Welcome back to Beth’s Kitchen! We are starting with simple fun, (easy for most everyone, including us) ideas and will grow our palette over the weeks to come. In this episode, real estate agent Beth Latham, the host of Beth’s Kitchen, is joined by her long-time friend and trusted lender partner, Julie Poole. From catching up over a refreshing cocktail at the bar to cooking up a crowd-pleasing White Chicken Chili, they share great food, fun stories, and practical mortgage strategies for home buyers.
Kicking Off at the Bar: Twin Moms Catch Up & The “White Rabbit” Cocktail
Beth and Julie’s friendship goes back 26 years to when they were both pregnant with twins. While one dealt with morning sickness and the other sailed right through, they bonded over raising their kids together. Fast forward to today—their twins are all grown up, but they’re still catching up over a great drink!
The “White Rabbit” Cocktail Recipe
- Equal parts Roku Gin and Vodka
- Fresh mint leaves (muddled)
- Splash of St-Germain
- Top with club soda to mellow it out
How to Make It: Muddle fresh mint leaves in your cocktail shaker. Add equal parts Roku Gin and vodka, followed by a splash of St-Germain. Shake well, pour over ice, top with club soda, and enjoy!
Heading to the Kitchen: Simple & Versatile White Chicken Chili
With drinks in hand, Beth and Julie head over to the kitchen to whip up a simple, cozy meal. White Chicken Chili is a family favorite that requires very few ingredients and can easily be customized to your taste preferences.
Chili Ingredients
- Pre-seasoned, seared chicken breast
- 3 cans Great Northern beans (undrained)
- Chicken broth
- Cumin, taco seasoning, salt, and fresh ground pepper
- (ADD WHATEVER YOUR FAMILY ENJOYS)
Toppings & Serving Suggestions
- Tortilla chips or Fritos
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or mild cheddar)
- Sour cream
Cooking Instructions
- Sear the Meat: Season your chicken breasts well and sear them in your slow cooker or pot. Searing seals in the juices and creates a browning effect that deepens the flavor and thickens the broth.
- LINK FOR: MAGNIFIQUE 6 Quart Programmable Casserole Slow Cooker, 8-in-1 Multi Cooker with Removable Non-Toxic Stoneware Crock, Claypot Slow Cooker
- Combine Ingredients: Add the seared chicken, three undrained cans of Great Northern beans (the starch in the liquid helps thicken the broth), and chicken broth into the cooker.
- Season: Add extra cumin, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Meld the Flavors: Stir well, cover, and let it heat through so all the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with chips, cheese, cilantro, and sour cream.
Navigating Today’s Real Estate Market: Buyer & Seller Tips
While the chili simmers, Beth and Julie shift focus to actionable advice for navigating current real estate and mortgage conditions:
1. Consider a 2/1 Buy Down
A 2/1 buy down is a seller-paid concession that temporarily lowers the buyer’s interest rate:
- Year 1: The interest rate is 2% lower than the standard rate.
- Year 2: The interest rate is 1% lower.
- Year 3 Onward: The rate returns to the full note rate.
This is a powerful tool for sellers to offer to make monthly payments significantly more manageable for buyers upfront.
2. Explore Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs)
In changing rate environments, structured ARMs—such as a 7-year ARM—allow buyers to lock in lower initial interest rates and enjoy payment stability for years before the rate adjusts. Buyers qualify based on the current rate, making entry into a new home more affordable.
3. Lock In Your Rate Strategically
When going under contract, buyers generally lock in their rate for a window of 30 to 45 days. Because closing timelines vary depending on the loan type, close communication between your real estate agent and lender is essential to avoid paying unnecessary fees for rate extensions.
4. Get Pre-Qualified Early
You don’t need to wait until you find a house to reach out to a lender. Pre-qualifications generally last about six months. Getting pre-qualified 3 to 6 months before you plan to buy gives you a clear understanding of your budget and cash needed to close, so you are ready to make a move when the right home comes along.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy comfort meal for game day or ready to start your journey toward buying a home, having the right blend of ingredients and local partners makes all the difference!
Sources:
