Brick Buy Brick

In this episode of Brick buy Brick, hosts Kim Von Dohren and Ed Marko explain why saving matters and how to start — from building an emergency fund and trimming everyday expenses to using compounding interest and maximizing employer 401(k) matches.
They offer practical tips to reduce spending, prioritize short- and long-term goals, and begin retirement savings so listeners can steadily build financial security.

Join hosts Kim VonDohren and Ed Marko in this insightful episode of 'Brick by Brick, Building Wealth Through Homeownership.' In the second part of their maintenance series, they delve into the importance of maintaining various aspects of your home's interior. From painting walls and cleaning carpets to servicing HVAC systems and ensuring plumbing and appliances are in good shape, they cover it all.
Discover practical tips on how to keep your home in great condition, whether it's replacing filters monthly, draining water heaters or maintaining wood and tile flooring. Learn the importance of regular servicing contracts for your heating and air conditioning systems and explore the benefits of home warranties.
This episode is packed with valuable advice for homeowners who want to maximize their property's longevity and value. Don't miss out on these expert tips to ensure your home remains a safe and welcoming space.

In this celebratory 20th episode of Brick by Brick, hosts Kim VonDohren and Ed Marko dive into the importance of regular home maintenance to sustain and grow your home’s value. Drawing parallels between homeownership and a 401k, they emphasize the necessity of investing in both interior and exterior upkeep, starting this week with a comprehensive guide to exterior maintenance.
From inspecting your roof to maintaining your yard and gutters, Kim and Ed provide practical tips and anecdotes to help homeowners navigate the essentials. They discuss the longevity and care requirements of various roofing materials, the importance of regular gutter cleaning and driveway maintenance, and the need for diligent upkeep of windows, decks, and landscaping.
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or looking to preserve your property’s worth, tune in to learn how a little maintenance today can lead to substantial wealth tomorrow.

Join Kim Von Dohren and Ed Marko in an insightful episode where they delve into the intricacies of property assessment and property taxes, focusing primarily on Berks County, Pennsylvania. While the details may vary by location, the principles discussed provide valuable guidance for all homeowners looking to appeal their property taxes.
Discover the importance of understanding fair market value, common level ratios, and how they affect your tax bill. Kim shares her experiences from a tax appeal seminar, explaining the significant benefits that appealing your property taxes can bring, especially if your home was built new by you.
Throughout the episode, learn useful tips on gathering evidence for tax appeals, including utilizing comparable properties and obtaining professional appraisals. Whether you are seasoned in property matters or a newbie, this episode equips you with the knowledge to potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually on property taxes.

This session delves into the three pivotal stages of homeownership that mirror life’s changing needs: the starter home, the big family home, and the transition to a smaller, more manageable home for your golden years.
Kim and Ed explore why holding onto a house longer than beneficial can become a burden rather than a blessing. They share practical advice on recognizing the right moments to transition from a large family home to something more suitable, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead to maintain financial stability and enjoy a worry-free retirement.
Embrace these insights to prepare for a future that adapts to your lifestyle changes and aligns with your evolving personal and financial goals. Join us in this thoughtful discussion about making informed real estate decisions that support your journey through life's stages.