer for those looking to boost their efficiency and effectiveness in the real estate industry.
Key Takeaway 2: The Importance of CRM SystemsEffective database management is crucial for any real estate business. Chris Heller emphasizes the role of CRM systems in organizing and maintaining client information, which is vital for marketing and follow-ups. A well-maintained CRM can significantly enhance an agent’s productivity by ensuring no potential leads or opportunities are missed.
Key Takeaway 3: Integrating AI in Real EstateArtificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important in real estate innovation. Chris discusses how AI can assist in analyzing documents, automating responses, and even providing real-time advice to clients. This integration helps agents provide better service while saving time and reducing the likelihood of human error.
Key Takeaway 4: Balancing Technology and Personal TouchWhile technology is essential, maintaining a personal touch remains crucial in real estate. Chris Heller advises agents to use technology to handle administrative tasks, allowing them more time to engage personally with clients. This balance ensures that clients receive personalized service, which is key to building trust and long-term relationships.
Key Takeaway 5: Adapting to Industry ChangesThe real estate industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of these changes is essential for success. Chris highlights the importance of being adaptable and open to new technologies and methods. By embracing innovation, realtors can not only improve their efficiency but also offer enhanced services that meet the ever-changing needs of their clients.
TIME STAMPED SUMMARY0:00 - 0:30: IntroductionMike Mills introduces the podcast episode, discussing the importance of staying efficient and effective in the real estate business.Introduction of guest Chris Heller, CEO of OJO and Movoto, and a brief overview of his extensive experience in the real estate industry.
0:31 - 3:00: Chris Heller’s BackgroundChris shares his journey and how he became CEO of OJO and Movoto.Discussion about the founding of OJO in Austin, Texas, and its growth amidst the city’s tech boom.
3:01 - 7:00: Austin Real Estate Market TrendsMike and Chris discuss the booming real estate market in Austin, its rapid growth, and market stability.Insights into the adjustments in home prices and the role of technology in...

What’s more cost-effective in today's economy: renting or buying in Texas? This episode unpacks the latest trends and numbers, offering a fresh perspective that could challenge what you thought you knew about the local real estate market. Tune in to make more informed decisions as a realtor or investor.
This week's episode offers an in-depth look at the Texas housing market, focusing on current mortgage rates and whether the economic landscape favors renting or buying. Join Mike Mills as he provides updated statistics, discusses market predictions, and explains the role of 'Build to Rent' developments in shaping market trends. Essential listening for anyone involved in Texas real estate, aiming to navigate through these changing times with confidence.
Key Take AwaysImpact of Mortgage Rates on Buying Decisions
Delve into how the fluctuating mortgage rates are shaping buyer behaviors in the Texas housing market. This episode unpacks the relationship between economic uncertainty, interest rate trends, and their direct influence on the decision to buy or rent. Learn why even small changes in rates can have significant impacts on market dynamics and investment opportunities.
Rising Trend of Build to Rent
Explore the growing phenomenon of the 'Build to Rent' sector and its implications for the Texas real estate landscape. Understand how this trend is filling a market gap and what it means for investors and renters. Mike Mills provides a critical analysis of how these developments are altering housing availability and pricing structures.
Economic Indicators and Their Predictions
Gain insights into the key economic indicators that are currently shaping the Texas housing market. This discussion covers the latest data on job markets, inflation rates, and GDP growth, helping listeners to forecast potential shifts in real estate trends and prepare for future market conditions.
Renting vs. Buying: Financial Implications
Weigh the financial implications of renting versus buying in the current Texas real estate market. This takeaway offers a deep dive into cost comparisons, long-term financial impacts, and strategic advice for those looking to make the most of their real estate investments. Understand when it might be more beneficial to rent or to buy, based on the latest market data.
Forecasts for the Texas Housing Market
Discover what the future holds for the Texas housing market with detailed forecasts and expert predictions. Learn about anticipated changes in housing prices, inventory levels, and buyer demographics. This segment provides realtors and investors with actionable insights to navigate the market’s ups and downs effectively.
Time Stamped Summary:00:09 - 01:21 - Introduction and Personal Stories
Mike Mills opens the episode with a light-hearted recount of Mother’s Day weekend activities and the amusing challenges of parenting teenagers. He sets the stage for the deeper discussion on the Texas housing market and mortgage rates.
01:22 - 03:19 - Current Mortgage Rates and Economic Indicators
Mike dives into the current state of mortgage rates and how they’re affected by broader economic signals. Discussion includes whether the U.S. is heading towards a recession and what that means for mortgage rates.
03:20 - 04:15 - Impacts of Federal Reserve Policies
Analysis of recent Federal Reserve announcements and their implications on the housing market. Mike explains the dual mandate of the Fed concerning inflation and employment, and how these factors influence lending rates.
04:16 - 05:14 - Job Market Trends and Their Impact on Housing
Examination of the latest job market data, the increase in unemployment claims,...

Ever wondered how some investors seem to earn money while they sleep? Discover the secret world of real estate note buying with Scott Carson, who unlocks the mysteries of passive income through distressed notes. Find out how this lesser-known investment strategy can be a game-changer for your financial future!
Real Estate Note Buying: How to Generate Passive Income with Scott Carson unveils the less trodden path of earning through distressed notes. In this comprehensive episode, Scott shares his expert insights on how even novices can start buying notes from banks, transforming debt into a steady stream of income. From understanding the basics of note investment to advanced strategies like negotiating with banks, every facet is covered. Discover how this unique form of investment can fit into your financial portfolio, all explained in a straightforward, engaging manner.
Key TakeawaysUnderstanding Real Estate Note Buying
Real estate note buying involves purchasing the debt secured by a property rather than the property itself. Scott Carson explains how this can be a lucrative passive income stream, allowing investors to act like banks. He details the process of how to start, including the basics of identifying underperforming notes and the initial steps to acquiring them. This takeaway demystifies note buying for newcomers and highlights its potential as a low-entry barrier investment.
The Benefits of Passive Income Through Notes
Scott discusses the advantages of earning passive income through real estate notes, emphasizing the reduced management responsibilities compared to traditional property rentals. He points out that note buyers can receive regular payments without dealing with tenants, property maintenance, or other common real estate investment headaches. This aspect is particularly appealing to those looking for simpler ways to invest in real estate.
How to Access the Note-Buying Market
Accessing the market for buying notes might seem complex, but Scott breaks down how to approach banks and financial institutions to find opportunities. He shares strategies for negotiating with these entities and securing notes at a discount. This key takeaway is crucial for understanding the operational framework within which note transactions occur.
Success Stories and Practical Examples
Real-life success stories and practical examples provided by Scott serve as both motivational and educational tools. These stories help listeners visualize the potential outcomes of note investing and encourage them to consider how they might apply similar strategies in their own financial endeavors.
Long-Term Financial Planning with Note Investments
Finally, Scott touches on the importance of viewing note buying as part of a broader financial plan. He discusses how this investment fits into long-term wealth-building and financial security, making it an attractive option for families looking to increase their financial literacy and establish a solid financial foundation.
Time Stamped Summary0:00-3:00 Introduction
Host Mike Mills introduces the podcast, the topic of real estate note buying, and the episode's expert guest, Scott Carson. Mike provides a brief overview of the potential benefits of note buying as an investment strategy.
3:01-6:00 Defining Note Buying
Scott Carson explains what real estate note buying is, the basic concept of investing in debt rather than physical properties, and how this can lead to passive income.
6:01-12:00 Benefits of Note Buying
Discussion on the advantages of note buying, including passive income potential and less direct management compared to traditional real estate investments. Scott emphasizes the accessibility of this investment type for non-professional...

Dive into the heart of the Texas housing market in this week's episode of the Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast. Discover how the Build to Rent trend is reshaping investment strategies and influencing mortgage rates across the state. Don't miss out on expert insights that could redefine your approach to the booming real estate landscape in Texas.
Exploring the Build to Rent Trend, this episode of the Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast dives deep into how this burgeoning movement is impacting Texas housing and mortgage rates. We discuss the latest economic data affecting interest rates, analyze shifts in the housing market, and evaluate the NAR commission settlement. Understand how corporate real estate influences are shaping the future, and get insights on Zillow's new buyer rep agreements. This comprehensive market update is essential for every real estate professional looking to stay ahead in Texas.
Key Takeaways:Understanding the Build to Rent Trend
The Build to Rent trend is significantly reshaping the Texas housing market, offering new investment opportunities and challenges. This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how this trend affects both housing availability and mortgage rates, emphasizing its impact on market dynamics and investment strategies in Texas.
Impact of Economic Data on Mortgage Rates
We delve into how recent economic data, including jobs reports and federal policy changes, influence mortgage interest rates. The discussion highlights the dual mandate of the Fed and its recent decisions, which could signal potential relief for mortgage rates in the coming months, offering a strategic advantage to informed professionals in the real estate sector.
Updates on the NAR Commission Settlement
This episode covers the latest developments in the National Association of Realtors (NAR) commission settlement, detailing when and how these changes will affect real estate professionals and listing practices. Understanding these changes is crucial for compliance and strategic planning in response to evolving industry standards.
Zillow's New Buyer Rep Agreements
Explore Zillow's first steps in restructuring buyer representation agreements post-NAR settlement. The episode breaks down the potential impacts of these agreements on real estate transactions and how professionals can adapt to maintain competitive edge and client satisfaction.
Corporate Influence on Real Estate
The episode examines the quiet yet significant influence of corporate entities on the real estate industry, particularly their role in the housing market's future. It provides insights into the strategies of institutional investors and their long-term implications for housing trends, emphasizing the need for real estate professionals to be aware of these shifts to better navigate the market.
Time Stamped Summaries:0:08 - 0:48 - Introduction and Economic Benefits of Local Sports
Mike opens with a lively introduction, celebrating North Texas sports and highlighting the economic benefits local businesses enjoy from playoff seasons.
0:48 - 1:28 - Transition to Market Update: Mortgage Rates Focus
Shifts focus to the core of the episode, discussing current mortgage interest rates and the optimistic outlook for potential relief in the coming months.
1:28 - 2:36 - Detailed Analysis of Mortgage Rates and Economic Indicators
In-depth discussion on the impact of recent economic data on mortgage rates, including insights into the jobs report and Federal Reserve policies.
2:37 - 3:45 - Federal Reserve Policies and Mortgage Market
Explains the Federal Reserve's latest policy changes and their implications for mortgage rates, emphasizing...

Are you a Realtor stuck in the traditional buy-sell approach and seeking fresh ways to elevate your client service? This episode of 'Realtors' Guide to Creative Real Estate Financing' reveals groundbreaking strategies that are reshaping the Texas real estate landscape. Join us as we explore how these innovative methods can help you cater to a broader client base.
Explore the dynamics of Creative Real Estate Financing with our guest, Mark Hewitt, a seasoned North Texas Real Estate Broker. In this episode, we delve into unconventional strategies that help Realtors assist their clients beyond traditional buying and selling. Mark shares insights on wholesaling, owner financing, and the novation process, providing actionable advice on implementing these methods. Learn how these approaches can enhance your service offerings and potentially increase your transaction volume in the competitive Texas market.
Key Takeaways:Expanding Services Beyond Buy-Sell Transactions
Mark Hewitt discussed the importance of Texas Realtors expanding their service offerings beyond traditional buy and sell transactions. By incorporating creative real estate financing strategies such as owner financing, lease options, and wholesaling, Realtors can provide more value to their clients, helping them navigate various financial barriers and market conditions. This approach not only enhances client satisfaction but also opens up new revenue streams for agents.
Leveraging Owner Financing
This episode highlighted owner financing as a powerful tool in creative real estate financing, particularly useful in today's market conditions. Mark explained how this strategy allows buyers who may not qualify for traditional loans to still purchase homes, while sellers can move properties faster and often at a premium. For Realtors, understanding and facilitating these deals can significantly increase the number of successful closings.
Understanding Wholesaling Real Estate
Mark provided an in-depth look at wholesaling real estate, a lesser-known but highly effective strategy for quick property turnover. He detailed how Realtors can act as intermediaries, securing contracts to purchase properties and then assigning those contracts to end buyers for a fee. This method is especially beneficial in hot markets or for distressed properties and requires minimal investment from the Realtor.
The Role of Hard Money in Real Estate Transactions
The use of hard money loans was another key topic. These loans can be crucial for funding deals that might not qualify for conventional financing, especially for investors looking to renovate and flip properties quickly. Mark’s insights included how Realtors can facilitate these loans for their clients, thereby smoothing the path to acquisition and resale, and how they can serve as an additional tool in a Realtor's financial toolkit.
Adapting to Market Changes
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the necessity for Realtors to adapt to continuous market changes. With a focus on the Texas market, Mark emphasized the importance of staying informed about local and national market trends, regulatory changes, and financing options. This knowledge enables Realtors to better serve their clients and remain competitive in a fluctuating environment.
Time Stamped Summary:00:00 - 03:15 - Introduction by Mike Mills, setting the sports scene in North Texas and transitioning to the main topic with Mark Hewitt about creative real estate financing.03:16 - 06:49 - Mark Hewitt is introduced and discusses the current challenges and opportunities in the real estate market, particularly for realtors considering alternative income streams.06:50 - 10:11 - Detailed discussion on owner financing, its mechanics, benefits for buyers and sellers, and its practical application in current market conditions.10:12 - 13:44 - Exploration...

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for any real estate professional grappling with today’s volatile market. From mortgage rate predictions to essential legal updates, find out what every realtor in Texas should be watching. Are you prepared for the changes on the horizon?
In this episode, Mortgage Rate Insights take center stage as we analyze their influence on the Texas real estate sector. Mike Mills provides a thorough update on interest rates, discusses the implications of new housing laws, and breaks down market trends in Dallas-Fort Worth. Essential listening for real estate professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.
Key TakeawaysUnderstanding Mortgage Rate Trends
This episode provides detailed Mortgage Rate Insights, emphasizing how the Federal Reserve's actions might not directly lead to lower interest rates but could stabilize the market. Mike discusses how these rates influence buyer and seller behavior in North Texas, crucial for realtors to understand in strategizing their client consultations.
Legal Updates in Real Estate
Significant legal developments impacting the real estate industry are covered, including the latest on the Sitz-Burnett case. Mike explains the potential effects of these legal changes on realtors and lenders, emphasizing the need for professionals to stay informed to navigate these shifts effectively.
Market Dynamics and Predictions
Insights into current housing trends and future predictions for North Texas offer listeners a comprehensive look at what to expect in the market. The discussion includes inventory levels, pricing trends, and how these factors are likely to affect the real estate landscape in the coming months.
Impact of Mortgage-Backed Securities on Rates
Mike discusses the significant role that mortgage-backed securities play in determining mortgage rates. He explains how the Federal Reserve's buying and selling of these securities affects the availability and cost of mortgages, offering crucial insights for real estate professionals on how macroeconomic policies influence the housing market.
The Emerging Role of Homes.com and Market Competition
The episode highlights the strategic moves by Homes.com, particularly how it's positioning itself in the competitive landscape against giants like Zillow. Mike delves into the potential implications for local MLS systems and how these changes could reshape the referral and listing dynamics for real estate professionals across the nation.
Time Stamped Summary(0:08 - 0:44) Introduction to the episode: Host Mike Mills discusses his role as a mortgage banker and how the podcast serves as a platform for sharing insights into the Texas real estate market.
(0:44 - 0:53) Invitation for partnerships: Mike offers his expertise in helping real estate professionals grow their business and enhance their client experiences.
(0:53 - 2:54) Discussion on current mortgage rates and their implications, including a hint that the Fed might be helping rates in an unconventional way. Mike also touches on housing trends and legal updates relevant to real estate professionals.
(2:55 - 4:57) Analysis of national economic indicators such as inflation and unemployment and their impact on mortgage rates. Mike elaborates on why rates are still high despite previous forecasts.
(4:57 - 8:10) Examination of job market trends, with a focus on inconsistencies in jobless claims and the growing number of part-time jobs versus full-time employment.
(8:10 - 9:44) Predictions on how upcoming corporate earnings reports could influence the job market and, subsequently, real estate dynamics.
(9:44 - 10:49) Insights into the Federal Reserve's strategies on mortgage-backed securities and predictions on how these will affect mortgage rates going...