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Blog and Videos

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How Solar Is Making a Difference for Our Very Own James Rains (and How It Can Work for You Too!)

August 7, 2025

Megabill 2025: What It Means for Real Estate and Investors

July 7, 2025

Why Buyers Should Act Now: Understanding Future Interest Rates and Today’s Buyer’s Market

March 4, 2025

Dual Agency Interview with Rebecca Hidalgo Rains

January 6, 2025

Letter From Our Hearts 2024

November 14, 2024

Rates Are Coming Down

September 24, 2024

Why Buy Before Rates Go Down

August 13, 2024

Letter From Our Hearts 2023

January 11, 2024

Behind The Walls: Unveiling the Hidden Truth of Wallboard Materials

August 28, 2023

Is Arizona Running Out Of Water?

June 19, 2023

🚨Big news in the world of real estate! With the recent lawsuits settled, there have been some changes in the rules and regulations surrounding commissions and buying/selling.🏡 Our latest video delves into all the new happenings in the industry and how it affects YOU. But do not stress, we are here to answer any questions🤔 you may have and guide you through these changes. 

Oh, and did we mention we're giving away Yeti and Stanley Tumblers? Just head over to our Instagram or Facebook and let us know which brand you prefer for a chance to win!🎁 Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the game and potentially win some cool swag.👀
Big News In The World Of Real Estate 🌍🏠
🏠ATTENTION HOME BUYERS🏠

Don't let the current rise in interest rates scare you away from buying your dream home! According to MarketWatch, Federal Reserve President Daly confirms that data justifies cutting interest rates in the near future. This means NOW is the perfect time to buy, before rates drop and create a frenzy of competition among buyers.💰

What does this mean for you?🤔 It means you can negotiate with sellers and potentially get better deals with less pressure and competition. Plus, you'll have more leverage for seller concessions. 

Also, remember that even if you do end up buying in a slightly higher interest rate environment, you can always refinance down the road to take advantage of lower rates. So don't let the fear of rising rates hold you back from finding your perfect home.🙌

(Article source: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/feds-daly-says-data-now-justifies-cutting-interest-rates-8a6e0cee?mod=home-page)
Balanced Market Today ⚖️ Sellers Market Tomorrow🏠
Get ready to dive🏊 into the latest updates and trends in the housing market! As usual, we have our expert guests Tara Krieg with the TK Team, Joe Smith with Epic Mortgage, and Anthony Penna with Navi Title joining us to share their insights and expertise on the current state of the market.

In this episode, we’ll take a look back at our previous market update and discuss how the numbers have changed.📈 From rising rents to consumer debt, our panel will break down all the factors influencing the market right now.

Anthony will share his perspective, from a title company standpoint, and give us a deep dive into the current interest rates. You’ll also see some eye-opening charts that show the incredible equity💰 that Americans are sitting on, making real estate an extremely safe and valuable investment.💸

We’ll touch on the ongoing NAR lawsuits and settlements, and give our thoughts on the essential role of real estate agents in the home buying process.🙌 You’ll also hear why we believe owning a home is always a better option than renting, and why it’s not just about the interest rate when it comes to purchasing a home. Like Joe says “You don’t buy the house for the interest rate you buy the house because it’s time to buy a house”.🏠

Tune in and get ready for some insightful and valuable information. Also, be sure to check out our ‘Show Extras’ tab to see all the stats and charts from today’s show!

Listen & Learn:
0:50 – Rebecca intros Tara, Joe, & Anthony
2:16 – Recap of the last market update
4:10 – Rebecca recaps the stats from our last market update
5:06 – Joe’s thoughts on the market now compared to the last episode and why we are where we are
7:32 – Tara’s thoughts on the market now and consumer debt
8:56 – Rising rents explained
9:23 – What is Anthony’s company Navi Title seeing with the housing market and current interest rates
10:53 – Everyone is paying higher interest rates, businesses, car loans, etc.
11:40 – Anthony’s charts on the current market
13:05 – 48 consecutive quarters of positive price appreciation chart
14:30 – Why we think purchasing real estate is the safest investment
16:19 – Americans sitting on tremendous equity chart
17:08 – Why we believe real estate agents are an essential part of home buying process
19:43 – Our thoughts on the NAR lawsuits and settlements
24:36 – Anthony’s chart on co-broke offered to buyer’s agents
27:42 – Fannie Mae responds to the NAR lawsuits
29:58 – What we think about the current interest rates
33:39 – Rebecca covers the Cromford stats
36:26 – Most expensive city to buy in the valley
37:05 – The Cromford index chart explained
37:55 – Anthony’s final thoughts for today’s show
38:40 – Joe’s final thoughts
39:43 – Tara’s final thoughts
40:32 – Rebecca’s final thoughts

Special Guests:
Anthony Penna – Senior Vice President at Navi Title:
“There is nothing more satisfying than helping people achieve their goals by providing them with opportunities to excel in their business. It’s an awesome process that I feel very fortunate to be a part of.” Navi Title Agency is an Arizona-based full-service title agency. They offer competitive escrow and title solutions complemented by a strong tradition of grassroots standards.

Phone: 602-510-8848
Email: apenna@navititle.com
Website: www.navititle.com/

Joe Smith – Owner/Broker of Epic Mortgage:
Joe Smith first started in the mortgage business in 2002 as a loan officer. He quickly established himself as a top producer, eventually managing the state of Arizona for a top 10 mortgage lender. After 17yrs in traditional retail banking, working for many top companies in the mortgage business he decided to make a jump to becoming a mortgage broker himself. Currently, Joe is the Broker and Owner at Epic Mortgage and is definitely someone you’re gonna want to go to for advice on lending!

Phone: 602-741-4121
Email: joe@myepicloan.com
Website: www.myepicloan.com

Tara Krieg – Owner of TK Team Lending:
Licensed to provide mortgages and loan programs for homeowners and buyers within Arizona, she has over 12 years’ of experience in all aspects of real estate finance, real estate investing, mortgage planning, and business planning. Her specialties include loan origination, credit education, mortgage-related financial consulting and planning, and personal coaching of Junior Loan Officers.

Phone: 480-344-1951
Email: tkrieg@amerifirst.us
Website: www.tkteam.us

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
Listen🎧, Rate🌟, & Subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Episode 158: Market Update – From Rising Rents to Record Equity
Join us for the latest episode of Grateful Heart as we sit down with Natalia Karayaneva, the visionary founder and CEO of Propy. This Silicon Valley company is on the forefront of revolutionizing the home purchasing process through smart contracts and AI technology.🏠 With an impressive background as an award-winning real estate developer and software engineer, Natalia is a true pioneer in the world of blockchain technology and real estate.

During our conversation, we dive into the recent news of Propy’s partnership with Coinbase and its impact on the future of real estate transactions.🎉 Natalia talks about her vision for Propy and the importance of putting deeds on the blockchain. They also touch on the topic of the metaverse and how one day soon you will be able to tour all home listings virtually.

Rebecca shares her experience at the recent Propy conference in Miami, where Natalia was joined by other big names in the industry who support Propy and their mission. Natalia then goes on to share her inspiring journey as a woman in the tech industry and why she believes in the power of cryptocurrency.🪙 Plus, she gives valuable advice for beginners looking to get started in crypto and the signs to look for when it comes to timing your investments. Don't miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with CEO Natalia Karayaneva.🙌

Listen & Learn:
1:20 - Rebecca intros Natalia Karayaneva CEO of Propy
2:45 - What happened to Propy on March 13th
4:15 - You can now mint your home address
5:15 - Our first episode with Propy (check out episode 99)
6:11 - Natalia’s Instagram story about her vision for Propy
7:55 - Why Natalia likes and recommends Coinbase
10:15 - Why should you put your house deed on the blockchain?
12:25 - The future of real estate and the metaverse
17:27 - Rebecca talks about the Propy conference in Miami and the big names that support Propy
20:28 - Natalia’s journey with getting to where she is today especially as a woman in the industry
22:47 - What signs did Natalia see that prompted her to buy more crypto
25:25 - Natalia’s thoughts on bitcoin dropping
26:25 - Natalia’s final thoughts and how to get started in Crypto
28:47 - Rebecca’s final thoughts

Special Guests:
Natalia Karayaneva Founder/CEO of Propy, Inc:
Natalia Karayaneva is the founder and CEO of Propy, WEF pioneer, - a Silicon Valley company revolutionizing home purchasing via smart contracts and AI. She is an award-winning real estate developer, software engineer, and a serial entrepreneur with extensive knowledge in real estate and cryptography. Natalia is a frequent speaker at web3 and proptech events globally. She is a contributor to Forbes. Natalia has a degree in Computer Engineering, and a degree in Sustainable Urban Development from the University of Oxford.

As a real estate professional for 15 years, Natalia was frustrated with how time-consuming and rife with fraud real estate transactions were. Propy was built with the vision to automate the real estate sales process. Propy’s Transaction Management Platform is an all-in-one solution that revamps the purchase process by leveraging the latest in groupware and blockchain technology. The Palo Alto-based company is writing new pages in real estate history by introducing the technology to allow entirely online and self-driving real estate transactions on smart contracts.

Website: https://propy.com/home
Email: support@propy.com

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook @GratefulHeartTv 😄
Listen🎧, Rate🌟, & Subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.
Episode 157: Revolutionizing Real Estate, Crypto, AI, & More with Propy CEO Natalia Karayaneva
Join our host Rebecca Rains and Gary Hix, a certified well driller and pump installer, registered professional geologist, and certified real estate instructor, as they discuss the importance of National Groundwater Awareness Week.💧🙌

With the misperceptions surrounding Arizona's water situation, it is crucial to educate ourselves and raise awareness about the importance of groundwater. During this episode, Gary shares fascinating insights and data about the Earth's water and the significant impact of using 27 trillion gallons of groundwater in the US each year.😧

They also delve into where Arizona's water supply comes from and how it is used, including the state's water right laws and the Reasonable Use Law. In addition, Gary sheds light on the process of drilling private wells and the concept of county islands in real estate.🏠

Gary's extensive expertise in the field of water wells and groundwater is evident as he discusses the role of a well manager and emphasizes the importance of having licensed and professional well inspectors. He also offers helpful resources such as his E-books📚 for those interested in learning more on these subjects. (Check out our Show Extras tab for the link to his books)

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Rebecca shares her personal experience navigating the challenges of finding water in Northern Arizona.🌲 Don't miss this insightful episode where Gary and Rebecca bring attention to the vital role of groundwater and the need for proper management and conservation.

Listen & Learn:
0:48 - Rebecca intros Gary Hix
1:56 - Groundwater Awareness Week
3:13 - The misperception of Arizona’s water situation
4:30 - Amount of households that have their own wells
5:30 - Why Rebecca reached out to Gary in the first place
7:45 - What the National Association of Groundwater represents
12:03 - Gary’s slides on Earth’s water
13:35 - 27 trillion gallons of groundwater is used in the
U.S. each year
14:10 - Where Arizona’s water supply comes from
16:25 - How Arizona’s water is used & our water right laws
17:50 - Reasonable Use Law
24:48 - If a homeowner wants to drill a private well can they?
26:10 - What is a county island in regard to real estate
27:56 - Gary’s books on water wells and groundwater
29:45 - What is a well manager & what does it mean to have a shared water well?
32:50 - Where can you get Gary’s E-books?
34:00 - Why Gary is advocating for professional and licensed well inspectors
35:30 - Rebecca’s story about the difficulties of finding water up north

Special Guests:
Gary Hix - Certified Well Driller and Pump Installer, Registered Professional Geologist, & Certified Real Estate Instructor:
Gary Hix has worked in the groundwater industry for over 40 years. He is the owner of In2Wells and now spends his time in Arizona, occasionally consulting to private well owners, lawyers, realtors and well drilling pump installing businesses. For many years Gary was actively involved with the National Groundwater Association, where he was a Contributing Editor to their Water Well Journal magazine, a frequent workshop instructor and nominated as the Groundwater Foundations’ McEllhiney Distinguished Lecturer for 2019.

His years of experience in many different areas surrounding water wells, well drilling, pump installing, real estate transactions of properties with wells, shared water wells, construction defects and environmental issues has prepared him for him to provide expert witness services when needed.

Website: https://in2wells.com/
Email: gary.hix@cox.net

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
Listen🎧, Rate🌟, & Subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Episode 156: Groundwater Awareness Week with Gary Hix
In Episode 155, our expert sponsors Tara Krieg of TK Team Lending, Anthony Penna of Navi Title, and Joe Smith of Epic Mortgage join us to share their insights on the current market stats and trends.🏠📈

We kick off the episode with a look back at our previous market update in December. But the real excitement begins when we dive into the predictions for 2024 – the "year of the 5's" – with a chart showcasing mortgage rates and treasury yield data from the past 50 years.🙌

Discover the surprising home appreciation📈 percentages this year and get a glimpse into the future with the 2024 Home Price Forecast chart. You'll also learn why homeowner net worth is a whopping 40 times higher than renters.🤯 But the biggest surprise? Market crash forecasters have been proven WRONG as home prices continue to rise by 8%.

Don't miss out on valuable insights as our host and expert sponsors explain the average price point chart and discuss the storm⛈️ that is STILL coming. We also delve into the Market Odds on Fed Cut chart and the Fed Dot Plot chart to give you a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

But it's not all about predictions. Our experts also share their knowledge on short sales and give valuable advice for both buyers and sellers.😄 Tune in now to stay updated on the latest market trends and predictions!

Be sure to check out our 'Show Extras' tab to see all the stats and charts from today's show!

Listen & Learn:
0:45 - Rebecca intros Anthony, Tara, & Joe
2:07 - We touch on our previous market update in December
3:10 - 2024 is going to be the year of the 5’s
5:00 - Chart on 50 years of data on Mortgage Rates & Treasury Yield
6:09 - Mortgage rate projections from Fannie Mae
9:35 - The average amount of credit card debt & homeowner equity
11:30 - Top 3 reasons buyers paused decision
12:15 - Inventory is still down
13:10 - Home appreciation percentages this year
14:16 - 2024 Home Price Forecast chart
16:00 - Homeowner net worth is almost 40x greater than a renter
21:40 - Home prices are up by 8% and market crash forecasters are wrong
23:10 - The market index chart and what cities are still the most popular for buyers
24:36 - Average price point chart explained
26:15 - The storm is still coming
29:45 - Market odds on Fed Cut chart explained
30:38 - Fed Dot Plot chart
32:08 - 2024 Real Estate Forecast chart
33:45 - What a short sale is

Special Guests:
Anthony Penna - Senior Vice President at Navi Title:
"There is nothing more satisfying than helping people achieve their goals by providing them with opportunities to excel in their business. It’s an awesome process that I feel very fortunate to be a part of." Navi Title Agency is an Arizona-based full-service title agency. They offer competitive escrow and title solutions complemented by a strong tradition of grassroots standards.

Phone: 602-510-8848
Email: apenna@navititle.com
Website: www.navititle.com/

Joe Smith - Owner/Broker of Epic Mortgage:
Joe Smith first started in the mortgage business in 2002 as a loan officer. He quickly established himself as a top producer, eventually managing the state of Arizona for a top 10 mortgage lender. After 17yrs in traditional retail banking, working for many top companies in the mortgage business he decided to make a jump to becoming a mortgage broker himself. Currently, Joe is the Broker and Owner at Epic Mortgage and is definitely someone you're gonna want to go to for advice on lending!

Phone: 602-741-4121
Email: joe@myepicloan.com
Website: www.myepicloan.com

Tara Krieg - Owner of TK Team Lending:
Licensed to provide mortgages and loan programs for homeowners and buyers within Arizona, she has over 12 years' of experience in all aspects of real estate finance, real estate investing, mortgage planning, and business planning. Her specialties include loan origination, credit education, mortgage-related financial consulting and planning, and personal coaching of Junior Loan Officers.

Phone: 480-344-1951
Email: tkrieg@amerifirst.us
Website: www.tkteam.us

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
Listen🎧, Rate🌟, & Subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Episode 155: Market Update – Market Crash Forecasters Got It Completely WRONG!
In our latest episode, our host Rebecca sits down with special guest Daran Wastchak, President of Learning Edge, LLC.💡 Daran is an expert in residential energy efficiency and this is not the first time Daran has joined us on the show - in fact, he was a guest on episode 147!😄 So if you want to learn more about his background and expertise, be sure to check it out.

In this informative discussion, Daran shares insights and updates on his upcoming master classes, as well as his personal project of rebuilding🏗️ his own house from the ground up.⬆️ We dive into the history of building materials and how the use of wood and insulation became more common than traditional block structures.🧱 

Daran also explains why he recommends SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) for building homes and how they can actually be more affordable than traditional builds. We also discuss the importance of proper window installation for energy efficiency and insulated slabs in homes.🙌

Join us as we delve into the new developments in HVAC technology and the reasons behind the recent ban on gas cooking in California.🤔 And find out why it is SO important to vote in the upcoming SRP board member elections as well as our final thoughts on the number one thing you can do to make your home more energy efficient in Arizona.💡☀️Don't miss this jam-packed episode!

Daran's Upcoming Master Classes: https://www.learningedgellc.com/schedule

VOTE: https://www.srpnet.com/about/governance-leadership/elections/early-voting-ballot-request-form

Listen & Learn:
1:09 - Rebecca intros Daran & his last episode
2:08 - Daran’s upcoming master classes
3:25 - Daran’s plans to rebuild his house
4:00 - Why we use to build everything out of block back in the day
6:40 - The series of events that lead to homes being built with wood/insulation vs block
8:05 - Why Daran is completely rebuilding his house from the dirt up
9:40 - Why Daran recommends SIPs for building homes
11:12 - How are SIPs houses are more affordable than traditional built homes
18:00 - Why SIPs are easier to install during construction
18:50 - Why having windows (and the right type) installed properly is such a huge deal for energy efficiency
21:30 - Insulated slabs and their purpose
24:32 - What is changing with HVAC units
26:50 - California is putting a ban on gas cooking and why
28:40 - Daran’s thoughts on solar and electric vehicles
30:50 - Why it is so important to vote for your SRP board member
31:50 - Mini Splits aka Variable Capacity Heat Pumps and why Daran is using one on his new home
32:45 - Daran’s upcoming Master Class session
34:36 - The number one thing you can add to your home in AZ to make it more energy efficient
35:10 - Home performance with energy star to have your home evaluated
36:59 - The $1500 yearly tax credit for homeowners that improve the energy efficiency of their home
38:38 - Rebecca’s final thoughts

Special Guest:
Daran Wastchak - President of Learning Edge, LLC: Learning Edge, LLC is a firm that specializes in residential energy efficiency training and building science consulting. Daran was a key implementer of the EPA’s ENERGY STAR for Homes program for more than 20 years. He has helped solve warranty issues for hundreds of homes that did not properly heat or cool, had high utility bills, poor indoor air quality, and/or were uncomfortable. Daran has trained thousands of individuals on the basics of building science, energy efficiency for buildings, energy efficiency programs, and international energy conservation codes. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction and master’s and doctoral degrees in Public Administration and Policy from Arizona State University.

Website: https://LearningEdgeLLC.com
Phone: (602) 288-6774
Email: support@learningedgellc.com

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
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Episode 153: The Must-Dos for Home Energy Efficiency with Daran Wastchak
Our latest episode of Grateful Heart💖 is here and it's a must-watch!👀 We had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible CEO & Co-Founder of ZS2 Technologies, Scott Jenkins. We were blown away when we learned about ZS2's achievements🏆including being selected as one of 10 finalists in a worldwide competition hosted by XPRIZE, earning them their own documentary!

Join us as we dive into the reasons behind Rebecca's interest in alternative building materials🏗️, like MGO SIPs panels, and why we believe they are the future of construction! Plus, find out why Rebecca is using ZS2 over other SIPs manufacturers for her own new build community and a personal example of how their panels minimizes risks when building a home.🏠 This company is truly changing the way we build homes, and we can't wait to share all the exciting updates Scott has for us.🙌 Trust us, you don't want to miss this episode!

Be sure to check out the "Show Extras" to see some of ZS2's educational resources! https://www.gratefulheart.tv/2024/01/15/episode-152-show-extras/

Listen & Learn:
1:27 - Scott’s short video clip - insider updates (10 mins)
10:49 - Rebecca intros Scott Jenkins
11:38 - Scott’s exciting announcement
16:50 - Why Rebecca was so impressed with ZS2
18:53 - More exciting updates on ZS2 and what their plans are for this upcoming year
22:30 - Why Rebecca is using ZS2 over other SIPs manufacturers
24:20 - An example of how ZS2 minimizes risks for buyers and builders
26:30 - ZS2’s recent milestones
30:35 - ZS2’s university and educational resources
31:24 - Some of the reasons Rebecca started looking into alternative building materials in the first place
35:18 - What has kept Mgo sips panels from hitting mainstream building so far
38:25 - How ZS2 became one of the 10 finalists in a worldwide competition hosted by XPRIZE and their mini documentary
39:28 - Scott’s closing thoughts
41:12 - Rebecca’s final thoughts

Special Guests:
Scott Jenkins- Co-Founder and CEO of ZS2 Technologies Ltd.:
ZS2 Technologies is a company focused on the research, development and commercialization of innovative construction technologies which are stronger, safer and healthier. ZS2 has developed advanced building technologies including proprietary fire-rated, non-toxic, low-carbon building materials which are prefabricated providing our clients with cost certainty, accelerated construction timelines and lower building operating costs. Prior to ZS2, Scott was the President and a Director of DIRTT Environmental Solutions and was part of the leadership team that oversaw sales growth from $6 million annually to $300 million over 11 years. During his time at DIRTT, Scott led the successful IPO (initial public offering) on the Toronto Stock Exchange and helped oversee the manufacturing expansion of two major manufacturing locations in Georgia and Arizona along with the opening of sales offices in the U.K. and Singapore. Prior to joining DIRTT, Scott helped guide another high-growth company as the Chief Financial Officer of Pure Technologies Ltd., a public company providing innovative infrastructure monitoring technologies to a variety of international clients. Scott began his career at KPMG LLP, and is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Alberta (CPA, CA), Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and a graduate of the University of Alberta.

Phone: 587.208.4972
Email: info@zs2technologies.com
Website: https://zs2technologies.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zs2technologies/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zs2technologies

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
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Episode 152: Reinventing the Future – Hear from ZS2'S CEO Scott Jenkins
To kick off the new year, we are thrilled to have our dear friend Taylor Russel, Owner of Capital Energy☀️ - a one stop shop for all your solar needs! Taylor's company is vertically integrated, which means they control every step of the process, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience for their customers. In our conversation, Taylor shares his story of why he started Capital Energy, and the importance of working with an ethical and transparent solar company, especially when it comes to solar financing.💰 He also talks about the importance of voting for SRP board members, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of solar energy in your area!

VOTE: https://www.srpnet.com/about/governance-leadership/elections/early-voting-ballot-request-form

We will dive into the topic of net energy⚡ and how it works for consumers and utility companies. Like real estate, we believe the best time to invest in solar was yesterday - as utility costs continue to increase year over year.😩 So, if you have ever considered solar NOW may be the time to get serious about it. And with the added benefit of locking in your energy rate for the long term, it's a win-win situation for those who choose to go solar.

Taylor also shares with us how they determine the optimal number of panels for a customer's specific needs and the placement of these panels on a roof.🏠 But what truly sets Capital Energy apart from other solar companies are the various add-ons and services they offer, such as new HVAC units, roofs, energy efficient windows, and more!🙌

Be sure to check out Capital Energy's website for more information on all the services they offer and to watch their educational videos that will help you better understand the world of solar energy. Don't miss this insightful and informative episode with Taylor Russel and Capital Energy!

Listen & Learn:
0:48 - Rebecca intros Taylor Russel and his solar company Capital Energy
3:25 - Taylor explains why he started Capital Energy
5:50 - Solar financing and why it is important to work with an ethical/transparent solar company
7:48 - Why it is so IMPORTANT to vote for your SRP board members
9:25 - How net energy works in regards to consumers and the utility companies
14:10 - Similar to real estate the best time to buy solar was yesterday
16:05 - All utility companies have increased their costs year over year and why it is important to lock in your rate today - EIA.gov
17:50 - Some of the benefits Capital Energy offers
18:44 - How to decide how many panels a customer needs?
19:50 - Some of the add-ons that Capital Energy offers the other solar companies don’t
24:20 - Capital Energy’s website and all their services
26:13 - Battery storage in terms of solar energy
30:56 - How Capital Energy can help you get a new HVAC unit at the same time as solar
33:01 - The educational videos on Capital Solar’s website
34:00 - What dictates where the solar panels are placed on a roof?

Special Guests:
Taylor Russel - Co-Owner of Capital Energy:
They are a locally owned and operated business in the Phoenix area. Capital Energy is one of the fastest growing residential solar companies in the state. Taylor has been in solar for 8 years and worked in the Texas, Nevada, and Arizona markets. Throughout his time in solar he has managed and overseen thousands of residential installs. In his free time he loves to play sports, travel, and spend time with his family. He has been married to his beautiful wife for 13 years and they have 4 children together. Two boys and two girls.

Phone: (801) 602-1012
Email: trussell@cptlenergy.com
Website: www.cptlenergy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cptl_energy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cptlenergy

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @GratefulHeart.Tv💖
Listen🎧, Rate🌟, & Subscribe on Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Episode 151: Why I Regret Not Investing In Solar Sooner With Taylor Russell From Capital Energy
As we wrap up 2023 with our final market update🏠, we are excited to have our expert guests and sponsors, Tara Krieg, Anthony Penna, and Joe Smith, join us to discuss the latest market statistics and predictions for next year!

Rebecca will kick things off by recapping the predictions made in last year's market update for 2023.🤔 Then, we will delve into the current market stats from the Cromford Report and Anthony will share his insights on consumer views and the current real estate market news.

One interesting point we will discuss is why 35% of consumers are hoping for a housing crash🏠💥, and why we still stand by our statement that the best time to buy was yesterday. We will also share why December is the best time to buy a house in general. Plus, we reveal who was right with their predictions from last year's episode!

As we close out the year, the real estate market continues to make headlines.📰 Whether you're looking to buy or sell, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you make informed decisions. Plus, we would love to answer any questions you may have, so tune in and let us guide you through the ever-changing world of real estate.😊

Listen & Learn:
0:50 - Rebecca intros Joe, Tara, & Anthony
1:26 - Predictions from the last market update of 2022 for 2023
2:35 - current market stats from the Cromford Report
4:40 - Anthony’s stats on what consumers’ views are in terms of real estate and the current market
8:25 - Why we think 35% of consumers are rooting for a housing crash
10:00 - Why we are still standing by our statement that the best time to buy was yesterday
11:46 - December is the best time to buy a house
13:39 - What is next for mortgage rates?
16:45 - Is there a recession around the corner?
18:51 - Where Arizona is headed in terms of real estate and economy
20:18 - ARMLS Sales Price Forecast Chart
22:04 - Has the rental market softened?
25:04 - Annual Average Home Size Chart explained
27:24 - Listings Under Contract Chart & Cromford Market Index Chart
32:43 - Who Won - The Average Sales Price Prediction??
34:30 - Do not wait to buy!
38:25 - Joe’s predictions for next year
39:40 - Tara’s predictions for next year
40:00 - Anthony’s predictions for next year
41:20 - Careful using a new home builder’s lender
43:33 - Rebecca’s predictions for next year

Special Guests:
Anthony Penna - Senior Vice President at Navi Title
"There is nothing more satisfying than helping people achieve their goals by providing them with opportunities to excel in their business. It’s an awesome process that I feel very fortunate to be a part of." Navi Title Agency is an Arizona-based full-service title agency. They offer competitive escrow and title solutions complemented by a strong tradition of grassroots standards.

Phone: 602-510-8848
Email: apenna@navititle.com
Website: www.navititle.com/

Joe Smith - Owner/Broker of Epic Mortgage
Joe Smith first started in the mortgage business in 2002 as a loan officer. He quickly established himself as a top producer, eventually managing the state of Arizona for a top 10 mortgage lender. After 17yrs in traditional retail banking, working for many top companies in the mortgage business he decided to make a jump to becoming a mortgage broker himself. Currently, Joe is the Broker and Owner at Epic Mortgage and is definitely someone you're gonna want to go to for advice on lending!

Phone: 602-741-4121
Email: joe@myepicloan.com
Website: www.myepicloan.com

Tara Krieg - Owner of TK Team Lending
Licensed to provide mortgages and loan programs for homeowners and buyers within Arizona, she has over 12 years' of experience in all aspects of real estate finance, real estate investing, mortgage planning, and business planning. Her specialties include loan origination, credit education, mortgage-related financial consulting and planning, and personal coaching of Junior Loan Officers.

Phone: 480-344-1951
Email: tkrieg@amerifirst.us
Website: www.tkteam.us

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Episode 150: Market Update – Will Declining Rates = The Perfect Storm?

Valley Team: 480.243.4242

Northern AZ Team: 928.275.2181

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