The Real Estate Heavyweights

”Dive deep into the world of real estate with the Real Estate Heavyweights: Tavis Westbrook and Ashton Hines. Tavis, with his vast experience flipping over 200 homes, has stories that could fill a library, while Ashton, having flipped 4 homes, is just starting his collection. Together, they bring the perfect blend of expertise and fresh energy. Join them as they explore the nooks and crannies of the DFW real estate scene. Ever wondered what the deal is with that quirky house on the corner? Or why everyone’s raving about that new development downtown? Tavis and Ashton have got the scoop! And while Tavis might occasionally remind Ashton about the ’good old days’ of real estate, Ashton’s there to bring a new perspective and a few laughs. But it’s not all house talk! Ever thought about the vibrant lifestyle and eclectic stories that the DFW area holds? From tales of BBQ mishaps to the secret life of DFW’s parks after dark, they’re here to share it all. Living in DFW isn’t just about owning a home; it’s about being part of a vibrant community. Our hosts aren’t shy about sharing their love for the region and why DFW is the place to live and invest. The podcast doesn’t stop at tales from two. They bring in the big guns too! Listen in as they interview influential figures in the real estate world. From architects shaping the DFW skyline to brokers closing million-dollar deals, get ready for some eye-opening conversations. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and if you’re not careful, you might just get inspired to start flipping houses yourself! Whether you’re a seasoned real estate pro, someone curious about the DFW lifestyle, or just here for the banter, there’s something for everyone. It’s real estate chat with a dash of humor, a sprinkle of insights, and a whole lot of heart. Tune in to keep up with the latest in DFW and to hear from two guys who might occasionally disagree on what color to paint a living room, but always agree that DFW is the place to be
Episodes
Episodes



Saturday Jul 20, 2024
EP 64: Joe Biden's Rent Policy, Horrible Dallas Wholesalers, DFW Market Update
Saturday Jul 20, 2024
Saturday Jul 20, 2024
SummaryIn this conversation, Ashton and Tavis discuss their recent real estate projects and the challenges they have encountered. Tavis shares updates on his ongoing projects, including a renovation in Garland and a property in The Colony that he decided to keep as a rental. They also discuss the importance of knowing timetables and coordinating different contractors for a smooth renovation process. Ashton talks about his plans to get back into flipping houses and shares a unique title issue he encountered with one of his listings. They conclude with a market update, noting a decrease in closed transactions and an increase in inventory. The conversation covers various topics including the real estate market, the reopening of Alamo Drafthouse theaters, the potential closure of Garibaldi Bazaar, and Joe Biden's proposed rent increase cap. The discussion highlights the current state of the real estate market, the challenges faced by buyers and sellers, and the impact of online platforms like Zillow. The reopening of Alamo Drafthouse theaters is seen as a positive development, while the potential closure of Garibaldi Bazaar raises concerns about the loss of a cultural hub. The conversation also delves into the pros and cons of Biden's proposed rent increase cap, with arguments for and against the regulation.
Keywordsreal estate, renovation, rental property, flipping houses, contractors, title issue, market update, real estate market, Alamo Drafthouse, Garibaldi Bazaar, Joe Biden, rent increase cap
Takeaways
Coordinating different contractors and knowing timetables is crucial for a smooth renovation process.
Having a clear investment thesis and criteria can help in making decisions about whether to keep a property as a rental or flip it.
The real estate market is experiencing a decrease in closed transactions and an increase in inventory.
Title issues can arise in real estate transactions, and it's important to work with experienced professionals to navigate them. The real estate market is experiencing a shift, with sellers paying for closing costs and properties staying on the market for longer periods.
Online platforms like Zillow have made it easier for buyers to search for properties, but there is still value in physically visiting a property to get a better feel for it.
The reopening of Alamo Drafthouse theaters is a positive development, preserving a unique movie theater experience.
The potential closure of Garibaldi Bazaar raises concerns about the loss of a cultural hub in the community.
Joe Biden's proposed rent increase cap for landlords with 50 or more units has sparked debate, with arguments for and against the regulation.
Titles
Getting Back into Flipping Houses
The Decision to Keep a Property as a Rental The Changing Real Estate Market
Debating Joe Biden's Rent Increase Cap
Sound Bites
"Well good afternoon, good late afternoon, Tavis. How are"
"I am stressed today."
"You know, flooring, for instance, had to be scheduled two weeks prior. so the floor is going in Monday, Tuesday."
"To me, it almost already feels like a buyer's market because sellers are paying for closing."
"Back in the day, you didn't have that. And the challenge used to be like, I only want to show you five properties at a time because that's all you're going to be able to retain in a day."
"Sony has reopened all of them. They made everybody whole. They kind of made up back pay."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Catching Up
05:17The Decision to Keep a Property as a Rental
07:30Getting Back into Flipping Houses
15:37Dealing with Title Issues in Real Estate Transactions
19:07Market Update: Decrease in Closed Transactions and Increase in Inventory
24:25The Changing Real Estate Market
30:30The Reopening of Alamo Drafthouse Theaters
33:20The Potential Closure of Garibaldi Bazaar
36:00Debating Joe Biden's Rent Increase Cap
https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealEstateHeavyweights



Sunday Jul 14, 2024
Sunday Jul 14, 2024
Sorry about the delay this week, family funeral trip took over!
The conversation revolves around Tavis Westbrook's busy schedule and multiple projects, including a design project for Aaron. They discuss the progress of the project, the challenges of managing multiple projects, and the importance of managing funds effectively. They also touch on the real estate market, with Ashton sharing updates on a listing and discussing the housing market in the South. The conversation concludes with Tavis discussing another property listing and the benefits of staging. In this conversation, Tavis and Ashton discuss various topics related to real estate, including the cost of listing a property, the importance of getting a professional opinion on foundation issues, the popularity of lakeside properties in Texas, the impact of amenities on short-term rental prices, and the controversy surrounding public transportation taxes in peripheral counties. They also mention their recent interview with real estate professional Ben Baker and encourage listeners to check out their previous interviews.
Keywordsbusy schedule, multiple projects, design project, progress, managing funds, real estate market, listing, housing market, staging, real estate, listing expenses, foundation issues, lakeside properties, short-term rentals, amenities, public transportation taxes
Takeaways
Managing multiple projects requires effective time management and financial planning.
The real estate market in the South is experiencing high inventory, but predictions of a crash may be exaggerated.
Staging can significantly enhance the appeal of a property and attract potential buyers. Listing a property can be expensive, with costs such as professional photography adding up.
Getting a professional opinion on foundation issues is important to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Lakeside properties in Texas, such as those near Lake Lewisville, can be highly valued.
Amenities like pools, hot tubs, and washers and dryers can significantly impact the rental prices of short-term rentals.
Using certain language in property listings, known as virtue signaling, may actually lower rental prices.
Public transportation taxes can be a contentious issue, especially in peripheral counties.
Titles
The Power of Staging: Enhancing Property Appeal
Juggling Multiple Projects: Time Management and Financial Planning The Popularity of Lakeside Properties in Texas
The Impact of Amenities on Short-Term Rental Prices
Chapters
00:00Juggling Multiple Projects
03:08The Real Estate Market in the South
08:05Managing Funds and Financial Planning
10:21Listing and Showings
14:58Predictions of a Housing Crash
18:24The Potential of Barn Dominiums
22:00The Power of Staging
27:16The Popularity of Lakeside Properties in Texas
36:41The Impact of Amenities on Short-Term Rental Prices
43:11The Controversy Surrounding Public Transportation Taxes



Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Interview w/ War Correspondent Mike Tharp
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Mike Tharp is a Plano resident, a military veteran, and a career reporter and war correspondent who has worked for many publications such as US News and World Report and AARP Magazine. He reported from 6 war zones in his career as well as the Seol Olympics.



Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
EP 62: Interview w/ Ben Baker - 35 Year Real Estate Agent Top Producer in DFW
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024



Friday Jul 05, 2024
EP 61: Tavis is a tub guy? $3 Billion in Residential Sales, Buyers Market!
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Friday Jul 05, 2024
In this conversation, Tavis and Ashton discuss various topics related to real estate flipping and the current market conditions. They talk about Tavis' ongoing flip project on Castle Rock and the renovations he's making, including adding a tub in the master bath. They also discuss the importance of understanding the market and properly comping properties.
Ashton shares his experience with selling a house in a neighborhood where the builder is still selling new builds and the challenges that come with it. They also touch on the Dallas real estate market and the increase in inventory and decrease in closed sales. In this conversation, Tavis and Ashton discuss changes in the real estate industry, including the optional buyer's commission and the affordability of homes in McKinney, Texas.
They also mention the passing of Ellen Terry, a pioneer in the Dallas real estate world, and the development of a lacrosse complex in Addison. They briefly touch on tax lien investing and mention their upcoming interview with Ben Baker.
Keywordsreal estate, flipping, market conditions, renovations, comping properties, builder competition, Dallas market, real estate industry, buyer's commission, affordability, McKinney, Ellen Terry, lacrosse complex, Addison, tax lien investing, interview, Ben Baker
Takeaways
Properly comping properties is crucial in real estate investing
Understanding market conditions and trends is important for successful flipping
Adding desirable amenities like a tub can increase the value of a property
Selling aftermarket houses in a neighborhood with builder competition can be challenging
The Dallas real estate market is experiencing an increase in inventory and a decrease in closed sales The real estate industry is undergoing changes, such as the optional buyer's commission and the affordability of homes in certain areas.
Ellen Terry, a pioneer in the Dallas real estate world, passed away at the age of 85.
A lacrosse complex is being developed in Addison, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport in the area.
Tax lien investing is an interesting investment strategy that involves buying tax debt and potentially acquiring properties.
The hosts mention their upcoming interview with Ben Baker.
Titles
The Importance of Properly Comping Properties
Adding Desirable Amenities to Increase Property Value Remembering Ellen Terry
Exploring Tax Lien Investing
Sound Bites
"You're bucking the trend of taking out tubs and you're actually bringing in tubs"
"There's actually some news that came up on one of the forums I was checking out"
"If you can't value houses, you might as well just go do something else"
"They're going to change the infrastructure of actually the MLS itself here soon."
"Commissions have gone up a little bit... a lot of your three percenters are coming down to two and a half."
"There will be a feeling out period, and at some point, the market will correct itself."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Technical Difficulties
01:34Discussion about Ashton's Flip Project in Castle Rock
07:29Market Update: Increase in Inventory and Decrease in Closed Sales in Dallas
14:15Consideration of Selling Sweetwater and Finding an Agent
21:02Changes in the Real Estate Industry
30:01McKinney: The Most Affordable Town
31:29The Rise of Lacrosse in Addison
39:14The Dallas White House
40:50Exploring Tax Lien Investing
43:26Upcoming Interview with Ben Baker
https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealEstateHeavyweights/videos
https://www.instagram.com/therealestateheavyweights?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==



Friday Jun 28, 2024
Friday Jun 28, 2024
Tavis has been riding his Harley, going to the sauna, flipping houses, and the current real estate market. We discuss the challenges of working in hot conditions and share personal stories related to their work experiences. Then we also touch on the importance of effective marketing in real estate listings and the potential for growth in the Sherman area and the average price to rent a house in America
Frisco is a rapidly growing city known for its development and amenities. It has a wide range of housing options, from entry-level homes to multi-million dollar properties. The city has a strong focus on education, with a commitment to smaller class sizes and multiple high schools. Frisco is also home to major attractions such as the Dallas Cowboys' headquarters and training facility, the PGA headquarters, and a future Universal Studios theme park. The city has seen significant commercial and residential development in recent years, making it an attractive place to live and invest in real estate.
Keywordsmotorcycles, sauna, flipping houses, real estate market, hot conditions, marketing, Sherman area, rental prices, Frisco, growth, housing options, education, attractions, development, real estate investment
Takeaways
Titles
The Growth Potential in the Sherman Area
Riding Motorcycles and Working in Hot Conditions Investing in Real Estate in Frisco
Education and Attractions in Frisco
Sound Bites
"Did you ride your Harley to the gym?"
"You're a sauna guy. So, you know, how many times a week are you going to the sauna?"
"The real estate business is going well with multiple flips and progress on projects"
"Frisco is such a well-known name. People nationally kind of know Frisco as sort of this up and coming great place to live."
"Frisco is a benchmark place. You can say, 'Well, we're just west of Frisco, we're just south of Frisco, north of Frisco.'"
"Frisco has a lot of driving factors driving revenue into the city. It's essentially the northern part of our Metroplex, but it's centrally located."
Chapters
00:00Riding Motorcycles and Working in Hot Conditions
06:02The Importance of Effective Marketing in Real Estate
12:36The Growth Potential in the Sherman Area
42:21Exploring Frisco's Growth and Development
48:54Real Estate Investment in Frisco
55:12Pros and Cons of Frisco
59:19Conclusion and Call to Action



Saturday Jun 22, 2024
Saturday Jun 22, 2024
In this conversation, Ashton and Tavis discuss their experiences in the real estate industry and the challenges they face. They talk about the potential for scaling design work and creating floor plans for resale. Tavis shares his expertise in design and how he incorporates it into his real estate projects. They also discuss market updates, including the possibility of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve. They touch on news stories, such as a property dispute in Maine and the presence of fast food chains in high school cafeterias. They end the conversation by discussing the percentage of Americans who own their homes outright. The conversation covers the topics of downsizing, selling houses for cash, the influx of people from California and New York to smaller towns, self-managing rental properties, and the pros and cons of professional property management.
Keywordsreal estate, design work, scaling, floor plans, market updates, rate cut, property dispute, high school cafeteria, homeownership, downsizing, selling houses, cash buyers, influx of people, self-managing, property management
Takeaways
Design work can be a valuable skill in the real estate industry, and there is potential for scaling and creating floor plans for resale.
Market updates indicate a relatively flat market in the DFW area, with increased sales activity and inventory.
The Federal Reserve may consider a rate cut, which could impact the real estate market.
News stories highlight property disputes and unique features in high school cafeterias.
A significant percentage of Americans own their homes outright, indicating a focus on wealth building and retirement planning. Many people have taken advantage of the increase in home equity by downsizing and selling their houses.
Cash buyers from California and New York are moving to smaller towns and paying cash for properties.
Self-managing rental properties can be a viable option for landlords who have the time and expertise to handle tenant issues.
Property management companies provide a more hands-off approach for landlords, but it's important to find a reputable company.
Clear communication and setting expectations are key to successful landlord-tenant relationships.
"Is design work something that you can scale?"
"Creating 3D renderings and floor plans can make it easier for consumers to get bids from contractors."
"Prosper High School cafeteria has a Sonic, a Pizza Hut, and a Jimmy John's."
"You've had several people that may have taken advantage of the increase of equity over the last several years and selling their house and then downsizing."
"They can go to another town, they can come to Dallas or as in our story in Tennessee, they can go there and pay cash for a really nice place and then all of a sudden they don't have a mortgage."
"There's way too many people from New York and California coming there. I mean, that was the gist of the article."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
04:02Market Updates and the Potential for a Rate Cut
09:06Property Disputes and Unique Features in High School Cafeterias
22:59Downsizing and Selling Houses
24:44Cash Buyers from California and New York
28:39Self-Managing Rental Properties
30:24Pros and Cons of Professional Property Management
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0_YQAQ2v0PFKLLV8rPFw-Q



Saturday Jun 15, 2024
Saturday Jun 15, 2024
Tavis and Ashton discuss Tavis' recent trip to Mexico and his ongoing house flipping project. They also provide a market update and discuss news stories about Kanye West's Malibu house and Lennar's plans for housing development in Crandall, Texas. In this conversation, Tavis and Ashton discuss the potential impact of new laws on the real estate industry, specifically in relation to wholesaling. They also touch on the importance of disclosure in real estate transactions and the challenges that come with it. Tavis shares his perspective as a seasoned wholesaler and emphasizes the need for experience and knowledge in the industry. They also discuss the convenience factor in selling properties and the value it holds for sellers. Overall, they anticipate potential changes in the industry and the need for adaptation.
KeywordsMexico, house flipping, market update, Kanye West, Malibu, Lennar, Crandall, real estate, wholesaling, disclosure, convenience, regulations
Takeaways
Tavis shares his experience in Mexico and the challenges of managing a house flipping project remotely
The real estate market is showing signs of stability, with the possibility of a rate cut by the end of the year
Kanye West's Malibu house is on the market at a reduced price after extensive renovations
Lennar plans to build 3,700 homes in Crandall, Texas, indicating growth in the area Wholesaling in the real estate industry may face new regulations and licensing requirements in some states, as seen in South Carolina.
Disclosure is crucial in real estate transactions, but there are challenges in fully disclosing information about contractors and warranties.
The convenience factor plays a significant role in selling properties, and sellers often prioritize convenience over maximizing profits.
Experience and knowledge are essential in successful wholesaling, and inexperienced wholesalers can lead to negative experiences for sellers and buyers.
The real estate industry may undergo changes and adaptations in response to new laws and regulations.
Titles
Kanye West's Malibu House on the Market
Market Update: Rate Cut and Real Estate Stability The Value of Convenience in Selling Properties
The Importance of Disclosure in Real Estate Transactions
Chapters
00:00Tavis' Trip to Mexico and House Flipping Challenges
05:16Market Update: Rate Cut and Real Estate Stability
24:01Lennar's Plans for Housing Development in Crandall
29:41Terrell's Advertising Strategy
31:37The Importance of Disclosure
34:35Challenges of Fully Disclosing Contractors and Warranties
38:05Shifting Focus to Flipping Instead of Wholesaling
45:24The Potential Impact of New Laws on Wholesaling
56:14Adapting to Changes in the Real Estate Industry
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