We had the pleasure of having a very special guest on the Real Estate with Soul podcast today. Eric Paul is not new to the real estate world and shares some pretty insightful perspective on investing in real estate in today’s market. We have been talking quite a bit about the market we are in and this is just the cherry on top. Something to really think about, there is NO reason NOT to buy right now. You’ll have to tune in to hear why.
We have a great episode for you today! Amy and Lori are talking about the real estate news for you and all the interesting things currently happening today. One hot topic going around is the 10 slowest markets today. Not a huge surprise that California was not on this list, but did your state make it? Or could it be a place you might be interested in some property investments. Tune in for some tips and some real estate news
Home starts with you and so does maintenance! There is an overwhelming amount of tasks and things to keep up with as a homeowner. So on today’s episode Lori shares her tips on the really important home maintenance tasks that we all need to be practicing. Are you keeping up with some of these home maintenance projects?
What is the ONE thing that can’t be changed in the real estate market? The purchase price! Right now the market is still pretty crazy but not impossible. So whether you are thinking about it, currently leasing, selling or buying, join Lori and Amy and the conversation about this crazy real estate market and that there is hope if you’re getting ready to jump in.
Let’s look into what the real estate market looks like these days in our challenging economy! To put it simply there just is not enough inventory right? Well, it’s a little more than that. In today’s episode Lori dives in and breaks down what is happening in the market because it is NOT the same real estate market from a few months ago
Did you know homes that have been staged are statistically known to sell faster and for more money! WOW! What is staging? Well, when staging a home, you are helping to enhance certain areas of the home but also the goal is to make it someone else’s space. There is so much that goes into staging; the particular rooms, the style and even techniques. Who knew?! So tune into today’s podcast to hear what kind of value there is in staging your home before it goes on the market.
What does it look like when you’re thinking of buying a new home when you already own a home? Well Lori shares some tips on what that transaction will look like. Equity is a huge part in these transactions but you don’t want to forget to get pre-approved! Tune into today’s episode to hear more!
How do you go about asking a real estate agent to be.. Well your agent? Lori dives into a great conversation and shares some tips on how to find a great agent but also how to properly ask them to represent you as a buyer, seller or even both! So whether you are buying or selling your home, finding THE agent is such a crucial part of your real estate transaction! Tune in today to hear all about it.
What does it REALLY cost to buy or sell real estate these days? One of THE most asked questions to realtors all around the world.
In today’s episode Lori and Amy get into some of the specifics of the cost to the buyer and sellers and what it looks like when it’s broken down. So if you have ever wondered what your closing costs look like after purchasing or selling a home, tune into today’s episode!
There are LOTS of different loans out in today’s world. It is important to understand which loan works best for you. In today’s episode Lori dives into the pros and cons of using an FHA loan and why you may or may not be a good fit for this type of loan. Keep in mind, chatting with a GOOD lender is the MOST important thing you can do to get pre-qualified but tuning into today’s episode might be the next best thing you can do to be prepared to purchase your new home!
Is your house sitting on the market? Are you having trouble selling your home?? Well… it’s nothing personal but most likely it is the price. YUCK. Who wants to hear that??! Why would a house just sit on the market?? Well today we are talking about what could be the few reasons a home doesn’t sell! Tune in and enjoy the conversation and remember for the love of real estate, all that matters in today’s market is the price and the condition of the home.
If you have it in your real estate goals for this year and are planning to sell in the Spring, there are a number of things to do to help YOUR home stand out. Today Lori talks about 4 important tips to remember as a seller to make your home top notch and ready for the spring competition. Although she is only talking about 4 important tips there are SO many more to consider.
Finances don’t have to be an overwhelming topic! That is exactly what we are talking about today! Are you a business owner? Thinking of owning a business? Do you have an understanding of how your business cash flow works? This episode is JAM packed with so much information for a business owner and the importance of knowing the finances and that the financial foundation has to be solid to allow you to be successful and grow your business. So, don’t be part of the 50% of businesses that go out of business, take the step to understand your finances and today’s podcast can help you take that first step!
Have you already set your 2023 goals or what many people refer to as resolutions? We honestly LOVE to call them goals around here though because well, that’s what they are! Goals are tasks or just something you ARE going to achieve but it takes work, dedication and time to achieve them. RIGHT?? It doesn’t need to be the beginning of a new year to set goals and they don’t need to be something that you intend to achieve by the end of the year either. So a little more about YOUR goals… and to be more specific, what are some of your personal real estate goals? Doesn’t have to be something you need to make happen by the end of the year but what are some real estate goals you intend to ACHIEVE over the next few years? In today’s podcast, Lori shares from her own personal experience and her personal goals she intends to achieve. Keep in mind like we mentioned in the begining, these goals you are setting for yourself to achieve DOESN’T HAVE to happen in this year alone. Work towards achieving those goals in some way to move yourself forward and PLAN to achieve those goals in some type of timeline.
Happy 2023! With the new year, new changes and new goals; did you hear that the department of Real Estate dropped some BIG news!? They passed 10 NEW (California) state laws that affect real estate licensees and applicants. Lori and Amy dive into these mandates a little more in today’s podcast to provide a little clarity in the best way they understand these new laws and are sharing forward their knowledge of them! There are a lot of new changes and a lot to take into consideration when using real estate professionals.
Real Estate really becomes your legacy when you allow it to be that. Home starts with you, as real estate professionals we LOVE to have the opportunity to be a part of that with you.
Thinking about owning a pool or know someone who does? Today, Lori and Amy are talking about everyone's favorite thing: POOLS!!! And as you may have remembered, Amy was sick last week. Why do we need to wait for Amy? Well, Amy's the only one that owns a pool. So as we promised, Amy will be going into depth about owning a pool and some pros and cons that you may not know about.
Do you like being smart with your finances? Have you heard of Dave Ramsey? We're talking to those of you that love being financially sound. And you're raising your hand, saying "Me! Me!" Right? Lori is an Endorsed Local Provider for Dave Ramsey and we're going to talk about what that means and how to start the journey.
That cat's out of the...house? We're sharing a testimonial today. Our surprise guest has been revealed! We are talking with the amazing, Lauryn Creager. One of our very own, and a voice behind the social media you see for Instagram @LoriAlvarezAndTeamRealtors and beyond. Hear what it's like to sell a home with Lori Alvarez and Team and move out of state!
Almost 30,000 houses came on the market in the last 30 days. This current market is for the brave. So what's really happening in the real estate market? Is there finally some hope for buyers? Is it still a great time to sell? Let's dive into a conversation.
Highs and lows. We love celebrating our clients! It makes us so happy. But sometimes, we have to walk with our clients through some learning moments. It's a big decision to buy a home. But waiting to buy your home can cost you, and we know first hand. So we're going to share our stories from 2009 and our recent moments in this 2022 market on just HOW MUCH waiting to buy your home can cost you if you wait.
Do you have questions about listing your home? Maybe you've been thinking about making the decision to sell your home and can't quite take the leap. Let's cover all those questions that come to mind when you're not sure if you're ready to sell.
Did you know there are home buyer warranties and home seller warranties? We're going to share our realtor experience on what you should consider and think about when you're buying or selling your home sweet home. Of course— sprinkled in with a few of our own family stories with home warranties.
Are you struggling to save up for your first home? It can be really overwhelming, but we want to give you some tips and encouragement to keep pushing forward into homeownership. You need to start believing you can do it. Because only you can move your goals forward.
Watch this episode and see who is behind the voice at https://youtu.be/yQo4s-P61SM
Are you buying a house with your partner? Do you know about passing on your real estate to your kids? We sat down with Rebecca Larson, Your Home Legal, APC to talk about some common legal situations people find themselves in when buying and selling real estate. Let's find out why working with a realtor and an attorney at the same time is beneficial to you.
Curious about the amazing photos you see when searching for a home? Let's talk about how the fantastic QwikVid team we've worked with for 13+ years achieves those top-dollar photos.
Is the Fall season a good time to buy and sell? As the beautiful Fall and Holiday seasons approach the mindsets of a buyer and seller are shifting. Let's dive into the pros and cons of buying and selling real estate in the Fall looks like.
Do you currently live near a school or are considering it? You may not be thinking of all the perks and the pitfalls of what that means when you choose to sell that home. Here are a few things to be aware of if you choose to hit the real estate market.
How do you move to positive cashflow? It's all about house hacking. Victor Zeledon, graduate of Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey, is here to share his family's success story and journey into the world of Real Estate.
There are hundreds of steps, checklists, and to-do's in the Real Estate transaction process. How do you make sure you don't miss something that could get you in trouble? You trust an incredible Transaction Coordinator, like our very own Cathy Alvarez. She's full of wisdom from almost 40 years in the business and she's here to share.
Blog Articles
Not sure if you should hire a Professional Real Estate Agent to sell your home? Here are a few reasons why it may be a smart decision.
We know your ultimate goal is to sell your home for the most money in the least amount of time with the least amount of stress.
Here's a list of 11 ways you can sell your home faster, and for more money.
More great resources
Most homes don’t sell for less because of the market — they sell for less because they weren’t prepared correctly. In this episode, we break down why preparation is the real key to a higher sale price and fewer days on market, and why it should begin 60 to 90 days before listing. From first impressions and curb appeal to decluttering, strategic repairs, staging, and professional marketing, we explain how buyer perception drives value. The takeaway? Selling well isn’t about perfection — it’s about smart preparation, strong presentation, and pricing your home correctly from day one.
In this episode, we break down the October 2025 market across LA, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Three very different stories with one shared truth: inventory is tightening, and strategy matters. LA County is competitive and steady, with low inventory giving sellers the upper hand. Orange County remains one of California’s fastest-moving and highest-priced markets, where buyers must come prepared. San Bernardino County offers the most balance, tightening but still giving buyers some breathing room. Whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both, we cover the numbers, trends, and strategies you need to navigate this fall market with confidence.
In this week’s episode, we break down the proposed 50-year mortgage the Trump administration is floating as a way to reduce monthly housing payments. At first glance, stretching a loan from 30 to 50 years sounds like welcomed relief in a market where affordability is the worst it has been in U.S. history. But do the numbers actually help buyers long term? Using data from AP News and Business Insider, we compare real scenarios — like a $410,000 home where monthly payments drop slightly, but total interest jumps from around $730,000 to over $1.1 million. We walk through why equity would grow painfully slow, why buyers could be paying mortgages into their 80s, and how this change could shake up demand, prices, and investor strategy. This episode breaks down what the proposal means for affordability, competition, equity, and long-term financial health. If you’re considering buying in the next few years, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.
Zillow might be the #1 real estate website but that doesn’t mean everything you see there tells the full story. In this episode, we’re diving into how to use Zillow effectively whether you’re buying, selling, or just window shopping. We’ll walk through a real listing in Pomona and show you exactly what to look for (and what to question). From understanding how listing details get uploaded, to knowing that your “schedule a tour” button connects you to a Zillow-preferred agent, not necessarily the listing agent.. What about that famous “Zestimate”? We’ll talk about how Zillow calculates it, why it’s often off-base, and why working with a local real estate professional is key to getting accurate numbers and guidance. Zillow can be an amazing tool when you know how to use it right.
Is remodeling your home really worth it? In this week’s episode, we are breaking down the top 5 home upgrades that actually add value. With real numbers to show what delivers the best return on investment. From small curb appeal updates like new doors and fresh paint to energy-efficient improvements and kitchen refreshes, these are the projects that make sense for your wallet and your future. We will talk about what is worth the spend, what adds the most value in Southern California’s market, and how to enjoy your upgrades while building long-term equity. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to make smart improvements, this episode will help you prioritize upgrades that truly pay off.
This week, we’re putting the spotlight on La Verne, CA. One of Southern California’s most charming foothill cities. Nestled in the San Gabriel Valley, La Verne offers small-town warmth with big-city convenience. From its citrus roots and community feel to the newly opened La Verne Metro Station shaking up housing demand, we’re breaking down what makes this city stand out. From current market trends and rental prices to neighborhood highlights, pros and cons, and the insider tips you’ll want to know before buying or renting here. Whether you’re a local, investor, or just dreaming of a new zip code. This one’s for you.
Let’s take a quick tour through the local real estate markets across Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside Counties to see how the numbers are shaping up. From LA’s competitive sellers’ market to Orange County’s quick-moving inventory and Riverside’s balanced affordability, this episode breaks down what’s happening on the ground in real time. Whether you’re a buyer looking for opportunity, a seller planning your next move, or an investor watching the market, we’re covering everything you need to know from current inventory levels and median prices to how fast homes are selling and where the best opportunities might be hiding.
The Texas real estate market 2025 has officially hit a turning point. With inventory at its highest level in a decade and homes sitting longer on the market, 2025 is testing both buyers and sellers across the Lone Star State. In this episode, we’re breaking down why homes in Texas are struggling to sell; from inflated prices and high mortgage rates to shifting buyer expectations and regional cooldowns. We’ll cover real data from Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, and explain what this market shift means for buyers, sellers, and investors. Whether you’re thinking about selling, buying, or waiting, this episode gives you the insights you need to navigate Texas real estate with confidence.
Is renting just throwing money away? Not exactly. In this episode, we break down one of the most debated questions in real estate: renting vs. buying. While owning a home builds equity and can grow long-term wealth, it also comes with taxes, repairs, and upfront costs that don’t make sense for everyone. Renting, on the other hand, offers flexibility, lower initial costs, and in many cities in 2025 even lower monthly payments compared to a mortgage. We’ll dive into the numbers, the pros and cons of each, and the key factors to consider before making your choice. By the end, you’ll know when renting is the smarter move, when buying pays off, and how to decide what’s right for you right now.
Think you need 20% down to buy a home? Think again. In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most persistent myths in real estate and breaking it wide open with real numbers, history, and stories from the field. We’ll look at why the 20% rule started, how it turned into an outdated myth, and what today’s buyers are actually putting down. From FHA and VA loans to conventional options as low as 3%, we’ll explore the real facts about down payments — and the pros and cons of putting less versus saving more. By the end, you’ll know exactly what’s fact, what’s fiction, and how much you really need to buy a home in today’s market.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul; Learning from Real Estate History: 3 Lessons Shaping Today’s Market, we explore how the history of real estate isn’t just a story of houses bought and sold, it is a roadmap for understanding today’s housing market. From the suburban boom after World War II and the barriers of redlining, to the 2008 housing crash, to the passage of the Fair Housing Act, these pivotal moments remind us that real estate is about more than money. It’s about access, fairness, and smart decision-making. History doesn’t repeat itself, but it echoes. And if you know the past, you can navigate the future.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re breaking down the best home features in 2025—whether you’re house hunting, daydreaming, or just curious about what adds value. From chef-inspired kitchens and spa-like bathrooms to energy-efficient smart homes and outdoor living spaces, these features aren’t just luxuries—they’re investments. A modern kitchen can boost your home’s value by up to 12%, while outdoor upgrades like decks and firepits can increase returns by 10%. Add in smart technology, dedicated office space, and plenty of storage, and you’ve got a home that sells faster and lives better. Not every home checks every box, but this guide will help you figure out which features matter most for your lifestyle, your sanity, and your future.
In How to Invest in Real Estate for Retirement: Simple Steps & Real Numbers, we explore how real estate can be a powerful tool to fund your future. Over the past 20 years, real estate has delivered average returns of 5.2% annually, often outperforming bonds and stocks, while REITs (real estate investment trusts) are projected to yield around 9%. This episode breaks down three clear strategies: buy-and-hold rentals for steady long-term cash flow, REITs for hands-off investing with strong returns, and real estate funds or crowdfunding for a low-maintenance, diversified approach. Whether you want to be an active landlord or a completely passive investor, we’ll show you how to build wealth, create income, and let your money work for you in retirement. Let’s dive in and get your future ready for your retirement.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re setting the record straight on the so-called “Tesla Tiny Home.” That doesn’t mean your tiny home dreams have to stay rumors. We’ll walk through the real options available in 2025, from park model RV-certified homes like the Escape Traveler or Tumbleweed, to modular builds like the Boxable Casita, to site-built homes designed with Appendix Q in mind. Along the way, we’ll break down costs, zoning rules, permitting challenges, land considerations, and the all-important difference between homes on foundations versus homes on wheels. Plus, we’ll cover how to avoid scams and do your due diligence before handing over your hard-earned money. Whether you’re curious about a backyard ADU, dreaming of downsizing, or considering a tiny home as an investment, this episode gives you the roadmap to explore real, legal, and lasting tiny home options.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, From Toys to Titles: The Gift of Real Estate for Your Children’s Future, we’re diving into the ultimate long-term gift you can give your kids—real estate. While toys and gadgets bring short-term joy, property builds wealth that lasts for generations. We’ll explore why home equity makes up 50–70% of a middle-income family’s net worth, and how 38% of Gen Z homeowners needed help from their parents to buy their first home. You’ll also hear practical strategies for buying, teaching, and transferring real estate—even without millions. From starting small with condos, duplexes, or rentals to being smart with taxes and debt, this episode shows how you can build assets your kids can leverage for decades. Legacy starts today.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re breaking down exactly what to look for in a real estate brokerage—before you sign on the dotted line. From culture and collaboration to commission splits, tech tools, and brand support, we’ll cover the red flags to avoid and the green flags that set you up for a thriving career. Whether you’re a new agent, a mid-level producer, or just looking for a better fit, you’ll learn how to choose a brokerage that equips you, supports you, and helps you build more than just a job—you’re building a business.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re diving into the rising trend of tiny homes and ADUs—and how they’re reshaping homeownership, rental income, and flexibility in 2025. In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re exploring how ADUs and JADUs—like casitas or converted garages—are changing the real estate game in 2025. Learn what qualifies as a tiny home, why they can boost your property value by up to 35%, and how much rental income you could earn in LA. We’ll break down pros, cons, solar rules, financing tips, and whether this small-space lifestyle is right for you—or just a smart investment.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, I’m breaking down what it really takes to be a first-time investor in 2025—without losing your shirt (or your soul). Real estate investing isn’t just about profit—it’s about freedom, legacy, and building something that aligns with your values. No hype. No hustle culture. Just real strategy, soul-driven decisions, and stories from the trenches. We’ll talk about which investment path fits your life, how to find the right property in today’s market, and why having a trustworthy team matters more than perfect timing. Plus, I’ll share my top beginner-friendly deals for 2025—and why vision matters more than the next viral trend.
In this powerful episode of Real Estate with Soul, Lori Alvarez unpacks the current shift in the real estate market—from a fast-paced seller’s market to a more balanced, buyer-friendly landscape. But this episode goes deeper than headlines and housing stats. Lori shares her own story of risk, resilience, and radical faith—from a 24-year-old single mom in debt to a homeowner and business owner who helps others build wealth and freedom through real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, or sitting on the sidelines waiting for a "better time," this episode will challenge you to rethink your readiness. The truth? There is no perfect time. But you are perfectly built for this.
Most people expect stress when selling a home—but few expect sadness. In this heart-centered episode, Lori Alvarez talks about the often-overlooked grief that comes with saying goodbye to a place full of memories.
Whether it’s because of divorce, downsizing, the loss of a loved one, or simply growing into a new season of life, moving is never just a transaction. It’s a transition, and it comes with real emotions.
Lori shares gentle ways to honor the process—like writing a letter to the home, praying over the space with your family, or creating a memory video as a keepsake.
Because real estate isn’t just about the market—it’s about the journey. And that’s what real estate with soul is all about.
Not all homes are flying off the market—and in this episode, we’re talking about why. Lori Alvarez breaks down what’s really happening in today’s mid-2025 market and shares exactly what it takes to get a home sold in a time where buyers are picky, interest rates are higher, and strategy is everything.
From real stories of listings with multiple offers to others that sat with no activity, Lori explains the three biggest reasons homes aren’t moving, and how you can shift the outcome with better prep, pricing, and a standout marketing plan.
Whether you’re already listed or just thinking about selling, this episode is packed with insight, soul, and the clarity you’ve been waiting for.
Thinking of selling your home this year? You are NOT alone- and you have probably asked yourself, “should I wait?” In this episode Lori breaks down three key questions every seller should ask before selling: what the market is doing right now, how to know if you are ready, and why waiting is not always your safe bet.We’ll also talk about why trying to time the market can backfire, and what smart strategies actually work in today’s shifting pace. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a sense of peace about your next move.
Feeling unsure about buying, selling, or just staying put in today’s real estate market? You’re not alone. In this episode, Lori brings her signature mix of experience and heart to break down what’s really happening in the spring market. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a downsizing seller, or simply market curious, Lori offers clarity, insight, and soul to help you feel confident in your next step.
Divorce is a deeply personal and emotional life shift—and when real estate is part of the equation, the process becomes even more complex. In this episode, we explore how divorce continues to impact the real estate market, even as national rates decline.
We’ll share compassionate tips for navigating this transition: from reframing the home sale as part of the healing process to protecting your financial future and maintaining open, professional communication.
This isn’t just about real estate—it’s about resilience. We’re here to walk with you, not just sell your home.
Selling your home while buying your next? It sounds overwhelming—because it is. But with a solid strategy, a supportive team, and a little bit of soul, it’s not only possible... it can be empowering.
In this episode of Real Estate with Soul, we’re diving into the real behind-the-scenes of buying and selling at the same time—deadlines, finances, emotions, and everything in between. Plus, you’ll hear a real story from a client who made the leap with grace (and how we helped them pull it off).
Whether you’re planning a move now or dreaming of one down the road, this episode will help you feel more prepared, more grounded, and more confident about what’s next.
Buying or selling a home is so much more than just a transaction—it’s a major life shift, packed with emotions, decisions, and a whole lot of uncertainty. In this episode, we’re opening up about what it really means to trust the process in your real estate journey. From the emotional rollercoaster to the power of a grounded, heart-centered real estate team, we’ll guide you through how to stay centered, feel your feelings, and confidently move forward—even when it’s tough. You are not alone, and we’re here to help you make it through, one intentional step at a time.
Moving isn’t just about packing boxes—it’s a major life transition that comes with a wave of emotions. In this episode, we’re diving into how to move with intention, practical packing tips, and the emotional side of uprooting your life. Whether you’re relocating for a fresh start, a new job, or just a change of scenery, we encourage you to embrace the feelings that come with it. You don’t have to apologize for the emotions—moving is a transformation, and we’re here to help you through every step.
In today’s episode of 193, we are diving into how tariffs are set to impact the real estate market—and spoiler alert, it’s not looking great. From rising construction costs and supply chain disruptions to higher mortgage rates and decreased affordability, homeowners, buyers, and investors alike are feeling the pressure. Will tariffs slow down the market even further? What does this mean for first-time buyers and those looking to build? And is there still opportunity in today’s market? Looking for some more real estate tips after this episode tune into episode 86 for the latest real estate insights and what you need to know to stay ahead!
In Episode 192, we’re diving into the latest LA market update, exploring how the recent fires may impact real estate trends, home values, and the overall housing market. We’ll also highlight a must-see listing and discuss what buyers and sellers need to know right now. Plus, don’t miss our mention of Episode 165, where we share crucial tips and insights on how to protect yourself from fraud during a real estate transaction. Tune in for expert insights, market shifts, and what’s next for LA real estate!
In episode 191, we sit down for a raw and insightful conversation with Victoria Ivie, a reporter from the Southern California News Group, to discuss the devastating impact of the LA fires on families, businesses, and the real estate market. These fires have reshaped property values, generational homeownership, and tax challenges that families now face. With insurance roadblocks, stalled home sales, and entire communities affected, the future of California real estate is more uncertain than ever. But there is still hope in rebuilding these communities and watching them work together is a beautiful thing after so much devastation. Tune in as we dive into how homeowners can navigate these challenges and why jumping into homeownership sooner than later is more critical than ever.
Lori and Amy are back at it with a great conversation about a Buyer’s agent reality in the real estate world. If there is one word to describe a buyer’s agent it would be availability. Buyers agents get to make homeownership dreams come true and Amy Cruz is one of Real Estate Resolved very own buyers agents. Today’s episode she gets to share what it means to her and how she is successful at what she does..