In this episode of Cameron’s Corner, I’m joined again by First Colony Mortgage loan officer TJ Shelley to break down what Utah buyers need to know as we head into 2026. We talk about how falling interest rates are improving affordability, why buyer curiosity is picking back up, and what it actually means to be prepared before you start touring homes.

We also dive into one of the most misunderstood parts of the buying process: pre-qualification vs. pre-approval. TJ explains how lenders look at credit, income, and down payments, why soft credit pulls are a game-changer for early planning, and how starting the lending conversation early can save you real money and stress.

If buying a home in Utah is a goal for you in 2026 — or even something you’re just starting to think about — this episode is all about clarity, strategy, and confidence so you can move forward the right way.

In this episode, I’m joined by Alec Maddox, new construction agent with Edge Homes and one of the trusted partners on my real estate team.

We cover:
✅ Why I only work with vetted agents, lenders, and builders✅ Alec’s experience selling—and living in—Edge condos, townhomes, and single-family homes✅ Edge Homes’ standout warranties and build quality✅ Current incentives: 4.99% interest rate and up to 7–9% in concessions✅ How buyers are using those incentives for rate buydowns and closing costs✅ Why working with Edge’s preferred lender, First Colony, matters✅ Where Edge is building now and where they’re expanding✅ Why this may be the best time to buy before incentives disappear

Alec also shares why fall is his favorite season in Utah and his go-to local golf spots.

If you want to see what incentives you qualify for with Edge Homes, message me on Instagram @cameronhekking.re or text me at (385) 200-9893 and I’ll connect you with Alec.

See you next week!

Utah’s housing market has never been more talked about — but is it still possible to buy affordably in 2025?

In this episode of Cameron’s Corner, I sit down with TJ Shelley from First Colony Mortgage to break down:

• Why affordability feels so tough in today’s Utah market

• How mortgage rates, inflation, and COVID-era policies shaped where we are now

• Builder incentives and how they can drastically reduce your monthly payment

• Why Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are game-changers for first-time buyers

• Tips for making homeownership achievable even with high prices

• Where rates could be headed over the next 12 months

We also dive into some Utah-specific insights, strategies for first-time buyers, and why getting into your first property is the hardest — but most important — step.

Whether you’re a Utah homebuyer, seller, or investor, this episode gives you the tools and perspective to navigate today’s market.

🎥 Now available in both audio and video formats!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIn3uCyYjTVHcv6sIIRkJBQ📍 Covering Utah County, Salt Lake County, and beyond.