Credit is the key to unlocking financial opportunities — but how do you build it, what’s included in your score, and how can you improve it?

In this episode, Cory Meals and Michelle Castle explain the fundamentals of credit, the factors that affect your score, and practical ways to strengthen it.

If you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve your credit before buying a home, this episode gives you the tools to move forward with confidence.

Your credit score can open doors — or keep them closed. In this episode, Cory Meals and Michelle Castle explain what a credit score is, why it matters to lenders, and what factors influence it.

If you’re thinking about buying a home or want to better understand your financial standing, this episode will help you unlock the answers.

In Season 2, Episode 5 of The Unlocking Doors Podcast, Cory Meals and Michelle Castle unpack the realities of selling in today’s housing market.

From pricing your home right to getting it market-ready, this episode delivers practical strategies that help sellers stand out—even in competitive neighborhoods.

You’ll learn:

• The keys to an effective pricing strategy
• Why presentation and prep work drive buyer interest
• How to avoid costly mistakes that stall a sale

Whether you’re a homeowner considering selling or an agent guiding clients, this quick and insightful conversation is a must-listen.

🎧 Tune in now and discover how to sell smarter, not harder.

In Season 2, Episode 4 of The Unlocking Doors Podcast, Cory Meals and Michelle Castle cut through the noise and bring buyers back to the basics.

They reveal the top three things that actually matter when purchasing a home—no fluff, no clickbait.

You’ll learn:

• Why chasing the “perfect rate” can lead to missed opportunities
• How to focus on your payment, plan, and purpose
• What smart buyers are doing right now to gain long-term wins

Whether you’re buying your first home or advising someone who is, this episode delivers honest, practical advice in under 15 minutes.

🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear it!

Is now a smart time to buy a home, or should you wait for rates to drop? 🤔

In Season 2, Episode 3 of The Unlocking Doors Podcast, Cory Meals (The Meals Team at eXp Realty) and Michelle Castle (Guild Mortgage) get real about what’s actually going on in today’s housing market.

They’ll unpack:

• How interest rates are influencing buyer psychology
• Why appreciation and equity matter more than timing
• The long-term cost of “waiting for the perfect moment”

If you’re on the fence about buying—or trying to guide clients who are—this quick, insightful conversation is for you.

🔑 Subscribe and follow for more no-fluff, real estate talk that opens doors.

In this must-listen episode, Cory Meals and Michelle Castle dive into the essentials of homeowners insurance. 🏡 We discuss:

• Why premiums are rising across Texas and what it means for you.
• The risks of cutting coverage to save money and why being underinsured can cost you more in the long run.
• The importance of an annual check-in with your insurance agent to ensure your coverage still fits your needs.

Don’t leave your largest investment vulnerable! Tune in for expert advice on staying proactive and properly insured.

🔔 Subscribe for more insights into protecting and maximizing your real estate investments!

Join Cory Meals and Michelle Castle in this insightful episode as they explore the economic landscape under the new presidential administration. 🏛️ We delve into:

The impact of new immigration laws on the labor force.

Changes in trade policies and their economic implications.

Interest rate projections and how they might affect buyers and sellers.

What property values are projected to do in the near future.

Whether you're navigating the real estate market or just curious about the latest economic policies, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

🔔 Subscribe for more expert advice and updates on real estate and finance!

In this episode of "Unlocking Doors," hosts Michelle Castle and Cory Meals delve into the world of new construction, exploring the various paths to building your dream home. They discuss the options of buying land and hiring a custom builder, purchasing a completed spec home, and having a spec home built. Each process comes with its unique steps and financing considerations. Michelle and Cory provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand the differences and make informed decisions. Whether you're envisioning a custom masterpiece or considering a spec home, this episode offers valuable insights for every aspiring homeowner.

www.MichelleCastle.com

www.TheMealsTeam.com