House Keys
HOUSE KEYS is your go-to podcast for unlocking the world of real estate with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rob “Birdman” Hephner and featuring trusted real estate expert Stephanie Crain of Mountain Retreat Realty Experts, this series breaks down the complex terms, processes, and decisions involved in buying and selling homes. With over 20 years of industry experience and a reputation for unmatched integrity, Stephanie brings practical insights, real-world examples, and straight-talk explanations that empower listeners at every stage of the real estate journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or preparing to sell your home, HOUSE KEYS gives you the tools to navigate the market with ease and assurance.
- Update frequency
- every 3 days
- Average duration
- 3 minutes
- Episodes
- 16
- Years Active
- 2025
What is a Down Payment?
🏡 What is a Down Payment?
A down payment is the initial amount of money you pay upfront when purchasing a home. It’s your stake in the property, while the rest of the purchase price is typicall…
What is an FHA Loan?
🏡 What is an FHA Loan?
An FHA loan is a type of mortgage that’s insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). It’s designed to make buying a home easier for people who might not qualify …
Debt-to-Income - Why is it Important?
What's Conventional about a Mortgage?
Stephaine is back to talk about Conventional Mortages
A conventional mortgage is a type of home loan that isn’t backed by the government (unlike FHA, VA, or USDA loans). Instead, it’s offered by pr…
Contingent Sale
Contingencies Within A Sales Contract
So, you'd like to sell your cabin?
Stephaine is THE expert when it comes to selling Cabins in the Arizona White Mountains, take a listen as she talks about the things you'll need to know.
1. Know Your Buyer Type Cabins often appeal …
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Home in the Arizona White Mountains
Stephanie digs into the real facts about living in the Arizona White Mountains.
The Pros
1. Stunning Natural Beauty & Outdoor Recreation
The Arizona White Mountains are surrounded by pine forests, …
What to expect on Closing Day.
What needs to be paid when you close the deal for a home?
Closing costs are the fees and expenses—beyond the down payment—that buyers and sellers pay when a real estate transaction is finalized (“closed”). These costs cover everything from lender fees to ti…
So, How Much Do You Need to Buy a Home?
Understanding a Home Appraisal
🔍 What Is a Home Appraisal?
A home appraisal is a professional, third-party assessment of a property’s market value. It’s typically required by lenders during a home purchase or refinance to en…
Adjustable Mortgage
"As Is" Home Sale
Buyer's Costs
🔑 Typical Buyer’s Costs in a Real Estate Transaction
1. Loan-Related Costs
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Origination fee: Charged by the lender for processing the loan (0.5%–1% of loan amount).
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Credit report fee: …
Welcome to House Keys
Welcome to the first episode of House Keys
HOUSE KEYS is your go-to podcast for unlocking the world of real estate with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rob “Birdman” Hephner and featuring trusted…