Royal Family Real Estate Podcast

About Royal Family Real Estate Podcast

Welcome to the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, where none of us are shy about giving our opinions. We are a local, family-owned real estate brokerage and pride ourselves on being experts in the Chicagoland area. Join us on our Podcast journey to hear what’s going on in our local real estate market as well as get an insider's point of view on this crazy industry!

Publisher

Royal Family Real Estate

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 May 2024

Latest episode

3 Nov 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Nov 2026

   Cook County Property Taxes and the 1% Cap Plan: Interview with Nico Tsatsoulis

   Jason and Royal sit down with Nico Tsatsoulis, the Libertarian candidate for Cook County Assessor, to talk property taxes. He explains his plan to cap taxes at 1% of purchase price, why he says assessments are inconsistent, and how he would pay for lower taxes. The hosts also share their own property tax appeal experiences. They are sharing his views so you can decide for yourself.

2. 

   14 Oct 2026

   Chicagoland Housing Market Update: 7.5% Rates, Higher Property Taxes & What Sellers Should Expect

   Mortgage rates are near 7.5%, property tax bills are up, and the fall and winter slowdown is here. In Episode 8 of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, Jason and Royal break down what this means for buyers and sellers in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Topics covered: the seasonal market shift, higher property tax bills, what is driving mortgage rates, why some buyers are pulling out, how lending today compares to 2008, what sellers can expect this fall and winter, and the outlook for spring.Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Chicagoland? Visit https://realestatefamily.net Chapters: 0:00 Welcome and intro 0:27 Market update overview1:08 Rates compared to the past year and a half2:09 Three factors affecting the market 3:26 Property tax bills up about 20% 3:50 Mortgage rates and the Federal Reserve5:09 Northwest suburbs: limited inventory and affordability 6:20 Buyers pulling out of the market 7:24 Rising inventory and sellers waiting until spring 8:26 What is driving interest rates: inflation 9:24 How the Fed rate affects mortgage rates 10:24 Advice for buyers: plan to stay seven years 11:18 Lending today vs. the 2008 housing crisis 12:54 Renting vs. buying, and keeping a home rentable 14:09 National debt and long-term interest rates14:55 The 50-year average mortgage rate15:38 Why 3% and 4% rates are not coming back 16:28 What sellers should expect 17:04 Fall and winter price patterns since 2008 19:12 Spring momentum and the July peak 19:46 Outlook for next year 21:23 Property taxes: Illinois vs. Delaware 22:11 Final advice for buyers and sellers Subscribe for more local market updates from Royal Family Real Estate. #ChicagoRealEstate #HousingMarket #MortgageRates #RealEstatePodcast #PropertyTaxes

3. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Why Illinois Property Taxes Are Out of Control & What You Can Do About It?

   Did your Cook County property tax bill jump up to 25%? 📈 It’s one of the biggest reasons homeowners consider relocating—but before you make any big moves, know your options. On this episode, we dive into how local tax rates are calculated, available tax exemptions, and how to successfully appeal your assessed value. Whether you’re looking for comparable home values to file an appeal, need a recommendation for a trusted tax attorney, or are evaluating your next move, we’re here to help you navigate it all. #PropertyTaxes #CookCountyIL #RealEstateAdvice #IllinoisHomeowners #RealEstatePodcast

4. 

   27 Aug 2026

   Strategic Moves: Maximizing Your Buying and Selling Power in the Fall & Winter Markets

   The Real Estate Secret Nobody Tells You About the Fall& Winter Markets Think the real estate market completely freezes when thecold weather hits? Think again. While showing activity definitely takes a dipbelow January levels once October rolls around, this predictable seasonal shiftactually opens up some massive, hidden opportunities—especially if you know howto time it right. In this episode, we’re hanging out on the patio at the BigBlue House to break down exactly what the shifting seasons mean for localbuyers and sellers in the Chicagoland area. What we’re diving into: -Why Fall is Secretly PrimeTime for Buyers: With less buyer competition and highly motivated sellers(who want to avoid frozen pipes and vacant winter homes), late fall and winterare the absolute best times to score a deal. -The "Super Bowl"Shift: When do prices and momentum historically start trending upwardagain? Hint: Mark your calendars for February. -The Procrastination Trap forSellers: Why waiting until spring to talk to a broker is costing you money,and how capturing outdoor marketing right now (while the trees are stillgreen!) can completely change your listing's first impression. -Stressing Less: Howstarting the conversation early allows you to build a practical timeline fordecluttering, painting, and staging without the last-minute overwhelm. Whether you’re trying to win an offer without facing achaotic bidding war, or you're planning a move for next year and want tomaximize your sale price, this episode gives you the ultimate insider strategyguide. Are you looking to buy, sell, or invest in the northwestsuburbs? Connect with our team at Royal Family Real Estate—we’re here to helpyou figure out your best next move.

5. 

   13 Aug 2026

   The Future of Real Estate: Navigating Industry Consolidations, Tech Disruption, & the MLS Debate

   In this episode of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, we dive deep into the massive shifts happening across the real estate landscape. From headline-making industry consolidations—to the tightening of brokerage profit margins, the industry is changing rapidly. Whether you are a homeowner, homebuyer, or real estate agent, this episode is packed with the insider knowledge you need to navigate the state of the industry.

6. 

   11 Aug 2026

   The Full-Time Focus: What It Takes to Be a Real Estate Expert.

   What Does It REALLY Take to Be a Real Estate Expert? Welcome back to the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast! Let's dive deep into a critical topic for buyers, sellers, and agents alike: What actually makes someone a real estate expert?With barriers to entry in the real estate industry being so low, anyone with a pulse can get a license in two weeks—but passing a crash course doesn't make you a craftsman. We break down why years in the business or sheer transaction volume can be dangerous metrics, and what truly sets a top-tier full-time broker apart from the crowd. In this episode, we discuss: • The Truth About the License: Why the current system favors high dues over high standards, and our petition for a truer apprenticeship model. • Systems for Success: An inside look at the daily routines, rigorous time-blocking, and CRM tracking necessary to generate consistent business and protect clients. • Data vs. Emotion: How leading with client relationships while utilizing factual, hyper-local data helps clients win properties without overpaying. • The "Menu of Options": Why great agents advise rather than dictate, giving clients clear scenarios, pros, cons, and probabilities so they can make the final call. • Proactive Communication: How staying 2–3 steps ahead prevents deal-killing fires and ensures a smooth, stress-free client experience. • The Power of Mentorship & Community: Why leaning on a collaborative network prevents costly "learning experiences" at the client’s expense. Real estate scenarios might "rhyme," but no two transactions are exactly the same. If you want a team that brings foundational experience, strict professionalism, and a daily drive for craftsmanship to your next move, you’re in the right place.

7. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Spring Into It: What Buyers and Sellers Need To Know About The 2026 Spring Market

   What does the 2026 spring market actually look like, and what does it mean for you? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about current market conditions, interest rate trends, inventory levels, and what's driving buyer demand right now. Whether you're a homeowner wondering if this is finally your moment to sell, or a buyer ready to make your move, we're cutting through the noise and giving you real, relevant insight to help you navigate this season with confidence. We'll talk about what's shifting in today's market, how to price a home strategically in a competitive landscape, and the mistakes buyers are making and how to avoid them. Plus, we'll share what we're seeing on the ground right here in our local market, so you're not just getting national headlines, you're getting the full picture.

8. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Preparing Your Home For Sale

   Thinking about selling your home? Before you list, there's one question every seller needs to answer: Is my home ready to impress? In this episode, we walk you through the essential steps to transform your property from "lived-in" to "must-have" so you can attract more buyers, stronger offers, and a faster close.Whether you're months away from listing or ready to put up the sign next week, this episode gives you a clear, actionable roadmap to maximize your home's value and put your best foot forward in today's market.

9. 

   29 Dec 2025

   Market Update

   Royal and Jason discuss the Real Estate market for 2025 and projections for 2026.

10. 

    14 Nov 2024

    Adapting to Change: The Impact of the NAR Settlement on Sellers & Realtors

    In this episode of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, Jason Stallard and Royal Hartwig dive deep into the implications of the recent NAR settlement and its impact on real estate transactions. They explore the necessity for adaptability and how the changes affect sellers and listing presentations. The discussion focuses on the new industry regulations and the nuanced adjustments required from both realtors and clients. As Hartwig unpacks the changes with Jason Stallard, they highlight how commissions are handled post-settlement, emphasizing the importance of being flexible and transparent in real estate dealings. They stress that despite initial industry apprehensions, the new procedures foster greater transparency and fairness, benefiting both sellers and buyers. Their conversation provides a significant amount of information on navigating these changes with adeptness and insight, offering professional advice for real estate agents and clients alike.

11. 

    11 Oct 2024

    Timing is Everything: Should You Sell Now or Wait For Spring?

    In this engaging episode of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, Royal Hartwig and Jason Stallard dive deep into the nuances of the fall real estate market in 2024. They explore whether it is more advantageous for sellers to wait until spring to list their homes, or if selling now could yield better results. Their conversation is packed with insights into the cyclical nature of real estate pricing, offering a granular look at market trends and pricing strategies in the Chicagoland area. By addressing both sellers and buyers, Royal and Jason provide a comprehensive perspective on current real estate conditions. They delve into the benefits of preparing a home for market well in advance, detailing actionable steps such as essential home improvements and strategic timing of listing to maximize ROI. They also explore current interest rate trends and predict their impact on market dynamics, ensuring listeners are well-equipped to make informed decisions. This episode serves as an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of the real estate market during this transitional season.

12. 

    20 Sept 2024

    Cap Rates & Cash Flow: Mastering the Real Estate Game

    In this engaging episode of the Royal Family Real Estate podcast, Jason Stallard and Royal Hartwig dive deep into the process of building wealth through real estate investment. With an expert like Royal at the helm, this episode sheds light on the complexities and rewards of real estate investing. They discuss essential strategies, starting points for new investors, and the critical aspects of ensuring good returns on investment (ROI). Whether you're a seasoned broker or a novice investor, this episode provides invaluable insights into the multifaceted world of real estate. Starting with the groundwork, they emphasize understanding key metrics such as the capitalization rate (cap rate), which helps evaluate the potential returns on a property. The episode also covers practical aspects such as the importance of location, the benefits of different types of properties, and the less glamorous sides of real estate investing that require hands-on involvement. Additionally, they delve into the tax benefits and legal strategies, like the 1031 exchange, that can maximize your investment's profitability while minimizing tax liabilities. Overall, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, providing listeners with a comprehensive guide to starting and succeeding in real estate investing.

13. 

    3 Sept 2024

    Real Estate Industry Changes Post NAR Settlement

    In this episode of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, Royal Hartwig and Jason Stallard dive into the major shifts in the real estate industry following the recent NAR settlement. What initially seemed like a huge upheaval, especially with the changes rolled out on August 17, has turned out to be more manageable than expected. Together, they break down how brokers and agents are adapting to these changes, highlighting the new levels of transparency and negotiation power that come with them. Royal relates the industry's shift to the Y2K scare, explaining how the initial anxiety has given way to a smoother transition. The key change is that offers now need to clearly outline agent compensation, which benefits sellers and alters the negotiation game. Jason sheds light on how adapting buyer presentations and agency agreements to these new norms is making a big difference. These updates not only make the agent’s role clearer but also set the stage for better deals. While the changes might have seemed daunting at first, they ultimately help agents offer more professional and distinctive services, setting them apart from the competition. Tune in today to learn ways that real estate experts have been adjusting to these changes- and ways to take advantage of them.

14. 

    16 Aug 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: Navigating Home Sale and Close Contingencies in a Shifting Market

    Welcome back to the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, where Royal Hartwig, Jason Stallard, and Brenna Freskos share their expert insights into the ever-evolving real estate market in Chicagoland. Broadcasting from their new studio setup, the team is ready to dive into timely topics that matter to both buyers and sellers in a shifting market. In this episode, the focus is on the dynamics of home sale and home close contingencies. With the current market shifts, these contingencies are resurfacing as viable options for many transactions. The hosts delve deeply into the implications for both buyers and sellers and provide practical advice on how to navigate these contingencies. They discuss the trends indicating a slowdown in market activity, the importance of pricing strategies, and how both home sale and home close contingencies could affect a sale's success. Their seasoned guidance offers invaluable insights for anyone considering buying or selling in this unpredictable market.

15. 

    15 Jul 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: Negotiation Tactics That Win Deals

    Welcome back to the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast! Hosted by Royal Hartwig, along with Jason Stallard and Brenna Freskos, this episode delves into the dynamics of the current Chicagoland real estate market and strategies for winning deals in a competitive market, focusing on both buyer and seller perspectives. Throughout the episode, the hosts share valuable insights on effective negotiation tactics, such as the importance of appraisal gap coverage, the strategic use of earnest money, and the role of home inspections and appraisal waivers in strengthening offers. They emphasize the significance of clear and proactive communication between agents and lenders to streamline transactions and build trust. The conversation also covers the nuances of as-is contracts, the pros and cons of love letters, and the impact of escalation clauses on deal making.

16. 

    14 Jun 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: Step-By-Step Guide to Selling Your Home

    Welcome to another episode of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, where Royal Hartwig, Jason Stallard, and Brenna Freskos dive deep into how to get top dollar when selling your home. They share valuable knowledge of the seller’s side, including preparing your property for sale, understanding market dynamics, and all of the crucial steps involved from start to finish. Beyond the homeselling process, Royal, Jason, and Brenna also discuss the current real estate market trends in the Chicagoland area. They examine the unusual inventory patterns, seller behavior, and the market's shift as we progress through different seasons. They offer listeners a step-by-step guide on getting a property market-ready, including detailed walkthroughs, home improvements with high ROI, and strategic pricing to attract the right buyers. Whether you’re a broker, a homebuyer, or homeseller, this episode is a great resource for anyone learning about Chicago’s current real estate market. Don’t miss out!

17. 

    10 Jun 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: NAR Settlement Update

    In episode three of the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast, Royal Hartwig, Jason Stallard, and Brenna Freskos delve into the implications of the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement and its impact on the real estate industry. With changes set to take effect on August 17, the team discusses the key alterations, including the non-disclosure of commission rates and the mandatory buyer agency agreements. In this episode, the hosts break down the nuances of the NAR settlement and its potential effects on both buyers and sellers. They explore the complexities of co-op compensation, how it has traditionally been managed through the MLS and the challenges that real estate agents may face with the new regulations. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for transparency in the industry, the varying responses from different MLS regions, and potential future shifts in real estate practices. Stay Tuned to the Royal Family Real Estate Podcast to stay up to date from local real estate experts.

18. 

    16 May 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: What Does the NAR Lawsuit Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

    In this episode, Jason Stallard, Royal Hartwig, and Brenna Freskos discuss the current state of the real estate market, including the inventory shortage and the recent NAR settlement. They delve into the implications of the settlement, such as changes in displaying co-op compensation and the need for buyer agency agreements. The real estate team also explores the potential impact on buyers and sellers, as well as the role of online platforms like Zillow and Redfin. Tune in for valuable expert insights and predictions about the future of the industry!

19. 

    16 May 2024

    Royal Family Real Estate Podcast: Insights from Seasoned Agents

    In this episode, Jason Stallard, Royal Hartwig, and Brenna Freskos discuss the current state of the real estate market, including the inventory shortage and the recent NAR settlement. They delve into the implications of the settlement, such as changes in displaying co-op compensation and the need for buyer agency agreements. The real estate team also explores the potential impact on buyers and sellers, as well as the role of online platforms like Zillow and Redfin. Tune in for valuable expert insights and predictions about the future of the industry!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings