Martini Mortgage Podcast

If 2026 is the year you're finally planning to buy a home…this episode might save you a very expensive lesson. Because here's the truth most buyers don't realize until it's too late: the year before you buy is the one that decides how stressful—or strategic—the experience will be. In this episode, Kevin Martini breaks down what 2025 quietly revealed about the Raleigh housing market—and why those lessons matter right now as 2026 gets underway. No hype. No market panic. No guessing where rates are headed. Just a clear, calm explanation of: Why Raleigh never really "slows down"—it reshuffles The subtle shift that gave prepared buyers leverage (and caught others flat-footed) The difference between hopeful buyers and strategic buyers Why waiting to feel "ready" often costs more than acting with clarity What actually matters if buying a home is part of your 2026 plan This episode is for anyone who wants to buy smart, stay calm, and avoid making a rushed decision they'll be paying for long after closing