Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate podcast

35:56

In this premiere episode of "The God Hook," host Carol Costello introduces the chilling story of Richard Beasley, infamously known as the Ohio Craigslist Killer. In previously unreleased jailhouse recordings, Beasley portrays himself as a devout Christian, concealing his manipulative and predatory behavior. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Beasley's deceitfulness extends beyond the victims he buried in shallow graves. Listen to the preview of a bonus conversation between Carol and Emily available after the episode. Additional info at carolcostellopresents.com . Do you have questions about this series? Submit them for future Q&A episodes . Subscribe to our YouTube channel to see additional videos, photos, and conversations. For early and ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus content, subscribe to the podcast via Supporting Cast or Apple Podcasts. EPISODE CREDITS Host - Carol Costello Co-Host - Emily Pelphrey Producer - Chris Aiola Sound Design & Mixing - Lochlainn Harte Mixing Supervisor - Sean Rule-Hoffman Production Director - Brigid Coyne Executive Producer - Gerardo Orlando Original Music - Timothy Law Snyder SPECIAL THANKS Kevin Huffman Zoe Louisa Lewis GUESTS Doug Oplinger - Former Managing Editor of the Akron Beacon Journal Volkan Topalli - Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology Amir Hussain - Professor of Theological Studies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://evergreenpodcasts.supportingcast.fm…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

Series home•Feed

Listening to this podcast will make you smarter, save you money, help you make more informed decisions about your home, and help you through the home selling or buying process. You’ll be armed with knowledge about the Chattanooga real estate market, and you’ll be able to move forward in any real estate transaction with more confidence. If you own real estate in the Chattanooga Tennessee area, or want to own real estate here, then this podcast is for you. Your host, Blake Watson, is a licensed real estate agent in Tennessee and Georgia, and brokered by eXp Realty LLC. Blake is also a real estate investor in Chattanooga Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. This podcast is about buying and selling homes in the Chattanooga area. Through expert interviews and real-life experience, we’ll be covering all the details you need to find and purchase your next home, resources and tips for your home maintenance and home improvements, and best practices, tips and advice for selling your home. We’ll keep you informed on real estate market trends and real estate developments in the Chattanooga area. We’ll also discuss real estate investing: buying houses and land for rental income, Airbnb, or fix and flip – all with a focus on investing in Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia. Blake Watson is a Realtor brokered by Epique Realty, and can be reached at (423) 315-1815. You can find Blake on Facebook and Linkedin as Blake Watson, and on Instagram as rocknrollblake. Show notes are at www.realestatebyblake.com and past episodes can be found at www.chattanoogarealestatepodcast.com

60 episodes

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

updated about 7 hours ago

Series home•Feed

60 episodes

All episodes

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Silver Divorce, Golden Questions: What About The House? 1:09:21

7 hours ago1:09:21

1:09:21

In this episode of Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate , Blake Watson switches out the host chair with Lisa McClusky as we share a recent interview Lisa conducted on her podcast, The Silver Divorce Podcast. Lisa interviews Blake about considerations for the marital house after divorce. This interview discusses the different options for the house after divorce and what steps to take for each option. Additionally, what are the considerations to keep in mind if one of you decides to keep the house? Blake and Lisa go through a number of topics related to disposition of the house after divorce. If you, or someone you know, is facing divorce later in life, subscribe to Lisa’s podcast, The Silver Divorce Podcast. Blake Watson, a Realtor with Epique Realty in Tennessee and Georgia, can be reached on mobile at (423) 315-1815 or office (888) 893-3537. Visit Blake’s website at www.athomechattanooga.com , or connect with Blake on Facebook or LinkedIn as Blake Watson. You can also connect through Instagram @rocknrollblake. If you found this episode helpful, be sure to share it with a friend and follow the podcast so you never miss an episode.…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Selling Your House in Chattanooga: 14 Must-Know Tips for Chattanooga Homeowners 16:04

7 days ago16:04

16:04

Selling your home can be one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just thinking about it, Blake Watson from Epique Realty lays out a clear, strategic plan to help you sell faster and for top dollar in the Chattanooga or Northwest Georgia market. From maximizing your home’s exposure and timing your sale just right, to mastering curb appeal and choosing smart upgrades — Blake shares 14 actionable tips that every homeowner needs to know. These are real-world insights based on market data, experience, and what’s working right now for home sellers just like you. If you want to get the most out of your sale, this is the episode for you. Episode Highlights - Why MLS listings sell for 17% more (and how to get your home in front of the right buyers) - The value of working with a professional real estate agent - When is the best time of year to sell in Chattanooga? - How to highlight your home’s unique features to stand out Curb appeal vs. Instagram appeal — and why you need both - The subtle art of helping buyers “see themselves” in your space - Why pricing it right from day one is crucial to avoid a stale listing - Local market dynamics: Why your ZIP code really matters - Pro tip: How a pre-inspection can build buyer trust and confidence Links & Resources 💻 athomechattanooga.com — Blake Watson’s website for home searches in the Chattanooga area. 📱 Text/Call Blake Watson at 423-315-1815 🏢 Epique Realty Brokerage: 888-893-3537 📸 Instagram: @RockNRollBlake 👤 Facebook & LinkedIn : Blake Watson Stay Connected If you found this episode helpful, please rate, follow, and share Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate with a friend or neighbor who might be thinking about selling. Every share helps spread the word to more homeowners right here in the Chattanooga area. Until next time — keep dreaming, planning, and making moves in Chattanooga real estate.…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Tariffs, Stock Market, Interest Rates and Inventory: How Buying a Home in Chattanooga Just Got a Little Easier 17:17

28 days ago17:17

17:17

In this episode of Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate, host and Realtor Blake Watson welcomes Don Oakes, Branch Manager at Highlands Residential Mortgage in Chattanooga. Don and Blake discuss the current stock market volatility caused by tariffs and how that is impacting 30-year mortgage rates They also discuss the increasing inventory of Chattanooga homes for sale. They discuss how economic conditions, particularly recessionary fears, can drive mortgage interest rates lower, and what that means for someone wanting to buy a home in the Chattanooga area. They discussed the higher inventory levels in Chattanooga creating more buying opportunities for homebuyers. Don Oakes can be contacted at Highlands Residential Mortgage, 423-524-0448, or visit their website at highlandsmortgage.com . Connect with Blake Watson, agent with Epique Realty in Tennessee and Georgia, by phone or text at 423-315-1815 or visit www.athomechattanooga.com . 888-893-3537. Follow Blake on Facebook and LinkedIn as Blake Watson, and on Instagram @rocknrollblake . Be sure to follow the podcast to stay updated on future episodes.…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Property Taxes and Skyrocketing Values: What Hamilton County Homeowners Need To Know. 12:20

5 weeks ago12:20

12:20

Blake Watson with Epique Realty covers one of the most talked-about topics in Hamilton County: property reappraisals and their impact on your property taxes. Home values in Hamilton County have skyrocketed—an average increase of about 60% over the last four years, marking the largest jump in the county's history. If you're worried this means a dramatic increase in your property taxes, there's good news. Tennessee law prevents local governments from automatically increasing their revenue due to rising property values. Instead, they must adjust the tax rate downward—known as a revenue-neutral or rollback rate. However, cities and counties can vote to raise taxes above this rollback rate, but only after public hearings. Recent statements indicate Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and East Ridge’s city manager aren't planning tax increases, though Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly has yet to commit either way. While tax rates might remain flat or decrease, homeowners may still see changes in their tax bills based on how their property values compare to the county average. Nearby counties in Tennessee, including Bradley and Sequatchie, are experiencing similar rapid increases in property values. Northwest Georgia counties such as Walker, Catoosa, and Dade are also seeing significant rises, but Georgia’s Property Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights ensures transparency in any potential tax hikes, requiring public hearings and clear notices if taxes increase even slightly above the rollback rate. If you believe your new appraisal is incorrect, you have options. In Hamilton County, you can request an informal review or file a formal appeal with the County Board of Equalization by June 6. Ultimately, whether your taxes increase depends on your home's value change relative to the county average, local government tax decisions, and whether you appeal your appraisal. Understanding these elements can help you better manage your finances and plan your future. Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate is hosted by Blake Watson with Epique Realty. He is a Realtor licensed in Tennessee and Georgia. You can reach Blake directly by phone or text at 423-315-1815, visit his website athomechattanooga.com, connect on Facebook or LinkedIn as Blake Watson, or on Instagram @RockNRollBlake . If you found this episode helpful, please follow and share the podcast. Thanks for listening—here's to your real estate success!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Is Spring 2025 the Time to Buy a Home in Chattanooga? What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in Chattanooga. 11:20

7 weeks ago11:20

11:20

Spring 2025 Market Update: Why Now is a Great Time to Buy or Sell In this episode of Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate, host Blake Watson, a licensed Realtor in Tennessee and Georgia with Epique Realty, dives into the latest Chattanooga market trends for Spring 2025. If you’ve been considering buying or selling a home, this episode will explain why now might be the perfect time to make your move. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Interest Rates Are Dropping The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has fallen for seven consecutive weeks, currently averaging a little above 6.5% as of March 11, 2025. Lower interest rates are making homeownership more affordable and encouraging more buyers to enter the market. Inventory Levels Are Up Chattanooga’s housing inventory has increased by 41% year-over-year, from 2,053 homes in February 2024 to 2,897 homes in February 2025. More homes on the market mean more choices for buyers and a slightly slower market pace. Days on Market Are Increasing The average time a home stays on the market is now 59 days , up from much shorter timelines in previous years. This gives buyers more time to shop around, compare homes, and make informed decisions. Home Prices Continue to Rise The median home sales price in the Chattanooga MLS has climbed to $330,000 , an 8% increase from $306,000 in February 2024. Home values are still appreciating, making now a smart time to buy before prices rise further. Closed Sales Remain Strong February 2025 saw 684 closed sales , nearly identical to February 2024’s 696 closed sales , showing consistent buyer demand despite shifting market conditions. Why This Matters for Buyers & Sellers With more inventory available, lower interest rates, and home values continuing to rise, the Spring 2025 real estate market presents a strong opportunity for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or purchasing your first home, now is the time to take action before prices climb further. Get in Touch with Blake Watson, Realtor with Epique Realty. If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in the Chattanooga area, Blake would love to help! Call or Text: 423-315-1815 Website & Home Search: athomechattanooga.com Office Number: 888-893-3537 Follow Blake on Social Media: Facebook & LinkedIn : Blake Watson Instagram: @rockandrollblake If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend who might be thinking about buying or selling a home. Be sure to follow this podcast so you don’t miss future episodes, and thanks for listening to Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate .…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Flooring Trends & Smart Choices: Inside Direct Flooring with Jordan Parker 22:48

9 weeks ago22:48

22:48

In this episode of Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate, host and Realtor Blake Watson welcomes Jordan Parker, the owner of Direct Flooring. Jordan shares his journey in the flooring business, starting in 2004 and growing Direct Flooring into a trusted name with multiple locations. He discusses the expansion of his business, including the recent opening of a store in Ringgold, and how his company focuses on high-quality products, service, and expert installation. Jordan and Blake explore the latest trends in flooring, with a strong focus on luxury vinyl plank (LVP), which has become the most popular choice due to its durability, waterproof properties, and ease of maintenance. Jordan highlights the advantages of thicker LVP flooring and how Direct Flooring ensures top-quality stock. They also discuss the growing demand for real hardwood floors and how Direct Flooring has adapted to meet customer preferences. The conversation also touches on Direct Flooring’s commitment to customer service, working closely with real estate professionals, homeowners, and investors. Jordan explains how their walk-on showroom allows customers to experience flooring firsthand before making a purchase and how their business offers competitive pricing by leveraging strong supplier relationships. With locations in Chattanooga, Hixson, and Ringgold, Direct Flooring serves a broad area and provides installation within a 90-minute radius. They also offer shipping services to clients throughout the Southeast. Jordan emphasizes the importance of working with a trusted company that stands behind its products and installations, ensuring long-term customer satisfaction. For more information, you can contact Direct Flooring at 423-541-8080 or visit their website at www.directflooringchatt.com. Connect with Blake Watson, agent with Epique Realty in Tennessee and Georgia, for all your real estate needs at 423-315-1815 or visit www.athomechattanooga.com. 888-893-3537. Follow Blake on Facebook and LinkedIn as Blake Watson, and on Instagram @rocknrollblake . Be sure to follow this podcast to stay updated on future episodes.…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Newly Built Homes in the Chattanooga area with D. R. Horton Communities 11:57

10 weeks ago11:57

11:57

In this episode of Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate , host Blake Watson sits down with Melani Trelut, sales representative with D.R. Horton in Chattanooga, to discuss D.R. Horton developments in new home construction across the Chattanooga region. Melani shares insights about D.R. Horton’s footprint in the region, including their largest development in Sweet Briar and the new Watercolor community, which offers lake access and a variety of amenities. Melani explains the different home series offered by D.R. Horton, including the Emerald series, which features higher-end finishes like tile showers, pendant lighting, and upgraded features. She also highlights current buyer incentives, including the Red Tag Sales Event through February 28, 2025, which offers up to $30,000 off select homes and special financing options through their preferred lender. The conversation explores the benefits of buying a D.R. Horton home, including faster build times, a strong home warranty program, and smart home features like video doorbells, Wi-Fi-controlled thermostats, and smart locks. Blake and Melani also discuss the affordability of D.R. Horton’s offerings, with homes starting in the low $200,000s in some nearby rural communities, making homeownership more accessible to first-time buyers and those relocating to the area. If you’re interested in checking out D.R. Horton’s communities in Chattanooga, you can visit their model homes, browse their website at drhorton.com, or reach out to Melani directly at 423-716-0333. Blake is also available to help guide you through the home-buying process in a D.R. Horton community or any other home in Tennessee or Georgia. Blake Watson, a Realtor with Epique Realty, can be reached on mobile at (423) 315-1815 or office (888) 893-3537. Visit Blake’s website at www.athomechattanooga.com, or connect with Blake on Facebook or LinkedIn as Blake Watson. You can also connect through Instagram @rocknrollblake . If you found this episode helpful, be sure to share it with a friend and follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. Until next time, best of luck on your real estate journey!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Pros and Cons of Buying a Home in Chattanooga TN 10:46

11 weeks ago10:46

10:46

In this episode, we dive into an important question: Is Chattanooga Tennessee a good place to buy a home? Blake Watson, Realtor with Epique Realty, breaks down the pros and cons of homeownership in the Scenic City. From affordability and job opportunities to infrastructure challenges and seasonal weather extremes, we cover everything you need to know about buying a home in Chattanooga. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, investor, or just considering a move to Chattanooga, this episode will help you make an informed decision. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Chattanooga’s current housing market trends and median home prices The advantages of buying a home in Chattanooga, including affordability, job opportunities, and outdoor recreation The downsides, such as infrastructure challenges and public transportation limitations Why Chattanooga continues to attract homebuyers and investors Highlights: Chattanooga's current real estate market snapshot The cost of living and home prices compared to national averages Chattanooga’s job market, gig-speed internet, and arts scene Outdoor recreation, climate, and family-friendly atmosphere The cons: infrastructure, public transportation, and education disparities Also referenced in this episode, “House Hacking,” which is covered in detail on episode 17 from April 9, 2024. Here is a link to that episode: https://www.chattanoogarealestatepodcast.com/what-is-house-hacking-can-you-make-money-house-hacking/ Connect with Blake Watson Mobile: 423-315-1815 Office: 888-893-3537 Website: AtHomeChattanooga.com Social Media: Facebook & LinkedIn : Blake Watson, Instagram : @rocknrollblake If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and share it with a friend.…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Welcome Home Program! Up to $20,000 grant for down payment and closing costs in Tennessee 14:22

14 weeks ago14:22

14:22

Our guest is Orly Cohen, a mortgage loan officer with First Bank. Orly explains the Welcome Home Program designed to assist low to moderate income households to achieve homeownership with up to a $20,000 grant for down payment and closing cost assistance. First-time homebuyers, and repeat homebuyers are both eligible. The program can be really helpful if you are buying a home in Tennessee. There is some urgency with the program, as the funds can be reserved beginning March 3, 2025 and there are limited funds available. Orly can be contacted by call or text at (615) 243-3303 and at orly.cohen@firstbankonline.com. Blake Watson is the show host, and Blake is a Realtor with Epique Realty. If you’re interested in Chattanooga real estate or have questions, reach out to him on mobile 423-315-1815 or office 888-893-3537, or visit www.athomechattanooga.com. You can also find Blake on Facebook, LinkedIn (Blake Watson), and Instagram (@rocknrollblake). Follow this podcast to stay updated on all things real estate in Chattanooga!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Chattanooga's Story: How our neighborhoods began and the city developed. 44:49

15 weeks ago44:49

44:49

Sam Hall, founder and owner of ChattanoogaHistory.com , shares the history of the development of Chattanooga into the neighborhoods and communities we know today. Sam explains the origins and development of Highland Park, Missionary Ridge, St. Elmo, Rossville Blvd, Ooltewah, Hixson, Northshore, North Chattanooga, Riverview, Signal Mountain, Red Bank, Soddy-Daisy, Harrison and the Chickamauga Dam. Sam takes us on a fascinating tour of Chattanooga history and how our Chattanooga area communities began. Sam can be reached through his website, ChattanoogaHistory.com. Blake Watson is the show host, and Blake is a Realtor with Epique Realty. If you’re interested in Chattanooga real estate or have questions, reach out to him at 423-315-1815 or his brokerage phone 888-893-3537, or visit www.athomechattanooga.com . You can also find Blake on Facebook , LinkedIn (Blake Watson), and Instagram (@rocknrollblake). Follow this podcast to stay updated on all things real estate in Chattanooga!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
2025 Chattanooga Housing Forecast: What will happen with interest rates, house prices and inventory. 40:05

16 weeks ago40:05

40:05

Don Oakes from Highlands Residential Mortgage joins Blake to review the Chattanooga housing data from the Chattanooga MLS and data from mortgage interest rates over the past 15 years. Using the data, Blake and Don make informed predictions for the Chattanooga real estate market in 2025. They share predictions for Chattanooga house prices, inventory levels and interest rates for 2025. Plus, they discuss the rise of million dollar home listings in Chattanooga along with ZIP code and neighborhood data for the most active selling neighborhoods in the Chattanooga area. Don Oakes can be reached at Highlands Residential Mortgage (423) 624-0448. Blake Watson is the show host, and Blake is a Realtor with Epique Realty. If you’re interested in Chattanooga real estate or have questions, reach out to him at 423-315-1815 or his brokerage phone 888-893-3537, or visit www.athomechattanooga.com . You can also find Blake on Facebook , LinkedIn (Blake Watson), and Instagram (@rocknrollblake). Follow this podcast to stay updated on all things real estate in Chattanooga!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
City Life or Country Life: Which Lifestyle Is a Better Fit for You? 19:38

17 weeks ago19:38

19:38

Host : Blake Watson, Realtor with Epique Realty, licensed in Tennessee and Georgia Episode Highlights : Urban Living : Advantages such as access to amenities, public transportation, and job opportunities, along with challenges like noise pollution, higher costs, and limited space. Rural Living : Benefits including lower costs, peace and quiet, and more space, counterbalanced by issues like limited amenities, slower internet, and isolation. Key Considerations for Rural Buyers : Septic systems, water supply, heating, and zoning laws, among other critical factors when buying rural properties. Personal Touch : Blake shares essential tips for purchasing rural properties and insights from his own experience raising Nigerian Dwarf goats on a family farm in Ringgold, GA. Connect with Blake : Mobile Phone : 423-315-1815 Epique Realty Office: 888-893-3537 Social Media : Facebook & LinkedIn : Blake Watson Instagram : @rocknrollblake Website : athomechattanooga.com Don’t forget to follow this podcast for future episodes and share it with friends!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Housing Market Predictions from Zillow for 2025: Insights for Buyers, Sellers, and Renters. 9:26

20 weeks ago9:26

9:26

Blake Watson, real estate agent with Epique Realty, dives into Zillow’s newly released housing market predictions for 2025 and insights from other experts. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, this episode will help you understand what lies ahead and how to prepare. Key Takeaways: Housing Market Activity: The number of existing home sales is expected to increase by 7.5%, with modest home value growth around 2.6%. What does this mean for buyers and sellers? Mortgage Rates: Rates are predicted to be a rollercoaster, fluctuating between 5.75% and 7.25%. Learn strategies to stay ready and act when rates dip. Trends in Small Homes: “Cozy living” is on the rise! Smaller, energy-efficient spaces are increasingly popular with buyers. Rental Market Changes: Rents could remain stable early in 2025 but may tighten by mid-year. Plus, pet-friendliness is more critical than ever for landlords. In addition, Blake offers a free copy of The Complete Guide to Buying a Home (Contact Blake for your copy) Connect with Blake Watson: Call/Text: 423-315-1815 Website: athomechattanooga.com Follow Blake on Social Media: Facebook & LinkedIn : Blake Watson Instagram : @rocknrollblake If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend and FOLLOW the podcast for more Chattanooga real estate insights!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
Chattanooga News: Housing Costs Soar Out of Reach for All but Upper 25 Percent. Details Here. 9:24

22 weeks ago9:24

9:24

In this episode of Let’s Talk Chattanooga Real Estate, Blake Watson dives into a fascinating piece of history that feels strikingly familiar today. Starting with a headline from 1977, "Housing Costs Soar Out of Reach for All but Upper 25 Percent," Blake compares housing affordability then and now, exploring: Mortgage rates: 1977's 8.875% vs. today's 7%. Household incomes: A 400% increase since 1977. Housing prices: A dramatic 773% rise in the national median home price over 47 years. The ongoing gap between wage growth and housing costs. Despite the challenges, Blake highlights the opportunities that still exist for aspiring homeowners, thanks to programs like THDA, Georgia Dream, USDA Rural Development, and FHA. With historical insights and practical advice, this episode emphasizes the importance of planning and taking advantage of available resources to achieve homeownership. Get your free copy of Blake’s book, The Complete Guide to Buying a Home. Contact him at (423) 315-1815 to request your copy today. Blake Watson is the show host, and Blake is a Realtor with Epique Realty. If you’re interested in Chattanooga real estate or have questions, reach out to him at (423) 315-1815 or his brokerage phone (888) 893-3537, or visit www.athomechattanooga.com. You can also find Blake on Facebook (Blake Watson), LinkedIn (Blake Watson), and Instagram (@rocknrollblake). If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, follow the podcast for more insights, and let’s make homeownership in Chattanooga a reality together!…

Let's Talk Chattanooga Real Estate

1
How Chattanooga's Tourism Industry Benefits Homeowners and Local Residents 27:26

23 weeks ago27:26