Podcasts

Living Rural

Podcast on home financing and mortgages for rural living.

Welcome to Living Rural - a podcast on home financing and mortgages for rural living. Our podcast explores the topics related to buying, building, and financing homes in rural areas, as well as accessing your home's equity and investing in bare land and other investment properties. Our aim is to cover the ins and outs of the home buying process, starting from prequalification and preapprovals to loan estimates and closing disclosures. Additionally, we'll dive into financing home improvements, shouses, barndominiums, and second homes. With our expert guests and in-depth analysis, we'll provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions and choose the right financing partner. Whether you're a homebuyer, real estate professional, or simply interested in what it takes to move to a rural area, this podcast is for you. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the world of rural home financing. Thank you for tuning in to Living Rural! _____________________________________ This podcast is the property of Farm Credit Services of America, ACA, and may not be reused or rebroadcast without the permission of the owner. This Living Rural podcast is brought to you by Farm Credit Services of America® and Frontier Farm Credit®, financial services institutions chartered by the federal Farm Credit Administration, which offer rural home financing through the Rural 1st® consumer loan program. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. No part of this podcast is intended to be considered as an offer or solicitation with respect to any financial services or products. Rural 1st® is a tradename and Rural 1st, the Rolling Hills Window icon, Rural Logic, and Closer to What Matters are exclusive trademarks of Farm Credit Mid-America, NMLS 407249 and is used with permission of its owner. Rural 1st products are available to consumers within the territories of participating Farm Credit System Associations including Farm Credit Services of America NMLS 579135 and Frontier Farm Credit NMLS 628123, Michelle Sandin NMLS 171777. All loans and conversions are subject to credit approval and eligibility. Farm Credit Mid-America, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit are Equal Housing Lenders. Specific advice and recommendations can only be provided through a direct contact with one of our consumer loan officers. All services provided or extensions of credit shall be determined only upon the completion of an appropriate application and consideration of individual credit and financial information. Non-employee guests on this podcast are not paid representatives of Farm Credit Services of America or Frontier Farm Credit and their opinions are their own. The appearance of such guests on this podcast is not an endorsement of such guests or any services they may offer. © 2024 Farm Credit Services of America, ACA

Latest Episode

Rebuilding with Rural 1st: Customer Recounts Recovery after Home Fire

In this episode of Living Rural, Michelle Sandin talks to Shawn Robinson about his family's construction process following a 2022 house fire. Patience is important, so is a good contractor and quick, easy financing. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

April 9 • 15m 17s

Episodes

Rebuilding with Rural 1st: Customer Recounts Recovery after Home Fire

April 9 • 15m 17s

Rural Homes and More for Young and Beginning Producers

Starting an agricultural business is capital intensive. Then there is the cost of buying or building a home for your family. On this episode of Living Rural, Michelle Sandin is joined by Evan Babcock, a young and beginning relationship officer for Farm Credit Services of America, to discuss financing and programs that help young and beginning producers meet all their needs. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

March 26 • 14m 27s

Unveiling Key Financial Metrics for Rural Home Financing

Tune in for this insightful discussion with credit analyst Jen Goodman while we explore the financial metrics that are crucial for analyzing repayment in rural home financing. Gain valuable insights into the four key financial statements that shape loan approvals and discover why understanding a farmer's financial position is essential for a suitable mortgage. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

January 26 • 17m 44s

More Than Just Loans: How Rural 1st Supports Your Rural Homebuilding Journey

This episode of Living Rural is all about construction financing in rural areas. Michelle Sandin is joined by Jenni Mora Velazquez, the director of operations at Rural 1st, to discuss the construction loan process, the Built online tool, and how Rural 1st can help you build your dream home in the country. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

January 2 • 21m 3s

Behind the Deeds: Unraveling the Complexity of Title Work

As the Operations Manager at Midwest Title, Living Rural special guest David Welte sheds light on the significance of title work in real estate transactions. From the historical perspective of title research to the complexities of ensuring clear ownership, this episode offers insights so you can gain an understanding of the title insurance process and the differences between lender and owner policies and the benefits to real estate buyers. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

December 19 • 23m 43s

Beyond the Barn: Acreage Adventures in Real Estate

For this episode listen about dynamic world of equestrian real estate with guest speaker from Berkshire Hathaway Group, Pam Rasmussen. From picturesque properties resembling Kentucky farms to innovative showcases using drone videos and live feeds from horse, Pam unveils the charm of equestrian real estate. Learn about the changing landscape of acreages, the allure of 'barndominiums,' and how innovative approaches can reshape the way rural properties are presented. A must-listen for horse enthusiasts and those seeking a distinctive home in the countryside. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

November 30 • 23m 54s

Understanding the Potential of Rural Multi-Use Land with Whitetail Properties

In this episode of Living Rural, Michelle Sandin is joined by Luke Wallace, a seasoned land specialist at Whitetail Properties. They explore rural multi-use land financing and the dynamic real estate market in southeast Nebraska. Learn about land loan options and discover the impact of partnerships between Rural 1st and Whitetail Properties in making rural living dreams come true. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

November 15 • 22m 32s

Your Mortgage Journey: Where Customer Support Matters Most

On this episode, we're talking to Kristy Anderson, the director of Rural 1st Customer Care team. Kristy and her team provide world-class service, from the start of the loan journey through the final payoff. We'll discuss the wide range of services the Customer Care team offers and the expectations you should have with ANY lender. Whether you're a current Rural 1st customer or you're thinking about buying a rural home, this episode is for you. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

October 23 • 22m 59s

Building a Home that Fits Your Lifestyle: Tips from a Drafter

In this episode of Living Rural, we talk to Tony Wright, owner of Elevation Drafting Company, about drafting plans for your new home. Tony shares his insights on the importance of having a well-designed plan, and how to work with a drafter to create a plan that meets your needs and budget. We also discuss the latest trends in home design, and how to make your home more energy-efficient. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

October 9 • 26m 48s

Buying Land for Your Dream Home

Buying land for your dream home is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode, we're joined by Emily Swinford, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens, to discuss everything you need to know about buying land for home construction. Emily covers a wide range of topics, including what to look for, different types of land loans, zoning and permitting process, utilities and more. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

September 21 • 20m 23s

Rural Home Construction, Tips from a Local Custom Builder

In this episode of Living Rural, we discuss the ins and outs of building a custom home. We talk to Andrew and Poppy Grove of Grove Custom Homes, who share their insights on the challenges and rewards of the process, as well as the importance of managing expectations and communication. We also discuss some tips for choosing the right custom home builder. This episode is a must listen for anyone who is thinking about building a custom home. It is full of valuable information that can help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your investment. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

September 6 • 39m 42s

Navigating Rural Construction Financing: What You Need to Know

If you're planning to build your dream home in a rural area, this episode is a must listen. Our host takes us through the ins and outs of their unique construction loan product, designed to meet the specific needs of rural customers. From understanding the application process and disbursement schedules, to obtaining credit approval and ordering appraisals, this episode covers the major steps involved in financing and constructing your rural dream home. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

August 14 • 15m 47s

Demystifying Home Loan Appraisals: A Conversation with a Rural Appraiser

Want to learn the ins and outs of property appraisals? Tune in to this enlightening episode of Living Rural, where an appraiser from Farm Credit Services of America, shares her expertise. Discover the essential elements of an appraisal report, including property features, comparables, and market value. Gain a deeper understanding of how factors like location, acreage, and utility influence the appraisal process for rural properties. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

July 31 • 20m 7s

Exploring the Rise of Shouses and Barndominiums in Rural Living

Join us as we talk about the growing popularity of Shouse and Barndominiums in rural areas. Discover the key differences between these unique structures and learn from our guest, Kirsten from Critel Buildings, about their company's specialization, including their use of post frame construction. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777

July 17 • 18m 49s

Rural Mortgage Application Process

The mortgage world is always changing. And it can be difficult to find a lender who understands agriculture and its unique income stream. We provide the latest information on applying for a mortgage, including for the self-employed. Learn about the differences between pre-qualification, pre-approval and hard approval. We also discuss down payments. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777 Guest: Sarah Sabatka NMLS #1208993

July 3 • 9m 11s

How Much Can You Afford?

We discuss ways to understand how much you can afford, including your goals, your budget, and the different income sources and the types of statements that help determine that. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777 Guest: Sarah Sabatka NMLS #1208993

June 19 • 13m 51s

Preparing to Buy a Rural Home

Start here with your first steps to learn how to prepare to buy a home, or buying land for your dream home. Where do you start? What are things to keep in mind? How much can I afford? Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777 Guest: Kristin Larsen NMLS #905181

June 5 • 14m

Expertise with Farm Credit Services of America®

Deeper dive into who is Farm Credit Services of America® and how we brought in specialized expertise to serve consumer lending market. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777 Guest: Kristin Larsen NMLS #905181

May 30 • 3m 33s

Who’s Farm Credit and Rural 1st®?

Join us as we talk through who Farm Credit is, what it means to be a "Cooperative," and the highlights of Rural 1st® consumer lending products. Host: Michelle Sandin NMLS #171777 Guest: Kristin Larsen NMLS #905181

May 22 • 8m 15s