The Real Deal with Courtney Nielsen

Should you wait for rates to drop? A mortgage expert's blunt answerMelissa Jones, founder of Keyvia Mortgage, brings nearly 30 years of financial industry experience to the table — and she is not here to sugarcoat anything. In this episode, Courtney and Melissa dig into where rates actually stand, how buyers can get creative with financing, and the honest mistakes that derail deals right before closing.If you have been watching rates and wondering whether now is the time to buy or keep waiting — this episode was made for you. Melissa breaks down the current rate environment heading into Q2, explains creative loan tools most buyers have never heard of, and shares the one mistake she sees derail transactions again and again (that has nothing to do with your credit score).In this episodeEpisode timestamps00:00Introduction — meet Melissa Jones and the story behind Keyvia Mortgage06:40Why Melissa left the corporate lending world and launched her own brokerage — "I didn't want to make other companies wealthy anymore"08:00What "Keyvia" means — and why the name perfectly captures her mission09:00Independent broker vs. big lender: where the savings actually come from10:30Where rates are right now heading into Q2, and what the Fed's latest decision means for buyers12:30"Should I wait for rates to hit 5%?" — Melissa's honest answer14:00Rate buydowns explained: the permanent buydown vs. the 2-1 buydown18:00What separates buyers who get approved easily from those who struggle21:00What "building lasting financial confidence" actually looks like in practice22:30The 20% down myth — and what mortgage insurance actually costs per month25:30What buyers can do right now to position themselves for approval27:30The most common avoidable mistakes Melissa sees buyers make32:00Why your lender choice matters as much as your loan program37:00What Melissa wishes real estate agents understood about the lending process43:00One piece of advice for every first-time home buyer45:30Commercial loans and how Melissa helps business owners find financing47:00How to reach Melissa and connect with Keyvia Mortgage

Today is February 17, 2026, the first day of the Year of the Fire Horse, and I released this episode today on purpose.The Fire Horse comes once every 60 years. It brings passionate movement, bold momentum, and courageous action. After a year of shedding, reflecting, and doing deep inner work in the Snake year, we are finally ready to run.But before we gallop forward, I want to honor what 2025 actually asked of us, because it was hard. For me personally, and in the Utah real estate market.In this episode, I get honest about:What the Snake year revealed in me (overfunctioning, perfectionism, releasing what no longer aligned)What 2025 really looked like in Utah real estate (pricing was challenging - we were testing, adjusting, adapting)Why the Snake year market rewarded persistence and adaptability over perfectionWhat the Year of the FIRE Horse means for 2026, and why this year is differentI'm an Earth Horse (born 1978), and what it means to have my grounded nature ignited by Fire Horse energyPLUS practical real estate guidance for buyers and sellers in 2026:Why waiting for rates to drop could cost you $15,000-$25,000 on a $500K homeUtah has averaged 4% appreciation annually for 30 years - prices are going up, not downWhat's actually selling in 2026 (hint: presentation + adaptability wins)Why this is the year to act on clarity, not wait on fearThis episode is personal, reflective, and honest. It's for anyone who navigated a hard 2025 and is ready to step into 2026 with intention and courage.The shedding was necessary. The clarity was earned. Today, we move.CONNECT WITH COURTNEY:Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in 2026? Let's talk.📧 [email protected]📞 801.230.8278🌐 nielsenpropertygroup.com📍 Serving Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Lehi, Utah (and beyond)If this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and review. Share it with someone who's ready to step into their Fire Horse year.Happy Year of the Fire Horse. Let's gallop forward, together. 🔥🐴#utahrealestate #firehorseyear #realestatepodcast #2026market #therealdealpodcast #eaglemountain #saratogasprings #homebuying #intentionalliving #lehiutah

If you're stepping into 2026 feeling unsure about the housing market—unsure what to believe, what applies to Utah, or how to time a decision—this episode brings clarity.I sat down with Jonny Christensen, Regional Director for Keller Williams Utah and Operating Principal of KW Westfield (the largest brokerage in Utah County). With 19 years in real estate, Jonny has seen both extremes: the Great Recession and COVID's frenzy. His perspective? 2026 is bringing us back to normal. And that's good news.IN THIS EPISODE:Why "normal and stable" is a win after years of extremes2026 forecast—transactions, inventory, and pricing expectationsInterest rates—where we're headed and why slow improvement is healthyHome prices—why they're NOT coming downInventory levels—2.5-3 months vs. Great Recession's 13-14 monthsThe affordability crisis and potential solutionsBuyer advice—should you wait for rates to drop?Seller advice—why pricing + presentation = everythingWhy investors are buying againThe #1 thing to do in 2026KEY TAKEAWAYS:5-10% more transactions in 2026—steady improvementRates likely drifting to high 5s by year-endHome prices will continue climbing 3-5% annuallyUtah fundamentals remain strong (migration, jobs, limited inventory)Sellers: the prettiest home at the best price winsBuyers: stop waiting—start building equity nowNational headlines don't reflect what's happening in Utah County. This conversation gives you actionable clarity whether you're buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, or investing.The right decisions come from understanding your position and having trusted guidance.ABOUT JONNY:Regional Director for Keller Williams Utah with nearly 19 years of experience. He brings data-driven insight with approachable, practical advice.CONNECT:Thinking about buying, selling, or investing in 2026? Let's talk.📧 [Your Email]📞 [Your Phone Number]🌐 [Your Website]📍 Serving Eagle Mountain & Saratoga SpringsKEY STATS MENTIONED:Utah home appreciation (30 years): 5.75%—highest in the nation since 1991Historical mortgage rate (50 years): 8%Current Utah County inventory: 2.5-3 months80% of Utah mortgages are under 5%65% of Utah mortgages are under 4%If this episode brought clarity, subscribe, rate, and review. Share with anyone making a move in 2026.Let's make 2026 a year of clarity, strategy, and intentional moves.#UtahRealEstate #2026Market #InterestRates #HomeBuying #RealEstatePodcast #UtahCounty #EagleMountain #SaratogaSprings

In this episode of the Real Deal Podcast, host Courtney and guest Jordan Koehler (owner of Prodigy Accounting in Draper) discuss the often-overlooked topic of taxes, particularly in relation to real estate investing. They explore the importance of year-round tax planning, the necessity of having a proper business structure, and the unique tax advantages that real estate offers. The conversation delves into depreciation, cost segregation, and common mistakes that investors make, emphasizing the need for proactive financial strategies. Jordan shares insights on navigating capital gains and inheritance, and the episode concludes with a call to dream big and plan intentionally for the future.

In this episode, Courtney and Jennifer Yorgesen explore the world of short-term rentals, discussing Jennifer's journey into real estate, the challenges she faced, and the strategies she employed to succeed. They delve into the importance of understanding market dynamics, maximizing profitability, and effectively managing rental properties. Jennifer shares valuable insights and tips for aspiring investors, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness in the real estate investment landscape.

In this conversation, Courtney interviews Desi Mauerman, a real estate investor who shares her journey into flipping homes in Utah. Desi discusses her initial motivations, the challenges she faced during her first flip, and the lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, conservative financial planning, and the realities of the rehab process. The conversation also touches on current projects, market insights, and advice for aspiring flippers, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in real estate investing.

In this episode of The Real Deal Podcast, host Courtney Nielsen speaks with Amy Kendall, a successful real estate investor, about her journey from healthcare to real estate. They discuss the opportunities in the Utah market, the importance of education, tax benefits, and strategies for aspiring investors. Amy shares her experiences with multifamily properties, 1031 exchanges, and her recent ventures into commercial real estate. The conversation emphasizes starting small, understanding the market, and the long-term benefits of real estate investing.

In this episode, Courtney Nielson interviews Becca Summers, a top real estate professional in Utah County, discussing the optimal strategies for selling homes in the spring market. They explore the importance of timing, effective marketing, and pricing strategies, as well as common mistakes sellers make. Becca shares her journey in real estate, insights on buyer behavior, and advice for new agents, emphasizing the significance of data-driven decisions in a shifting market.

In this episode, Courtney Nielsen discusses the 2025 housing market, focusing on the Utah housing market's performance in 2024 and predictions for the upcoming year. The conversation highlights the strong economy, population growth, and the factors driving people to move to Utah. It also addresses the housing shortage, mortgage rates, and strategies for buyers, sellers, and investors in 2025.

In this episode of the Real Deal Podcast, host Courtney Nielsen discusses the significance of homeownership as a powerful investment. She shares her personal experiences with buying and selling homes, highlighting the appreciation of property values over time and the importance of building equity. Courtney emphasizes the financial strategies necessary for first-time buyers, including understanding credit scores, saving for down payments, and the benefits of working with mortgage professionals and realtors. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to start preparing for homeownership, underscoring the long-term benefits of investing in real estate.

In this episode of the Real Deal Podcast, host Courtney Nielsen discusses essential home improvements that sellers should consider before listing their homes. The conversation covers various strategies to enhance property value, including improving curb appeal, ensuring a solid roof, painting, updating flooring, enhancing lighting, and more. Courtney emphasizes the importance of these improvements in attracting buyers and achieving the best sale price. She also shares real-life examples and statistics to illustrate the potential return on investment for these upgrades.

In this episode of the Real Deal Podcast, host Courtney Nielsen interviews her husband Ben Nielsen, a seasoned real estate broker with over 20 years of experience. They discuss their journey in real estate, the differences between residential and commercial real estate, and the current trends in the Utah market. Ben shares insights on the types of commercial properties they work with, the benefits of offering both residential and commercial services, and their future goals in the industry. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship and collaboration in navigating the complexities of commercial real estate.

In this episode, Courtney Nielsen and Eric Smart discuss the importance of having a financial plan when buying a home. They cover topics such as budgeting, credit scores, loan programs, student loans, and the impact of interest rates on affordability. They emphasize the need for buyers to have a plan and take advantage of the current market conditions. Eric provides valuable insights and advice for first-time homebuyers, highlighting the importance of working with a knowledgeable lender. Eric Smart, Ares Mortgage [email protected] aresmortgage.com

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement has introduced new regulations to increase transparency and consumer choice in the real estate industry. There are three key changes: disclosure, shift in compensation models, and consumer awareness. Buyers agents must now be more transparent about their compensation and services.

In this episode, Courtney Nielsen interviews Miles Rowley, a real estate agent specializing in new construction homes. They discuss the benefits of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and how they can help address the affordability issue in the housing market. Miles explains that ADUs are fully livable spaces within a home that can be rented out to generate additional income. He also highlights the flexibility of ADUs, as they can be used for multi-generational living or as a financial tool to help buyers afford more house. Miles shares that R5 Homes, the company he works for, offers ADUs in their new construction homes and allows buyers to customize their homes to fit their needs.

Susy Clyde, a top solo agent, shares her success in incorporating staging into her real estate business. Follow Susy on instagram: @susysellshomes Follow Courtney on instagram: @realcourtneynielsen

How we buy homes is about to change in a big way. Here’s what you can—and can’t—do under the new NAR rule, according to the Utah Association of Realtors. Don't miss out—tune into the latest podcast episode now and stay ahead of the game in real estate!

Courtney Nielsen and Dejan Eskic dive into Utah's housing market, its past and future, why it is a good investment for home-buyers and what our expert guest predicts for the second half of 2024.

Courtney Nielsen shares her journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful real estate agent and investor. She discusses the importance of education and continuous learning in her career. Courtney also talks about the challenges she faced and the support she received from her husband. She highlights the benefits of joining Keller Williams and how it helped her grow her business. Courtney emphasizes the significance of real estate investments in building long-term wealth. She concludes by introducing her podcast, where she aims to share her knowledge and help others in the real estate industry.