The episode dives into how cozy corners invite connection, how textures and colors bring warmth, and how small details can completely transform the energy of a room. Whether it’s preparing to sell a property or simply creating a more inviting atmosphere, Home Story highlights how intention turns design into emotion.

In this episode of Home Story with Veronica, host Veronica Diges talks with Cesar from CLS Capital, a trusted expert in hard money and private lending, about how smart financing decisions can transform your path in real estate. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an aspiring investor, or a realtor ready to grow, this episode reveals how to evaluate properties that truly build wealth.

Cesar and Veronica break down the key steps to successful investing — from budgeting and calculating ARV (After Repair Value) to managing renovations, permits, and cash flow. Learn how to avoid emotional buying, minimize risk, and make data-driven decisions that lead to long-term financial growth.

Discover the strategies top investors use to build confidence, protect their investments, and thrive even in changing markets.

Loan officer Tyler Lombardo shares first-time homebuyer tips: budgeting, grants vs. DPA, pre-approval vs. pre-qual, seller concessions, credit score fixes, and stress-free closings.Loan officer Tyler Lombardo shares first-time homebuyer tips: budgeting, grants vs. DPA, pre-approval vs. pre-qual, seller concessions, credit score fixes, and stress-free closings.

• (00:00:00) - Home Story
• (00:00:53) - How to Save Money for the Future
• (00:02:45) - How to Budget for a Home Buy
• (00:04:07) - Home Prices Rise After Your First Savings
• (00:05:16) - Real Estate Minute: Down Payment Negotiations
• (00:07:01) - Saving money for the future
• (00:07:34) - House vs. Car Payments
• (00:08:39) - What are the Down Payment percentages for home loans?
• (00:09:50) - How to Buy a Home With a Down Payment
• (00:11:39) - Home Story with Veronica
• (00:13:22) - The Pre-Approval Process
• (00:16:16) - How to Get a Home Loan Approval
• (00:17:46) - Getting Pre-Approved for a Home Loan
• (00:21:33) - How to Buy a House
• (00:23:54) - Home Story
• (00:25:49) - What Should Clients Expect From a Mortgage Loan Officer?
• (00:27:41) - Loan Programs: A Client's Relationship With Their Lender
• (00:29:51) - Signs That a Partner Care About Their Clients
• (00:31:24) - Primary Housing: The Biggest Wealth Asset in Your Life
• (00:35:14) - Homeownership Made Easy
• (00:36:17) - Home Story with Veronica on NOW Media Television
• (00:37:16) - Home Finance: The Personal Story
• (00:42:02) - How a Client's Story Changed the Loan
• (00:45:17) - Mortgage Loans: Speak Up
• (00:47:44) - Home Story