In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast, we sit down with mortgage experts Tom Toepfer and Gary Reiboldt from The Equitable Bank for a thoughtful discussion about today’s home lending landscape. Insights from this episode include:

• Navigating Today’s Mortgage Market
• How to Remove Stress from the Homebuying Process
• What Makes Equitable Bank Stand Out for Home Loans
• Top Mortgage Tip for First-Time Homebuyers
• Do You Really Need 20% Down to Buy a Home?
• And more!

Whether you’re preparing to buy your first home or exploring refinancing options, Tom and Gary explain what sets community banks apart, how to get ready for the mortgage process, and the importance of having a trusted advisor in your corner. Drawing on years of experience and a genuine commitment to helping clients succeed, they offer clear guidance, practical tips, and insights to help you move forward with confidence.

🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward winning your next home. And, don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more episodes like this one.

In today’s fast-moving real estate market, winning an offer goes far beyond price — it comes down to preparation, strategy, and surrounding yourself with the right experts.

In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast, host Tom Sattler sits down with Suzanne Powers and Gretchen Keating of Powers Realty Group, along with Gary Rieboldt, Senior Lender at The Equitable Bank, to break down what it really takes to succeed in today’s buying environment, including:

• Proven tactics for competing in a crowded market
• Why a buyer consultation can give you a critical edge
• What every buyer should understand before submitting an offer
• The real importance of partnering with an experienced agent

Whether you’re entering the market for the first time or making your next move, this episode offers practical guidance to help you make smarter decisions—and build the right team to support you along the way.

🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward winning your next home. And, don't forget to subscribe for more Smart Start episodes like this one.

In this episode of The Smart Start Podcast, Tom Sattler is joined by Marcus Auerbach—Realtor, investor, and advocate for community-focused development—to explore how real estate can be a powerful tool for building both financial stability and stronger neighborhoods.

Marcus walks through his own path in real estate investing and shares practical lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that have helped him invest with purpose. From first-time investors to those looking to deepen their knowledge, this conversation offers real-world guidance rooted in local experience and a commitment to thoughtful growth in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Tune in to hear how intentional investing can create lasting value—for you and your community—and get inspired to take the next step toward your goals.