If you’ve been told you need 20% down to buy a home think again. In this episode of the Salt Lake Real Estate Podcast, mortgage expert BreeAnn Motta from Goldenwest Credit Union explains the truth about low-down-payment loans, how to qualify, and what first-time buyers really need to know before they start house hunting.

You’ll Learn:

• Why 3% down is possible, and who qualifies

• What PMI is, when it goes away, and how to lower it

• The difference between FHA and conventional loan programs

• Why taking a short online class could open more loan options

Don’t let old myths or confusion about loans hold you back from owning a home. Now that you know 3% down is possible, it's time to explore your options. Your first home might be closer than you think.

Contact BreeAnn Motta:

Website: https://www.gwcu.org/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/breethemortgageofficer/

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make but are you making it with your eyes wide open? In this episode, we’re joined by Stephanie Miller, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker who brings something rare to the table: a master’s in accounting. Stephanie shares what most buyers and sellers overlook financially, why getting pre-approved is only the beginning, and how to avoid costly surprises especially when reviewing HOAs or preparing to sell.

Whether you’re house hunting, listing, or just dreaming, this episode will help you move forward with strategy not just emotion.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why most people don’t really know what they can afford
• How to uncover financial blind spots before making a move
• The hidden risks of skipping a pre-listing title report
• Red flags in HOA budgets that could cost you
• How to balance emotional wants with financial realities
• Budgeting for homeowners insurance and post-move customization

Whether you're planting roots or chasing new horizons, the smartest move you can make is an informed one. Stephanie reminded us that real estate isn’t just about finding the right house it’s about understanding your financial foundation and planning for what comes next. Before you fall in love with the listing, make sure you’ve done the math. Because the right home isn’t just a destination it’s a step toward the life you're building.

Connect with Stephanie Miller:

Website: https://www.spartanreut.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/StephMiller.Realtor

It's been five years since the 2020 housing boom, and many homeowners are still sitting pretty on ultra-low interest rates but that doesn't mean they love the space they’re in. In this episode, we're joined by designer and staging expert Heidi Jessop of Spaces by Heidi to talk about how to fall in love withyour home again-without moving a single box.

From primary bedrooms turned personal retreats to mixing masculine and feminine aesthetics, Heidi shares practical ways to refresh your space, work within your budget, and stay ahead of design trends (hello, natural stone and goodbye stark white everything). Whether you're navigating different tastes with your partner or trying to figure out your own personal style, this episode will inspire you to create a home that feels like you.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• How to reimagine your space without starting over
• What design trends are in (and out) for 2025
• How to discover your personal style even if you don’t think you have one
• Budget-friendly tips that still feel luxurious
• Why the primary bedroom deserves more love
• How working with a designer can actually save you time and money

Connect with Heid:

• Website: https://spacesbyheidi.com
• IG:https://www.instagram.com/whitepinestaging
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spacesbyheidi