Free Game Real Estate Podcast

163 Behind The Reel: Why Real Estate Isn’t As Glossy As Social Media Makes It Look

What if the biggest misconception about real estate isn't about market trends or property values, but about the daily reality of what it actually takes to survive and thrive as a real estate professional?
In this raw and unfiltered episode of Free Game Friday, Ed and Terence pull back the curtain on the real estate industry, challenging the glossy social media portrayal that makes the profession look effortless. Ed shares his personal journey from failing his first real estate exam in 2007 to building a successful career, including the harsh reality of moving to Charlotte where potential clients would literally drive away after seeing him. The conversation dives deep into the unglamorous side of being a buyer's agent—the daily cold calling, the months of nurturing relationships before seeing any return, and the mental toughness required to survive rejection and setbacks. They break down the entire buyer's journey from lead generation to closing day, revealing the extensive paperwork, due diligence processes, and negotiations that happen behind the scenes. This episode serves as both a reality check for aspiring real estate professionals and valuable insight for anyone considering buying or selling property, showing that success in real estate isn't just about market knowledge—it's about persistence, relationship building, and the ability to weather the storms that social media never shows.

162 Who Are You Listening To? The Real Estate Misinformation Crisis

What if the advice you're following about real estate is actually setting you up for failure – and how do you know if you're listening to the right voices in today's confusing market?
In this candid episode of Free Game Friday, hosts Ed and Terence dive deep into one of the most critical questions facing today's real estate market participants: "Who are you listening to?" The conversation explores the dangerous spread of misinformation in real estate, from false claims about current interest rates to misconceptions about down payment assistance programs. The hosts challenge listeners to move beyond social media advice and armchair expertise, emphasizing the importance of consulting actual practicing professionals. They discuss the reality of today's market conditions, including the current "sweet spot" for buyers who can secure seller concessions while rates remain elevated. The episode also tackles the complex world of down payment assistance, explaining who these programs actually serve and the long-term implications buyers should consider. Throughout their discussion, Ed and Terence stress the importance of financial preparedness, encouraging listeners to build their own nest egg rather than relying solely on assistance programs. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to seek professional guidance and make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances rather than following the highlight reels they see on social media.

161 The Freedom Blueprint: The Real Estate Development Boom in Ghana

What does true freedom look like when you're building a life beyond borders?
In this eye-opening episode of Free Game, host Ed welcomes real estate developer Dre Taylor and The Beyond Investments team along with the dynamic duo behind Sisters Selling Real Estate, Louv Ford and Dez Gerald. The conversation takes listeners on a journey exploring opportunities in Ghana, the creation of Africa's first MLS system, and what it means to find peace and prosperity abroad. As the diaspora seeks new possibilities, this episode provides valuable insights into property development, investment opportunities, and the cultural connections being built between African Americans and Ghanaians.
Special Guests for this episode:
Dre Taylor
Real Estate Developer
The Beyond Investments - Ghana
 
Lisa Kunney
Brand Development Manager
The Beyond Investments - Ghana
 
Dez Gerald
Broker
Lifestyle International Realty - Greensboro, NC
 
Louv Ford
Realtor
Lifestyle International Realty - Greensboro, NC 

160 The Beyond Investments: Building Sustainable Communities for the African Diaspora

What if the peace we've been seeking isn't found in a place, but in a return to our ancestral home where we're truly seen as human beings?
In this thought-provoking episode of Free Game, hosts Terence Guess and Ed Averette join Louv Ford and Dez Gerald in welcoming developer Dre Taylor who shares his transformative journey from Kansas City, Missouri to Ghana, where he's now building a 105-property development in the Aburi mountains. With remarkable candor, Dre explores why he left America behind, the freedom and peace he's discovered in Ghana, and his mission to create sustainable living opportunities for African Americans seeking to reconnect with their ancestral homeland. The conversation touches on spiritual awakenings, economic advantages, and the profound psychological relief that comes from escaping systemic oppression. Listeners will be challenged to consider what truly creates peace in life and whether returning to Africa might be a viable option for those seeking peace.

159 Sisters in Real Estate: Building a Legacy Across Continents

Sisters in Real Estate: Building a Legacy Across Continents
What could real estate opportunities in Ghana teach American agents about the future of global property investment?
In this illuminating episode of Free Game, hosts Terence and Ed welcome the dynamic sister duo behind Lifestyle Realty Greensboro, NC - Dez Gerald and Louv Ford. The conversation takes listeners from the current challenges of the American real estate market to exciting international opportunities emerging in Ghana. The sisters share their successful expansion into Greensboro's Triad area while revealing how their cryptocurrency project is opening doors to African real estate investments. Throughout the episode, they offer valuable insights on business planning, execution, and the importance of family partnerships in creating sustainable success. Their journey demonstrates how forward-thinking real estate professionals can transcend traditional market boundaries while building meaningful connections across continents.

158 The Great Reset: Interest Rates, Appraisals, and Policy Changes

Are you prepared for the "new normal" in real estate where buyers are no longer waiting for interest rates to drop, but instead adapting to current market conditions?
In this episode of Free Game, hosts Terence and Ed dive into the current state of the real estate market, discussing how consumer confidence has improved despite higher interest rates. They explore how appraisals are resetting market values, sometimes coming in $30,000-$35,000 lower than purchase prices. The hosts share insights about FHA policy changes affecting non-resident aliens and emphasize the importance of property presentation when selling a home. Throughout the episode, they highlight practical advice for both buyers and sellers navigating today's evolving real estate landscape.
 

157 Multiplying Impact: The Power Of Collaborative Networking In Real Estate

What if the greatest barrier to success in your industry isn't competition, but a collective resistance to true collaboration?
In this thought-provoking episode of Free Game Friday, hosts Ed and Terence dive into a candid conversation about the real estate industry in Charlotte compared to other major cities. They explore why many professionals struggle with genuine collaboration, discussing everything from the transplant culture of Charlotte to the importance of intentional networking. The hosts share personal insights on building authentic relationships, providing value without expecting immediate returns, and the benefits of taking a long-term approach to business development. This episode offers valuable perspective for real estate professionals seeking to create more meaningful connections and sustainable success in an increasingly competitive market.

156 Financial Truth Bombs: The Flex vs. The Future

"Is homeownership about securing your future or just flexing for social media?"
In this insightful episode of Free Game Real Estate, host Terence Guess and partner Ed Averette welcome special guest Joy Bailey, known as "The Mortgage Bawse." They dive into hard truths about homeownership in the African American community, discussing different expectations between clients, the façade of wealth through credit cards, and the importance of long-term financial planning. Joy shares her expertise as a mortgage broker while touching on her own financial mistakes, creating an authentic conversation about the realities of homeownership and what true financial stability looks like. The trio candidly explores how cultural pressures affect housing decisions and why understanding the complete home buying process matters, regardless of your current position.

155 No More False Hope: Hard Truths About Today's Housing Market

What does it really take to buy a home in today's market when even high earners struggle to qualify?
In this eye-opening episode of FREE GAME, hosts Terence Guess and Ed Averette welcome special guest Joy Bailey, an experienced mortgage loan officer with a decade in the industry. The conversation provides invaluable insights into the current state of the housing market, exploring the dramatic shifts that have occurred in recent years. Joy shares her transition from retail to the broker space and breaks down the harsh realities of what it takes to qualify for a home in today's market. The trio discusses common misconceptions about homebuying, the importance of financial preparedness, and why the concept of "luxury" in real estate has dramatically shifted. This episode offers a candid look at why many potential buyers are facing challenges and what they need to know to navigate the current landscape successfully.

154 Navigating Contingency Offers: The Balancing Act of Buying and Selling Real Estate

Are contingency offers in real estate worth the risk, or should buyers consider alternative approaches in today's market?
In this insightful episode of Free Game, hosts Ed Averette and Terence Guess dive deep into the complex world of contingency offers in real estate. They explore the challenges, risks, and potential solutions for buyers juggling the sale of their current home while purchasing a new one. Through role-playing scenarios and personal experiences, they break down the communication requirements, financial implications, and practical alternatives that both buyers and sellers should consider in the current market landscape. Their candid conversation offers valuable guidance for navigating these complicated transactions while maintaining realistic expectations.