Get Real With Eddie

Hosted by Eddie Ruettiger

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100

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Oct 2026

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About the show

”Get Real with Eddie” is a real estate radio show hosted by Eddie Ruettiger, Designated Managing Broker and Owner at EXIT Real Estate Specialists, with co-host Nancy Vallee. The show offers expert insights on market trends, investment strategies, mortgage tips, and industry updates. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, tune in for trusted guidance and the latest real estate news.

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October 9, 2026Episode 14424 min

Do You Really Need 20% Down to Buy a House? | Down Payment Assistance Explained

Do you really need 20% down to buy a house? The answer may surprise you. On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we break down the 20% down payment myth and explain how different mortgage programs can help buyers get into a home with much less money down. Eddie and Nancy discuss conventional loans, FHA, VA and USDA financing, PMI and MIP, and why the most important question isn't necessarily “How much do I have saved?” but “Can I comfortably afford the monthly payment?” We also take a closer look at down payment assistance programs, including grants, closing-cost assistance, rate buydowns and other programs that may be available to qualified buyers. We talk about income limits, credit requirements, homebuyer education, repayment requirements, funding limits and why you need to understand the terms before accepting assistance. We also share a real-life example of a program that helped eliminate a buyer's student loan debt when purchasing a home. If you're thinking about buying a home but don't think you have enough money saved, this episode is for you. Have questions about buying a home, selling, investing or finding out what programs may be available to you? Talk with a qualified REALTOR® and mortgage professional about your individual situation. Get Real with Eddie is your source for real estate conversations, local market information and practical advice to help you make smarter real estate decisions. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com for more. This episode is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, tax or real estate advice. Every situation is unique. Please consult the appropriate licensed professionals regarding your individual circumstances. #RealEstate #DownPaymentAssistance #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeBuying #Mortgage #HomeBuyerTips #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietIL #BourbonnaisIL #GetRealWithEddie 0:00 Do You Really Need 20% Down? 4:16 Can You Actually Afford the Payment? 7:08 Don't Buy at the Top of Your Budget 11:36 What Is Down Payment Assistance? 15:17 Illinois Down Payment Assistance Programs 17:48 Program Requirements and Funding 22:39 The Bottom Line for Buyers

October 6, 2026Episode 14326 min

Who Are Your Real Estate Influencers? The People Around You Can Make or Break Your Success

Who are you listening to when it comes to real estate? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie and Nancy talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right influencers—not just as a real estate professional, but as a buyer, seller, investor, or homeowner. Your family, friends, real estate agent, lender, attorney, contractor, accountant, insurance professional, and other members of your team can all influence the decisions you make. But are they giving you current information and real market data, or are they simply repeating what they heard years ago? Eddie and Nancy also take a closer look at the Joliet housing market, including the dramatic decline following 2008, the recovery that followed, and what today's home values look like when viewed over a longer period of time. The conversation also covers negative influencers, overly optimistic advice, the importance of doing your own due diligence, and why the right team matters when making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or building a career in real estate, make sure you're surrounded by people who can help you make informed decisions. Hashtags #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate #RealEstateAdvice #JolietRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RealEstateInvesting #RealEstateAgents #HomeOwnership #RealEstateMarket #JolietIL Chapters 0:00 Who Are Your Real Estate Influencers? 2:44 How Family and Friends Influence Your Decisions 4:19 The People Who Can Make or Break a Real Estate Decision 7:26 Are Homes Really Overpriced? 11:42 Looking at Joliet Real Estate Since 2008 16:51 What Inflation Has Done to Housing Affordability 19:52 Building the Right Real Estate Team 21:12 Beware of the Negative Influencers—and the Overly Optimistic Ones 22:20 Choosing the Right People and Tools for Your Business 23:43 Planning for 2027

October 2, 2026Episode 14227 min

Why 2026 is the Hardest Year to BRRRR—And How to Survive

What happens when the BRRRR real estate investing strategy meets higher interest rates, rising property taxes, increasing repair costs, and changing rental markets? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie explains the BRRRR strategy: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat. He and Nancy break down how investors use this strategy to build rental portfolios, recover invested cash, refinance hard money loans, and potentially use equity to purchase the next property. They also discuss why BRRRR investing has become more challenging, including higher borrowing costs, slower rent increases, property taxes, maintenance expenses, and the difficulty of pulling equity out of a property after refinancing. The conversation also covers BRRRR investing versus flipping, the Rule of 500, the idea of targeting a 10% return, building a portfolio of 10 rental properties, finding seed money, and why investors need to evaluate each property individually. If you're thinking about becoming a real estate investor, buying rental property, flipping homes, or building long-term wealth through real estate, this episode gives you plenty to think about. Hashtags #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstateInvesting #BRRRR #BRRRRStrategy #RealEstateInvestor #RentalProperty #RealEstateInvestment #IllinoisRealEstate #WillCountyRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #CashFlow #RentalIncome #InvestmentProperty #RealEstateTips #Proper Chapters 00:00 What Is the BRRRR Strategy? 07:12 Why BRRRR Is Getting Harder in 2026 09:48 What Investors Are Really Chasing 10:36 Why Real Estate Investors Matter 12:28 What Makes a Good Rental Property? 16:25 The Goal of 10 Rental Units 17:38 The Rental Market in Will County 19:08 Getting Started as a Real Estate Investor 19:36 Are You a Flipper or a Rental Investor?

September 29, 2026Episode 14129 min

The Future of Real Estate: What You Need to Know in 2026

What does the future of real estate look like as we head toward the end of 2026? On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we break down the trends that are shaping the real estate market — from interest rates and the ongoing housing shortage to home prices, first-time buyers, down payment assistance, AI, real estate investing, new construction, the mortgage rate lock-in effect, and the growing importance of local market conditions. We talk about why inventory can increase while buyers are still struggling to find the right home, how first-time buyers are turning toward condos and townhomes, and why investors are changing their strategies. We also discuss AI and automated valuation models, including why the information going into an AI system matters just as much as the information coming out. The conversation also explores the BRRR strategy, investment properties, flips, new construction, assumable mortgages, and potential ways to address the mortgage rate lock-in effect. And perhaps one of the biggest takeaways: real estate is becoming even more local. National trends don't necessarily tell you what's happening in Illinois, Will County, Joliet, or even your individual neighborhood. If you're buying, selling, investing, or simply trying to understand where real estate is heading, this episode gives you plenty of topics to watch as we move toward 2027. Get Real with Eddie is your source for real estate conversations affecting buyers, sellers, investors, and the communities we serve. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com. Hashtags: #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate #RealEstateMarket #RealEstate2026 #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #WillCountyRealEstate #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateInvesting #InterestRates #HousingMarket #HomePrices #DownPaymentAssistance #ArtificialIntelligence #AIinRealEstate #NewConstruction #MortgageRates #AssumableMortgages #RealEstateInvestors Chapters: 00:00 The Future of Real Estate in 2026 02:40 Inventory Is Up, But Buyers Are Still Struggling 05:22 The Return of the First-Time Home Buyer 08:39 How AI Is Changing Real Estate 12:47 Real Estate Investors Are Changing Strategy 14:42 Investors, Real Estate Licenses & Disclosure 16:44 New Construction vs. Existing Homes 20:01 Why Inventory Is Still So Limited 23:30 Assumable Mortgages & Possible Solutions 27:21 What These Trends Could Mean for 2027

September 25, 2026Episode 14019 min

Get Real About Home Values: Why Online Estimates Are Wrong!

In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we take a closer look at Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) and why the online estimate of your home's value may not be the same as what your property is actually worth. Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and other websites use automated valuation models to estimate home values. But these models rely on available data and algorithms — and there are many things they may not fully understand about your specific property. We discuss 10 things an AVM may not know about your home, including: • The condition of your home • Updates and remodeling • Deferred maintenance • Exact location • Neighborhood differences • Lot size and lot characteristics • Outbuildings and additional garages • Floor plans and bedroom differences • Special features and improvements • Current local market conditions • The human element when a buyer walks through a home • Property taxes and the actual cost of owning the home An online home value can be a useful starting point, but understanding the real value of a property requires looking beyond a computer-generated number. If you're thinking about selling your home, buying a home, or simply wondering what your property is really worth, this episode of Get Real with Eddie is for you. Get more real estate information at GetRealWithEddie.com. #RealEstate #HomeValue #Zillow #AVM #AutomatedValuationModel #HomeSelling #HomeBuying #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #ShorewoodIL #CrestHillIL #NewLenoxIL #NapervilleIL #RealEstateTips #GetRealWithEddie 00:00 Why Your Home Isn’t Worth What an Automated Value Model Says 00:23 What Is an AVM? 01:27 Why Different AVMs Give Different Values 03:11 Condition & Maintenance 04:11 Updates & Improvements 05:27 Exact Location 07:07 Lot Size & Property Features 12:47 Floor Plan & Home Layout 13:25 Special Features & Improvements 14:50 What’s Happening in the Local Market 15:20 The Human Element 16:48 Property Taxes & Monthly Payments 17:50 Thoughts on Online Home Values

September 21, 2026Episode 13925 min

10 Things You MUST Check Before Buying a House

In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we break down what home buyers should look at before purchasing a property — from property taxes and the roof to HVAC systems, basements, drainage, flood zones, schools, HOA rules, permits, and the true cost of owning a home. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, moving to Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, Crest Hill, New Lenox, Naperville, or anywhere in Illinois, these tips can help you ask better questions and make a more informed real estate decision. We cover: • Property taxes and assessed value • Roof and attic condition • Home inspections and HVAC maintenance • Basement water, sump pumps and drainage • HVAC warning signs • Neighborhood considerations • Flood zones and property drainage • Schools, boundaries and local services • HOA rules and financials • Permits and unpermitted work • The true cost of owning a home Buying a home is more than looking at the kitchen and bedrooms. Understanding the property, neighborhood, taxes, maintenance and potential future expenses can make a big difference. Get more real estate information at GetRealWithEddie.com. #RealEstate #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeInspection #BuyingAHouse #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #ShorewoodIL #CrestHillIL #NewLenoxIL #NapervilleIL #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyers #GetRealWithEddie 00:00 10 Things You Must Check Before Buying a House 00:29 Property Taxes & Assessed Value 02:18 Check the Roof & Attic 05:30 Home Inspection & HVAC Maintenance 09:26 Basement, Water & Sump Pump Issues 12:12 HVAC Warning Signs 15:14 Check the Neighborhood 17:32 Flood Zones & Property Drainage 18:15 Schools, Boundaries & Local Services 20:56 HOA Rules & Financials 22:04 Permits & Unpermitted Work 23:15 The True Cost of Owning a Home

September 7, 2026Episode 13823 min

Why the Joliet Real Estate Market Is Not What You Think

Is the Joliet real estate market collapsing? Not according to the data. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie and Nancy dig into the latest Joliet, Plainfield, and Will County housing numbers and compare them to the dramatic claims being made online. They look at home prices, new listings, closings, months of supply, market time, and the difference between Joliet and Plainfield for similarly sized homes. The big takeaway? Don't make a real estate decision based on clickbait. Look at the actual numbers. They also discuss why Joliet's affordability and available inventory may actually create opportunities for buyers—and why comparing markets without accounting for home size and property type can paint a misleading picture. Hashtags #GetRealWithEddie #JolietRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #WillCountyRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #RealEstateMarket #JolietHousingMarket #PlainfieldRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RealEstateData #HousingMarket #RealEstatePodcast #ChicagoSuburbs #IllinoisRealtor #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyers #RealEstateNews ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Is the Joliet Market Really Collapsing? 05:12 – Are New Listings Flooding the Market? 08:17 – What the Plainfield Market Looks Like 13:14 – Why Joliet May Be the “Hot Hand” 16:09 – Stop Renting and Start Building Wealth? 19:40 – A Little Plainfield Family History 21:13 – The Moral of the Story: Don't Believe the Clickbait

September 4, 2026Episode 13726 min

How to Sell Your Home for More: 10 Ways to Avoid Leaving Money on the Table

Selling your home? Before you put that “For Sale” sign in the yard, there are some simple things you can do to help maximize your sale price without spending a fortune. On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists talk about how sellers can avoid leaving money on the table. From curb appeal and landscaping to decluttering, cleaning, repairs, paint, lighting, kitchen and bathroom updates, and professional photography, they cover the improvements that can make the biggest difference when selling a home. They also discuss why waiting for the spring market isn't always the best strategy, why winter sellers can sometimes benefit from less competition, and why spending thousands on a new kitchen, bathroom, pool, or expensive landscaping may not give you the return you expect. If you're thinking about selling a home in Illinois, start with a professional walkthrough. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you determine what is worth fixing, what isn't, and how your home compares with the competition. Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists bring you real-world real estate information to help you make smarter decisions about your largest investment—your home. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com for more real estate conversations, market information, and resources. #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate #SellingYourHome #HomeSellingTips #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #PlainfieldRealEstate #HomeValue #RealEstateTips #EXITRealEstateSpecialists Chapters 00:00 Don't Leave Money on the Table 04:09 Exterior Repairs and Curb Appeal 05:14 Landscaping and Simple Improvements 09:17 Clean Up the Front Entrance 16:49 Kitchens and Bathrooms 18:21 Flooring and Professional Carpet Cleaning 20:41 What NOT to Spend Money On 24:34 Have a Realtor Walk the Property

August 31, 2026Episode 13623 min

Why Foreclosures Won't Save You Money in This Market

Foreclosures are making headlines again, and many homeowners, buyers, and investors are asking the same question: Are we headed for another 2008 housing crash? On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee take a closer look at what is actually happening with foreclosures, including the numbers in Will County. While foreclosures are increasing in some areas nationally, the local numbers tell a very different story. We discuss why foreclosures are happening, including higher monthly payments, inflation, insurance costs, property taxes, HOA fees, job losses, and other financial pressures. We also explain why today's foreclosure market is very different from the conditions that helped create the Great Recession. The conversation also covers an issue many homeowners overlook: HOA foreclosure activity. We explain why falling behind on an HOA can create serious problems and why homeowners shouldn't simply assume their HOA dues are less important than their mortgage. For buyers, we look at whether foreclosures actually create cheaper homes—and why they generally don't. For investors, we discuss days on market, price reductions, ZIP code trends, due diligence, inspections, and the opportunities available with distressed and bank-owned properties. And if you're a homeowner who is worried about foreclosure, Eddie has a simple message: Don't panic. There may be options, including selling the property before the situation gets worse. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, seller, or investor, this episode cuts through the foreclosure headlines and looks at what they really mean for the real estate market. Get Real with Eddie is hosted by Eddie Ruettiger, designated managing broker and owner of EXIT Real Estate Specialists in Joliet, Illinois. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com for more real estate conversations, local market insight, and information about buying, selling, and investing in real estate. #GetRealWithEddie #Foreclosures #RealEstate #HousingMarket #HousingCrash #IllinoisRealEstate #WillCounty #JolietRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #Homeowners #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #BankOwned #RealEstateInvestor #marketupdate Chapters 00:00 What’s Causing Foreclosures Today? 08:37 Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your HOA 10:29 Foreclosures Still Sell at Market Value 12:02 Why Investors Are Important to the Market 16:36 What Should Investors Look For? 21:13 Get There Before the Price Reduction

August 27, 2026Episode 13525 min

Don't Panic: Why Buyers Are Still Here And What That Means For You

Are buyers really absent from today's real estate market? Learn the truth about housing demand and why your home might still sell. There is a common perception that buyers have vanished from the current market, but the data tells a different story. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we examine why real estate market trends are often misunderstood and how inventory levels compare to 2019. Whether you are a homeowner or an investor, understanding why buyers are being more selective is essential for making smart decisions. We break down the factors influencing home buying activity, including interest rates and the impact of proper home presentation. Instead of relying on national headlines, we look at specific Will County data to show that well-priced homes continue to attract multiple offers. By focusing on what buyers are actually looking for, you can better navigate the complexities of selling a property in today's environment. Subscribe for weekly real estate insights to stay informed on local and national trends, and let us know in the comments if you think the current housing market is cooling down or just normalizing. #RealEstate #RealEstateMarket #WillCountyRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RealEstateTips #GetRealWithEddie #EddieRuettiger #EXITRealEstateSpecialists Chapters: 0:00 Are Buyers Really Absent From the Market? 4:42 Will County Inventory: 2019 vs. Today 8:28 Real Estate Photo Mistakes Sellers Need to Avoid 10:08 What Buyers Are Really Looking for in a Home 11:01 Sellers Need to Change Their Strategy 15:56 The Real Issue: Inventory, Not Missing Buyers 20:51 Are Buyers Waiting for a Market Crash? 23:53 So, Are Buyers Really Absent?

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