“Mortgage rates stalled, housing inventory surging, and AI taking over lead follow-up—sounds like a market meltdown, right?” This week, we dive deep into the Texas housing market and reveal the must-use AI lead conversion tool every Realtor needs. Consider this episode your playbook for navigating 2025’s unpredictable real estate landscape.

AI Lead Conversion Tools are revolutionizing how Realtors operate—and this episode shows you exactly how.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why mortgage rates are holding steady in June 2025 and what that means for buyers and sellers
• The latest Texas and DFW housing market updates: soaring inventory, seller trends, and shifting buyer power
• A segment called Mike’s Mind where we unpack wild headlines—from corporate landlords and AI surveillance to quantum breakthroughs and gold surges
• A deep dive into Structurely, the AI chat assistant that’s helping agents engage leads 50–60% more and schedule more appointments
• Practical next steps: how to sharpen your strategy, boost conversions, and get ahead in today’s competitive market

This episode is essential for Realtors, brokers, and real estate pros who want real numbers, cutting-edge tech insights, and actionable strategies—all in one place.

1. Mortgage Rates Are Surprisingly Steady

Rates remain near 7%, mirroring stable 10-year Treasury yields—explaining this to clients is crucial for maintaining trust.

2. Texas Housing Market Is Stabilizing

After 19 months of rising inventory, markets are balancing—demand is cooling, but price stability remains. This is the signal to adjust seller expectations.

3. Buyer Leverage Is Real—Use It

More choices and longer days on market give buyers negotiating power. Agents can deliver value by emphasizing price cuts, concessions, and strategy over hope.

4. “Mike’s Mind” Highlights Market Chaos

From trigger lead debates to AI surveillance and quantum science—the headlines tell a story of economic complexity that’s shaping real estate trends.

5. Structurely Proves AI Lead Conversion Works

Agents using this tool report 50–60% higher engagement, revived old leads, and more appointments. In a slow market, this is the tech edge you need.

• 🎧 Podcast Website: https://www.thetexasrealestateandfinancepodcast.com
• 🔗 Mike Mills' Linktree (contact info & socials): https://linktr.ee/mikemillsmortgage
• 📈 Mortgage Rates Source (Mortgage News Daily): https://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/mortgage-rates
• 🤖 Structurely – AI Lead Follow-Up Tool: https://www.structurely.com
• 🏛 Texas A&M Real Estate Research Center: https://www.recenter.tamu.edu
• 📊 Housing Stats & Trends (Redfin): https://www.redfin.com/news/
• 📜 Trigger Leads Bill (H.R. 2808): https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2808

If you appreciated today’s insights, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your real estate colleagues. Every rating and share helps more agents discover how AI lead conversion tools can transform their business.

Realtors, ready to slash your workload and still close more deals? Discover how AI-driven Realtor tools are helping agents automate follow-ups, generate custom CMAs, and find their perfect niche—without lifting a finger. In this episode, tech strategist Jeff Loyd reveals how to future-proof your real estate career and start working smarter today.

AI-Driven Realtor Tools are transforming how agents manage listings, market to leads, and streamline day-to-day tasks in an evolving housing market.

In this tech-forward episode of The Texas Real Estate and Finance Podcast, host Mike Mills sits down with Jeff Loyd, Head of Strategy at Cloud Team Realty, to unpack exactly how AI can elevate your real estate business. Whether you're a solo agent, a team leader, or managing a brokerage, this episode is packed with real-world strategies you can implement immediately.

• The smartest ways Realtors are using ChatGPT to automate lead nurturing and listing presentations
• How to create your own personal GPT assistant tailored to your voice and brand
• Why integrated CRMs like Pipedrive outperform traditional systems for real estate
• How AI-powered training simulators improve Realtor confidence and communication
• The real reason human connection still matters—even in a tech-driven world

👉 If you’re feeling overwhelmed by real estate tech or looking to scale your productivity fast, this episode delivers actionable insights that work in today’s market.

AI-driven Realtor tools can eliminate repetitive tasks like lead follow-up, CMA generation, and client communication—giving agents more time for relationship-building and closings.

With a few simple uploads, Realtors can train a personal GPT that mirrors their communication style, background, and niche—becoming a powerful digital assistant on-demand.

Switching to AI-powered CRMs like Pipedrive helps reduce time wasted on context-switching and manual data entry, allowing Realtors to focus on their highest-value tasks.

Simulated client calls and AI-driven onboarding at Cloud Team Realty help new agents sharpen their skills privately and confidently before going live with real leads.

While AI enhances performance, Realtors who blend automation with emotional intelligence and personal connection will continue to thrive.

Jeff Loyd is the Head of Strategy at Cloud Team Realty, an AI-first brokerage serving clients across Texas. With a background in leading generative AI initiatives at Best Buy—where he improved product deployment by 55%—Jeff brings high-level engineering experience into the real estate world. A licensed Realtor and tech visionary, Jeff has built custom GPTs, AI-powered training tools, and automated systems that empower agents to work more efficiently. At Cloud Team, he's pioneering a culture where agents are supported with cutting-edge tools—not buried in fees. His mission: help Realtors become AI-augmented pros in every transaction.

• Cloud Team Realty – Learn how this AI-first brokerage supports agents:
• https://cloudteamrealty.com
• ChatGPT by OpenAI – Build your own GPT and explore...

🏡 What if AI could generate leads, qualify buyers, and book appointments while you focus on closing deals? In today’s episode, we reveal how Realtor AI Automation is transforming the real estate industry—helping agents work smarter, not harder. If you’re ready to scale your business, streamline your CRM, and stay ahead of the competition, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss!

Realtor AI Automation is changing the way real estate professionals manage leads, follow-ups, and client interactions. In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with Martin Tijmes, a top-producing agent and AI expert, to break down how Realtors can use AI-powered chatbots, smart CRMs, and automated follow-ups to maximize efficiency and convert more leads into closings.

✅ How AI-driven lead generation can boost your pipeline without manual effort

✅ Why CRM automation is the key to better follow-ups and higher conversion rates

✅ The future of AI-powered marketing for real estate agents

✅ How Martin used AI to become the #1 Realtor in Texas and #2 nationwide at eXp Realty

✅ Actionable steps to integrate AI into your real estate business today

🚀 If you want to future-proof your real estate business and start closing more deals with less effort, this episode is packed with must-know insights!

Forget chasing cold leads—AI chatbots and automation tools can engage, qualify, and book appointments instantly. Agents leveraging AI save time, increase efficiency, and convert more leads into actual deals.

An AI-powered CRM doesn’t just store leads—it nurtures them, follows up at the right time, and ensures no opportunity is lost. Automating lead management can increase conversion rates and streamline your sales pipeline.

Many Realtors resist new technology, but those who embrace AI-powered real estate tools are closing more deals, reducing overhead, and staying ahead in an increasingly tech-driven market.

Running Facebook, Instagram, or Google ads? AI-driven lead automation helps you filter out unqualified leads, retarget potential clients, and boost ROI—getting you better results with less wasted ad spend.

AI won’t replace agents, but it will eliminate repetitive tasks like lead qualification, appointment setting, and follow-up calls. This frees up more time for negotiation, client relationships, and closing deals.

Martin Tijmes is a top-producing Realtor, AI innovator, and the founder of Accessible Agents, a cutting-edge platform designed to help real estate professionals scale using AI-driven automation. As a high-performing agent with eXp Realty, Martin leveraged AI-powered chatbots, CRMs, and automated lead follow-ups to increase efficiency and generate record-breaking...

Want to stand out as a Realtor in 2025? With digital marketing, social media, and AI transforming the industry, agents who adapt will dominate—while those who don’t risk being left behind. In this episode, we break down the ultimate Realtor marketing strategies for 2025, helping you attract leads, grow your brand, and future-proof your business!

🎙 Episode Overview: What You’ll Learn

In "Realtor Marketing Strategies 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Digital Success," we uncover the must-know digital marketing strategies for real estate professionals. Chelsea Gardner, Founder of Fully Aligned Marketing, joins us to reveal the proven techniques that top-producing agents are using to generate leads, build trust, and close more deals.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

✅ Social Media Marketing for Realtors – Why authenticity beats perfection and how to create content that builds real connections.

✅ AI & Automation in Real Estate – How AI-powered workflows can streamline lead generation, follow-ups, and social media posting.

✅ Lead Generation & Branding Strategies – The key to converting social media followers into paying clients.

✅ Email Marketing That Converts – Why email remains one of the highest-converting tools for real estate professionals.

✅ Scaling Your Business with Smart Digital Strategies – How to balance engagement and automation for maximum results.

If you want to attract more buyers and sellers, grow your online presence, and dominate your market in 2025, this episode is packed with actionable insights just for you!

🚀 Key Takeaways from This Episode

✅ Authenticity Wins: Stop Over-Curating Your Content

Today’s real estate clients want to connect with real people, not scripted sales pitches. Realtors who embrace authentic, behind-the-scenes content will build stronger relationships and trust. Forget perfection—start posting and let your personality shine!

✅ Engagement is More Important Than Followers

A big following doesn’t mean big business. The real key to success is engaging with potential clients, responding to comments, and building relationships online. Realtors who actively connect with their audience will convert more leads and close more deals.

✅ AI & Automation Are Game-Changers for Realtors

AI-powered tools can automate lead generation, manage follow-ups, and schedule social media content, allowing agents to focus on closing deals. Those who integrate AI-driven workflows will outpace competitors who rely on outdated manual processes.

✅ Email Marketing Still Outperforms Social Media in Conversions

While social media helps with visibility, email marketing consistently delivers higher conversion rates. The best strategy? Use social media to build an email list, then nurture those leads with valuable content and follow-ups.

✅ A Strong Personal Brand Will Drive Long-Term Success

The most successful agents position themselves as trusted experts through strategic branding, valuable content, and consistent engagement. Staying visible, educating your audience, and reinforcing your expertise will make you the go-to Realtor in your market.

🎤 About Our Guest: Chelsea Gardner

Chelsea Gardner is the Founder & Chief Enthusiasm Officer of Fully Aligned Marketing, a premier digital marketing

The real estate and mortgage industries are facing major disruptions—are you ready? With the CFPB under Trump rolling back regulations and HUD layoffs threatening FHA loan processing, these changes could significantly impact Realtors, lenders, and homebuyers. In this episode, we break down how these shifts could reshape the housing market and what real estate professionals must do now to stay ahead.

The CFPB under Trump is undergoing major restructuring, and HUD layoffs could slow down FHA and USDA loan approvals—but what does this mean for Realtors, lenders, and homebuyers? In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with Aaron VanTrojen, CEO of Geneva Financial, to break down:

✅ How CFPB deregulation could reshape mortgage lending and consumer protections.

✅ The real impact of HUD layoffs on government-backed loans like FHA and USDA mortgages.

✅ The Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac conservatorship debate and whether privatization could raise mortgage rates.

✅ Why a housing market crash is unlikely, despite shifting economic conditions.

✅ How AI, automation, and technology are reshaping the future of real estate transactions.

If you're a Realtor, mortgage lender, or real estate investor, this episode is packed with critical insights to help you navigate industry changes and stay competitive in 2025 and beyond.

The Trump administration has weakened the CFPB, reducing oversight on mortgage lenders and financial institutions. While this removes compliance burdens, it also raises concerns about consumer protections and potential lending risks in the housing market.

Proposed HUD staff reductions of up to 50% could delay FHA and USDA loan processing, making home purchases harder for first-time buyers. Without a clear efficiency plan, these layoffs could disrupt the real estate market.

As policymakers debate removing Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac from government conservatorship, Realtors and lenders must consider the risks. Privatization could increase mortgage rates and reduce loan accessibility, affecting affordability.

Despite economic fears, low inventory and steady demand make a major housing crash unlikely. While affordability remains a challenge, the fundamentals of supply and demand support a stable market correction rather than a collapse.

AI and automation are revolutionizing the mortgage and real estate industries—but are they replacing professionals? Realtors and lenders who adapt to technology while maintaining a personal touch will thrive in the evolving market.

Aaron VanTrojen is the CEO and Founder of Geneva Financial, a national mortgage...

Texas home insurance rates are skyrocketing, leaving homeowners and real estate professionals scrambling for answers. In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with insurance expert Brad Bingham to uncover the real reasons behind these rate hikes—from extreme weather to shifting policy structures. Don’t miss this insider guide to protecting your clients, your investments, and your wallet in today’s volatile insurance market.

Texas home insurance rates are rising faster than ever, and real estate professionals need to understand why. In this episode of The Texas Real Estate & Finance Podcast, host Mike Mills welcomes Brad Bingham, a 25-year insurance veteran, to break down:

• What’s driving Texas insurance rates through the roof? Learn how weather events, inflation, and market shifts are reshaping policies.
• Why many homeowners are underinsured without realizing it. Discover the hidden policy changes that could leave you or your clients financially vulnerable.
• How to compare home insurance policies the right way. Avoid the common pitfalls that lead to costly mistakes.
• Smart strategies to lower insurance costs. Find out what adjustments can actually save money—without sacrificing critical coverage.

Whether you’re a Realtor, investor, or homeowner, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate rising home insurance rates in 2025.

1. Why Texas Home Insurance Rates Are Surging

Insurance premiums in Texas have increased by over 500% in the past decade, with companies requesting double-digit rate hikes year after year. Brad Bingham explains how rising claim payouts, inflation, and reduced market competition are making home insurance more expensive than ever.

2. Hidden Policy Changes That Could Cost You Thousands

Many insurers have quietly reduced coverage by shifting away from full replacement cost policies—leaving homeowners with unexpected out-of-pocket expenses when disaster strikes. Learn what to look for in an insurance policy to avoid getting caught off guard.

3. The Dangers of Shopping for the Cheapest Insurance Policy

Not all policies are created equal! Simply choosing the lowest price can leave you dangerously underinsured. Brad shares the key questions every homebuyer and Realtor should ask when comparing quotes to ensure adequate coverage without overpaying.

4. How Weather and Population Growth Are Pushing Rates Even Higher

Texas is experiencing more extreme weather events than ever before, and as population growth skyrockets in cities like Dallas and Austin, insurance companies are adjusting their risk models—leading to higher premiums for everyone.

5. Proven Ways to Reduce Home Insurance Costs in 2025

From raising deductibles strategically to bundling policies and making smart home improvements, Brad reveals practical ways to lower your insurance costs while keeping the right level of protection.

Brad Bingham is an insurance industry expert and Allstate brokerage owner with over 25 years of experience helping homeowners, Realtors, and investors navigate complex insurance...

The market is shifting, and realtors who adapt will thrive. This week, we’re covering Austin’s cooling home prices, the latest mortgage rate forecast, and the best AI tools for real estate professionals looking to scale their business. Plus, our ‘Weekly Wildcard’ takes a deep dive into an unexpected economic twist that could shake up the housing market.

The real estate industry is evolving, and AI tools are becoming essential for realtors who want to work smarter, not harder. In this episode, Mike Mills breaks down:

✅ The Best AI Tools for Realtors – How automation is transforming lead generation, marketing, and client follow-ups.

✅ Austin’s Housing Market Slowdown – Why home prices are dropping, inventory is rising, and what it means for buyers and sellers.

✅ 2025 Mortgage Rate Predictions – Is 7% the new normal? What realtors need to know about where rates are headed.

✅ Pricing Strategies for Sellers – How to price homes competitively in a shifting market to attract buyers.

✅ Weekly Wildcard Segment – A surprising economic twist that could impact real estate trends—stay tuned for the unexpected!

If you're a realtor, investor, or mortgage professional, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you navigate today’s unpredictable market.

1. AI Tools Are Revolutionizing Real Estate

Realtors using AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Opus Clip, and HomeBot are saving hours each week on marketing, lead generation, and client communication. If you’re not leveraging AI, you’re already behind.

2. Austin’s Housing Market is Cooling, but Buyers Have New Opportunities

After years of rapid growth, Austin’s real estate market has shifted into a buyer’s market. Home prices are down 19% from their peak, inventory is up, and sellers must adjust pricing strategies to stay competitive.

3. Mortgage Rates Are Holding at 7%—Will They Drop?

With inflation still high and no major economic shake-ups on the horizon, mortgage rates are expected to hover around 7% for the foreseeable future. Realtors must help clients navigate creative financing options like rate buydowns and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs).

4. Pricing Homes Correctly is More Important Than Ever

Sellers need to ditch the outdated "list high and lower later" approach. Pricing homes strategically from the start maximizes visibility, attracts serious buyers, and reduces time on the market.

5. The Weekly Wildcard: From Space Rocks to Meme Coins

In this week’s wildcard segment, we cover NASA’s increased asteroid impact risk, skyrocketing credit card debt, and whether Dogecoin might become part of your tax refund. Stay ahead of the market by understanding how broader economic trends could affect real estate.

This episode features expert insights from Amy Cearnal, a top real estate professional with Compass Real Estate. A returning contributor to the podcast, Amy shares weekly advice for buyers, sellers, and agents to navigate today’s shifting market.

🔹 For Buyers: Use market data to make informed offers and avoid overpaying.

🔹 For Sellers: Price your home competitively from day one to maximize interest and reduce time on the...

🚨 The NAR Settlement Update 2025 is shaking up the real estate industry, and Realtors need to act fast. With MLS rule changes, buyer agent commission shifts, and new legal risks, staying informed is no longer optional—it’s essential. Tune in now to get expert insights on how these changes impact your business and what you must do to stay competitive in 2025!

The NAR Settlement Update 2025 is transforming how Realtors, brokerages, and MLS systems operate, but what does it really mean for your business? In this episode, Mike Mills sits down with real estate expert Amy Cearnal to break down the new commission rules, MLS participation changes, and what buyers and sellers need to know moving forward.

Key topics we cover:

✅ How the NAR lawsuit settlement is changing buyer agent commissions

✅ Why MLS rules are evolving, and how they impact your ability to do business

✅ What the DOJ’s real estate oversight could mean for future regulations

✅ How these changes will affect Realtors, brokerages, and homebuyers

✅ What steps agents must take to adapt and thrive in this new landscape

Whether you're a seasoned agent or new to real estate, this episode will give you the clarity and strategies you need to navigate these shifts confidently. Don't miss out—hit play now!

1️⃣ NAR Settlement Update 2025: Major Commission Changes

The NAR lawsuit settlement has removed buyer agent commission disclosures from the MLS, fundamentally altering how Realtors negotiate compensation. With commissions now negotiated outside the MLS, buyers and sellers are facing new challenges in understanding who pays what.

2️⃣ MLS Rule Changes: New Access & Membership Updates

MLS access rules are shifting, with some markets like Austin and Houston allowing non-Realtors to access MLS data. This could change how listings are controlled, forcing agents to rethink how they leverage MLS platforms.

3️⃣ Buyer Agreements: Are They Helping or Hurting?

Buyers must now sign agreements before viewing homes, aiming to improve transparency in agent compensation. However, this requirement is creating friction, as buyers may hesitate to commit before seeing properties.

4️⃣ DOJ Oversight: More Real Estate Lawsuits Ahead?

While the NAR settlement addressed commission disclosure, the DOJ is still investigating real estate practices. More lawsuits and regulatory changes could be coming, making it critical for Realtors to stay proactive.

5️⃣ Adapting to a Changing Market in 2025

To stay competitive, Realtors must embrace these new rules, educate clients, and refine their value propositions. Those who adapt and innovate will thrive, while those who resist change risk falling behind.

Amy Cearnal is a real estate veteran with expertise in brokerage operations, title services, mortgage lending, and real estate law. As a former brokerage owner and longtime Texas Realtor®, she specializes in helping clients minimize risk and maximize value in real estate transactions.

Amy has...