All Roads Lead To Real Estate

If you’ve ever wondered how anyone manages to sell a home, buy a new one, handle a rent-back, pack their entire life, switch states, and keep their sanity—this episode is for you.

Emily opens up about leaving Georgia, finding community in Baltimore’s iconic Rogers Forge, buying her first home, and now—years later—selling it amid unexpected obstacles and a government shutdown.

She talks candidly about the fears and rewards of entrepreneurship, the pressure moms face, the power of supportive partnerships, and how to chase a life that aligns with your values.

Matt and Jen sit down for a straight-talk episode aimed at real estate professionals who are navigating their next move, whether that’s joining their first brokerage, switching teams, or trying to break out of a plateau.

They unpack the real differences between brokerages and teams, the critical early decisions that make or break an agent’s career, and why most agents unintentionally sabotage their growth by trying to do everything alone. They also share the mission, values, and philosophy behind the Matt Rhine Group, and why they’re now selectively looking for a small number of high-d...

In this episode Matt sits down with Justin Coleman from Ground Loop Heating & Air to uncover one of the best-kept secrets in home energy efficiency: geothermal heating and cooling.

From cutting energy bills by up to 80% to outlasting traditional HVAC systems twofold, geothermal technology is redefining what it means to live sustainably—without sacrificing comfort. Matt and Justin dive into how it works, when it makes sense (and when it doesn’t), and why solar panels often fail to add real estate value while geothermal can quietly pay for itself.

In this episode Matt sits down with Ayaz Rahemanji, branch manager at First Home Mortgage and one of Maryland’s most trusted mortgage experts. Ayaz shares insider tips from his $1.5B career in lending, explaining how to navigate rate shopping, bridge loans, 401(k) strategies, and when (and why) to refinance.

Together, they unpack the realities behind buying a home — from what really matters in a mortgage pre-approval to how trigger leads work, and why choosing the right lender can make or break your deal.

In this episode Matt its down with entrepreneur and Bitcoin miner Neil Roseman to unpack what makes Bitcoin unique—its 21 million cap, blockchain security, and growing role as “hard money.” They discuss why adoption is accelerating, how to start small with dollar-cost averaging or ETFs, and why the biggest mistake might be owning none at all.

n this episode Matt sits down with a longtime client and friend who’s exploring real estate as a second career after years in senior living sales. Together, they dive into the challenges and opportunities of starting fresh at 60, how relationship-building skills translate across industries, and why real estate is less about houses and more about people.

If you are looking for inspiration to take that first step, this candid conversation offers practical insights, honest truths, and a reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.

In this episode Matt Rhine sits down with teammate and rising star Craig Kirkner to share an incredible story of grit, sacrifice, and success.

Craig went from running seafood markets as a teenager to nearly giving up on real estate after piling up debt and setbacks. But with a “no backup plan” mindset, he came back stronger—building a thriving career that hit $24 million in production in just 12 months.

Together, Matt and Craig dive into:

In this episode Matt sits down with Disney travel expert Danielle Treadwell of Platinum Mouse—a planner who visits the parks up to seven times a year and knows every secret, shortcut, and splurge-worthy extra.

From mastering Lightning Lanes and avoiding crowds to uncovering hidden gems and allergy-friendly dining, Danielle explains how to turn a potentially overwhelming trip into a stress-free, magical experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a Disney adult, or planning with kids in tow, this conversation will change the way you approach your next trip to the “Happiest Place on Earth.”

Today Matt sits down with Jacob Benzaquen—a Jewish immigrant from Venezuela, Baltimore-based property management entrepreneur, and a man with a global story. Jacob shares his remarkable journey from Venezuela to Miami, Israel, and ultimately Baltimore, offering a unique perspective on real estate, immigration, and the importance of building communities. In an increasingly divided world, Jacob's story is a true testament to resilience, opportunity, and the power of human connection.

In this episode Matt sits down with renowned Baltimore architect, Peter Radcliffe. We delve into Peter's illustrious career, the legacy of architectural excellence passed down from his father, and the intricate process of designing both luxurious and practical living spaces. Discover the most significant trends in modern architecture, the challenges faced when renovating historical homes, and the invaluable insights from a career spanning over nearly 25 years.

Today Matt sits down with the unstoppable Colleen Rippey, a powerhouse in sales, networking, and industry leadership. From her early days as a top-performing Cutco saleswoman (she sold over $2 million in knives!) to running Baltimore’s Real Producers magazine—the premier networking hub for top real estate professionals—Colleen has mastered the art of connection and influence.

Matt and Colleen dive into her journey, the power of building relationships, and how she went from rapping at lunch-and-learns to ranking #1 out of 130 franchises. If you want insights on what makes a true super connector, how top realtors think, and wh...

In this episode, we are joined by Jake Bowling, an experienced home inspector of Blue Crab Inspections. Learn about the importance of thorough inspections, how to manage expectations, and the key areas to focus on, such as roofs, basements, HVAC systems, and more. We discuss the role of inspectors and contractors, the challenges of dealing with insurance and warranties, and the value of honesty and integrity in the real estate market. This episode provides essential tips and advice to ensure peace of mind and successful real estate transactions.

In this episode, we talk about the key differences between today's housing market and the infamous 2008 crash. From stricter lending standards to soaring equity and appreciation, our special guest Ayaz Rahemanji from First Home Mortgage breaks down why a market collapse is unlikely this time around. We also explore smart strategies for navigating high mortgage rates, refinancing tips, and why buying now might be a better decision than waiting.

In this episode, Matt Rhine sits down with Nicole Hewitt, a seasoned attorney specializing in estate planning, elder law, and business planning. With years of experience, Nicole breaks down the essentials of estate planning—what it really means, why it’s important for everyone (not just the wealthy), and how proper planning can prevent future family conflicts. From wills and trusts to the nuances of managing real estate within an estate, Nicole explains how to effectively plan for the unexpected.

In today's episode, I’m finally recording some of the real estate investment strategies I’ve shared countless times. I’ll dive into my personal approach, shaped by years of hands-on experience—both successes and hard-learned lessons. From setting investment criteria to understanding cash flow, appreciation, and debt reduction, I’ll outline a method that’s safe, conservative, and designed to minimize risk while maximizing returns. Whether you're new to real estate or looking to refine your strategy, you’ll find insights to help you build wealth while avoiding common pitfalls.

Our guest today is Drew Fisher, owner and lender at Pure Rate Mortgage. Drew shares his extensive experience in the mortgage industry, closing over a billion dollars in loans making him one of the top 0.1% of mortgage originators in the country. They discuss key topics such as the impact of market conditions on interest rates, the importance of working with a knowledgeable lender, and how Drew's company provides transparent and competitive rates. They also delve into the nuances of mortgage refinancing and the benefits of getting pre-approved. This conversation includes practical advice on the significance of embracing change and...

In this episode, we delve into the often misunderstood world of home inspections. We demystify the process, distinguishing between appraisals and inspections, and highlighting the critical role of a home inspector. Our guest Rachel Oslund, a pioneering female home inspector, shares her unique experiences and challenges in a predominantly male industry. Learn what really happens during an inspection, the differences in training and perspective, and why empowering rather than intimidating home buyers is the goal. 

Today Matt welcomes Amanda Rahemanji, a leading custom clothing consultant from Tom James. Together, they explore Amanda's fascinating journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a top professional in the custom clothing industry. Discover the hidden world of custom attire, understand its impact on confidence and personal branding, and learn practical wardrobe tips from an expert. Take also a peek into how Amanda balances her thriving career with family life and motherhood, providing an inspiring story and practical advice.

Here is a link to her website for any listener who is interested in purchasing. https://www.tomjames...

In this episode Matt sits down with Chris Dantin, Senior Consultant and VP of Cost Segregation Services, to unravel the intricacies of cost segregation in real estate investments. Discover what cost segregation is, how it can significantly benefit real estate investors, the process involved, and why your CPA might not bring it up. This episode provides valuable insights into maximizing tax benefits and accelerating your depreciation schedule.

In this episode, our guest Jaymes Karter (Teddy Pendergrass Band), shares his experiences growing up in West Baltimore, his musical journey, and the challenges he faced and overcame along the way. From his early days playing the drums to his success in the music industry, Jaymes gives us an intimate look into the transformation of Baltimore's real estate landscape while sharing personal stories of his childhood, offering a unique perspective on real estate, resilience, and community development. This is a story of perseverance, optimism, and finding joy in life's journey.

Join Matt and Katrina Meistering (CEO of Keller Williams Gateway) as the discuss into the often glamorized world of real estate, uncovering the realities that many don't see. Prompted by a recent conversation with a former client considering a career shift, they explore the common misconceptions, the importance of understanding the true demands of the job, and the reasons why many people fail to make it big in real estate. From the essential skill of lead generation to the need for resilience in a challenging market, Matt and Katrina offer candid advice for anyone considering this career path. Whether...

Today Matt is joined by Steve Keelty, the president of Keelty Homes, a Maryland-based family-owned builder with over 120 years of experience. Discover how Keelty Homes has maintained its quality and reputation across generations, the intricacies of their latest project The Villas at Woodbrook, and the challenges and rewards of operating a family-run business in today's market.

Today Matt is joined by Matt Derby of Derby Real Estate Development. In this episode they delve into Derby's transformative journey from flipping his first house to establishing a robust portfolio of more than 300 long-term rental properties. Derby reveals his strategies, from the initial quick profits of flipping to the long-term stability and cash flow of rentals. He provides a wealth of tips and in-depth insights, discussing the ins and outs for managing properties, dealing with inspections, navigating Section 8 housing, and honing in on local market expertise to make informed investments. You’ll find invaluable advice on balancing risks, ma...

Join Matt, as he sits down with Caleb Jackson, founder of Lion Development, one of the largest residential portfolio holders for Johns Hopkins University Housing. Caleb shares his inspiring journey from a rebellious teen in Jamaica to a successful real estate entrepreneur in Baltimore. Discover how his unconventional path from training with the Jamaican Olympic team to founding a successful nonprofit at 17,  has shaped his unique perspective on real estate investing. Tune in for a story of resilience, inspiration, and courage to follow your own path.

In this episode, Matt sheds light on the often misunderstood role of a financial advisor. Joined by special guest Peter Wilkinson, a seasoned independent financial advisor with three decades of experience, discover why not all financial advisors are created equal, how fee structures vary, and why an informed decision-making is crucial in safeguarding your financial well-being.

Join Matt for an in-depth conversation about the often misunderstood topic of inflation and its implications for the housing market. Is inflation inherently good or bad? What is the ideal inflation rate, and how does it affect mortgage rates? But more importantly, what does all this mean for homebuyers? 

We uncover strategies to navigate the shifting landscape of interest rates, including the power of seller contributions and temporary rate buy-downs to learn how to leverage these tools and secure the best deal in today's market and position yourself for future financial success.

Matt delves in this episode into the world of home warranties being joined by special guest Anna Coleman from First American Home Warranty. Anna has over 30 years of experience in the financial industry and is a licensed property and casualty insurance agent, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the table. Together, they explore the misconceptions surrounding home warranties, the importance of selecting the right coverage, and the common pitfalls that consumers encounter. From understanding what a home warranty truly covers to navigating the complexities of claims, this conversation sheds light on why home warranties are an essential safeguard for...

From the initial consultation to closing the deal, Matt shares invaluable tips and strategies to guide you through the process of purchasing a home with confidence. Discover how to decode your needs, set a budget, and streamline your search to find the perfect home. Learn the importance of collaboration with local lenders, negotiating offers, and navigating through inspections and appraisals. Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner, this episode offers a comprehensive roadmap to make your home buying experience seamless and rewarding.

Join Matt and his son Charlie in a candid conversation with Sean McComb, named the 2014 National Teacher of the Year, and who is now principal at Lutherville Lab in Maryland as they navigate the complexities of evaluating schools beyond mere ratings. They delve into the intricacies of Maryland's star rating system, and uncover the real factors that shape a child's educational journey. From diverse learning needs to community engagement, Mr. McComb shares insights from his 18 years of experience in public education, highlighting the profound impact of dedicated teachers and the challenges they face amid budget constraints. Discover how parents...

Join us in a conversation with expert Chris Keelty, a licensed title insurance producer and attorney in Maryland. If you've ever wondered whether title insurance is worth the investment or if you're unsure about what it even covers, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN. Matt and Chris delve in with clear explanations and real-life examples. From gaps in land records to fraudulent activities, they shed light on the risks homeowners face without adequate coverage. 

Don't miss out on this essential guide to safeguarding your most valuable asset – your home.

Join Matt and special guest Doug Rubin, a licensed attorney and broker, for a conversation that dissects the headlines causing panic in the real estate world. From sensationalized accusations of price-fixing to landmark lawsuits against industry giants. 

In this podcast they navigate through the nuances of buyer representation agreements and the potential impact on affordability, this episode is not just about real estate—it's about empowering consumers with knowledge, demystifying industry practices, and fostering a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape, bringing clarity and context to the forefront as they offer insights from both agent and consumer per...

Join Matt as he welcomes back his special co-host Charlie Rhine and introduces Jeff Bisker, a local owner and operator of an insurance agency part of Goosehead Insurance in Maryland. Jeff sheds light on the critical role of insurance in real estate transactions and everyday life. From understanding coverage basics to navigating rate increases, demystifying umbrella insurance and why would someone insure his legs and bourbon collection. This conversation offers listeners with valuable insights to make informed decisions about protecting their homes and assets.

Get in touch with Jeff at: https://www.goosehead.com/agents/md/hunt-valley...

Matt is joined by Dr. Yana Rachinskaya, who shares her journey from being a clinical researcher and geneticist to diving into the complexities of being an entrepreneur in the healthcare housing sector and an accidental real estate investor.

They discuss the misconceptions surrounding real estate, debunking the notion that it's a risky endeavor. Dr. Yana makes emphasis on the importance of risk tolerance, education, and building a reliable network of mentors. She provides valuable insights for aspiring investors, encouraging them to consider the opportunities within the assisted living space.

Join Matt as he unveils a big announcement with his guest, John Newman. Today (02/22/24) marks the official announcement of the collaboration between Keller Williams Capital Properties and Keller Williams Legacy in Towson, Maryland. John shares his journey from a reluctant real estate agent to a mega agent, operating principal, real estate coach, and area director for Maryland and DC region at Keller Williams. Discover the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned as they delve into the world of real estate, coaching, and the importance of accountability in building a successful real estate business.

Matt is joined by Dr. Jim P. McGee a seasoned professional who transitioned from navigating family dynamics as a child psychologist  to defusing tense standoffs at high-stakes hostage situations at the FBI, revealing the surprising similarities in communication strategies and emotional intelligence required. 

Join Matt as he sits down with Tarini Bishnoi, a recent first-time homebuyer, as she shares her unexpected journey from being a committed renter to becoming a proud homeowner in just a matter of weeks. Discover the emotional rollercoaster, analytical mindset, and the surprising turn of events that led her to the perfect home. With insights on the importance of a supportive real estate team, overcoming doubts and challenges faced by many first-time buyers.

This conversation aims to inspire and guide potential homebuyers through the often daunting but rewarding experience of purchasing their first home, offering valuable...

In this episode Matt is joined by special guest Peter Wilkinson, a seasoned financial advisor with a knack for simplifying complex concepts. Peter sheds light on why whole life insurance often receives a bad rap in mainstream discourse, debunking myths and revealing its hidden benefits for savvy investors as Matt candidly shares his initial skepticism towards whole life insurance, echoing common sentiments of it being a "scam." However, Peter offers invaluable insights into the often-overlooked benefits of whole life insurance, shedding light on its role in tax planning and estate management.

The conversation extends to retirement planning...

Matt and Ksenia delve into the intricacies of the current real estate market, offering unscripted insights centered around elevating your real estate career. In this insightful episode, we explore the mindset shift that propels agents from viewing real estate as a side hustle to embracing it as a full-time, thriving career. Discover the importance of investing in marketing, mastering online advertising, and cultivating a robust online presence. We discuss as well the power of attending industry events and connecting with fellow professionals. Learn how to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, embracing challenges, learning from failures, and...

Join Matt in the first recording of 2024 as he sits down with Eric Clash, a successful realtor with a remarkable story of overcoming adversity. Eric shares his journey growing up in Baltimore's Park Heights navigating the world of street life, his time in prison and the choices he made along the way that shaped Eric’s path into becoming one of the top-performing realtors in Maryland. Discover the lessons learned, the motivation that drives him, and how he’s made his life mission to deliver one powerful message: "CHANGE IS POSSIBLE."

Join Matt on an emotional and eye-opening episode with Alfred Chestnut, a man who spent 36 years wrongfully incarcerated for a crime he didn't commit. Alfred shares the heartbreaking details of his wrongful conviction, the impact on his life, and the journey to justice that led to his ultimate redemption in a historic settlement that ended up being the largest wrongful conviction case in American history.

From the initial arrest at the age of 16 to facing the harsh reality of adult prison life, Alfred's story is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of truth. Matt delves into...

Join Matt in a captivating conversation with his good friend, Richard Saltos. The episode unfolds with insights into Richard's rapid ascent, from selling credit card machines to becoming one of the few hispanic licensed realtors to be featured in Real Producers magazine... within his first year!

This episode offers a deep dive into the statistics highlighting the significant growth of the Latino market in real estate with Richard's perspective now wearing multiple hats as both a realtor and a lender. The duo sheds light on the challenges within the Spanish-speaking community, emphasizing the importance of understanding not...

Join Matt as he engages in a fascinating conversation with Dawson Nally, a seasoned realtor with a unique background in the film industry. Dawson reflects on the evolving markets drawing parallels between his experiences in film and the complexities of today's housing landscape. Unveiling as well his hands-on business model approach and commitment to providing unparalleled customer service as a solo agent.

Join Matt in a captivating conversation with his special guest, Megan Winkler, an experienced former elementary school teacher. In this episode they delve into Megan's unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of the education system. Megan shares her experiences as both a teacher and a parent, shedding light on the struggles teachers face, the passion that drives them, and the complex dynamics of public and private school systems. We also discuss her unique perspective on the impact of school redistricting on families and its impacts in the real estate market from someone not directly involved in the industry.<...

Join Matt and his special guest, real estate expert Scott Carson, as they discuss the current market trends, the impact of technology, and the challenges faced by real estate agents in 2023. With insights on lead generation, lead follow-up, and the importance of maintaining client relationships, this episode provides valuable advice for real estate professionals and even consumers looking for a unique perspective on the industry.

Today Matt talks with Steve Pipich about his remarkable transformation in the real estate industry. From his early days juggling two full-time jobs to establishing VYBE Realty. This episode delves into Steve's remarkable evolution in the real estate realm, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and strategies that have shaped his success. From understanding the intricacies of team dynamics to the importance of leveraging resources. Discover the secrets behind Steve's meteoric rise and learn how the unique model of VYBE Realty is disrupting the traditional real estate landscape.

Today we talk to Ayaz Rahemnaji, branch manager and board director at First Home Mortgage being the top 1% loan originator in the U.S. with over $1.3 billion in loans under his belt. We dive into into the intricacies of the real estate market as it stands at the end of 2023.

We explore mortgage rates, market trends, and the path to real estate success in a conversation that blends experience with expertise and passion with practicality. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or a real estate enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable information about the current state of...

Today we talked to Ksenia Filchagina about the administrative side of building a solid business in real estate. Ksenia is the Director of Operations at the Matt Rhine Group.

Today Matt talks about the different and successful strategies that he has used and are today available in the market to get a hold of your first investment property, minimizing the risks to create a solid real estate portfolio for yourself and your family.

Today we talked to Rachel Oslund, founder and General Manager of Lodestar Inspection Services about what a home inspection is and what is not.

Get in touch with Rachel and her team at: https://lodestarinspections.com

Today we talked to Matt's 6 year old son Charlie about the real day to day routine and family life of a realtor with all it's pros and cons.

Today Matt talks about how he began his career path into real estate and shares some of the most valuable insights he has gained throughout his journey as an agent and investor.

Today we talked to Katrina Meistering, CEO and Team Leader at Keller Williams Gateway about the reality of the day to day life of a real estate agent, as well as the challenges and opportunities of pursuing a career in real estate in 2023.

Today we talked to Matt Derby the CEO and founder of Derby Real Estate Development about how he started in the real estate business and got to where he is today with a portfolio of over 200+ properties in Maryland.

In the spirit of the 4/20 holiday, Matt sits down with Licensed Nurse Practitioner, Nicole Dennis, of CannaCare Docs to discuss the benefits of cannabis treatment. Nicole started her career as a registered nurse on an ICU, critical care unit and medical surgical unit at both the University of Maryland Medical Center and Anne Arundel Medical Center. Nicole is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a focus of complementary medicine and has consulted with thousands of patients on cannabis and shares a wealth of knowledge and insights with us!

Today we have a conversation with Jay Rhine, owner and founder of Rhine Landscaping & Rhine Pools, joins his brother Matt to discuss business, life, our community, and how this local, multigenerational farming family beat the odds in business. 

You can get in contact with Jay and his team at: www.rhinepools.com, www.rhinelandscaping.com and www.rhinewatermanagement.com

Today we talked to Bradley Holcomb who is a Senior Growth Advisor at Zillow with more than a decade of experience in this industry. We discussed from the current state of the markets look like to how the future might look like for the real estate business as a whole with the advent of so many new technologies.

Today we talked to Chris Keelty, he's founder and partner at Lawyers Express Title. He represents individuals, investors, developers, and business owners in diverse transactional real estate needs. His line of expertise includes the drafting of contracts of sale, advising in all aspects of a real estate transaction, providing title/settlement services, and representation in complex commercial transactions.

Prior to becoming a Member of HWK Law Group, Chris was an associate with the Towson firm now known as Bodie, Dolina, Hobbs, Friddell & Grenzer, P.C. where he was the managing attorney of the firm’s title company. In...

Dr. Rachinskaya is a PhD/MBA with 19 years of experience in the private healthcare and real estate business, owning multiple assisted living and rental properties throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. 

She is partner and consultant to several healthcare companies specialized in providing community-based services to the elderly and disabled. 

Dr. Rachinskaya also currently serves in a variety of boards including as Vice President of Industrial Relations for Johns Hopkins.

Today we talk to James Carter, he is a singer/songwriter that performed for 25 years as the drummer with the Teddy Pendergrass band. He's a Grammy nominated artist alongside Teddy Pendergrass for the album "JOY", which garnered both gold & platinum records. His music has been sampled by artists like Jaheim, Jeremy Dupree, K-Gee, & De La Soul. And shared the stage with acts like Jeffrey Gaines, Josh Hoge, Spencer Day, & the great Roy Ayers.

Today we talk to Dr. James P. McGee and his amazing work as a Director of Psychology and Director of Law Enforcement and Forensic Services at Sheppard Pratt Hospital,located in Baltimore, Maryland. He provided over 15 years of service as Chief Psychologist of the Baltimore County Police Department.  

He is also known for being one of the country's leading sports psychologists having counseled amateur athletes, including Olympic Gold Medal winners. He was the team psychologist for the Baltimore Orioles for 8 years, receiving a World Series ring for his special contribution to the Orioles last World Series Championship s...

Today we talk to Peter Wilkinson an experienced financial advisor.

Today we talk to Jon Wald from Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. about real estate in Maryland and the current advantages of investing with diverse financial tools that the market offers.