In the very first 2026 episode of the Coffee and Keys podcast, hosts Darlene Kemp, Sarah Kemp, and Natalie Rusnak sit down to share their stories and experiences in the real estate world. They talk about what it’s really like to walk alongside people through one of the biggest decisions of their lives—buying a home.

From building trust and staying connected to the community, to helping first-time buyers navigate finances and emotions, the conversation covers both the practical and personal sides of real estate. They also reflect on the challenges of the market, what makes the work so rewarding, and how they hope the podcast will serve as a helpful, encouraging resource for listeners moving forward.

Hosts Crystal Jacques and Darlene Kemp, with guest Laurie MacNaughton, explore the benefits, mechanics, and misconceptions of reverse mortgages. They discuss how these tools can help seniors age in place, provide financial flexibility, cover expenses like medical costs and home improvements, and protect heirs from debt. The conversation emphasizes understanding the realities of reverse mortgages and their potential as a strategic option in retirement planning.

In this episode, Darlene Kemp and Crystal Jacques break down the real deal behind buyer broker agreements—why they matter, what they include, and how they protect you. From agent responsibilities and legal must-knows to negotiating fees and dealing with lenders, they cover it all with clarity and insight. If you’re buying a home (or just want to be smart about the process), this is your must-hear guide to clear communication, confidentiality, and confident decision-making.

In this episode, Crystal Jacques and Darlene Kemp break down the real value of homeownership, the power of equity, and how to turn your home into a tool for building long-term wealth. 💰🏡

They discuss:

• Why equity matters
• Renting vs. buying
• Bridge loans and tapping into home equity
• Smart budgeting and financial literacy

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or thinking about your next move, this conversation is packed with real estate insights to help you make smarter financial decisions.

We explore the evolving role of AI in real estate, discussing how technology is transforming transactions while emphasizing the enduring importance of human connection, trust, and emotional insight. They reflect on the balance between automation and personal touch, highlighting AI’s benefits in streamlining processes alongside the irreplaceable value of human expertise in negotiations, client relationships, and complex decision-making.

Crystal Jacques and Darlene Kemp dive into the key challenges that come up after a real estate contract is ratified. They break down important topics like appraisal gaps, title issues, and why having a knowledgeable agent is crucial for navigating these obstacles. The conversation highlights the complexities of the home buying process and the importance of educating buyers along the way.

They also discuss common hurdles that can delay closing, such as difficulties securing homeowners insurance, the impact of past insurance claims, the need for flood insurance, and the importance of disclosing all debts. Additionally, they cover how earnest money deposits are handled and why clear communication between buyers and lenders is essential for a smooth transaction.

In this conversation, Crystal Jacques and Darlene Kemp discuss the importance and benefits of renovation loans in the current real estate market. They explore various types of renovation loans, the process of obtaining them, and share real-life success stories that highlight how these loans can help buyers transform homes to fit their needs. The discussion emphasizes the potential for buyers to see beyond the current state of a property and envision the possibilities for renovation, ultimately making homeownership more accessible and personalized.

Darlene Kemp and Crystal Jacques reflect on the past year and share predictions for the 2025 real estate market. They discuss market trends, interest rates, buyer behavior, new construction, and rehab opportunities. Emphasizing the importance of home customization and buyer education on loan programs, they highlight potential growth, increased opportunities for first-time buyers, and creative financing options as consumer confidence returns.