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Most people hear the word "auction" and assume one thing:   Something went wrong. That's not always true.   In this episode, I'm breaking down what an auction actually looks like in real estate today because y'all have been asking, and there's a LOT of confusion out there.   If you're dealing with a house, an estate, or just a whole lot of "stuff" and don't know where to start… this one's for you.   Key takeaways to listen for: How auction works vs. traditional real estate What a reserve price really means Why timing is completely different What buyers (and agents) need to know going in What I've learned after getting licensed as an auctioneer   Resources mentioned in this episode Leigh Brown Auctions CVAN Habitat for Humanity The Lantern Project The Ligon Company R. Giles Moss Auction & Real Estate Iron Horse Auctions   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

Christopher Watters didn't just have a slow start - he had a full-on crash. Bad investments, empty bank accounts, and a reality check that forced him to rebuild from scratch. Somewhere along the way, he figured out a system that works and we'll talk about what actually turned things around and how most agents could avoid making the same mistakes he made. If you're interested in hearing ways to fix one of the biggest gaps in the industry, you won't want to miss this episode.   Key takeaways to listen for What Chris learned after going broke in his 20s (and why it still matters) The difference between "internet leads" and high intent leads Why waiting 12–24 months for a deal to close should be a red flag How most agents are being taught the wrong things about lead generation An app that'll make your life as a real estate professional easier   Resources mentioned in this episode Landman (TV Series 2024– ) The Million Dollar Real Estate Team by Chris Watters & Bradley Pounds National Association of REALTORS®   About Christopher Watters Christopher has been a trusted real estate advisor to over 3000 families across Central Texas for the past 15 years. Giving him a level of market expertise that indirectly creates an enormous competitive advantage for his clients. He has been recognized by Inc5000, Wall Street Journal, and several local publications as the top broker in Central Texas.   Follow Christopher Website: Watters International Realty | Realsynch | TABLE | Performance Enforcement Systems for Real Estate Teams Instagram: @christopherwatters Contact Number: (512) 567-1597 Email: [email protected]   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

We all say we want affordable housing, but what if the real problem isn't what we think it is? I sat down with mortgage expert Phil Ganz, and let me tell you - he did not hold back. We dig into what's actually driving affordability, what builders are doing behind the scenes, and why some of the "solutions" people push might be making things worse. And just when you think you've got a handle on it, we get into HOAs, condo financing, and one story that proves real estate is never boring.   Key takeaways to listen for Why housing should be viewed as 50 separate state-level markets How building speed directly impacts affordability Reasons some states are seeing more housing growth and some aren't Ways builder incentives and interest rates affect monthly payments Why regulation slows construction and raises costs   About Phil Ganz With over 26 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Phil Ganz has helped thousands of families achieve the dream of homeownership with clarity, confidence, and care. He is a nationally ranked top 1% originator and a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist. He is passionate about building people-first businesses that empower clients, partners, and teammates alike.   Follow Phil Website: Make Florida Your Home | Next Wave Mortgage LinkedIn: Phil Ganz - Next Wave Mortgage Instagram: @askamortgageexpert TikTok: @askthemortgageexpert Contact Number: (617) 529-9317 Email: [email protected]   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

This week, it's a solo episode, and I'm coming in hot. I just got back from the REALTORS® Land Institute National Land Conference, NLC26, and one issue lit me up: the European Union Deforestation Regulation, or EUDR. It may be a European rule, but American landowners could still feel it through timber contracts, supply chain requirements, and restrictions buried in private agreements. If you own land, timber, or even a small family tract with trees on it, you need to pay attention.   Key takeaways to listen for How a European regulation can impact U.S. landowners through private contracts Reasons even small wooded properties could be classified as "Forests" What "No Conversion" clauses mean for your future land use Why small landowners may be the most affected by this rule Steps you can take to protect your property   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

Everybody says we need more housing, but very few people understand how housing actually gets built or why it is so hard to get new neighborhoods approved in the first place. I sat down with Brandon Cobb to talk through what really happens before the first house ever goes up. We also unpack the real gap in the market, especially for entry-level housing, and why the very things people push back on, like density, might actually be part of the solution. If you are a REALTOR®, community leader, or just someone trying to make sense of what is happening in your area, this conversation will give you a clearer picture of how development really works and why the system feels so stuck. Key takeaways to listen for Why 30% of buyers are competing for just 10% of inventory The real difference between "affordable housing" and entry-level housing How developers actually work with (not against) communities Why density protects rural land instead of destroying it How new development creates a ripple effect of jobs, tax revenue, and local business growth What most REALTORS® don't understand about how neighborhoods are created Why "not in my backyard" thinking doesn't stop growth—it just makes it worse   Resources mentioned in this episode https://www.hbgcapital.net/waitlist/ If you're interested in learning what Brandon does, go to https://learnlanddevelopment.com/.    About Brandon Cobb Brandon was a former medical device sales rep before becoming a fund manager and land development coach at: LearnLandDevelopment.com. His firm HBG Capital manages $22 Million+ of land development annually. He was featured on the cover of REI Wealth magazine, Realty 411 Magazine, and has been published in Forbes magazine. Brandon's greatest passion is developing unforgettable experiences with those he loves and sees business as a tool to do just that.   Follow Brandon Website: HBG Capital Podcast: Recession Resistant Real Estate Radio LinkedIn: Brandon Cobb - HBG Capital   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

What do you do when a seller tells you, "If you disclose the house is unstable, I'll sue you"? In this episode, LA real estate veteran David Kramer breaks down the high-stakes world of luxury real estate where the houses are massive, but the legal risks are even bigger. Plus, David shares a specific strategy he used to win a $50M listing before the sellers could ask him a single question. This is an episode you won't want to miss!   Key takeaways to listen for How to handle high-stakes property disclosures Reasons "Liquidated Damages" and contract knowledge are your best tools Why focus is the ultimate competitive advantage in real estate A simple but effective strategy to success in real estate   Resources mentioned in this episode The Real Deal HGTV ChatGPT Taxi Driver (1976) - IMDb   About David Kramer David is a real estate agent unlike any other when it comes to buying and selling luxury properties in the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills areas. With 30 years of experience in representing buyers and sellers of high-end estates throughout the area, David has the skills and knowledge to obtain the results his clients are looking for, while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, confidentiality and professionalism.   Follow David Website: David Kramer Instagram: @davidkramerre Phone Number: (310) 691-2400   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

If you're feeling exhausted by the constant waves of change in our industry, you aren't alone. But here is the hard truth: Exhaustion is not an excuse for paralysis.  In this episode, I chat with Keith Robinson, Co-CEO of NextHome, to talk about why so many agents are "freezing" right now and why that's the most dangerous thing you can do for your business.   Key takeaways to listen for Why the next 18 - 24 months are the most critical in modern real estate history The future of NAR and why trade associations must get back to the trade Reasons leadership ego is stifling the best talent in our industry The reality of being a "post-COVID" agent Ways to stay informed without letting industry noise kill your lead gen   Resources mentioned in this episode National Association of REALTORS® The Private Listing Reckoning: Who Controls Inventory Controls the Future Atomic Habits by James Clear   About Keith Robinson Keith is the co-chief executive officer of NextHome, Inc. He develops and oversees the implementation of key strategic business relationships to further our national growth. He has an extensive background in real estate, including experience in national business strategy, operations, sales training, recruitment, motivation, and effective marketing. His collaborative approach fosters the development of successful, long-term results-driven partnerships for NextHome members.   Follow Keith Website: NextHome   About Leigh Brown Leigh Brown is a leadership voice and keynote speaker who helps people navigate disruption and lead when the ground is shifting. Her latest book, Next Is Now, is a call to stop waiting and start leading. 👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF  Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

What if the biggest threat to your real estate business isn't the settlement… or the portals… or the headlines? What if it's the inventory you can't see? In this episode, I sat down with James Dwiggins, Co-CEO of NextHome, to talk about private listings, brokerage consolidation, and what happens when transparency starts to fracture. If you care about consumer trust, your comps, and whether you'll recognize real estate five years from now, don't sit this one out.   Key takeaways to listen for Why private listings are expanding What happens if MLS influence weakens How consolidation reshapes competition The ripple effect on appraisals and lending Why fiduciary duty must come before recruitment strategy And why leadership needs a better understanding of our industry's history   Resources mentioned in this episode National Association of REALTORS® MLS.com   About James Dwiggins James is the co-chief executive officer of NextHome, Inc. James brings to the table a sharp, innovative, and forward-focused vision. He's been in the real estate franchise business since 2006, originally joining Realty World Northern California & Nevada as director of technology and strategy, where he was promoted to vice president five years later. In May 2014, he cofounded NextHome (with Tei Baishiki) and ran both brands until 2020, when Realty World International acquired the region back. In January 2015, James (and Tei) launched NextHome as an independent national real estate franchise.   Follow James Website: NextHome   About Leigh Brown Leigh Brown is a leadership voice and keynote speaker who helps people navigate disruption and lead when the ground is shifting. Her latest book, Next Is Now, is a call to stop waiting and start leading. 👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF   Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

AI can write your emails and even generate art that looks real. It's fast, efficient, and impressive. But Leigh asks a harder question: what happens when convenience starts replacing presence In this episode, she wrestles with authenticity and why showing up imperfect still builds credibility. If you want to build a reputation that lasts in an automated world, this is an episode you won't want to miss!   Key takeaways to listen for Ways to use AI as a tool without letting it replace your voice Reasons authenticity builds trust faster than perfection ever will What happens when we start outsourcing our judgment How human creativity creates an emotional connection that algorithms can't replicate Why presence is your strongest business advantage   Resources mentioned in this episode Watch Upload - Season 1 | Prime Video Black Mirror (TV Series 2011– )   About Leigh Brown Leigh Brown is a leadership voice and keynote speaker who helps people navigate disruption and lead when the ground is shifting. Her latest book, Next Is Now, is a call to stop waiting and start leading. 👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF   Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown  

The real estate industry is at a tipping point, and REALTORS® are asking hard questions about representation, relevance, and trust. In this crossover episode from Under All Is The Land (co-hosted with Rob Hahn), we unpack NAR's new strategic plan and what it signals about the future of organized real estate. This isn't a rant. It's a leadership conversation. Because when members feel unheard, strategy alone won't fix it. Whether you're fired up or simply trying to make sense of the direction of the industry, this discussion will challenge you to think bigger about professionalism, advocacy, and who the association truly serves.   Key takeaways to listen for Why the gap between REALTORS® and NAR leadership feels wider than ever What "homeownership advocacy" should mean in today's market How perception and credibility impact member trust The difference between messaging about professionalism and living it What grassroots energy could mean for the future of organized real estate   Resources mentioned in this episode National Association of REALTORS® Good Neighbor Awards REALTORS® Relief Foundation NAR Accepts Its Irrelevance, Counters with Platitudes Race for Relevance by Harrison Coerver & Mary Byers   About Under All Is The Land If you enjoy this conversation, subscribe to Under All Is The Land, where Leigh and Rob break down the policy, power, and politics shaping real estate — without spin. Watch and subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@UnderAllPodcast Referenced episode: Under All is the Land Ep. 5: The new NAR Strat Plan   About Rob Hahn Rob Hahn ("Notorious ROB") is one of real estate's most influential industry analysts, known for challenging assumptions, poking sacred cows, and pushing the business toward deeper integrity and clearer thinking. He focuses on Associations, MLS structures, governance, and the intersection of real estate and public policy.   Follow Rob YouTube: Under All Is The Land X: @robhahn   About Leigh Brown Leigh Brown is a leadership voice and keynote speaker who helps people navigate disruption and lead when the ground is shifting. Her latest book, Next Is Now, is a call to stop waiting and start leading. 👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown  

Housing has quietly become one of the most urgent issues shaping the 2026 conversation, and not for the reasons most headlines suggest. In this episode, Leigh Brown cuts through the noise to explain why affordability and availability are colliding, and what a natural disaster in Western North Carolina exposed about the gaps in housing policy. Listen in for a grounded, human view of a problem that could affect your community next.   Key takeaways to listen for The two housing pressures driving every 2026 platform How inflation and post‑recession building shortages quietly created today's housing squeeze What Hurricane Helene revealed about disaster aid, renters, and missing policy answers Why small landlords matter more to affordability than most public narratives admit A practical way housing relief could support owners, renters, and communities together   Resources mentioned in this episode FEMA HUD Patriot Relief   About Leigh Brown Leigh Brown is a leadership voice and keynote speaker who helps people navigate disruption and lead when the ground is shifting. Her latest book, Next Is Now, is a call to stop waiting and start leading. 👉 https://amzn.to/48FKenF Bring Leigh to your stage: https://leighbrown.com DM Leigh on Instagram: @LeighThomasBrown

Title insurance might seem like a formality, but what if it's the weakest link in your next transaction? In this episode, we'll chat with Andrew "Dru" Wischhover about rising fraud threats, surprising coverage gaps, and why agents need to understand what's actually being protected at the closing table. Hit play to rethink everything you thought you knew about closing a deal!   Key takeaways to listen for What title insurance really covers and why your lender requires it Real-life examples of title issues that cost buyers thousands Enhanced coverage: What it is and why you need to know about it The truth about title theft headlines vs. what really safeguards homeowners How Drew built a business that gives back to the community   Resources mentioned in this episode The Two Hour Difference by Dru Wischhover Heroes Helping Heroes   About Andrew "Dru" Wischhover Andrew (Dru) Wischhover is an entrepreneur, author, and the President and CEO of Inspired Title Group. A licensed Title Insurance Officer with over 20 years of experience, he recently led the company's expansion into the Indiana market. Dru is dedicated to mentoring his team through "The Inspired Way," a philosophy centered on community service and delivering a seamless, client-focused closing experience.   Connect with Andrew Website: Inspired Title Group LinkedIn: Andrew (Dru) Wischhover Contact Number: (708) 341-0036   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.  

Snowstorms, vacant land, HGTV, and city council meetings don't usually belong in the same conversation, unless you're selling real estate in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Listen in as we chat with Benjamin Argall about what it really looks like to run a brokerage and build economic momentum in one of the most challenging real estate environments in the country.   Key takeaways to listen for What does selling real estate in extreme winter conditions actually require? How an entrepreneurial mindset led from art and design to brokerage ownership Why stepping into local government changed how Ben approaches real estate The overlooked role real estate plays in small-town economic development What HGTV really teaches you about design, pressure, and decision-making   Resources mentioned in this episode NextHome Superior Living I Need Funding | Programs & Services | Michigan Business Battle on the Beach | HGTV   About Benjamin Argall Benjamin Argall is the founder of Argall Real Estate Group and NextHome Superior Living, where he specializes in blending real estate, design, and community development to revitalize Michigan's Upper Peninsula. A dedicated advocate for smart growth, Argall serves on the Ishpeming City Council and acts as President of the Upper Peninsula REALTORS®. His recent work includes the design-forward renovation of a vacant building into a modern workspace in Negaunee and the development of The Montreal, a 12-unit housing project created in partnership with state and local land banks. Through both his professional ventures and public service, Argall focuses on transforming historic sites into vibrant, livable spaces that foster stronger local economies.   Connect with Benjamin Website: Benjamin Argall Instagram: @ben_argall Contact Number: (906) 250-2874   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

The housing market in Minnesota is changing fast with hidden forces shaping it. So in this episode, Todd Urbanski unpacks the real-world impact of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) thinking, municipal fees, and shifting neighborhood dynamics in Minnesota. Tune in for an honest conversation that brings light to today's most pressing housing challenges.   Key takeaways to listen for What's driving the current housing tension in the Twin Cities? How immigrant communities are reshaping neighborhoods Why municipal processes often slow development and how that hurts housing supply How REALTORS® can advocate for fair planning without fueling division What civic engagement looks like when it builds community   Resources mentioned in this episode National Association of REALTORS®   About Todd Urbanski A licensed REALTOR® since 1999, Todd Urbanski leverages over two decades of experience as a top sales associate, coach, and manager to provide premier residential real estate experience in the Twin Cities. Having lived in the region for over 30 years, he utilizes an extensive professional network and deep local knowledge to deliver value that extends well beyond the initial transaction. Driven by a commitment to excellence and a goal to exceed expectations, Urbanski employs proven systems and resources to minimize the stress of moving, ultimately transforming clients into lifelong advocates and friends.   Connect with Todd LinkedIn: Todd Urbanski Contact Number: 612-865-3644   Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.

What happens when housing policy collides with private property rights? We welcome back Aaron Chapman for an unfiltered conversation that challenges how we think about real estate, investing, and economic "solutions." From unsettling market shifts to uncomfortable truths few are willing to say out loud, this episode asks hard questions about ownership, risk, and the future of housing in America.   Key takeaways to listen for Reasons uncertainty (not headlines) moves real estate markets How policy changes quietly affect rents and property values What makes some rental markets far riskier than others How unconventional ownership models alter who holds the risk What experienced investors look for when stability is unclear   Resources mentioned in this episode Should Your House Be An ATM? with Aaron Chapman Confidently Buy Properties in Today's Real Estate Market with Aaron Chapman 388 - Your Wake-Up Call to Get Educated About the Lending Industry with Aaron Chapman The Peter Schiff Show Podcast   About Aaron Chapman Aaron has been a veteran in the finance industry since 1997, helping clients better understand, source, and finance cash-flow positive investment properties. He advises over 100 clients a month in the acquisition and financing of their investment properties and primary residences. Aaron is ranked in the top 1% of mortgage loan processors in the country in an industry of over 300,000 licensed loan originators, closing in excess of 100 transactions per month.   Connect with Aaron Websites: Www.AaronChapman.com | Www.QuitJerkinOff.com Instagram: @sgoc_aaron YouTube: Aaron Chapman Email: [email protected]    Connect with Leigh Please subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast app at https://pod.link/1153262163, and never miss a beat from Leigh by visiting https://leighbrown.com. DM Leigh Brown on Instagram @ LeighThomasBrown.