May 19, 2025
New Construction: The Process & What it Looks Like
Guest: Joy Slavens, Keller Williams Integrity
Hosts: Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage) & Campbell Ragan (McGrew Real Estate)
Thinking about building your dream home? This episode breaks down the entire new construction journey—from finding a builder to financing and what to expect along the way. Lexie and Campbell sit down with Joy Slavens of Keller Williams Integrity to explore:
-The first steps every buyer should take when considering new construction
-Key differences between building new vs. buying existing -Custom homes vs. spec homes—what’s more common now and why
-Financing tips and common buyer upgrades
-What to watch out for during the build process Plus, our Fact or Fiction segment uncovers the truth about pricing, upgrades, and how much say buyers really have in the design process.
As we recognize the start of Fair Housing Month, this timely episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real explores the unique challenges—and potential solutions—facing rural homebuyers across Kansas. This is the sixth installment in our Affordable Housing Series, and we’re joined by guest co-host Rob Hulse, Vice President of the Lawrence Board of REALTORS®, along with guests Deborah Becker (Movement Mortgage) and Randy Russell (Stephens Real Estate). From infrastructure hurdles and zoning restrictions to financing options like USDA loans, this episode takes a comprehensive look at rural housing barriers and opportunities. We dive into long-term maintenance, natural disaster risks, modular housing trends, and more—including a fun “Fact or Fiction” round to bust some common myths about rural living. If you serve clients in rural areas or are curious about expanding your market knowledge, this one’s for you.
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and financial literacy is the key to making smart, informed choices. In this episode of Lawrence Real + Local: Keepin’ it Real Podcast, host Lexie Haskin (Flint Hills Mortgage), and guest co-host Patrick Dipman (McGrew Real Estate) sit down with financial experts Ashley Zeller (Bank Midwest) and Ginger Ellsperman (Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc.) to break down the essentials of financial literacy for homebuyers. We’ll tackle key topics like managing debt, improving credit, budgeting for a down payment, and navigating mortgage options confidently. Plus, we’ll discuss how financial education can be made more accessible and equitable for communities historically facing homeownership barriers. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to improve your financial standing, this episode is packed with insights to help you on your journey to homeownership. 🔊 Tune in to gain expert advice on setting yourself up for financial success in real estate! Editing & Music: Josiah Moreno Podcast Equipment & Space: Lawrence Public Library Podcast Sponsor: Flint Hills Mortgage
