PODCAST · education
HomeBuying Made Easy
by Michael Dendy
Most mortgage experts grew up in finance. Michael Dendy didn't. He was a pastor. He got his license in 20 days with zero background — and went on to close millions in loans, write 7 books, and build a mission around one thing: breaking generational poverty through homeownership. This is that show.Welcome to HomeBuying Made Easy – the podcast that turns the confusing, stressful, and often intimidating home-buying process into something straightforward, predictable, and yes… actually easy.Hosted by mortgage industry expert Michael Dendy, this show is built for:▫️First-time home buyers who feel overwhelmed by credit scores, down payments, and closing costs▫️Veterans and active-duty military ready to unlock the full power of their hard-earned VA loan benefits (including $0 down and no PMI – ever)▫️Move-up buyers shopping for their second home or vacation propertyReal-estate investors looking for rental properties, fix-and-flips, or BRRRR strategies▫️Anyone who’s tired of generic adv
Episodes
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Ep #38 Divorce and Death What Happens to the Mortgage?
In today's episode we have Joshua on helping cover the topic of unfortunate events, how successors should handle that and who to contact. As always reach out to our team with any questions you may have!
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Ep #37 Myths About Michael! Learn More About Our Mortgage Expert
Mr. Mortgage himself! Today we are breaking down some common misconceptions or myths about Michael the host and mortgage expert of the show. Tune in to learn more about him and the team! As always reach out to us if there's any way our team can help you in your home buying journey or if you have...
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Ep #36 What if the Appraisal Comes in Lower Than Expected?
What happens when the appraisal comes in lower than your offer price? In this episode, we break down why appraisals come in low, what it means for your deal, and your five options: renegotiate, bring more cash, meet in the middle, challenge the appraisal, or walk away. This is one of the most...
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Ep #35 Asking a Consumer What They Wish They Knew Before Buying Their First Home
You don't want to miss this episode, I sit down with Melissa (my wife) and get her perspective on different aspects of the consumer side of owning a home. Not only are you getting insight on what she wishes she knew before our first buy but you'll get to hear what she's learned being married to…
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Ep #34 Mythbuster Monday With a Guest Host!
Mythbuster Monday with a special guest host! Rachel is under the weather, so Melissa (Michael's wife) is stepping in to bust today's myth: "You can't buy a home on one income." Is this true, false, or kinda true? We break down what lenders actually look at, whether a non-working spouse hurts your...
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Ep. #33 VA Loans and Fixer-Uppers: What's Allowed and What's Not
Can you use a VA loan to buy a fixer-upper? It depends. In this episode, we break down the VA's minimum property requirements, what repairs disqualify a home, and your options for buying a house that needs work - including the VA renovation loan most people don't know about. If you're a veteran...
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Ep. #32 Zuzu and MaryKate vs. Mortgage Jargon: Part 2
They're back! Zuzu and MaryKate return for round 2 of trying to explain mortgage terms - and once again, they're confidently wrong but absolutely hilarious. From "debt-to-income ratio" to "contingency" to "amortization," my kids take another crack at decoding the mortgage industry. Spoiler: they...
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Ep.#31 Mythbuster Monday: New Construction Doesn't Need an Appraisal
Mythbuster Monday is here! Today's myth: "New construction doesn't need an appraisal." WRONG. Even brand new homes have to appraise, and when they don't, it creates serious problems. In this episode, we explain why new construction gets appraised, what can go wrong, and how to protect yourself…
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Ep. #30 Spring Surge: What It Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2026
Spring is the busiest time in real estate - but what does that mean for you? In this episode, we break down the spring surge: why inventory jumps, why competition heats up, and what buyers and sellers need to know to win in the spring market. Whether you're buying, selling, or both, here's your...
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#29 Using Gift Money to Buy a Home - The Rules Explained
Can someone gift you money for your down payment? Yes - but there are strict rules. In this episode, we break down who can give you gift money, how much they can give, what documentation you need, and the mistakes that can derail your loan approval. If you're getting help from family for your…
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Ep. #28 What is Title Insurance and Why Do I Need it?
Title insurance is one of those closing costs that makes people ask, "Wait, what am I paying for?" In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we break down what title insurance is, why you need it, and what it actually protects you from. Unlike other types of insurance that protect you from future...
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Ep. #27 Bad Credit Doesn't Mean No Home - Your Comeback Guide
Foreclosure, bankruptcy, bad credit - can you still buy a home? Yes. In this episode, we break down the waiting periods, credit score requirements, and what you need to do to rebuild and qualify for a mortgage after major credit setbacks. Your past doesn't have to define your future. Here's the...
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Ep. #26 Winning in a Multiple Offer Situation: What Buyers Can Do to Stand Out
In today's hot markets—especially here in Middle Tennessee—many homes are attracting multiple offers, turning the buying process into a bit of a competition. As the buyer (offeree), you're not powerless! In this episode, mortgage expert Michael Dendy breaks down proven strategies to make your…
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Ep. #25 Pre-Approved vs Pre-Qualified: Know The Difference.
Pre-qualified and pre-approved sound like the same thing, but they're not - and the difference could cost you the house. In this episode, we break down what each one actually means, why sellers and agents treat them differently, and which one you need before you start house hunting. If you're...
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Ep. #24 How Long do You Have to Have a Job to Qualify to Buy a Home?
In this episode, Michael is covering how long you may need to be at a job in order to qualify for a mortgage. If you have questions not mentioned in this episode or pertaining to your specific situation, let our team know call or text 615-499-6335.
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Ep. #23 Kids vs. Mortgage Terms: You Won't Believe Their Answers
This week's episode is something completely different - and we guarantee you'll laugh. In this special episode of Home Buying Made Easy, I brought my 8 and 11-year-old kids into the studio (okay, my home office) to see if they could define common mortgage and real estate terms. The rules were...
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Ep. #22 Down Payment Assistance Is NOT Just For First Time Buyers!
Ever wondered if you could put less down to buy a home? Even if you're not buying for the first time there are still ways to get assistance to own your home! Reach out to our team for more information or to fill out an application! 615-499-6335
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Ep. #21 What is a Home Loan?
Today we're covering the basics! What is a home loan and what types of loans are there? Join us today for an episode where Michael answers the most basic but very beneficial for YOUR home buying experience! As always our team is available for any questions you may have, reach out to us at...
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Ep. #20 2026 Housing Market Forecast: Inside Perspective
What's coming in the 2026 mortgage and housing market? In this episode, I sit down with my pipeline manager to talk predictions, trends, and what we're actually seeing on the ground. We cover interest rates, inventory, buyer demand, and what it all means if you're planning to buy or refinance…
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Ep. #19 Debt-to-Income What it Means and How it Works!
Today Michael is covering everything Debt to Income (DTI), what you need to know about what you need for your homebuying experience! Make sure to catch up on all episodes! Call our team with any questions or to apply for a loan! 615-499-6335
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Ep. #18 Do You Really Need 20%?
Age old question "Do I really need 20% to buy a house?". Spoiler: No! So many people are fooled by this myth, make sure you are not one! On today's episode Michael is busting this myth! Tune into myth buster Monday! Reach out to our team if you would like to start the process of buying a home or…
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Ep. #17 Wholesale vs. Retail Lenders: What's the Difference?
Not all lenders are created equal. In this episode, we break down the difference between wholesale and retail lenders - and what it means for you as a home buyer. We explain how mortgage brokers work, why big banks aren't always the best option, and how to find the lender that gives you the best...
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Ep. #16 Mythbuster Monday and Why the Lowest Interest Rate Can Cost You
Mythbuster Monday is here! Today's myth: "You should always pick the lender with the lowest rate." Not so fast. In this episode, we explain why the lowest interest rate doesn't always mean the best deal. We break down closing costs, lender fees, points, and the real math behind comparing loan...
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Ep. #15 What Are Buydowns? Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to Home Buying Made Easy - the podcast where we break down mortgages, real estate, and home buying without all the industry BS. From first-time buyers to veterans using VA loans to seasoned homeowners, we give you straight answers to your biggest questions. No jargon, no confusion, just…
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Ep. #14 Mythbuster Monday: You DON'T Need Combat Service for a VA Loan
Welcome to Mythbuster Monday! Today we're tackling a myth that stops too many veterans from using their benefits: "You have to have served in combat to get a VA loan." This is completely false - and it's costing veterans one of the best benefits they've earned through their military service. In...
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Ep. #13 After Closing Day: What Now?
Closing day is done, the keys are in your hand - now what? Homeownership starts the day after closing - make sure you're ready. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we cover everything that happens after you close on your home. Immediate and long term. Tune in NOW! If you want to learn more…
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Ep. #12 Got A VA Loan? Did You Know You Can Use It More Than Once? Listen In!
Welcome to Myth buster Monday! Every Monday from now on, we're busting the myths about mortgages, real estate, and home buying. Today's myth: "You can only use your VA loan benefit once." This is one of the most common misconceptions we hear from veterans and active duty service members. The…
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Ep. #11 Why Can't I Open New Credit Cards While Buying a Home?
Got your eye on that new furniture for your future home? Thinking about opening a store credit card to save 20%? Stop right there. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we explain why opening new credit lines during the home buying process can literally cost you the house. We break down what...
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Ep. #10 Should I Buy or Rent in 2026?
Should you buy or keep renting in 2026? With current interest rates, home prices, and market conditions, it's a question a lot of people are wrestling with. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we break down the buy vs. rent decision for 2026 - no BS, just the real math and factors you need…
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Ep. #9 New Year, New Financial Tools: HELOCs Explained!
Happy New Year! We're kicking off 2026 with an episode all about HELOCs - Home Equity Lines of Credit. If you're a homeowner looking at ways to leverage your equity this year, this one's for you. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we break down what HELOCs are, how they work, and when they...
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Ep. #8 Under Contract: What NOT to do....
Your offer was accepted - congrats! But you're not done yet. Going under contract is exciting, but it's also when most deals fall apart. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we cover the critical things you MUST do (and absolutely CAN'T do) between going under contract and closing day. We…
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Ep. #7 Buyers Market vs Sellers Market
Is now the right time to buy or sell in Middle Tennessee? In this episode, Michael Dendy breaks down the difference between buyers markets and sellers markets in plain English - no real estate jargon, just practical insights you can use. You'll discover the key indicators that tell you what kind…
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Ep. #6 Unlock Your VA Superpower: How Veterans Can Buy a Home with $0 Down
Buying a home as a veteran comes with unique advantages—and a few key things to understand. In this episode of Home Buying Made Easy, we break down everything veterans need to know about the VA home loan: zero down payment options, no private mortgage insurance, competitive rates, and eligibility...
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Ep. #5 Calls for 5 Questions First Time Home Buyers Ask!
Covering Escrow today, which is a big one that homeowners get confused by along with other questions buyers have asked our team! Reach out to us if you have any home buying questions!
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Ep. #4 Refinancing 101: Take Advantage of Refinancing
Straight answers, zero fluff, and Rachel keeping Michael honest when he starts sounding like a lender commercial. The adult conversation you wish you could have with someone who’s closed thousands of loans. 20 minutes that could save you thousands. 🏡📉
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Ep. #3 Mortgage Descriptions From My Kids
In this hilarious mini-episode, I sit down with my daughters Mary-Kate (10) and ZuZu (8) and ask them to explain what a “mortgage” is. Spoiler: they actually get a few right! Zero financial advice, 100% chaos and cuteness. Perfect listen for your commute! 🏠😂
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Ep. #2 FAQ From Home Buyers!
Got questions about buying a home? You're not alone! In this episode, we're answering questions we hear from first-time and experienced home buyers alike. From down payments and credit scores to closing costs and contingencies, we're breaking down everything you need to know to navigate the home...
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Ep. #1 Can You Actually Buy a House in 2025? Real Talk with a Mortgage Expert
Episode 1: First-Time Homebuyer? Start Here – Your Biggest Questions Answered Welcome to the very first episode of Home-Buying Made Easy! If you’re a first-time homebuyer feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just not sure where to begin — this episode is for you. Join your hosts, mortgage expert...
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Welcome to the Home Buying Made Easy Podcast!
We hope you find comfort in the fact that the home buying journey is not easy but we want to give you tips, tricks and tools to get you into a forever home! Join us as we dive into the all the questions, comments and concerns everyday people have!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Most mortgage experts grew up in finance. Michael Dendy didn't. He was a pastor. He got his license in 20 days with zero background — and went on to close millions in loans, write 7 books, and build a mission around one thing: breaking generational poverty through homeownership. This is that show.Welcome to HomeBuying Made Easy – the podcast that turns the confusing, stressful, and often intimidating home-buying process into something straightforward, predictable, and yes… actually easy.Hosted by mortgage industry expert Michael Dendy, this show is built for:▫️First-time home buyers who feel overwhelmed by credit scores, down payments, and closing costs▫️Veterans and active-duty military ready to unlock the full power of their hard-earned VA loan benefits (including $0 down and no PMI – ever)▫️Move-up buyers shopping for their second home or vacation propertyReal-estate investors looking for rental properties, fix-and-flips, or BRRRR strategies▫️Anyone who’s tired of generic adv
HOSTED BY
Michael Dendy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does HomeBuying Made Easy have?
HomeBuying Made Easy currently has 39 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is HomeBuying Made Easy about?
Most mortgage experts grew up in finance. Michael Dendy didn't. He was a pastor. He got his license in 20 days with zero background — and went on to close millions in loans, write 7 books, and build a mission around one thing: breaking generational poverty through homeownership. This is that...
How often does HomeBuying Made Easy release new episodes?
HomeBuying Made Easy has 39 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to HomeBuying Made Easy?
You can listen to HomeBuying Made Easy on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts HomeBuying Made Easy?
HomeBuying Made Easy is created and hosted by Michael Dendy.
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