In this episode of Behind the Closing Door, Nicole and Tony sit down with Veronica Meij, owner of Next Phase Inspections, to unpack the often-overlooked world of home inspections. Veronica shares her journey into the industry and why inspections are one of the most important parts of a real estate transaction. From breaking down 75-page reports into manageable takeaways, to explaining which issues are deal breakers versus DIY fixes, she sheds light on how buyers and sellers can approach inspections with confidence.

The conversation touches on rising inspection challenges, negotiation strategies, and the importance of using certified professionals—plus a few wild inspection horror stories that will leave you shaking your head. Veronica also explains why even brand-new builds need a thorough inspection and highlights the value of pre-listing checks for sellers.

This episode is packed with insights, humor, and practical advice for anyone buying, selling, or supporting clients in today’s market.

In this episode of Behind the Closing Door, Nicole and Tony sit down with Stephanie Breckbill, owner of SLB Design Company, wellness-focused staging consultant, clarity coach, and co-host of the Stager Savvy podcast. Stephanie shares why home staging is more than just pretty décor—it’s about creating a feeling that helps buyers instantly connect with a property.

The conversation dives into how sellers can make their homes stand out in today’s competitive market, the psychology behind buyer decisions, and why staging is both a “price war and a beauty contest.” Stephanie also offers practical design tips, from decluttering and lighting updates to using bold trends in the right spaces. Beyond staging, she opens up about her journey into clarity coaching and how it empowers both her clients and fellow small business owners.

This episode is packed with insights for real estate agents, homeowners preparing to sell, and anyone who wants to make their space feel intentional and market-ready.

In this episode of Behind the Closing Door, Nicole and Tony sit down with Adam Gillespie, founder of Apex Elite AI, Inman Award winner, and recognized leader in AI for real estate. Adam shares his journey from discovering ChatGPT to building one of the most impactful AI training communities for realtors worldwide. He reveals how agents can leverage AI to save time, streamline their business, and reclaim balance in their personal lives all while avoiding the common fears around “being replaced.” From real-world case studies (like saving a deal with zoning laws) to the future of generative engine optimization (GEO), this conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about how AI is transforming real estate and beyond.