Real Estate Excellence

What does it take to build a thriving real estate business from scratch—while raising three kids as a single mom? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Beverly Hecht, a top Jacksonville Beach realtor, who shares her compelling journey from IT sales to becoming a real estate powerhouse. A Jacksonville native with deep community roots, Beverly dives into how her corporate discipline, single-mom tenacity, and relentless drive helped her transition into real estate and build a loyal client base along Florida's First Coast. From navigating tough markets like 2008's crash to today's complex insurance landscape and evolving buyer expectations, Beverly offers rich insights and strategies that new and seasoned agents alike can benefit from. Her love for the beaches, community involvement, and commitment to lifelong learning truly set her apart in a competitive industry. Loved Beverly's story? Subscribe now and leave us a review! Share this episode with someone who dreams of turning obstacles into opportunity in the real estate world.   Highlights: 00:00 - 04:30 Beverly's Early Career & Transition ·        Shifts in buyer behavior ·        Parenting perspectives on adulthood ·        Helping all age groups purchase homes ·        Insight into young vs. seasoned buyers ·        Real estate as a path to wealth 04:31 - 11:00 Navigating Generational Differences ·        Pursuing teaching for family time ·        Corporate-sponsored bachelor's degree ·        Missed opportunity at UF master's program ·        Management and HR experience ·        Reflection on shifting corporate values 11:01 - 20:00 Jacksonville's Unique Real Estate Market ·        Geographic and lifestyle diversity ·        Schools' influence on buying decisions ·        Customized client tours ·        Community needs: golf, beach, fitness ·        Real-life relocation scenarios 20:01 - 27:00 Insurance Woes & Structural Challenges ·        Florida's condo insurance chaos ·        Effects of new regulations ·        Firsthand experience with rising premiums ·        Advice for home buyers ·        Navigating inspections and requirements 27:01 - 00:38:00 Insurance, Market Challenges, and Pricing ·        Shifts in market dynamics ·        Personal sacrifices during 2008 crisis ·        Foreclosures and investor impact ·        Strategy for buyers in today's market ·        Education on value vs. price 38:01 – 01:11:03 Agent Growth & New Market Realities ·        Helping buyers in a high-rate environment ·        Tips for new agents post-NAR changes ·        The power of open houses ·        Buyer rep agreements and their perception ·        Risk management in today's market ·        Conclusion   Quotes: “I feel very fortunate that I come from a corporate background where there were methods and procedures.” – Beverly Hecht “You're not going to get the perfect storm—low rates and low home prices with the home you want.” – Beverly Hecht “My heart's not in working with investors looking to take advantage of people.” – Beverly Hecht “Real estate does more for me than sometimes I think it does for them.” – Beverly Hecht   To contact Beverly Hecht, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on her Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Beverly Hecht! Website: https://www.beverlyhechtrealtor.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beverlyhecht/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beverlyhechtpa/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverlyhechtpa/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #JacksonvilleRealtor #BeverlyHecht #BeachLifeHomes #RealEstatePodcast #WomenInRealEstate #RealEstateGrit #FloridaHomes #RelocationExpert #HousingMarket2025 #HomeBuyers #RealEstateTips #RealtorLife #SingleMomSuccess #MarketInsights #BuyersMarket #CondoLiving #RealEstateEducation #FloridaInsurance #LocalLeadership

What happens when you mix discipline, precision, and deep empathy into a real estate business? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Cindy James. Cindy is a licensed REALTOR, & Broker Associate, public speaker, and co-owner of Island Construction & Remodeling in Jacksonville, FL. With over 30 years in the corporate world and a background in real estate investing, Cindy blends business savvy, local expertise, and construction knowledge to help clients buy, sell, and transform homes with confidence. She's built a standout brand by leading with heart, hustle, and an unwavering commitment to helping clients turn houses into homes—and investments into opportunities. From flipping homes and streamlining renovation projects to guiding emotional first-time buyers, Cindy emphasizes the power of listening, empathy, and having a process. She doesn't just help clients buy and sell homes—she helps them achieve life goals with clarity and confidence. Whether she's organizing a move, catching missed home defects, or coordinating cleanouts, Cindy shows that elite real estate agents are much more than transaction managers—they're life facilitators. If you're a real estate professional looking to elevate your client service or a buyer who wants a seamless and empathetic experience, follow Cindy James and stay connected!   Highlights: 00:00 - 05:12 Military Discipline & Early Influences Life with a drill sergeant father Spanish at home, English at school Friday night inspections and household order Lessons from growing up in a military family How discipline shaped her professional habits 05:13 - 12:34 Corporate to Real Estate Evolution 30-year corporate tenure at Florida Blue First home at 22: love for new construction Real estate investment beginnings Applying Six Sigma to her business transition Passion for process and continuous improvement 12:35 - 21:45 Making Chaos Seamless for Clients Problem-solving in real estate transactions The unexpected moving day challenge Leveraging contractors for fast turnarounds Protecting clients from behind-the-scenes stress The goal: smooth closings and stress-free clients 21:46 - 33:59 Relationships, Referrals & Reputation Creating client advocates through service Going beyond the transaction Building trust through action, not just words Referrals from people she's never even sold to Consistency and care over commissions 34:00 - 46:02 Listening, Empathy & Emotional Sales Reading the room: listening with eyes and ears Understanding the story behind the sale Helping clients through trauma-driven moves The art of conversation and natural empathy Counseling clients while closing deals 46:03 - 01:10:01 Construction, Data & Dual Expertise How she became co-owner of a renovation firm Business structure meets on-site grit Seeing potential in properties others pass on Pricing renovations and value-add upgrades Targeted marketing using data and strategy Conclusion   Quotes: "Everything is a process—we just don't stop long enough to actually see it and map it out." – Cindy James "My clients don't need to know about the chaos behind the scenes. They need to feel like it was simple." – Cindy James "I will talk you out of buying a house if it's not the right thing to do." – Cindy James "I don't pretend to be perfect. I'm here to help people achieve a goal—that's what drives me." – Cindy James   To contact Cindy James, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on her Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Cindy James! Website: https://RealEstateWithCindyJames.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindy.james.realtor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063589868070 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-james-realtor%C2%AE-broker-associate-3907a01a3/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #CindyJames #JacksonvilleHomes #RealEstatePodcast #EmpathyInBusiness #WomenInRealEstate #HomeFlipping #RenovationExpert #SixSigma #TopAgent #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyers #RealEstateStrategy #LeadershipInRealEstate #ClientFirst #ConstructionToClosing #BilingualAgent #VAHomeLoans #ProcessImprovement #TrustedAdvisor #RealEstateJourney

What if the key to long-term success in real estate isn't sales skills—but mentorship, purpose, and adaptability?   In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Sarah Olson, a powerhouse broker and mentor with over two decades of experience in Northeast Florida. From leading First Coast Collective at RE/MAX Unlimited to launching her own Real Estate Agent Success Academy, Sarah shares her journey of transformation—from a tax accountant to a top-tier agent and educator. With an innate ability to connect, teach, and inspire, she reveals the secrets behind her longevity in the business: personalized mentorship, entrepreneurial thinking, and building relationships that last decades.   Sarah opens up about why most agents fail, the crucial mistakes they make when choosing brokerages, and how she's leveraging both data and AI to coach her team effectively. Whether discussing the perils of kids on e-bikes in Nocatee or explaining the logic behind her successful lead tracker, Sarah offers a masterclass in running a real estate business like a business. Her passion for helping agents succeed shines through every story.   If you're an agent looking to level up your career or someone considering diving into the real estate world, follow Sarah Olson and dive into the Real Estate Agent Success Academy. Subscribe to the Real Estate Excellence Podcast and leave us a 5-star review if you're inspired by Sarah's story!   Highlights: 00:00 – 07:59 From Burnout to Breakthrough: Knowing When to Delegate Understanding personal capacity and time limits Tracy's AI-powered podcast intro strategy Tiffany's take on ChatGPT in bios and branding How AI is reshaping home search and buyer interactions The future of conversational real estate websites 08:00 – 17:59 From Real Estate Legacy to Reluctant Heir Growing up in a small-town real estate family Why Tiffany originally rejected the real estate path How military life shifted her career vision Meeting Debbie Tufts and finding mentorship The early admin years and learning the business backend 18:00 – 26:59 Beacon Born: Building a Business Behind the Scenes Launching a transaction coordination company Supporting agents with scale and efficiency Tiffany's behind-the-scenes role in 2,000+ transactions The value of TC systems and training Why she eventually shut down Beacon 27:00 – 38:59 Tools of the Trade: TC Systems and Outsourcing Smarts What to look for when hiring a TC The power of Open to Close software TCs vs. assistants—what agents should know Personality matching with transaction partners Vacation coverage, communication, and expectations 39:00 – 01:00:59 Growth Gaps: Breaking Through the Agent Ceiling Why so many agents plateau at $6–9M How TCs can free agents to grow Real client experiences and better service Overcoming the mental block of paying for help Transitioning from TC to front-end sales 01:01:00 – 01:29:52 Scaling with Intention: Teams, Tools & Real Talk Breaking income ceilings through delegation Hiring a marketing manager: Sarah's first leap after 20+ years The difference a great TC can make Building systems that support consistent referral flow Choosing the right brokerage and leadership mindset Conclusion   Quotes: “You've got to have a pillar—what you wake up in the morning and what you do.” – Sarah Olson “I have never sold a house in my life. I service my clients, and that's why they refer me.” – Sarah Olson “It's not about the sale; it's about the story. The lifestyle. What's your weekend look like?” – Sarah Olson “Be so good they never forget you—and track you down 15 years later.” – Sarah Olson   To contact Sarah Olson, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on her Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Sarah Olson! Website: https://www.firstcoastcollective.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reagentsuccessacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realestateagentsuccessacademy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraholiviaolson/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstatePodcast #SarahOlson #MentorshipMatters #RealtorLife #TeamBuilding #AIInRealEstate #TransactionCoordinator #RealEstateSystems #DelegationWins #NocateeRealtor #GreenHomes #BrokerLeadership #ClientExperience #ReferralMarketing #RealEstateTips #ScalingSmart #RealEstateEducation #FemaleLeaders #LegacyBuilders #JacksonvilleRealEstate

What if the secret to leveling up your real estate game lies in the systems you don't see? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Tiffany Freeman—a former transaction coordinator turned high-performing agent with Ingle & Volkers. With a sharp mind for systems and strategy honed through military family life and 2,000+ real estate transactions, Tiffany unveils her journey from resisting real estate to thriving at its forefront. Listeners get a front-row seat to Tiffany's unique insights on how backend mastery, tech-savvy tools, and effective delegation supercharge growth. She breaks down the value of transaction coordinators, why agents hit a growth ceiling, and how she leveraged every past experience to transition into a top agent role. Her story is proof that running a real estate business like a business is the key to scaling—and staying sane. Are you a real estate agent stuck under your growth ceiling? Take a page from Tiffany's playbook: delegate, systemize, and elevate. Subscribe to the show, share this episode, and follow Tiffany's journey to get inspired on how to scale smart! Highlights: 00:00 – 07:59 From Burnout to Breakthrough: Knowing When to Delegate Understanding personal capacity and time limits Tracy's AI-powered podcast intro strategy Tiffany's take on ChatGPT in bios and branding How AI is reshaping home search and buyer interactions The future of conversational real estate websites 08:00 – 17:59 From Real Estate Legacy to Reluctant Heir Growing up in a small-town real estate family Why Tiffany originally rejected the real estate path How military life shifted her career vision Meeting Debbie Tufts and finding mentorship The early admin years and learning the business backend 18:00 – 26:59 Beacon Born: Building a Business Behind the Scenes Launching a transaction coordination company Supporting agents with scale and efficiency Tiffany's behind-the-scenes role in 2,000+ transactions The value of TC systems and training Why she eventually shut down Beacon 27:00 – 38:59 Tools of the Trade: TC Systems and Outsourcing Smarts What to look for when hiring a TC The power of Open to Close software TCs vs. assistants—what agents should know Personality matching with transaction partners Vacation coverage, communication, and expectations 39:00 – 01:00:59 Growth Gaps: Breaking Through the Agent Ceiling Why so many agents plateau at $6–9M How TCs can free agents to grow Real client experiences and better service Overcoming the mental block of paying for help Transitioning from TC to front-end sales 01:01:00 – 01:14:59 Elevating the Client Experience Buyer consults, setting expectations, and weekly reporting Creating structure for high-level service Building referral-worthy processes Client events and marketing delegation Making real estate personal and predictable 01:15:00 – 01:26:42 Final Advice and Operational Wisdom Hiring the right TC for your business style Understanding the true value of your time Tapping into TC knowledge as a new agent Transitioning gracefully from backend to frontlines Leaving listeners with tactical takeaways Conclusion   Quotes: "Every agent has a capacity ceiling. A TC gives you your life—and your business—back." – Tiffany Freeman "Just because you're doing well doesn't mean you can't be doing better—with systems." – Tiffany Freeman "We're in people's lives during their most emotional transitions. That's an honor." – Tiffany Freeman   To contact Tiffany Freeman, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC! Website: http://debbietuftsgroup.evrealestate.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffsellsjax/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TiffanyFreemanRealEstate LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanytfreeman/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #TiffanyFreeman #JacksonvilleRealtor #RealEstatePodcast #MilitarySpouseRealtor #TransactionCoordinator #AIinRealEstate #RealEstateSuccess #WomenInRealEstate #RealEstateTips #EngelAndVolkers #SmartDelegation #ClientExperience #RealEstateGrowth #ScalingYourBusiness #RealEstateStrategy #TechInRealEstate #RealEstateMentorship #RealEstateCareer #WorkLifeBalance

Is your brokerage truly giving you freedom, flexibility, and financial growth? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes with Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC. Kimberly shares how her journey from the United States Marine Corps to Jacksonville real estate has been a masterclass in reinvention. With a rich background in media, marketing, and business leadership, Kimberly brings more than just property expertise—she brings people-first values, military grit, and a deep understanding of Jacksonville's evolving communities. Kimberly dives deep into the nuances of VA loans, new construction challenges, and the power of truly knowing your client. From advocating for veteran homebuyers to spearheading relocation success stories, Kimberly's authenticity and dedication shine. Whether you're a new agent, seasoned pro, or simply passionate about purpose-driven business, this episode will leave you energized and informed. Loved Kimberly's story? Share this episode with a veteran, aspiring agent, or someone relocating to Jacksonville!   Highlights: 00:00 – 13:59 Starting Strong: Military Roots and Real Estate Beginnings Kimberly's Marine Corps experience and discipline Transition from military to business world Lessons from Camp Pendleton Embracing military values in real estate Starting with Berkshire Hathaway 14:00 – 25:59 VA Loans Demystified Why many veterans don't use their VA benefits Key misconceptions about VA loans How VA loans compare to other options Educating sellers about VA buyers Leveraging VA loan assumptions 26:00 – 38:59 The Power of Pre-Listing Inspections Importance in today's insurance market Real examples of inspection deal-breakers How it builds trust with buyers Avoiding renegotiation pitfalls Saving time and money upfront 39:00 – 50:59 Homeownership Journeys: Personal and Professional Kimberly's first-time homebuyer story Budgeting, planning, and long-term vision Unexpected life changes and real estate impact The rise of single women homeowners Using her journey to guide clients 51:00 – 1:04:59 New Construction: Expect the Unexpected Why new builds still need inspections Issues with builders during high-demand years Being a client advocate during construction Virtual check-ins and milestone walkthroughs Learning to speak up for the buyer 1:05:00 – 1:22:31 Market Trends and Local Expertise Navigating Florida's competitive housing market The impact of interest rates and inventory shifts Balancing seller concessions and buyer needs Strategic marketing and community presence Staying ahead with local knowledge Conclusion   Quotes:  “You learn so much about yourself when you're out in the field, digging your own latrine and pitching your own shelter.” – Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC  “Just because you're a veteran doesn't mean you can't still benefit—VA loans are powerful and underutilized.” – Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC “I shine in openness and conversation—there's no substitute for showing up and listening.” – Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC  “It's not about the technology; it's about using it to give you more time for the human connection." – Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC   To contact Kimberly L. Waterhouse, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.   Connect with Kimberly L. Waterhouse, Veteran USMC! Website: https://www.realestatenefl.com Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/@reconnectornefl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realestatenorthflorida/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klwaterhouse   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #VeteranRealtor #MarineCorpsToRealtor #VALoanExpert #JacksonvilleRealEstate #MilitaryRelocation #WomenInRealEstate #NewConstructionTips #HomeBuyingJourney #AIInRealEstate #KimberlyWaterhouse #BHHSFloridaNetwork #RelocationSpecialist #RealEstateTraining #RealtorLife #LeadershipInRealEstate #SpringfieldLiving #SupportOurVets #RealEstatePodcast #DigitalMarketingForAgents

Is your brokerage truly giving you freedom, flexibility, and financial growth? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes dives into the dynamic world of REAL Brokerage with guests Gigi Urbanski and Mike Rolewicz. Together, they explore how REAL is disrupting the traditional brokerage model by focusing on scalable support, tech-driven efficiency, and multiple income streams. From streamlined operations to a thriving agent community, REAL positions itself not as a destination, but a vehicle to entrepreneurial success. The conversation uncovers how REAL's powerful tech stack, AI tools like Leo Copilot, and agent-driven training platforms are empowering agents at all levels. Whether you're a new agent looking for structure or a seasoned professional craving freedom and ownership, REAL's transparent model offers simplicity, equity, and genuine collaboration that inspires agents to not only succeed but to build wealth with purpose. Ready to break away from the ordinary?   Highlights: 00:00 – 04:17 Introduction and REAL's Positioning REAL as a platform versus destination Movement-based culture and branding Sneaker culture and dress code ChatGPT used for show prep REAL's buzz compared to LPT 04:17 – 10:50 Tech Stack and Broker Efficiency App-based tools and transaction management Broker support through Leo and real-time calls Transparent commission preview and compliance AI Wallet integration and Visa payouts REAL's scalability in tech and communication 10:50 – 19:54 Community, Culture and Plug-in Potential Education via peer-contributed modules Local masterminds and “come as you are” vibe Relevant agents as trainers Personal stories of switching from other brokerages Adapting to solo, team, or boutique styles 19:54 – 35:21 Business Tools, Financial Planning and ROI Capping, post-cap structure, and stock incentives Integrated budgeting with accountability calls REAL-built one-page business plans Tools for boutique or indie brokers Ease of use and agent empowerment 35:21 – 44:14 Revenue Streams and Support Systems Breakdown of split models and fees REAL Academy and Elite Agent program Referral ecosystem and organic recruiting Agent wins and mentorship stories Collaboration without hard pitching 44:14 – 01:14:26 Leadership, Masterminds, and Events Coffee meetings and spontaneous conversions Mastermind access (Women of Real, Social Media Leaders) Eric Hatch's free coaching sessions RealX events and open-door policy Cross-brokerage collaboration and local engagement Conclusion   Quotes: "REAL is not the destination—it's the vehicle." – Mike Rolewicz "We're going to be doing this with or without you—it'd just be cool if you were with us." – Mike Rolewicz "You're with REAL, you don't have to wear heels anymore." – Gigi Urbanski "Agents aren't looking for another meeting, they're looking for a community." – Gigi Urbanski   To contact Angela “Gigi” Urbanski and Mike Rolewicz, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Website, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Angela “Gigi” Urbanski! Website: https://angelaurbanski.exprealty.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gigiofjax/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GiGiofJAXHomeSquad/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdor_3bwxhJ3HQ8dEU7iYag LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gigiyourhomegirl/   Connect with Mike Rolewicz! Website: https://www.904homeguide.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/904homeguide/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/904homeguide/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikerolewicz904homeguide LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rolewicz-b37135b   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealBrokerage #RealEstateTech #AgentTools #BrokerageDisruption #StockAwards #RealEstateLife #CloudBrokerage #RealEstateMovement #RealTalk #RealAgents #RealResults #LeoCopilot #RealEstateCommunity #TeamLeaderLife #OpenHouseTips #LuxuryRealEstate #WomenInRealEstate #FinancialFreedom #AIinRealEstate #RealtorLife

What drives a couple to leave corporate careers to transform real estate for their community? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes interviews Jessica Mendez and Joel Gonzalez, the dynamic duo behind the Real 4 Jax team with Rise Realty Advisors. Originally from Venezuela, Jessica and Joel share their inspiring journey from adapting to life in the U.S. to becoming one of the most trusted real estate teams serving Jacksonville's Hispanic community. Their mission? To help families build generational wealth through homeownership, using a personalized and bilingual approach that fills in crucial cultural and language gaps for their clients. Jessica's natural people skills and Joel's corporate background merged perfectly when they realized the immense opportunity and need for real estate professionals who truly understand and serve the Spanish-speaking market. Together, they're educating clients, navigating financial systems, and building lasting relationships that stretch far beyond the closing table. From community involvement to leveraging social media and education, their impact is both practical and deeply personal. If you're ready to serve your community with passion or looking to own your future with confidence, this episode will inspire you to take that leap!   Highlights: 00:00 - 10:15 Community Roots and Cultural Impact Deep ties with Jacksonville's Hispanic community Embracing support through presence and purchases From Venezuela to Miami, Georgia, and Jacksonville First impressions of American homeownership Real estate as a pathway to generational wealth 10:16 - 22:00 Navigating Cultural Barriers in Homeownership Credit myths and distrust in financial systems Lending challenges: cash buyers and untraceable income Educational gaps for first-time buyers Real-world lending stories and frustrations Helping immigrants understand financial requirements 22:01 - 35:00 From Corporate to Client-First Real Estate Joel's transition from industrial engineering to real estate Jessica's spark for real estate through helping others Building a business with family and flexibility Supporting each other's careers through synergy Early hurdles and overcoming language and cultural bias 35:01 - 47:30 Service With Heart Going the Extra Mile Treating every client like a long-term partner Examples of cleaning, staging, and trimming trees Refusing to delegate home prep to others Focus on community-based content and video marketing Real estate as more than sales—it's relationship work 47:31 - 01:01:00 Education, Marketing and Staying Top-of-Mind Hosting educational seminars and classes Using newsletters and social media for outreach Building lifelong relationships with clients Staying connected through community invites Proactive inspection advice and long-term planning 01:01:01 - 01:23:43 Mindset, Grit and the Power of Purpose Real estate as a calling and personal mission Playing the long game over short-term gains Transforming skepticism into motivation The emotional impact of helping families succeed Serving with integrity, resilience, and empathy Conclusion   Quotes: "We came here to grind. To do the best we can to achieve that American dream." – Joel Gonzalez "I always tell them: this is not the end. This is just the beginning." – Jessica Mendez "Real estate is not about transactions. It's about relationships." – Joel Gonzalez "If you don't know me, you don't know anybody!" – Jessica Mendez   To contact Joel and Jessica Mendez, learn more about his business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram and Website.   Connect with Jessica Mendez and Joel Mendez! Website: https://real4jax.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicamendezrealtor?igsh=bGZmaTIxemZoc2V3   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #GenerationalWealth #HispanicCommunity #JacksonvilleRealEstate #Real4Jax #BilingualAgents #VenezuelanImmigrants #HomeownershipMatters #LatinoRealEstate #RISERealty #RealEstateSuccess #TopAgentsFL #SpanishSpeakingRealtor #RealEstateWithHeart #RealEstateJourney #AmericanDream #RealEstateMotivation #RealEstatePodcast #FromVenezuelaToJax #ServingWithExcellence

Can you build a billion-dollar brokerage by saying “no” more than you say “yes”? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Corey Hasting. Corey opened his first Engel & Völkers shop in Jacksonville Beach on April 30, 2018. Since then, Corey has opened 3 additional shops located in Amelia Island, the Beaches Town Center and St. Johns Florida. Since opening Corey has recruited over 80 top producing advisors who should sell more than $700,000,000 in volume and over 1500 transactions in 2021. Corey has been awarded countless awards since opening the Jacksonville franchise including being a member of the class of 2020 for the prestigious 40 under 40 list by the Jacksonville Business Journal and in 2021, Engel & Völkers Jacksonville, under Corey's leadership was awarded the 12th fastest growing company in Northeast Florida and the #1 fastest growing Real Estate brokerage by the Jacksonville Business Journal. Corey fosters a high-performance culture, the non-negotiables he upholds in agent recruitment, and how technology—especially AI—is being used to empower advisors. From managing listings that linger to creating scalable systems that support both agent growth and work-life balance, Corey offers a masterclass in leadership and vision in modern real estate. If you're a broker, team lead, or top producer stuck at a ceiling—this episode is your breakthrough.   Highlights: 00:00–12:13 Building the Foundation & Elite Brokerage Culture Corey's leadership values: humility, curiosity, and discipline From D1 athlete to award-winning broker Reaching just under $1B in sales with 136 advisors Engel & Völkers' reputation in luxury and international markets Establishing high standards for culture, production, and full-time commitment 12:14–25:47 Market Dynamics, Pricing Challenges & Seller Education Shifts in market behavior and seller psychology Empowering agents with data-driven listing conversations Cash buyers regaining leverage post-COVID Listing strategy adjustments in high-supply neighborhoods Creating structure and confidence around value and negotiation 25:48–38:59 Elevating Agent Performance Through Systems & Support Transitioning agents from $6M–$15M with backend support Exclusive in-house marketing and TC team models Time-saving tools that boost daily productivity High agent engagement in training and meetings 89% of agents grow production in 6 months 39:00–50:52 Culture-Driven Recruiting & Strategic Growth Vetting for cultural fit before adding new agents Turning down high-volume producers to preserve standards Competing through support and service—not splits Reinvesting profits into systems over headcount Organic team growth via pride and internal referrals 50:53–01:03:59 Leadership Evolution, Vision & Self-Discipline Lessons from launching a brokerage at 27 Milestones to $300M, $500M, and the $1B target Balancing ambition with appreciation for the journey Vulnerability and personal growth as a founder Mental discipline from sports background applied to real estate 01:04:00–01:13:31 Tactical Advice for Brokers & Long-Term Impact Mastering recruiting, value proposition, and vision setting Full-service vs. capping model decisions Why enjoying the wins matters more than just chasing them Redefining success as impact, not income How broker support creates ripple effects across agent careers Conclusion   Quotes:  “Technology is useless if you don't know how to use it or where to find it.” - Corey Hasting “If you're not using some sort of AI, you're falling behind pretty quickly.” - Corey Hasting  “Not every business is good business—sometimes you have to say no.” - Corey Hasting  “People buy people before they buy product—this is a customer service industry first.” - Corey Hasting   To contact Corey Hasting, learn more about his business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Corey Hasting! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corey_hasting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corey.hasting.3 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasting/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #CoreyHastings #EngelVolkers #LuxuryRealEstate #JacksonvilleRealEstate #BrokerLeadership #RealEstateTech #AIInRealEstate #TopProducerMindset #RealEstatePodcast #BrokerageSuccess #RealTrends #RealEstateRecruiting #RealEstateStrategy #MarketMastery #ListingTips #RealEstateCulture #TopAgentSupport #BrokerTips #TeamGrowth

What happens when passion meets persistence in one of Florida's hottest coastal markets? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes a true powerhouse of Amelia Island real estate, Tammy Tingle. Tammy shares how she went from a stay-at-home mom to a Grand Centurion Award-winning top agent with Century 21 in just four years. She dives into her love for the Amelia Island community, her grassroots approach to lead generation, and why consistency—not flashy tools—is the key to her unstoppable growth. Through laughter, grit, and a relentless work ethic, Tammy explains how building authentic relationships and embracing change, like buyer broker agreements and AI, have propelled her career. From neighborhood farming to creating a thriving community-focused Facebook group, she's proving that when you lead with value and show up every day, success is inevitable. Want to dominate your market like Tammy? Tap into the power of consistency, connection, and creativity. And don't forget to follow her legendary Eats & Events Facebook group if you're on Amelia Island!   Highlights 00:00 – 15:17 Starting Strong: Tammy's Real Estate Launch and Mindset Tammy's entry into real estate and early achievements Balancing family life with new professional goals Daily structure and commitment to office hours Approach to the buyer broker agreement Establishing professionalism in client relationships 15:18 – 23:41 Life Experience and Finding a Career in Real Estate Personal background and multiple relocations Finding home in Amelia Island Influence of life transitions on real estate empathy Return to the workforce and choosing real estate Building a new career with purpose and community 23:42 – 31:04 Brokerage Choice, Training, and Local Farming Strategy Choosing Century 21 and value of direct training Early success through condo community farming Deep dive into condo expertise and client education Importance of hyper-local knowledge Focusing on service and personal connection 31:05 – 38:00 Client Relationships, Grit, and Navigating Setbacks Relationships as the foundation of her business Turning inspections into opportunities Handling setbacks with optimism and action Prioritizing long-term client satisfaction Viewing every deal as future business 38:01 – 47:15 Community Engagement and Branding Through Social Media Creating and growing a Facebook lifestyle group Promoting local events, restaurants, and businesses Consistently branding real estate within the group Community engagement turning into lead generation Maintaining fun, useful, and positive content 47:16 – 01:05:00 Tech Tools, AI, and Market Adaptation Using ChatGPT for marketing, planning, and efficiency Leveraging AI for listing descriptions and social content Embracing structure and goal-setting tools Observing a market slowdown and shifting strategies Teaching open house systems and maximizing exposure Conclusion   Quotes: “Strangers are just friends I haven't met yet.” - Tammy Tingle “If you're not willing to fix the problem to keep the deal moving, you're in the wrong business.” - Tammy Tingle  “Consistency is the secret sauce. I show up every day. My clients know it.” - Tammy Tingle  “That Facebook group is just fun… and it turned into my biggest business driver.” - Tammy Tingle   To contact Tammy Tingle, learn more about his business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Email, Website, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.   Connect with Tammy Tingle! Email: tammystingle@aol.com Website: https://www.century21.com/real-estate-agent/profile/tammy-tingle-P80107491 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amelia_island_realtor/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-tingle-471a69193/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/movetoameliaisland/     Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #AmeliaIslandRealtor #TammyTingle #WomenInRealEstate #FloridaRealEstate #TopAgent #GrandCenturion #Century21Elite #LuxuryRealEstate #CondoExpert #AIInRealEstate #LeadGeneration #FacebookMarketing #LocalExpert #HomeBuyersGuide #CommunityFirst #MomBoss #RealEstateTips #ListingSuccess #OpenHouseStrategy

What if your next dream home could find you — using just your words? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Lyman Starmer, the CEO and founder of Deli, a revolutionary AI-powered real estate search tool. Lyman dives deep into how natural language processing is transforming the home-buying experience for both agents and consumers. No more rigid dropdown menus — now, users can simply tell the AI what they're looking for and receive intelligent, hyper-personalized listings. From his early work with digital infrastructure in 55+ communities to creating a widget that reimagines how buyers and renters search online, Lyman takes us behind the scenes on how Deli evolved. He also unpacks how AI-generated property summaries and real-time lead capture can level up agent workflows and site engagement. Deli isn't just enhancing search — it's changing the game entirely. Ready to bring AI to your real estate site in just 5 minutes?   Highlights 00:00 - 06:40 Origins of Peer Life and Digital Infrastructure Launching Peer Life Inspired by Disney's tech Filling digital gaps in communities Data sharing with real estate portals APIs for real estate insights 06:39 - 13:20 Creating the Unify Score Widget Widget concept explained Prioritizing lifestyle needs Integration with search sites Data-driven property matching Agent reactions to the tool 13:19 - 21:40 How DELI Was Born Brainstorming over coffee Rise of natural language search IDX vs AI-based tools Teaching AI to understand intent Handling messy MLS data 21:41 - 31:20 Deli Sense and Smart Listings AI-ready data platform Custom listing pages Matching photos to features Personalized content for SEO Using AI to write better listings 31:21 - 42:20 Real-World Agent Use and Feedback Broker feedback Lead tracking and drip campaigns Feature requests from users Promoting listings with Deli Instant integration setup 42:21 – 1:03:35 Deli's Vision and the Future of Search AI-first search experiences Competing with portals Learning from user behavior Teaching local real estate terms Expansion into more MLS areas Conclusion   Quotes: “People want to describe their dream home, not just pick from checkboxes.” - Lyman Starmer “AI understands when you say ‘near the beach'—but only after you teach it what that means.” - Lyman Starmer “The future of real estate search is one-click. You ask, and the right home appears.” - Lyman Starmer “We're training AI to not just find homes, but to make sense of your context and lifestyle.” - Lyman Starmer   To contact Lyman Starmer, learn more about his business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Website, Twitter (X), Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.   Connect with Lyman Starmer! Website: https://usedeli.com Twitter (X): https://x.com/ls_writes1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deli.re YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@usedeli LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lymanstarmer/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #AIInRealEstate #NaturalLanguageSearch #HomeBuyingTech #RealtorTools #RealEstateInnovation #DigitalTransformation #ChatGPTForRealEstate #MLSData #RealtorMarketing #RealEstateWidget #IDXAlternative #AIDrivenSearch #LeadCapture #AIListingDescriptions #HomeSearchSimplified #RealtorSEO #PerplexityAI #FutureOfSearch #DeliRealEstate  

How far can grit, gratitude, and gumption take you in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with sits down with Lindsay and Matt Parham — a dynamic husband-and-wife real estate duo shaking up the market in Palatka, Florida. From humble beginnings and multiple jobs to top-producing agents, Lindsay and Matt share their gritty, heartfelt journey into real estate and how they're changing lives, one home at a time. The Parhams open up about everything from their deep roots in Northeast Florida to mastering mobile home sales, growing a business together, and embracing the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Lindsay, a former waitress and single mom, found her calling in real estate with the help of family, consistency, and a passion for helping others. Matt, an electrical systems pro and fishing enthusiast, brought leadership and tactical skills into the business, helping them thrive. This episode is packed with real talk, humor, and powerful lessons on resilience, legacy, and loving what you do. Lindsey received her real estate license and moved with her MIL to Century 21 and she became a Momentum agent and her world opened up. Matt have tried large corporations such as Northrop Grumman but have found that as her family has developed it becomes increasingly hard to conform to a lot of the corporate models. This is where he decided to join her wife in real estate and finally become an entrepreneur himself. Ready to get inspired? Listen now and learn how passion, partnership, and persistence can build more than just houses — they build legacies!   Highlights 00:00–07:20 The Real Estate Power Couple Introduction Introduction of Matt and Lindsay Parham Their unique strengths and complementary skills Real estate market opportunities in Northeast Florida Use of AI tools like ChatGPT for productivity Leveraging tech in real estate listings and marketing 07:20–17:40 Mobile Homes and Personal Journeys Nuances of mobile home lending and HUD requirements Challenges with out-of-state buyers and unfamiliar lenders Matt's background in electronics and marine work Lindsay's early life, motherhood, and career shift Real estate as a path forward after personal struggles 17:40–28:36 From Service Work to Real Estate Passion Lindsay's transition from waitressing to real estate Starting at Century 21 and moving to Momentum Realty Early learning curves and the importance of mentorship Door knocking success story and building confidence Discovering fulfillment through client transformation 28:36–42:40 Doing the Work Others Won't Hands-on approach to helping clients close deals Repairing homes personally to save transactions Veterans and families supported into safe housing Building lasting relationships through action Embracing the gritty side of the business 42:40–57:56 Marketing, Branding, and Business Building Social media storytelling to connect with prospects Hosting events and creating memorable experiences Farming and mailer strategies for consistent exposure Importance of professional lender relationships Delegating, scaling, and planning for growth 57:56–01:27:18 Vision, Teamwork, and What's Next The Momentum Realty culture and peer mentorship Creating systems and planning long-term goals Balancing family and business vision Staying rooted in service and consistency Aspirations for future real estate development Conclusion   Quotes: “I never dreamed real estate would turn into something I'd be so passionate about. It started as something to do — now it's who I am.” – Lindsey Parham “There's no greater sense of independence than being offshore on a boat by yourself — and that's the same independence we found building our real estate business.” – Matthew Parham “Helping someone go from sleeping in their car to owning a home — that's what real estate is about for me. It's not just sales, it's impact.” – Lindsey Parham “This business is 100% about relationships. You can't do it alone, and if you don't build your network, you will fail.” – Matthew Parham   To contact Lindsey and Matt Parham, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.   Connect with Lindsey and Matt Parham! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindseykay1129 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075920395616 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ParhamTeamFlRealtors   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstatePodcast #GritAndGrowth #PalatkaHomes #AffordableHousing #VeteranHousing #RealEstateCouple #MomentumRealty #HelpingOthers #FloridaHomes #NortheastFlorida #MobileHomes #HomeOwnership #RealEstateSuccess #LegacyBuilders #HomeBuyingJourney #HouseHustle #RealTalkRealEstate #SmallTownBigImpact #PropertyPros #AgentLife

What if your teenage curiosity could lead to generational wealth? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Gelkys Delgado has been fascinated by real estate for as long as she can remember. After she met her husband, who shared her passion for investing. He had experience flipping homes, she got her real estate license, and focused on finding deals. What started as a way to save on commissions turned into a business— she loved helping others build wealth through real estate. Over the years, they completed countless flips and built a strong rental portfolio, creating the cash flow to cover their expenses. That freedom lets them focus on what matters—personal growth, family, traveling, and making memories. For her, real estate isn't just about money; it's about time and that's the real wealth. Gelkys breaks down her journey into flipping, wholesaling, and holding properties for long-term gains. She opens up about her biggest lessons, including dealing with contractors, avoiding money pits, and choosing cost-effective upgrades that attract renters and buyers. Her story is a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and turning passion into profit—all while uplifting others on their path to financial freedom. Don't just dream—build your real estate empire today!   Highlights 00:00 – 04:39 Always Shopping the Market ·        Nationwide investment focus ·        Building a 13-year real estate network ·        Investor advisory & deal scouting ·        South Florida roots and early curiosity ·        From Hialeah to multi-market hustle   04:40 – 08:19 Early Curiosity & Starting Out Young ·        Real estate fascination at 14 ·        Dreaming big with empty lots ·        Working at a title company at 16 ·        Inspired by investor success ·        First exposure to big deals 08:20 – 17:59 First Deals & Wholesaling by Accident ·        Door-knocking in pre-foreclosures ·        Learning on the job ·        Selling leads for $500 ·        Building confidence in chaos ·        Creative problem-solving begins 18:00 – 24:39 From Broke to Financial Freedom ·        Buying first property at 23 ·        Moving to New York & renting for cash flow ·        Meeting her husband & shared hustle ·        Starting flips with limited capital ·        Evolving from investor to agent 24:40 – 35:18 Money Pits & Contractor Challenges ·        The nightmare Virginia Gardens flip ·        Mold, foundation issues, and lessons ·        Buying sight-unseen in Georgia while pregnant ·        Navigating foreclosure auctions ·        Managing family contractors 35:19 – 01:17:17 Mentorship, Brokerage, and Mindset for New Agents ·        Choosing the right broker (George at RESF) ·        What new agents should ask in interviews ·        The power of belief and consistency ·        Importance of leadership in brokerages ·        Building vision and business discipline ·        Conclusion   Quotes:  “I was wholesaling before I even knew what wholesaling was.” – Gelkys Delgado  “Real estate has given me the lifestyle I always dreamed of.” – Gelkys Delgado  “You've got to be there every day—time is money in a flip.” – Gelkys Delgado  “It's not about the rate, it's about the right property—marry the house, date the rate.” – Gelkys Delgado   To contact Gelkys Delgado, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her Instagram.   Connect with Gelkys Delgado! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gelkyslovesrealestate/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #GelkysDelgado #MiamiRealEstate #FlippingHouses #RealEstatePodcast #Wholesaling #FinancialFreedom #WomenInRealEstate #HouseFlipping #RealEstateInvesting #FloridaMarket #RealEstateMentor #PropertyInvestor #CashFlow #RentalProperties #TurnkeyInvesting #FixAndFlip #RealEstateTips #AgentLife #MarketInsights

Can effective property management truly be the secret to real estate success? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Cindy Browning. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Cindy Browning entered the real estate world in 2013 with a passion for helping people in tough situations. She founded Mac Home Development, turning distressed properties into beautiful homes, focusing on both homeowners and neighborhood revitalization. Cindy transitioned into property management, becoming CEO of Round Table Realty Property Management. Committed to putting people before property, she's dedicated to elevating the industry and improving the customer experience. As CEO and mom, Cindy reveals how her past in house flipping informs her sharp eye for rental potential and repair cost forecasting, giving investors a competitive edge. But her real magic? A relentless focus on communication, transparency, and systemized operations that bring peace of mind to both tenants and landlords. Her systems-based mindset — complete with weekly team meetings and detailed workflows — is a masterclass in leadership and scaling with integrity. Are you a real estate agent, investor, or aspiring property manager? Take notes from Cindy's playbook and step up your game!   Highlights 00:00 – 14:29 Cindy's Origin Story & Early Real Estate Journey From teen mom to real estate assistant in Jacksonville Shift from sports marketing dreams to flipping homes Launching Mac Home Development after learning the ropes Discovering the importance of being in the right brokerage Creating value by helping investors flip and buy smart 14:30 – 30:58 Systems, Communication & Operational Excellence Taking over Round Table Property Management Immediate changes: communication and transparency Software automation and workflow creation Weekly team meetings to optimize process Real-time updates for owners and tenants 30:59 – 44:21 Maintenance, Inspections & Vendor Loyalty Building trusted vendor relationships from scratch Creating roles like maintenance coordinator Preventative inspections done three times a year Paying vendors weekly to earn their loyalty Eliminating repair markups to build owner trust 44:22 – 57:56 Tenant Placement, Screening & Referral Network Workflow for tenant placement from listing to move-in Credit, income, background checks, and HUD compliance Emotional support animals, pets, and HOA rules 20% referral fee program for agents (tracked handoffs) Commitment to giving leads back to referring agents 57:57 – 1:07:34 Evictions, Legal Boundaries & Red Flags Identifying early signs of problematic tenants Navigating eviction processes with empathy Legal options for back-charging tenants Supporting landlords with documentation Real-world case of a $12,000 damage settlement 1:07:35 – 1:15:38 Pitch, Longevity & Landlord Support Cindy's elevator pitch to landlords and agents How long-term thinking drives property ROI Avoiding insurance claims through proactive care Round Table's “always make it right” mindset Why communication is her company's superpower Conclusion   Quotes:  “We may mess up, we may miss something, but we are always going to make it right.” – Cindy Browning  “Communication is everything — people just want to be heard.” – Cindy Browning  “I don't like conflict, so my systems are built to minimize it.” – Cindy Browning  “Cheaper is not always better — we don't upcharge for repairs because trust is worth more.”  – Cindy Browning   To contact Cindy Browning, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on her Website.   Connect with Cindy Browning! Website: https://www.rtrpm.com   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #PropertyManagement #RealEstateExcellence #WomenInRealEstate #CindyBrowning #JacksonvilleRealEstate #HomeFlipping #InvestmentProperties #LandlordLife #TenantCare #RoundTableRealty #PropertyManagerTips #RealEstatePodcast #EmpathyInBusiness #RealEstateInvesting #SystemThinking #RealEstateLeadership #PassiveIncome #MaintenanceMatters #SmartLandlords #RentalInspections

What transferable skills from your past career could make you a top performer in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Veronica Wilen. Veronica was recently recognized as one of the Top 500 Agents by Jacksonville Real Producers 2025, Veronica Wilen is a powerhouse in Northeast Florida's real estate market. With over 70 successful transactions and more than $65 million in sales volume, she specializes in residential single-family homes, helping buyers—especially those relocating from out of state—find their dream homes in Ponte Vedra, St. Johns County, and beyond. A Nocatee Certified Agent and resident since 2016, Veronica has an insider's perspective on what makes Nocatee stand out among Florida's top master-planned communities. While she sells throughout Northeast Florida, 80% of her listings are in Nocatee, making her an invaluable resource for both buyers and sellers looking to navigate this sought-after community. Veronica also dives deep into the importance of preparation, communication, and staging when working with clients.  Whether you're a new agent or an experienced one looking to elevate your game, her insights on professionalism, strategy, and continuous learning will inspire you to refine your craft.   Highlights 00:00 - 12:49 Veronica's Journey to Real Estate Success Born in Kazakhstan and raised in Germany before moving to the U.S. Family history and the decision to relocate from the Soviet Union to Germany Transitioning from psychology to finance and later into real estate Moving to Florida as an au pair and pursuing an MBA Challenges and rewards of building a real estate career from the ground up 12:50 - 28:30 Applying Project Management to Real Estate How project management skills translate into real estate success Why communication is 95% of a project manager's role Preparing for client interactions with a structured and professional approach Using data-driven strategies to help clients make informed decisions How organization and discipline build client trust and improve transactions 28:31 - 36:45 Choosing the Right Brokerage for Growth Veronica's experience moving through different brokerages The importance of mentorship and a strong support system Why Engel & Völkers First Coast was the perfect fit for her The value of high-level collaboration with experienced agents How technology and training contribute to professional development 36:46 - 50:57 The Power of Staging and Presentation The impact of staging on faster and higher-value home sales The psychology behind buyer perception and first impressions Working with professional stagers vs. DIY staging solutions Virtual staging as an alternative when budgets are tight Small but impactful changes that make a home more marketable 50:58 - 01:10:45 Mastering Client Relationships and Negotiation The importance of follow-ups and staying present with clients Turning potential buyers into long-term, repeat clients The impact of having a strong CRM system for client management Navigating difficult client situations with psychology and empathy Why real estate is more than a transaction—it's about people's lives 01:10:46 - 01:14:48 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Consistent The emotional rollercoaster of lost deals and lessons learned Why follow-up speed and urgency can make or break a transaction How a business mindset elevates an agent's success The role of social media and video content in attracting clients Continuous learning and growth through mentorship and networking Conclusion   Quotes: "Providing value is always very, very important. People will remember what you bring to the table." – Veronica Wilen "Project management and real estate have so much in common—communication, organization, and being prepared are key to success." – Veronica Wilen "Your home is not just a financial transaction—it's where you build memories. Helping people find the right place is incredibly rewarding." – Veronica Wilen   To contact Veronica Wilen, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veronikini Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicawilenrealtor/ Website: https://veronicawilen.evrealestate.com/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstatePodcast #VeronicaWilen #EngelVolkers #TopRealtor #HomeBuying #LuxuryHomes #FloridaRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #ProjectManagement #SuccessMindset #RealtorLife #HomeSellers #StagingTips #BusinessGrowth #Networking #FollowUp #DreamHome #RealEstateTips #Professionalism #RealtorJourney

What does it take to build a thriving real estate business with family? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with the dynamic mother-daughter real estate duo, Tari Taylor and Kari Francom. Tari, a seasoned real estate professional, started in the industry in 2005 after a career in banking, driven by a passion for helping people. She later founded Premier Homes Realty alongside her husband, Mike, creating a brokerage built on agent empowerment, transparency, and exceptional service. Now, her daughter Kari has joined the business, bringing fresh energy and perspective. Together, they share insights on navigating market shifts, building a sustainable career in real estate, and the importance of ethics, mentorship, and continuous learning. They know that changing real estate markets, rising interest rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty create significant financial difficulty for buyers and sellers to meet their goals.  They work hard to help their clients overcome those difficulties. As an independent brokerage, they can modify our commissions.  For sellers, they will list their home for only 4% total real estate commission.  If they personally bring in the buyer, they will reduce your cost to only 3% commission.  For buyers, they will pay up to 1% of the purchase price towards your closing costs and prepaids, subject to your lender approval. A licensed real estate agent since 2005, (20 years) Tari is a broker associate and has a degree in Paralegal Studies, Broker Price Opinion, a Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource designations. Kari provided staff support for the company while completing her bachelor's degree and obtained her real estate license in 2022. Are you considering a career in real estate? Tari and Kari emphasize the importance of finding the right mentorship and aligning with the right brokerage. If you're a buyer or seller looking for a team that truly puts you first, reach out to Premier Homes Realty today!   Highlights 01:03 - 09:20 Building a Business with Family Tari's transition from banking to real estate in 2005 The founding of Premier Homes Realty and its unique commission model Kari's decision to follow in her mother's footsteps The benefits and challenges of working as a mother-daughter team How passion and work ethic play a role in real estate success 09:21 - 25:25 Navigating Market Shifts & Short Sales The impact of the 2008 market crash on real estate Tari's experience learning short sales and foreclosure processes How helping clients through short sales built long-term relationships Market trends from 2005 to today and how they affect agents Adapting to interest rate fluctuations and inventory changes 25:26 - 38:51 The Key to Success: Ethics, Client Focus & Mentorship Why ethics and transparency are critical in real estate The importance of choosing the right brokerage and mentorship How Tari and Kari conduct their listing presentations Why putting clients first leads to a sustainable career Balancing business goals with genuine care for people 38:52 - 50:12 Mastering Client Interactions & Growing Confidence The importance of communication and negotiation in real estate Kari's growth in confidence through mentorship and experience Handling difficult clients and maintaining professionalism Adapting to different personality types in real estate transactions How body language and engagement reveal client trust 50:13 - 55:00 Building a Brokerage That Supports Agents How Premier Homes Realty provides 100% commission to agents The brokerage's approach to mentoring new and experienced agents Why retention matters more than constant recruiting The importance of having a broker who stays involved in transactions How Premier Homes Realty fosters collaboration and education 55:01 - 01:15:02 Innovation, Technology & The Future of Real Estate Why staying ahead with technology is crucial for real estate success The role of market research and online presence in attracting clients How Premier Homes Realty continues to evolve and adapt The future of real estate teams and mentorship programs Final thoughts on what it takes to build a lasting career in real estate Conclusion   Quotes: “Take care of people, and the money will take care of itself.” – Tari Taylor  “I saw how dedicated my mom was, and I wanted that passion in my own career.” – Kari Francom  “There are so many houses out there—I'm not worried about competition. I believe everyone has their own network and sphere.” – Kari Francom  “You have to think outside the box. Some brokerages keep you in a box, but if you want to grow, you have to break out of it.” – Tari Taylor  “Every transaction is different. Even after 20 years, I'm still learning something new.” – Tari Taylor   To contact Tari Taylor & Kari Francom, learn more about them business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taritaylorrealtor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tariandkarikeepingitrealestate/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@premierhomesrealtyfl   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstatePodcast #MotherDaughterDuo #RealEstateSuccess #PremierHomesRealty #RealEstateMentorship #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealtorLife #JacksonvilleRealEstate #HomeBuyingTips #RealEstateInvesting #LuxuryRealEstate #RealEstateMarket #RealtorNetworking #WomenInRealEstate #HomeSellers #HouseHunting #RealEstateStrategies #MortgageTips #DreamHome

How can a proven system transform your real estate career? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy sits down with Gail Long. Since moving to The First Coast in 2011, she has completely fallen in love with the area and all that it has to offer. She is a Florida native, but the cities of Jacksonville and St Augustine, with the beaches, the marshes and the St. Johns River running through the middle of everything, are unique, and are communities that she is happy to call home. When she is not working, her family can usually be found outside enjoying the Florida sunshine. Gail Long, a top-producing realtor in Northeast Florida. Gail shares her journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful real estate agent, crediting the Buffini coaching system for her success. She dives into how relationship-based business strategies, consistency, and mentorship helped her build a thriving career in real estate. If you're an aspiring or struggling agent, Gail's insights into networking, referrals, and business systems will give you the blueprint to elevate your game. Learn how staying connected, showing up consistently, and following a structured plan can lead to long-term success in the real estate industry. Want to take your real estate business to the next level? Connect with Gail Long and explore Buffini Coaching!   Highlights 00:00 – 02:19 The Power of Mindset & Personal Development Importance of working on yourself for business success How personal growth improves client relationships Staying committed to continuous learning The impact of personal development on negotiation skills Building confidence as a real estate professional 02:19 – 10:12 The Buffini System & Relationship-Based Business How Gail discovered the Buffini system Why referrals are key to long-term success Monthly mailers and handwritten notes for client engagement Hosting business mixers to expand networks The importance of consistency in follow-ups 10:12 – 28:00 Transition from Teaching to Real Estate Mindset shift from employee to entrepreneur Lessons from teaching that apply to real estate How past career skills helped in client interactions The challenge of leaving a stable job for self-employment Finding the right real estate brokerage for mentorship 28:00 – 42:13 Strategies for Business Growth & Lead Generation Using property management to build a client base Open houses as a tool for meeting potential buyers The value of social media in brand visibility Learning from top-producing agents Setting and achieving small business goals 42:13 – 48:13 Grit & Resilience in Real Estate Handling rejection and tough market conditions Overcoming self-doubt as a new agent The Christmas Eve contract cancellation story How to maintain motivation during slow periods Learning to separate emotions from business decisions 48:13 – 01:16:12 The Power of Networking & Community Why in-person training enhances success The benefits of joining mastermind groups Learning from peers through book clubs and meetups The role of mentorship in career development Surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals Conclusion   Quotes: “You're not getting a job, you're starting a business.” - Gail Long “I don't have to think about my marketing—I just follow the system.” - Gail Long “The day you plant the seed is not the day you get the harvest.” - Gail Long “Who you surround yourself with in real estate is crucial to success.” - Gail Long   To contact Gail Long, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Website. Facebook: https://facebook.com/gaillongrealtor Instagram: https://instagram.com/gflong YouTube: https://youtube.com/@gaillongrealtor Website: https://www.gaillongrealtor.com   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #BuffiniCoaching #TopRealtor #RealEstateTips #FloridaHomes #JacksonvilleRealEstate #NortheastFlorida #RealtorSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #RealEstateMarketing #Networking #ReferralBusiness #SalesSuccess #ConsistentMarketing #BusinessGrowth #HomeSellingTips #HomeBuying #RealEstateCoaching #TopProducer #SuccessMindset

How does having a strong network impact success in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy sits down with Jessica Swearingen. Jessica is a seasoned realtor with 12 years of experience, embarked on her real estate journey through property management before thriving under one of the largest investment companies for six years. Currently associated with Ponte Vedra Club Realty, Jessica has transitioned her focus exclusively to sales. With a diverse clientele ranging from $200k to $2.5 million, she takes pride in her commitment to communication, responsiveness, and transparency. A Jacksonville, FL native, Jessica enjoys meeting new people and finds fulfillment in guiding them through their significant transactions. Whether you're buying or selling, she goes above and beyond, ensuring dedicated support throughout the process and maintaining lasting connections beyond the deal closure. Jessica shares her journey from an artistic background to becoming a powerhouse in real estate, starting in property management and transitioning to investment sales before thriving in traditional real estate. She discusses the importance of communication, responsiveness, and transparency—values that have shaped her approach to client service. Jessica also highlights how she leverages networking and community-building to generate business, including the creation of a thriving 5,200-member women's networking group. If you're a real estate agent looking to elevate your game or a buyer/seller searching for an agent who truly goes above and beyond, this episode is for you!   Highlights 00:00 - 15:20 Jessica's Real Estate Journey From property management to investment firms Overcoming health challenges and finding real estate Lessons learned from early property management days Transitioning from leasing to full-time sales The importance of confidence and adaptability 15:21 - 30:45 Keys to Success in Real Estate The power of follow-up and responsiveness Setting clear expectations for buyers and sellers Transparency builds trust in real estate transactions The impact of communication and negotiation skills How personal safety plays a role in real estate 30:46 - 46:15 Marketing & Networking Strategies Using social media and personal branding effectively The role of open houses in today's market Leveraging local community groups for business growth How Jessica built the St. Johns BFF Networking Group Building long-term relationships through networking 46:16 - 57:30 Pricing & Negotiation Strategies How to price a home correctly in today's market The dangers of overpricing and market perception When and how to adjust pricing to attract buyers The psychology behind buyer and seller expectations Balancing competitive offers and market conditions 57:31 - 1:05:11 Real Estate Tips & Advice for Agents Why new agents struggle and how to overcome challenges Creative ways to connect with potential clients The power of giving back through customized gifts The importance of mentorship and continuous learning How to handle difficult clients and situations 1:05:11 – 1:07:19 The Mindset of a Top Realtor Why consistency is the key to long-term success How to stay motivated during slow market periods The importance of self-discipline and organization Building resilience in a competitive industry Final words of wisdom for agents and homebuyers Conclusion   Quotes: "I treat every transaction like it's happening for me. I truly care and will do everything I can to make it successful." – Jessica Swearingen "Confidence is what leads you to places. Walk in confident, and you'll be fine." – Jessica Swearingen "If you don't put yourself out there, you're not going to get anywhere. Being uncomfortable is how you grow." – Jessica Swearingen "Networking isn't just about referrals; it's about building a community that supports each other." – Jessica Swearingen   To contact Jessica Swearingen, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.f.swearingen?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessica.swearingen_realtor_ Website: https://jessicaswearingen.com/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstate #Networking #RealtorSuccess #HomeBuying #PropertyManagement #JacksonvilleRealEstate #RealEstateExcellence #HomeSelling #RealtorLife #InvestmentProperties #BuyersAgent #SellersMarket #TopRealtor #StJohnsCounty #RealEstateNetworking #HomeBuyingTips #WomenInRealEstate #CommunityBuilding #LuxuryHomes #FloridaHomes

How do you build a long-term real estate career in a constantly shifting market? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy sits down with Jena Perez, a top-producing real estate agent in Jacksonville, Florida, with nearly 20 years of experience. Jena shares her journey from starting as an administrative assistant for her parents' real estate business to becoming a well-respected, high-producing agent. She discusses the ups and downs of the market, the importance of building lasting client relationships, and how to push through difficult moments in the industry. Jena is passionate about helping clients buy, sell, and invest while providing exceptional service and communication. She has been honored as a Top Producer in North Florida and featured in the Jacksonville Business Journal's Residential Real Estate List.  Take a page from Jena's playbook: Stay connected with your clients, build trust, and never stop learning!   Highlights 00:00 – 05:14 Jena Perez: Top Jacksonville Realtor Reveals Pro Tips Working for her parents in real estate administration Learning the backend of real estate transactions Transitioning into sales and overcoming early fears The importance of mentorship in the beginning stages Realizing real estate was the right career path 05:15 – 12:30 Overcoming Self-Doubt Moving to Jacksonville and starting over in a new market Struggles with confidence as a young real estate agent Considering leaving real estate and exploring other careers Finding the right support system and mentors How persistence and passion helped her push through 12:31 – 20:45 The Power of Client Relationships Why real estate is about long-term connections, not just transactions The importance of staying in touch with past clients Creative ways to provide value beyond the sale How personal branding plays a role in client retention The difference between transactional and relationship-based agents 20:46 – 35:00 Handling the Ups and Downs The reality of feast and famine in real estate Why many agents struggle with consistency and motivation How to build a sustainable business model that weathers slow periods Leveraging social media, referrals, and networking for steady growth The mindset shift that keeps top producers ahead 35:01 – 01:12:57 Lessons in Negotiation & Leadership The role of emotional intelligence in real estate deals Strategies for handling difficult conversations with clients How to keep deals together when challenges arise The importance of removing ego from negotiations Learning from every transaction to improve as an agent Conclusion   Quotes: "You have to love what you do and take the ups and downs. If you stay consistent and keep pushing through, success will come." – Jena Perez "The key to a long-term real estate career? Stay in touch with your past clients. Don't be a secret agent!" – Jena Perez "Every transaction teaches you something new. Even after 20 years, I'm still learning with every deal." – Jena Perez   To contact Jena Perez, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.wickowski Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenasellsjax Website: https://jenaperez.myrealtyonegroup.com/   Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com   Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateSuccess #JacksonvilleRealEstate #RealtorLife #RealEstateTips #RealtorNetworking #RealEstatePodcast #BusinessGrowth #RealtorMindset #LeadGeneration #TopProducer #RealEstateMarketing #NegotiationSkills #RealEstateInvesting #RealtyOneGroup #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeBuyingTips #HomeSellingTips #ClientRelationships #RealEstateEducation #NetworkingForSuccess

How do you balance affordability with quality when renovating homes in a competitive market? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy interviews Claire Sheehan. Claire is a local realtor, interior designer and real estate investor. She started her career in Tampa Bay and then migrated to Jacksonville two years ago with her husband to open up Networth Realty of Jacksonville. She has sold more then 50 million dollars worth of real estate volume in the last few years and is passionate about Real Estate investing, designing houses and helping people reach their goals through personal development and growth. Claire shares her journey from Tampa Bay to Jacksonville, where she and her husband have closed over $50 million in real estate transactions and established NetWorth Realty of Jacksonville. With a deep passion for home design and investing, Claire dives into the art of flipping properties, building relationships with agents, and bringing unique renovations to the market. From transforming historic homes to leveraging creative financing solutions, Claire explains the growing demand for affordable, well-renovated homes. Whether you're an agent, investor, or homebuyer, this episode is packed with insights on how to spot opportunities in an evolving market. Want to stay ahead in Jacksonville's real estate market? Connect with Claire Sheehan and learn how to maximize your investments!   Highlights 00:00 Claire Sheehan's Journey & Background Moving from Texas to Tampa and Jacksonville Transitioning from athlete to real estate professional How an ACL injury led her to real estate Jumping into 52 deals in her first year The power of mentorship and coaching 12:59 Investing & Smart Renovation Strategies Fix-and-flip essentials: what to renovate for max value Balancing quality vs. cost in home improvements Avoiding over-improvement and maximizing ROI Understanding market comps before renovating The importance of having the right contractors 28:24 Jacksonville's Market & Real Estate Opportunities Why Jacksonville is Florida's last affordable coastal city The impact of $5 billion in downtown development Areas with high growth potential for investors The rise of new construction vs. historic home renovations How agents can build relationships with investors and builders 42:15 Creative Financing & Affordability Challenges The role of VA loans and renovation loans How seller concessions can help first-time buyers Understanding insurance costs and their impact on affordability Creative deal structuring to make homeownership possible Why agents need to understand financing options for clients 56:38 The Power of Grit & Long-Term Vision in Real Estate Overcoming self-doubt and naysayers in business Setting big, audacious goals for career success Investing in personal growth and mentorship The importance of consistency and perseverance Why Jacksonville is a golden opportunity for real estate professionals Conclusion.   Quotes: "We don't believe in coincidences—everything happens for a reason. It's what you do with it that counts." – Claire Sheehan "Jacksonville is a goldmine for investors—affordable homes, booming growth, and endless potential." – Claire Sheehan "A well-renovated home isn't just about looks—it's about quality, functionality, and long-term value." – Claire Sheehan “We love relationships. That's what our whole business is about." – Claire Sheehan   To contact Claire Sheehan, learn more about her business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BTbpVdgD5/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claire_e_sheehan   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #JacksonvilleHomes #HomeFlipping #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyRenovation #InvestmentProperties #FixAndFlip #BuyAndHold #InteriorDesign #AffordableHousing #RealtorLife #FloridaRealEstate #HomeBuyers #DreamHome #WealthBuilding #FirstTimeBuyer #RealEstateGrowth #HousingMarket #RealEstateTrends #MarketOpportunities

What key qualities separate top real estate professionals from the rest? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy interviews with powerhouse real estate duo, Lissa Slade and Heather Lewis, of The Lissa Slade Team. As top producers in Northeast Florida's competitive market, Lissa and Heather share their journey from retail and design backgrounds to becoming sought-after real estate advisors. They discuss the importance of mentorship, overcoming imposter syndrome, and what it takes to build a successful, client-centered business in the real estate industry. Lissa and her family have called Ponte Vedra Beach their home for over 24 years now. The pride of her heart is her young adults kids Elizabeth, Ethan, and Tommy. In her spare time Lissa loves sunrises and sunsets. Daily walking on the beach or community. She is also an avid reader and love live music. Heather has resided in the Ponte Vedra and beaches for 23 years. During that time, she has bought, sold, built, and remodeled many properties.  She has a background in retail furniture sales, decorating, and business. She believes every client she works with deserves A+ service with an A+ attitude. She sets the bar high for herself to exceed her customer's expectations of service. She puts her heart into every client, making each one a top priority. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Follow Lissa and Heather on social media (handles below) and let us know: What's the #1 quality you think makes a real estate professional stand out? Share your thoughts in the comments!   Highlights 00:00 – 06:00 The Power of Mentorship in Real Estate Why every agent needs both a peer mentor and a senior mentor Lessons Lissa and Heather learned from their mentors How mentorship accelerates business growth The difference between structured and organic mentorship Advice for new agents on finding the right mentor 06:01 – 21:15 From Retail to Real Estate: Lissa & Heather's Career Evolution Lissa's journey from retail management to real estate success Heather's experience in sales, home design, and how it shaped her approach The transferable skills from retail and customer service Overcoming imposter syndrome and becoming a confident agent Key takeaways from their early career struggles 21:16 – 30:22 Building a Successful Real Estate Business Through Structure & Organization The importance of time-blocking and daily planning How a CRM system can make or break a real estate business The “Big Calendar” strategy for tracking goals and milestones How consistency in marketing and outreach leads to success Why many agents fail due to a lack of structured business planning 30:23 – 39:10 Mastering Client Relations: Overcoming Challenges & Pushback How to handle difficult clients with confidence and professionalism Setting clear expectations to avoid misunderstandings The importance of taking charge in listing presentations Strategies to get hesitant sellers on board with staging and pricing changes How to position yourself as the expert in every client interaction 39:11 – 53:05 The Power of Referrals & Repeat Business Why Lissa has built a business entirely on referrals without paid leads Strategies for staying top-of-mind with past clients How to turn one transaction into multiple future referrals The role of social media in strengthening client relationships Why building trust is the foundation of long-term success 53:06 – 01:10:02 Working with Trusted Vendors: The Referral Process Why selecting the right lender, inspector, and service providers matters How to present vendor options without liability risks Lessons learned from past vendor experiences—what went wrong and how to fix it The impact of good vendor relationships on closing deals smoothly Best practices for guiding clients through their choices Conclusion   Quotes:  “Mentorship is critical—you need to surround yourself with people who have done what you want to do.” — Lissa Slade  “People don't buy and sell homes every day. They rely on us to be the experts.” — Heather Lewis  “Real estate is all about relationships. Your goal is to create lifelong clients who trust you for every transaction.” — Lissa Slade  “Urgency is key. Don't wait for someone to tell you what to do—be proactive and get it done.” — Heather Lewis   To contact Lissa Slade and Heather Lewis, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EVLissaSlade/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelissasladeteam/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #JacksonvilleRealtors #PonteVedraBeach #RealEstateSuccess #TopRealtors #LuxuryRealEstate #RealEstateMentorship #HomeBuying #RealEstateAgent #RealEstateMarketing #CustomerService #ListingExperts #HouseHunting #RealtorLife #RealEstateInvesting #ExpertNegotiation #SuccessMindset #GrowthStrategy #EntrepreneurLife #HomeSelling

How can real estate agents effectively use social media to build their brand and attract clients without feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Sara Gentry, a dynamic real estate agent with a background in social media management. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing and nearly three years of real estate success, Sara shares invaluable insights on how agents can harness the power of social media to grow their business. She discusses the importance of consistency, storytelling, and engagement, highlighting how even new agents can make an impact without spending a fortune on advertising. Sara also reflects on her journey from California to Jacksonville, her transition from social media consulting to real estate, and the lessons she has learned along the way. She and Tracy dive deep into practical social media strategies, including the importance of video content, authenticity, and using analytics to optimize reach. Whether you're new to the business or looking to refine your social media presence, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you elevate your real estate game. What's the biggest challenge you face with social media marketing? Share your thoughts with us in the comments or on social media!   Highlights 00:00 – 09:31 Sara Gentry's Journey into Real Estate Transitioning from social media manager to real estate agent How marketing experience shaped her real estate career Early challenges in navigating the industry Learning from top agents like Stevie Hahn The role of mentorship in her success 09:32 – 16:59 Social Media Strategies for Real Estate Agents Why social media is essential for realtors today Free marketing vs. traditional advertising methods Engaging storytelling to attract potential buyers The importance of video content in building trust Overcoming the fear of being on camera 17:00 – 27:44 Optimizing Social Media for Maximum Engagement Integrating personal and business social media accounts The difference between Instagram Stories and Grid posts Boosting posts: When it's worth the investment How Facebook targeting helps attract the right audience Understanding social media analytics to improve reach 27:45 – 37:32 Branding and Lead Generation through Social Media Establishing credibility through consistent content Avoiding the “secret agent” syndrome The role of social media in the lead nurturing process Converting social media interactions into real estate clients The power of local and community-based content 37:33 – 47:59 Overcoming Real Estate Challenges Building confidence as a new agent Asking the right questions and finding reliable mentors Handling tough negotiations and objections Dealing with unexpected real estate hurdles The importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving 48:00 – 01:25:07 Real-Life Case Study: A Property Mystery Unraveled Uncovering a seller's septic system misrepresentation Navigating property disclosures and due diligence Working with JEA to resolve billing confusion Managing buyer concerns during contract periods The importance of thorough property inspections Conclusion.   Quotes:  “Don't flood your stories with it. Your stories are to nurture people already following you. Your grid is your public resume.” – Sara Gentry  “You have to show up on video. People want to know who you are before they trust you with a transaction.” – Sara Gentry  “Social media is a free marketing tool, but it's only as effective as the effort you put into it.” – Sara Gentry  “The goal isn't just to sell—it's to stay top-of-mind. Social media keeps you relevant and builds relationships over time.” – Sara Gentry   To contact Sara Gentry, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Website. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-gentry-419410168/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarajessicag/ Website: https://saragentry.904homeguide.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateMarketing #SocialMediaForRealtors #RealtorBranding #DigitalMarketing #InstagramForRealtors #RealEstateSuccess #MarketingTips #RealtorLife #ContentCreation #BusinessGrowth #SocialMediaTips #JacksonvilleRealEstate #RealEstateCoaching #Entrepreneurship #HomeSelling #LeadGeneration #PersonalBranding #RealEstatePodcast #BusinessMindset #SocialMediaStrategy

How can past experiences in different careers shape and accelerate success in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Samantha Fisher. Samantha Fisher grew up in Northeast Florida where she received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from The University of North Florida.  Early on, Samantha discovered a love for helping others reach their true potential. She spent 17 years teaching Kindergarten where she built amazing relationships with children and families.  Her true passion emerged when she became a realtor – helping others with selling their home or finding their dream home.  She has a charismatic approach to helping others and prides herself on building relationships with her clients, being a good listener, putting her client's needs first, prompt communication and full transparency.  Samantha is passionate about Northeast Florida and is ready to help you with all your real estate needs! Samantha shares how she transitioned from teaching to real estate, the moment that sparked her career change, and the skills she brought with her from the classroom. She discusses the importance of building relationships, mastering market knowledge, and taking immediate action. Whether you're a new agent looking for guidance or a seasoned professional seeking inspiration, Samantha's story is a testament to the power of confidence and hard work in the real estate industry. Enjoyed Samantha's journey? Share this episode with someone considering a career change into real estate!   Highlights 00:00 – 10:44 The Power of Confidence and Taking Action in Real Estate Why confidence is essential for client trust and closing deals. Overcoming self-doubt and projecting authority in the market. The moment Samantha decided to transition from teaching to real estate. Taking immediate action: Enrolling in courses, passing the exam, and getting licensed. How quick execution helped her gain momentum and early success. 10:45 – 15:09 Mastering Market Knowledge and Becoming an Expert Learning comps, property values, and pricing strategies. Understanding neighborhood differences and local market trends. Leveraging MLS and property appraiser tools for in-depth research. Continual education to stay ahead of competitors. The importance of positioning yourself as a market expert. 15:10 – 23:54 Building a Strong Client Base Through Relationships and Networking Using past relationships from teaching to generate leads. Expanding her network through referrals, social media, and community events. The power of word-of-mouth marketing and client trust. Converting rental inquiries into long-term buyers. Staying connected through consistent outreach and client appreciation. 23:55 – 34:14 Leveraging Open Houses and Buyer Engagement Strategies Using open houses to gain experience and build confidence. Learning to handle buyer objections and refine her sales pitch. The impact of hosting consistently and engaging potential clients. Educating buyers on new industry changes, including broker agreements. Adapting to the shifting real estate landscape with transparency and ethics. 34:15 – 39:49 Overcoming Challenges and Handling Difficult Clients Dealing with indecisive sellers and challenging negotiations. How patience and adaptability help navigate tough situations. Managing emotions and expectations in high-stakes transactions. Using humor and resilience to stay motivated. Lessons learned from handling unexpected roadblocks. 39:50 – 01:14:49 Maintaining a 24/7 Real Estate Career While Avoiding Burnout How real estate differs from a traditional 9-to-5 job. Setting boundaries while remaining available for clients. Creating efficient systems for workflow and time management. Converting short-term rentals into long-term investments. The value of client appreciation and maintaining lifelong relationships. Conclusion.   Quotes: "You have to be confident. If you don't believe in what you're saying, neither will your clients." – Samantha Fisher "I knew I needed something more, and I took action right away. That was the difference." – Samantha Fisher "Every transaction is different. You have to be willing to adapt, learn, and problem-solve on the fly." – Samantha Fisher "It's not just about selling houses; it's about relationships. People need to trust you before they work with you." – Samantha Fisher   To contact Samantha Fisher, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Website and Instagram. Website: https://pvclubrealty.com/samantha-fisher/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.fisher.realtor/ If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best. #RealEstateExcellence #SamanthaFisher #ConfidenceInRealEstate #NewAgentTips #RealtorLife #MarketMastery #Networking #RealEstateGrit #ClientRelationships #FloridaRealtor #TopProducer #CareerChange #RealEstateMarketing #OpenHouse #SocialMediaForRealtors #SalesStrategies #RealEstateTraining #BuyersAndSellers #RealEstateGrowth #LuxuryRealEstate

How can empathy and relentless determination reshape your approach to overcoming personal and professional challenges? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Veronica Barba, an extraordinary real estate agent from ERA One Team Realty. From her humble beginnings in Moldova under Soviet rule to her thriving career in Jacksonville, Florida, Veronica shares an awe-inspiring story of resilience, adaptability, and passion. Having moved to the U.S. with limited English skills, Veronica turned her challenges into opportunities by embracing a client-focused approach that combines deep market knowledge, unyielding dedication, and authentic care. Veronica was born in the Republic of Moldova at that time part of Soviet Union. At 18 started to work as a nurse at Oncological Institute then later decided to change the carrier and graduated from Technical University of Moldova with a bachelor degree in Interior Design, licensed engineer and Master Degree in Architecture and Construction. In 6 years, she was working as University Lecturer at Technical University of Moldova. 9 years ago, she moved directly to Jacksonville with less than 100 words in English, no family or friends in Jacksonville and now she's 8 years of real estate journey. So far, her most successful year is 2024 with 45 closed homes.Enjoyed this episode? Share your thoughts on how empathy has played a role in your personal or professional life.   Highlights 00:01 - 04:03 Veronica Barba: Leading with the Heart ·       Growing up in Moldova during Soviet control ·       The challenges of limited freedoms and access to opportunities ·       The dream of exploring life beyond Moldova's borders ·       Studying abroad in Romania as a life-changing milestone ·       Family values and resilience in difficult societal conditions 04:04 - 21:04 Breaking into Real Estate: A Pivotal Encounter ·       How a persistent mentor introduced her to real estate ·       Overcoming doubts about her abilities in sales ·       Navigating the complexities of real estate licensure ·       The importance of finding purpose in her career choice ·       Her first steps toward mastering the real estate profession 21:05 - 34:12 Mastering the Real Estate Business ·       Learning the technical side of contracts and legalities ·       Gaining deep market knowledge through research ·       Finding creative solutions for first-time homebuyers ·       Understanding the mortgage process to better assist clients ·       Strategies for winning in competitive, multiple-offer situations   34:13 - 56:00 Heartfelt Stories: Making Dreams Come True ·       Helping an 81-year-old buy his first home ·       Going above and beyond to show the perfect property ·       Building lifelong client relationships through care and trust ·       Handling setbacks with determination and grace ·       The rewarding moments that fuel her passion for real estate   56:01 - 01:20:04 Advice for Aspiring and Experienced Agents ·       The importance of confidence, care, and authenticity ·       Leveraging past client relationships for referrals ·       How preparation and research create client trust ·       Staying adaptable in fluctuating market conditions ·       Continuous improvement as the cornerstone of success   Quotes: "I may do this every day, but for them, it's their first experience, and I have to be there for them." – Veronica Barba "If you look at life like a puzzle, finding solutions becomes a fulfilling mission." – Veronica Barba "Confidence and care—these are the foundations of building trust with clients." – Veronica Barba   To contact Veronica Barba, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-barba-07720573/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronica_barba_realtor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeronicaBarbaRealtor/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence #RealEstateJourney #GritAndSuccess #LeadingWithHeart #RealEstatePodcast #JacksonvilleHomes #MoldovanToAmericanDream #ClientFocused #EmpathyInBusiness #RealEstateAgentTips #OvercomingChallenges #RealEstateSuccess #ERARealty #RealEstateStrategies #FirstTimeHomeBuyers #RealEstateStories #PassionForRealEstate #InspiringJourneys #AmericanDream #BuildingConnections

How can adapting to your clients' needs and leveraging past experiences transform your real estate career? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Jimmy Diamond. Jimmy is a successful realtor from United Real Estate Gallery, to explore the journey of mastering the real estate industry. From his early days in collections and auto finance to becoming a top-performing agent in Northeast Florida, Jimmy shares how his unique skills in communication, adaptability, and relentless commitment to clients set him apart in the competitive market. Jimmy discusses the importance of active listening, creative problem-solving, and maintaining a client-first approach, offering insights for both new and seasoned realtors. The episode dives into real-life challenges, from navigating insurance surprises to negotiating tough deals, and provides actionable advice for building trust and long-term client relationships. Whether you're a real estate professional or interested in buying or selling property, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration. How do you think adaptability and listening skills impact a real estate agent's success?   Highlights 0:00 - 8:34 The Importance of Listening and Communication We welcome Jimmy Diamond to the show! Why active listening builds trust with clients Navigating difficult conversations with clients Lessons learned in handling tough negotiations Transitioning skills into real estate success 8:35 - 21:10 Challenges with Chinese Drywall in Florida Homes Understanding the issue and its widespread impact Lessons learned about inspections and due diligence Importance of insurance quotes during inspections Preparing clients for potential pitfalls in deals Educating buyers and sellers to set realistic expectations 21:11 - 33:12 Jimmy's Transition to Northeast Florida Real Estate ·       Building a network in a new area Strategies for a strong first year in real estate Handling low appraisals and challenging negotiations Creative problem-solving to close difficult deals Balancing client needs with market realities 33:12 - 53:41 Market Trends and Growth in Northeast Florida Leveraging open houses to build experience The importance of collaboration and mentorship Building a strong lead generation funnel Active listening and personalized client service Staying adaptable in a changing market 53:41 - 1:11:43 Building Long-Term Client Relationships How honesty and integrity drive referrals Creating a lasting impact with superior service Avoiding ego in negotiations to protect client interests Partnering with other agents for collaborative open houses Expanding reach through consistent branding and marketing Conclusion.   Quotes: "Listening is very important because clients will tell you what they want, and you have to work with that." – Jimmy Diamond "Flexibility is key in real estate. What worked yesterday might not work today." – Jimmy Diamond "I treat my clients' money like it's my own, always aiming to get them the best deal." – Jimmy Diamond "You've got to keep filling the funnel and grinding—treat every day like you're unemployed." – Jimmy Diamond "It's not a problem until it's a problem. Preparation is everything." – Jimmy Diamond   To contact Jimmy Diamond, learn more about his business, and make him a part of your network, make sure to follow his on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmydiamondsellsfl/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmydiamond_flrealtor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimmyDiamondSellsFL/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.   #RealEstateExcellence, #JimmyDiamond, #NortheastFloridaRealEstate, #ClientFirst, #ListeningSkills, #RealtorSuccess, #AdaptabilityInRealEstate, #OpenHouseStrategy, #RealEstateGrowth, #FloridaRealEstate, #RealEstatePodcast, #MarketTrends, #HomeBuyingTips, #RealEstateAgentLife, #NegotiationSkills, #RealEstateChallenges, #BuildingClientTrust, #RealEstateEducation, #NewAgents, #RealEstateLeadership

How can combining professional coaching and emotional intelligence lead to long-term success in real estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Wendy Griffis. Wendy is a Realtor®, Author and Group Leader in Jacksonville, Florida. Wendy has been serving the Jacksonville and surrounding areas since February 2000. Her experience and understanding of the area and market allows her to give accurate and thorough advice to her clients; providing successful, streamlined results, regardless of market conditions. Wendy acts in a consulting role – having an honest & direct approach with her clients. She knows how to help buyers and sellers follow her customized, but tried and true processes that gets results! Wendy has significantly outperformed the majority of the agents in our MLS in year over year sales numbers, property days on market, and list to sold price. Wendy is an advocate for her clients before, during and after the transaction. Wendy can be seen annually in the Jacksonville Journal Book of Lists. She was on the cover of Jacksonville Real Producers Magazine, and featured in articles in Florida Realtor and Buffini & Company magazines.  Wendy discusses the importance of emotional intelligence, crafting relationship-based business models, and navigating difficult market conditions with grit and grace. Listeners will hear about her approach to balancing professionalism and personal connection, the lessons she learned during the Great Recession, and how she uses insights from industry leaders like Brian Buffini to stay ahead in an ever-evolving field. Ready to transform your real estate career? Explore coaching opportunities and take time to develop your emotional intelligence.   Highlights 00:32 – 06:53 Wendy Griffis: Recognize the Difference ·       We welcome Wendy Griffis to the show! ·       How she transitioned from aspiring math teacher to successful realtor. ·       Rebounding from job loss due to Y2K and finding her path in real estate. ·       The growth and her philosophies for sustained success in the industry. 06:54 – 13:19 Emotional Intelligence in Real Estate ·       Wendy talks about her journey from selling six houses in the first year to over twenty annually by the second year. ·       Initially driven by the need for income and lacking a CRM. ·       The evolution of technology and its impact on customer service. ·       The transitioning phase of not wanting to be a sale-sy agent and choosing to build a relationship-based business.  ·       Maintaining professionalism and changing industry perceptions. 13:20 – 25:56 Coaching and Continuous Learning ·       How Wendy's journey went from hosting client events to enduring the economic turmoil of the late 2000s. ·       The emotional toll of difficult client conversations and personal financial struggles. ·       The underestimated daily tasks of a realtor. ·       Building long-term business relationships and setting personal boundaries. ·       The often-ignored emotional intelligence required in the industry. 25:57 – 36:49 Handling Tough Conversations ·       The crucial role of a seasoned real estate agent in guiding clients through complex home-buying processes. ·       The significance of soft skills like emotional intelligence. ·       The necessity of developmental learning and effective client interactions. ·       Competent service and the impact of personal growth through literature and networking. ·       Effective strategies for new which includes blending short-term client acquisition with long-term relationship management. 36:50 – 55:07 Developing Emotional Intelligence ·       Wendy's journey of personal and professional growth through reading and developing emotional intelligence. ·       How emotional intelligence helps in not taking rejection personally and swiftly moving towards solutions. ·       How handle setbacks promptly. ·       How personal notes fostered a genuine connection with clients. ·       The value of buyer consultations and the proper handling of buyer broker agreements are examined.   55:08 – 01:23:06 Strategic Selling and Pricing ·       Wendy discusses how effective pricing and negotiation tactics to the importance of deepening client relationships. ·       The challenges faced by agents dealing with new constructions and builder incentives. ·       The importance of consistent systems, client engagement through events. ·       Leveraging additional help such as transaction coordinators and operations managers. ·       Conclusion.   Quotes: “Real estate is not sales. I'm not selling anybody anything—I'm helping them achieve their goals.” – Wendy Griffis “ Emotional intelligence is about not taking things personally and focusing on solutions.” – Wendy Griffis “Price isn't always the problem, but it's often the solution” – Wendy Griffis   To contact Wendy Griffis, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Website. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendygriffis/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WendyGriffisGroup Website: https://www.wendygriffisgroup.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

What foundational skills from your past have unexpectedly become critical to your success today? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Cindy Bleiel. Cindy has over 10 years in the real estate industry, she has honed her skills to provide unparalleled service to her clients. Her extensive background includes a proven track record of successful transactions, demonstrating her commitment to professionalism, integrity, and achieving optimal results. Cindy Bleiel is not just a Realtor but a dedicated partner committed to turning your real estate dreams into reality. Cindy reflects on the lessons she learned from her early career, including the importance of staying calm under pressure and fostering clear communication. These skills have become cornerstones of her success in real estate, where she navigates complex negotiations and emotionally charged transactions. The conversation also delves into the evolving real estate market, the power of leveraging AI tools for efficiency, and the critical role of consistency in building a thriving referral-based business. Cindy's insights offer a wealth of inspiration for both new and seasoned agents. Tune in to this episode as Cindy as she highlights her approach to negotiations, staying informed on industry changes, and embracing technology like AI to enhance her work!   Highlights 00:00 - 06:23 Grit from the Ground Up ·       We welcome Cindy to the show! ·       Cindy's upbringing on a small farm taught her grit and responsibility. ·       Early mornings spent mucking stalls and feeding animals instilled discipline. ·       These traits became key to her professional success. 06:24 - 21:17 Transitioning Careers ·       Cindy's desire for a more flexible yet professional career led her to real estate. ·       Initial challenges: figuring out lead generation and navigating commission-based work. ·       The role of mentorship and learning from seasoned agents. 21:16 - 45:21 Early Challenges in Real Estate ·       Cindy stresses the value of being physically present in the office to learn from peers. ·       Shadowing experienced agents provides real-world insights. ·       Finding a brokerage that offers growth opportunities is critical for new agents. 45:20 - 52:07 The Human Side of Real Estate ·       Cindy shares how AI tools like ChatGPT have streamlined her work, from writing client emails to crafting property descriptions. ·       The importance of balancing technology with a personal touch in client communications. 52:06 - 01:13:35 Building a Referral-Based Business ·       Staying calm and focusing on facts is key to effective negotiation. ·       Cindy recounts unique challenges, such as navigating 1031 exchanges and rural property deals. ·       Collaboration with experts helps resolve complex situations. 01:13:35 - 01:22:38 Unique Transactions and Problem Solving ·       Cindy highlights the value of maintaining a strong database and consistently staying in touch with clients. ·       Success stories show how persistence and relationship-building pay off in the long term. ·       Tips for new agents: build a referral-based business over chasing leads.   Quotes: “You don't know what you don't know. Sitting at home won't teach you the business—get into the office, ask questions, and shadow experienced agents.” – Cindy Bleiel “ Early on, I learned to stay calm under pressure. In real estate, that skill helps diffuse emotional situations and keep transactions on track.” – Cindy Bleiel “Overpricing doesn't work anymore. If you price it right, you'll generate interest and likely get offers close to asking.” – Cindy Bleiel   To contact Cindy Bleiel, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Website. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therighthome4u Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cindy4U YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cindybleiel2124 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-bleiel-22597576/ Website: https://www.TheRightHome4U.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Do you want to boost your real estate game with videos? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Rick Gonzalez. Rick is an Elite real estate professional specializing in residential properties, with a deep commitment to serving military families moving to or from Eglin AFB and the surrounding area of the Florida Panhandle (Fort Walton Beach/Destin Metro Area). Helping his private clients sell their existing homes and clients find new homes, ensuring that each client receives personalized and dedicated service. Rick Gonzalez shares his insights and strategies for creating impactful real estate content. Rick discusses the importance of getting to know the market, forming relationships with other agents, and utilizing video content to build a brand. With practical tips on conducting open house tours, producing long-form walkthrough videos, and leveraging social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for both new and experienced agents looking to enhance their online presence and grow their business in 2025. Tune in to this episode as Rick shares how to boost your real estate game with social media content!   Highlights 00:00 - 09:48 Rick Gonzalez: The O.H.A.N.A Strategy ·       We welcome Rick to the show! ·       Rick details how new and seasoned agents can revamp their strategies for better results. ·       Utilizing community engagement, content creation, and market knowledge. ·       The need to adapt and build a strong, localized presence in a new market. 09:49 - 23:55 Learning Local Market Nuances ·       Rick discusses his innovative approach called the O.H.A.N.A (Open House Agent Network Opportunity) Strategy. ·       He aims to build relationships with local realtors. ·       Create engaging content for social media. ·       Enhancing market presence and client relations. 23:56 - 44:56 Outsourcing Content Creation ·       Meeting local agents and exploring the hidden aspects of new communities. ·       Rick emphasizes the value of being on the ground, gathering local insights, and forming strategic partnerships. ·       Enhancing the agent's confidence and credibility in unfamiliar territories. ·       Rick provides practical tips on leveraging video content, community engagement, and digital techniques. 44:57 - 52:36 Leveraging AI and Outsourcing for Video Content ·       The importance of consistent content creation for real estate agents on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. ·       Utilizing longer video formats like those allowed on TikTok. ·       Real-world examples and successful strategies from other content creators are shared to illustrate effective practices. ·       The goal is to focus on providing valuable information and establishing oneself as a local expert to drive engagement and sales. 52:37 - 56:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement ·       Rick offers practical advice, including using voiceovers, hiring a videographer, and utilizing AI tools. ·       The importance of becoming an expert in your field. ·       Using thoughtful content strategies to grow your business. ·       Finding creative ways to produce content. ·       Conclusion.   Quotes: “ Be the expert in those builders, be the expert in those communities, be the expert in your city, and show the expertise as you're talking to your audience.” – Rick Gonzalez “ You don't have to be overly excitable. You don't have to be this fake persona. You need to be you.” – Rick Gonzalez “R real estate is a people business.” – Rick Gonzalez   To contact Rick Gonzalez, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Website, and Email. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rick.a.gonzalez/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rickagonzalezrealtor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RickGonzalezRealtor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickagonzalez/ Podcast: https://www.realrandompodcast.com Website: https://rickgonzalez.chime.me/ Email: rick@rickgonzalezgroup.com Sharran Srivatsaa: https://www.youtube.com/@sharran Roland Osage: https://www.tiktok.com/@rolandosage?lang=en Raj Sahoo: https://www.youtube.com/@RajSahoo Rick's editor: https://www.videolaunch.co/ https://www.instagram.com/conor_murnane/?hl=en   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How do you maintain your real estate edge? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Debbie Tufts. Debbie Tufts is a top-producing real estate agent with Engel and Völkers in Northeast Florida, shares her extensive knowledge and experiences. With over 20 years in the industry, Debbie discusses the importance of leveraging skilled team members, the value of maintaining a high-engagement database, and the impact of working with the right brokerage. She also touches on the challenges faced in the ever-changing real estate market and how staying educated and adaptable is crucial for success. Tune in to this episode as Debbie shares her valuable tips and personal stories that highlight the highs and lows of a career in real estate!   Highlights 00:00 - 08:11 Debbie Tufts: Running A Professional Real Estate Business ·       We welcome Debbie Tufts to the show! ·       Debbie shares her insights into a well-managed database, leadership culture, and choosing the right brokerage. ·       Focusing on a core group of high-value contacts. ·       Sustaining and growing a successful real estate business. ·       Maintaining strong relationships. ·       How her team plans to enhance their methods in 2025. 08:11 - 20:57 Engaging Clients Through Creative Marketing ·       Debbie's innovative methods to stay top-of-mind. ·       Her monthly themed mailers and community spotlights. ·       Engaging clients but also ensure they feel like VIPs. ·       Consistent communication. ·       The role of CRM tools. ·       Leveraging data to enhance client relationships. ·       The balance between traditional methods and creative tactics. 20:57 - 40:50 Starting a Real Estate Career in Atlanta ·       Debbie needed to re-enter the workforce to ensure her daughters received the best education. ·       Starting as an assistant to a top real estate producer. ·       Learning the ins and outs of the business. ·       The importance of mentorship, continuing education, and staying updated on market trends. ·       The value of choosing the right brokerage. ·       How a supportive environment can significantly influence an agent's career. ·       The role of data in making informed decisions. ·       Understanding market dynamics are also discussed. 40:50 - 01:07:38 Engel & Völkers: A Unique Brokerage ·       Debbie's experiences of real estate agents at Engel & Völkers. ·       Focusing on the unique supportive environment fostered by broker Corey. ·       The distinct global offerings of Engel & Völkers. ·       The high standards set by Corey that drive agent performance. ·       The value of mentorship, preparation, and leveraging team strengths. ·       Positive work culture and continuous learning to break through career ceilings. ·       Advising new agents to seek out experienced mentors. ·       Embracing the diverse aspects of the real estate business. 01:07:38 - 01:19:11 Consistency and Faith in Business ·       The importance of consistency, love, and laughter in both personal and professional life. Debbie's daily practices like morning prayers. ·       The use of checklists to stay organized. ·       Updating business processes by implementing a new CRM system. ·       Surrounding oneself with knowledgeable people. ·       The value of building relationships with local businesses. ·       The impact of networking and consistent communication with clients. ·       Conclusion.   Quotes: “ I came to realize what a gift it is because  they knew so they could do things much better than I could even though I thought I could do it better.” – Debbie Tufts “Sometimes our setbacks are the best breakthroughs that we can possibly.” – Debbie Tufts “ When you look at the results of our brokerage in such a very short time, the results speak for themselves.” – Debbie Tufts   To contact Debbie Tufts, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Website, and Email. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbietuftsgroup YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3yIi_U6ekA Website: https://debbietuftsgroup.evrealestate.com/about Email: debbie.tufts@evusa.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Why Is community at the heart of successful realtors? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Daniella Ottone. Daniella Ottone, a seasoned real estate agent with over 21 years of experience in Jacksonville, Florida. Daniella shares her journey from moving to the U.S. from Chile to becoming a leading figure in the Jacksonville Hispanic community. With a rich background in mortgage and underwriting, Daniella offers invaluable insights into real estate, emphasizing the importance of consistency, community engagement, and resilience. She also discusses her unique approach to building a successful real estate team and the pivotal role of cultural understanding in her market. With over 21 years of experience in the Real Estate Industry, Daniella Ottone has become a trusted name in Jacksonville, Florida. Originally from Chile, Daniella has made this vibrant city her home for over two decades, immersing herself in its diverse neighborhoods and communities. Her deep understanding of the local market makes her the perfect partner for anyone looking to invest or purchase real estate in Northeast Florida. Tune in to this episode as Daniella shares whether you're an aspiring agent or a seasoned professional, Daniella's story and strategies offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration!   Highlights 00:00 - 04:57 Daniella Ottone: A Leader In The Hispanic Real Estate Market ·       We welcome Daniella Ottone! ·       Daniella how she established a successful career in the real estate and mortgage industry. ·       Her active involvement in the Hispanic community in Jacksonville. ·       Her role as host of Daniella's Real Estate Show. ·       The value of being a community leader and utilizing social media effectively. ·       Targeting specific client demographics. ·        Remi Graphics ad. 04:58 - 28:45 Challenges and Strategies in Serving the Hispanic Community ·       Daniella's inspiring journey of a woman who started by cleaning houses. ·       How she navigated her way through various roles in mortgage collections and loan officiating. ·       Her story speaks about resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in building a successful business amidst challenges. ·       Her innovative approaches such as lunch-and-learns to capture the Hispanic market. ·       Leveraging her deep understanding of mortgage underwriting to streamline real estate transactions. 28:46 - 38:33 Building Client Relationships ·       The financial literacy challenges faced by Latino customers in the U.S. ·       The distrust of people of banks and are unfamiliar with credit systems. ·       Daniella aims to help these customers navigate these systems, establish credit, and build financial stability. ·       The importance of long-term customer relationships and loyalty within the Latino community. ·       The need for real estate agents to look beyond immediate transactions. ·       Her humble beginnings and passion for assisting in achieving financial milestones like homeownership. 38:34 - 51:36 The Importance of Team Chemistry ·       How Daniella started with humble beginnings to managing a successful team. ·       The importance of consistency in business and the structured training provided to new agents. ·       Her focus is on the cultivation of a positive team culture and personalized customer service. ·       The vital role of persistence and adaptability in overcoming financial challenges and achieving nearly 90 transactions in a year. 51:37 - 01:00:50 Leveraging Social Media and Content Creation ·       The challenges of building trust and credibility in the real estate industry. ·       Teamwork and leveraging collective experience to establish credibility. ·       Effective marketing techniques such as: o   Emphasizing the integration of video content; and o   Social media to reach a broader audience. ·       How she encourages her agents to learn from their successes and mistakes. ·       The necessity of delegation to avoid burnout. ·       Utilizing live streaming and recorded content to maximize audience engagement. 01:00:51 - 01:14:14 Final Thoughts and Future Plans ·       Daniella shares her journey of transforming clients into team members. ·       The importance of retaining a core team for long-term success. ·       The value of personality fit and creating a supportive culture. ·       The evolving strategies in the current market conditions. ·       Learning from her experiences of focusing on the Latino community and foreign investors to thrive in challenging times. ·       Conclusion.   Quotes: “They don't trust people in general because a lot of people take advantage of them and that's what made me get into my community.” – Daniella Ottone “You don't have to be the smartest person to make the most money, you have to be consistent.” – Daniella Ottone “ You have to consistently work on the business. I don't think that if anybody that wants to be an entrepreneur or wants to work for themselves is cut for that.” – Daniella Ottone   To contact Daniella Ottone, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Email. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellaottone/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniellasellsjacksonville/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ottonegroup Email: theottonegroup@gmail.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful real estate business? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Gretchen Territo, co-owner of a successful husband-and-wife real estate team. Gretchen shares her journey from corporate sales and teaching to becoming a key player in the real estate market. The discussion highlights the importance of time, consistency, and a focus on mastering each task before moving on to new challenges. Gretchen emphasizes the role of personalized value-adds like staging, pressure washing, and building strong vendor relationships. The episode delves into the significance of maintaining touchpoints with a large clientele through consistent newsletters and community-focused events. The conversation also addresses the evolving market, the challenges of initial real estate ventures, and the strategies that make Team Territo a standout choice for clients, whether they are buying, selling, or investing.   Tune in to this episode as Gretchen shows you what it takes to create a successful real estate business that truly serves client needs!   Highlights 00:00 - 04:59 Gretchen Territo: "What's it going to look like?" ·       We welcome Gretchen Territo to the show! ·       Gretchen shares her unique journey from obtaining a sociology degree. ·       Transitioning to educational sales to ultimately finding her passion in real estate alongside her builder husband, Matt. ·       Their strategy of flipping distressed properties while balancing personal life changes, like adopting their children. ·       How she has transferred from her diverse career background to excel in the real estate industry. ·       Remi Graphics ad. 05:00 - 28:16 CRM Strategies and Newsletter Insights ·       The journey of a successful educational sales professional transitioning to the real estate market. ·       The strategies for effective marketing and relationship management. ·       The significance of consistent efforts like newsletters. ·       The pivotal role of staging in selling homes. ·       The importance of long-term planning, leveraging personal and professional networks, and adapting sales tactics. ·       Practical advice for new agents. ·       The importance of consistency, relationship building, and staging in achieving success. 28:17 - 37:38 Leveraging Newsletters for Real Estate Success ·       Effective strategies for utilizing a CRM to maintain and grow a client base through consistent communication and personalized touchpoints. ·       It details a dual newsletter approach—one focusing on community and lifestyle, and the other on market updates and listings. ·       The newsletters boast a subscriber base of 7,000, aiding in client and local business engagement. ·       How her team uses automated, tag-driven email campaigns to nurture potential buyers. ·       The importance of consistently adding contacts to the CRM, leveraging internet leads, and incorporating team members' databases is emphasized. ·       Special attention is given to the strategy of focusing on repeat and referral business. ·       Sending personalized quarterly gifts and events for clients to reinforce relationships and customer loyalty. 37:39 - 50:03 Understanding Client Needs for Long-Term Success ·       Prioritizes building strong local connections over spending on internet leads for real estate business. ·       Gretchen organizes an annual event at Sykes Family Farm to appreciate their 'friends of Team Territo'. ·       The significant return on investment (85% of the business) from these personal connections versus impersonal internet leads. ·       The rising costs of staging homes and how some agents are managing their own staging to cut costs and enhance control. ·       The challenges agents face when they reach their capacity and the strategies for hiring to support scaling, such as: o   Leveraging Keller Williams' models o   Hiring admin staff. ·       Leveraging her husband's expertise in construction help build trust with clients. ·       Confidence and understanding in the real estate market. 50:04 - 1:04:40 Conclusion and Why Choose Team Territo? ·       Transparent conversations and understanding clients' long-term goals in real estate is emphasized. ·       The significance of looking beyond immediate needs. ·       Team Territo's approach focuses on creating a luxury experience by: o   Blending consultative selling with deep industry knowledge; o   Staging; and o   Personalized relationships. ·       The value of a personalized consultation, like those held by Team Territo, which can lead to better client satisfaction and referrals. ·       Contrasting it with a transactional real estate business model. ·       The relevance of understanding each client's unique needs to build lifelong client relationships. ·       Conclusion.   Quotes: “There are a lot of successful agents and teams that do run a very transactional business. Every portion of the transaction is leveraged out.” – Gretchen Territo “Anything that you decide to do, do it until you master it and it just becomes the way it's just part of your process before you take on something else.” – Gretchen Territo “It's smart for agents to think about ways that they can add value to their businesses and whatever that means for them.” – Gretchen Territo   To contact Gretchen Territo, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Website. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamterrito/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamTerrito TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gterrito Website: https://trustedterritory.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

What Happens When Real Estate Agents Embrace Grit and Growth? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, Tracy interviews Kate Swain. Kate is a second-generation North East Floridian and Jacksonville native. Real Estate is Kate's full-time career and passion. She has excelled while being licensed in both Florida and Georgia. She is in the top 5% of all Zillow agents earning her “Best of Zillow” status. Kate was the top selling agent in her brokerage, selling the most properties in 2021 and earning Nassau County top producer status for 2021. In 2021, Kate Swain sold 68 properties totaling 20 million dollars. Kate has the expertise and determination to work hard for you. Kate shares her journey from broadcasting to becoming a top-performing agent. They cover various topics such as the importance of staying active in the industry, utilizing systems for client management, the necessity of mentorship, and leveraging video marketing. Kate emphasizes the value of forming authentic relationships with clients, adapting to market changes, and continuously sharpening one's skills. Tune in to this episode as Kate shares her practical advice for both new and experienced real estate agents looking to excel in their careers!   Highlights 00:00 - 06:21 The Importance of Continuous Learning ·       We welcome Kate Swain to the show! She shares her initial interest in politics and broadcast journalism during her college years. ·       Her experiences at Florida State, including covering the Bush-Gore election controversy. ·       The challenges and demands of pursuing a career in broadcast journalism. 06:22 - 20:01 Networking and Referrals ·       Kate's career transition from working in media to becoming a successful real estate agent. ·       After a tragic family event and disillusionment with media's exploitative nature, she pivoted to real estate. ·       Encouraged by her broker husband, Kate obtained her real estate license in 2018. ·       Juggling a family and an unstructured start. ·       She found success by developing efficient systems for managing clients and transactions. ·       The importance of mentorship, organization, and choosing the right brokerage for long-term success. 20:02 - 36:35 The Importance of Systems in Real Estate ·       The career progression of a real estate agent who begins with a significant referral from a gold medalist athlete. ·       Kate's transition from their initial brokerage to becoming a leader within Keller Williams. ·       The challenges, learning opportunities, and the value of training and persistence. ·       Overseeing operations in Jacksonville, Florida, under the Keller Williams Sports and Entertainment division. ·       Continuous improvement and networking. 36:36 - 50:31 The Power of Video Marketing ·       The aspects of real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of persistence and creative problem-solving. ·       Personal experiences, including the purchase and sale of multiple homes and handling complex transactions involving condos. ·       Managing professional relationships and the indispensable role of having a capable assistant to achieve success. ·       Addressing the current real estate market challenges and strategies to effectively manage listings. 50:32 - 01:11:36 Tips for New Agents and Conclusion ·       Focusing on the transition to incorporating video marketing. ·       Boosting visibility and engagement through YouTube. ·       Maintaining authentic client relationships. Leveraging videos for lasting impact. ·       Effectively using social media. ·       They practical aspects such as: o   Buyer broker agreements, o   Staying active during slower months, and o   Strategies for new agents to remain top-of-mind and client-focused. ·       Professionalism, authenticity, and the strategic use of technology to enhance real estate business outcomes.   Quotes: “You're never too busy, in my opinion, to carve out something.” – Kate Swain “I know this is a cliché but I truly love helping people.” – Kate Swain “One of the things when I got into real estate is I did not give up time with my family. Family is super important to me.” – Kate Swain   To contact Kate Swain, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate.swain/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.r.swain YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEXTMOVEATLANTICCOAST Website: https://nextmoveatlanticcoast.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Can Social Media Really Change the Game in Real Estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Colleen Gerke. Colleen shares her fascinating journey from being a successful winery owner in Missouri to becoming one of the top real estate agents in Northeast Florida. Colleen discusses the intricacies of transitioning from agriculture and wine production to the competitive world of real estate. She emphasizes the importance of consistent branding, the role of social media, and the power of video marketing.  Colleen is recognized by the Amelia Island Nassau County Association of Realtors as a Top Producer Realtor, recognized by the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors as a Real Producer, is a Top Residential Real Estate Agent on Jacksonville Business Journal's Book of Lists, and is part of Engel & Volkers Diamond Elite Club. She also has a 5-Star rating on Zillow, Yelp, Realtor.com and Facebook. Tune in to this episode as Colleen sheds light on her personal experiences, including the challenges and rewarding moments of her career changes!   Highlights 00:00 - 04:09 Colleen Gerke: How Wine Made Me A Great Real Estate Agent ·        We welcome Colleen Gerke to the show! ·        How she established herself as one of the top agents in the region. ·        Her dedication as a real estate professional in the Fernandina Amelia Island community. ·        Her decision to move to Florida, and her early experiences in real estate. ·        The appeal and growth of Nassau County as a prime location for new residents. 09:08 - 24:35 Transition to Real Estate ·        Colleen began with a career in agricultural communications and public relations. ·        Transitioning into opening and managing a successful winery in Kansas City. ·        Starting with small-scale vine planting, expanding the winery operations. ·        Creating engaging customer experiences through innovative events. ·        The sale of one winery and the contemplation of further life changes. 24:36 - 40:03 The Joy of Closing Deals ·        Colleen's aspiration to live at a peaceful place like Amelia Island and devises a concrete plan to make it happen. ·        The process of selling their winery through a business broker. ·        The importance of not letting emotions affect business deals. ·        Transitioning from a winery to a simple life on a boat. ·        They face challenges brought about by COVID-19. ·        Homeschooling their children, and adapting to a new lifestyle. ·        Leveraging their skills in building relationships and educating clients. ·        Her ability to connect with people and adapt to new circumstances, despite initial plans being focused on simple property transactions. 40:30 - 51:31 Leveraging Social Media and AI ·        Colleen's journey in real estate and entrepreneurship. ·        The joy of making clients happy with their first home purchase. ·        The importance of love, laughter, and joy in overcoming challenges. ·        Colleen shares personal anecdotes from the winery business and real estate. ·        Focusing on consistency and branding, as well as the importance of perseverance through difficult times. ·        The impact of global branding with Engel and Volkers and provides insights on handling higher-end cash transactions in real estate. 51:31 - 01:17:02 Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents and Conclusion ·        Utilizing social media and AI tools, specifically mentioning LinkedIn and ChatGPT. ·        Colleen shares how consistent social media strategies like 'Real Estate Tuesday' and 'Tip Tuesday,' as well as detailed monthly market analysis reports. ·        The benefits of using video content for real estate marketing. ·        The importance of maintaining an online presence: o   The significance of collaboration, o   Staying updated with market changes, and o   Adopting new technologies in the real estate industry. ·        Colleen shares their positive experience at Engel & Volkers and how their professional environment aids in their success. ·        Conclusion.   Quotes: “I knew from the get go, it needs to be consistent.” – Colleen Gerke “I knew coming from that marketing side that you can build it but that's not necessarily going people to come.” – Colleen Gerke “When I'm out in public and hanging out with friends not to talk real estate, if you want to talk real estate, they can bring it up. And I'm happy to talk about it with them.” – Colleen Gerke   To contact Colleen Gerke, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Email, and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/close_with_colleen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/closedwithcolleen YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@closewithcolleen Email: colleen.gerke@engelvoelkers.com Website: https://www.closewithcolleen.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Can Social Media Really Change the Game in Real Estate? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Erica Wolfe. Erica Wolfe from Jupiter, Florida. Known as the 'Wolfe of Real Estate,' Erica shares her journey from being a young mom needing more income to building a successful real estate team. She discusses her early days dealing with foreclosures, the importance of social media marketing, and her proprietary tech tools. Erica emphasizes the significance of education, consistency, and creating a successful team culture. She also offers insights into leveraging digital ads for real estate and explains the importance of showing up regularly on social media. Since breaking into the Real Estate market in 2008, Erica Wolfe has proven herself to be an industry leader and innovator. Utilizing video and community enrichment, she dominates the digital marketing sector with expansive knowledge of digital ads, print ads, geo farming, and a multitude of systems that have stream-lined her processes. Over the years, Erica has grown her team of experts, placing her talents in areas where they thrive- ensuring her reputation as a pack of efficient, communicative, ethical and knowledgeable professionals Tune in to this episode as Erica Wolfe shares her practical advice for both new and experienced agents looking to elevate their real estate game!   Highlights 00:00 - 03:34 Erica Wolfe: The Wolfe of Real Estate ·        We welcome Erica Wolfe! ·        Erica leads a team of women and has built a strong reputation in Palm Beach County. She leads through social media and a commitment to service and integrity. ·        The rapid growth of the real estate market in Northeast Florida and the innovative technology driving the industry. ·        The importance of collaboration between salespeople and tech developers to create effective solutions. 03:35 - 18:44 Choosing the Right Brokerage ·        Erica's transition from a young mother to a successful real estate agent. ·        She gained experience working in banking and insurance before obtaining her real estate license in 2008. ·        Capitalizing on opportunities in foreclosures and short sales. ·        Building a strong professional relationship with a Canadian investor. Becoming a mentor has significantly influenced Erica's career. ·        The importance of adaptability, technology, and mentorship in real estate. 18:45 - 30:30 Understanding and Leveraging Market Trends ·        Erica's struggle with overwork before creating the Wolfe Team. ·        Hiring a buyer's agent and later expanded to include family members and additional agents. ·        Emphasizing client care and team retention. ·        The importance of systems, controlling client interactions, and ensuring quality of life for team members. ·        The value of treating clients like family and maintaining a positive reputation. ·        Focusing on providing support, training, and maintaining a manageable team size. ·        Ensuring every member meets their goals and can have a fulfilling career without the stress of managing real estate business intricacies alone. 30:31 - 48:38 Consistency and Accountability in Real Estate ·        The importance of real estate agents understanding their local market. ·        Educating clients and to ease their decision-making process. ·        Self-education through available online resources and suggests seeking advice from experienced agents. ·        The value of attending national and regional events for professional growth. ·        The efficacy of digital marketing, particularly social media ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. ·        Using consistent posting to leverage algorithms. Creating a daily, weekly, and monthly checklist of tasks to ensure consistent success in real estate. 48:39 – 53:28 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Agents ·        The importance of maintaining a consistent to-do list and holding oneself accountable. ·        Three daily practices recommended for real estate agents include: o   Spending an hour calling database contacts, o   Conducting CMAs or home equity reviews, and o   Being active on social media. ·        The significance of video content, it also offers advice for new real estate agents, such as: o   Getting licensed, Joining broker training, and o   Becoming active in community Facebook groups.   Quotes: “I've never been scared to work. I still will work a lot.” – Erica  Wolfe “I feel like there are two types of people in the real estate world. The ones that are constantly learning and growing, and educating themselves and implementing.” – Erica  Wolfe “I have a daily, weekly, monthly checklist, and it sits to the right of my computer on my desk, and it's all the tasks that I want to do daily, weekly, and monthly that I've found to be successful.” – Erica  Wolfe   To contact Erica Wolfe, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Email, and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfeofrealestate/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericawolfeofrealestate YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WolfeOfRealEstate LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jupiterflrealtor/ Email: erica@wolferealtyteam.com Website: https://wolfeofrealestate.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How can real estate boards build trust and enhance value in a changing industry? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Jeanette Langford. Jeanette Langford is the Chief Executive Officer of the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS®. Before assuming her current role, she was the Vice President of Professional Services at the MIBOR REALTOR® Association in Indianapolis, a position she held since April 2015. Jeanette has an extensive history of involvement with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), having served on numerous committees and currently holding a position on the NAR Professional Standards Committee. Prior to her tenure at MIBOR, Jeanette was the Director of the Indiana Real Estate Commission, the Real Estate Appraiser Licensure & Certification Board, and the Home Inspectors Licensing Board. Her career with the State of Indiana spanned 21 years, during which she held various significant positions. Jeanette shares her extensive experience working her way up through various positions with the Indiana Real Estate Commission and the Mid Indiana Board of Realtors before her current role. Jeanette discusses the challenges and importance of establishing trust in workplace relationships, her strategic vision for the board, and her ongoing efforts to enhance member value. She also highlights the implementation of a new membership portal and the introduction of a leadership program aimed at bolstering professionalism and success among realtors. Tune in to this episode as Jeanette to get an inside look at the responsibilities of a real estate board CEO and the key initiatives underway to support real estate professionals!   Highlights 00:00 - 06:28 Jeanette Langford: CEO of the St Augustine St Johns Board of Realtors ·        We welcome Jeanette Langford to the show! ·        Jeanette shares her extensive background in real estate. ·        Her previous roles with the Mid Indiana Board of Realtors and the Indiana Real Estate Commission. ·        Working her way up through various roles over 21 years. ·        The challenges and politics of working within state organizations. ·        Her personal motivations, and her vision. 06:29 - 29:21 Adapting to Regional Differences in Real Estate ·        Jeanette's experiences and strategies in leadership roles. ·        Her transition from the State of Indiana's larger board to a smaller one. ·        Managing the dynamics of constantly changing board members. ·        Earning trust from colleagues and navigating political directives with diplomacy is emphasized. ·        Handling ethical complaints, maintaining professionalism, setting high standards, and promoting a positive reputation for realtors. ·        Her daily responsibilities, interactions with other real estate associations, and the support received from the Florida Realtors Association. 29:22 - 41:07 Enhancing Communication Strategies ·        The differences in real estate practices between Florida and Indiana. ·        Focusing on flood insurance and short-term rentals. ·        Her involvement in day-to-day operations and addresses various initiatives. ·        Data sharing among multiple MLS systems and directives. ·        Improving member services and best practices from other regions. 41:08 - 51:57 Challenges and Solutions in Real Estate ·        Improving communication and engagement within a real estate board. ·        Jeanette shares their five-month evaluation and initiatives like: o   Enhancing clear and effective communication channels; o   Exploring member preferences for communication, and o   Suggesting a new portal for personalized information. ·        The challenges of reaching members through various platforms. ·        The need for frequent and consistent messaging. ·        Attending events and education classes is emphasized. ·        Encouraging members to schedule them proactively. 51:58 - 01:13:58 The Importance of Member Engagement and Conclusion ·        Strategies and initiatives being implemented by the new CEO of the St. Augustine Board of Realtor. ·        Enhancing communication and engagement among members by: o   Improving the clarity and functionality of communications, o   Finding better ways to disseminate information, and o   Encouraging brokers and agents to get more involved. ·        The importance of providing clear value to members. ·        Her outreach and education to reduce failure rates among new agents. ·        The challenges faced by the board in managing operations, compliance, and maintaining high standards of professionalism.   Quotes: “The number one important thing that I did is that you have to earn that trust.” – Jeanette Langford “Sometimes people want to call and talk about it and fine. I give as much explanation as I can, you know, that wouldn't be outside of what that hearing panel found.” – Jeanette Langford “My goal is to make sure that our board knows all of the different opportunities to make that happen.” – Jeanette Langford   To contact Jeanette Langford, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-langford-60943832 Email: jeanette@stjohnsrealtors.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

 Wondering how top agents stay ahead in a changing market? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Carrie Fife. Carrie is an esteemed Real Estate Advisor based in Jacksonville, Florida. Boasting over a decade of industry expertise with deeply rooted ties to the region, Carrie is renowned for her comprehensive grasp of the local market. Beyond her professional pursuits, Carrie is passionately engaged in community service, collaborating closely with a non-profit organization to establish a buddy support system through sponsorships. Committed to promoting accountability and fostering a sense of belonging within the community, she actively contributes to initiatives aimed at social betterment. Embracing a faith-driven lifestyle, Carrie finds solace and joy in her outdoor adventures alongside her Labrador Retriever, Belle. Carrie talks about her transition from a career in insurance to the builder world, and finally to retail real estate. She shares insights from her journey, including the professional skills she brought from her previous roles, the challenges of the real estate industry, and the importance of structure and perseverance. She touches upon the impact of economic shifts on real estate, the significance of having a thorough business model, and the value of nurturing relationships in the industry. Tune in to this episode as Carrie shares her experience highlights the need for grit and adaptability to succeed in real estate!   Highlights 00:00 - 03:58 Carrie Fife: Builder Site Agent to Realtor ·        We welcome Carrie Fife! ·        Her career transition from working in insurance for over 12 years. ·        Entering the builder world and eventually moving into retail real estate sales. Her award-winning work from 2016 to 2020 and her involvement in volunteering. Her skills she transferred from her previous career to succeed in real estate. ·        Her current role with Keller Williams St. John's. 03:59 - 11:41 Consistency and Structure in Real Estate ·        Carrie's early career decision-making at 18, where she worked in corporate America with Zurich insurance services. ·        Her transition through various roles within the company, including customer service and policy management. ·        Her initial reluctance to leave a structured corporate job and layoffs led her to explore real estate. ·        The value of grit and perseverance in navigating career changes. 11:42 - 28:05 Importance of Training and Education ·        Focusing on a unique concept called LLC, which stands for love, trust, and commitment. ·        Carrie's experiences in the real estate industry, particularly in home building. ·        Her transition from home building to general real estate, stressing the importance of consistency in business practices. ·        The emotional and long-lasting bonds formed with clients and the challenges of maintaining financial stability in a fluctuating market. 28:06 - 40:27 Understanding Inventory and Payment Flexibility ·        The importance of training and development for salespeople in both the construction and general real estate industries. ·        How builders often train their sales agents in both product knowledge and sales techniques. ·        The differences between working as a sales manager for a builder versus a general real estate agent under a brokerage. ·        The importance of creating relationships between site agents and general agents. ·        Prospecting strategies during downtime. ·        The significance of having contacts within the builder community for faster information exchange to benefit clients. 40:28 - 47:44 Marketing Strategies and Tools ·        The experiences and strategies of a real estate professional in Northeast Florida. ·        The challenges of working with limited inventory. ·        The importance of understanding fees like HOA and CDD for homebuyers. ·        Her personal decision to direct clients to DreamFinders homes despite lower commissions. ·        Focusing on the value of long-term relationships and creating structures and routines in daily work. ·        The significance of consistent prospecting and goal-setting to achieve real estate success. ·        The discipline required to maintain these habits and the reflection on outcomes to evaluate business effectiveness. 47:45 - 01:09:03 The Importance of Collaboration and Conclusion ·        The strategies and experiences of real estate agents. ·        Having a structured marketing approach like newsletters and sold postcards. ·        The significance of financial stability before entering real estate. ·        The pros and cons of working for builders versus general real estate. ·        The necessity of continuous prospecting. ·        Adjusting business models in response to economic shifts. ·        The valuable role of mentorship and collaboration within brokerages such as Keller Williams. The importance of consistency, leveraging resources, and adapting to market changes for long-term success.   Quotes: “It's much easier for me to sell it if I believe in the product.” – Carrie Fife “I needed the business models to be able to support what my goals were.” – Carrie Fife “There are some benefits with working for a builder, which is the leads come to you. You're in a community for years and with that marketing, it does a great job with driving traffic to your community.” – Carrie Fife   To contact Carrie Fife, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrie_fife_/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carrie.fife80   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

 What are some of the qualities that make women successful real estate agents? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Holly Carroll. Holly is a Luxury Realtor in Muskoka, managing director of the Agency Muskoka, a public speaker, and author of “Selling Secrets You Can't Afford To Miss”. She is a founding member of Women Empower Women Co, a group that was formed to empower all women to live life courageously, embrace vulnerability, collaborate, connect and lean into what makes them truly feel alive. She also founded a company called “Finding The Beauty Within” to help younger women with their self-worth, build confidence and all the struggles they face through becoming a woman. She is a former Miss Canada which catapulted her love for helping others and philanthropy. She is on a mission to impact the world, inspire others to find their dharma and shine their light so bright others can see their way out of darkness. Holly also talks about her initiatives like Women Empower Women Co and Finding the Beauty Within, and how these experiences shape her professional and personal life. The discussion includes tips on building a successful real estate career, maintaining personal growth, and balancing work and personal life. Tune in to this episode as Holly shares her tips on building a successful real estate career, maintaining personal growth, and balancing work and personal life!   Highlights 00:00 - 05:41 Holly Carroll: Women Make the Best Real Estate Agents ·        Tracy welcomes Holly Carroll! ·        Holly shares her transition from a 17-year modeling career to thriving in the real estate industry. ·        Empowering women through her initiatives, Women Empower Women Co. and Finding the Beauty Within. ·        Her upbringing, her early aspirations to be a supermodel, and the influential figures who inspired her. ·        The seasonal lifestyle of Muskoka and the impact of social media on modern fame. 05:41 - 11:33 Building a Personal Brand ·        How her experiences in modeling and real estate have shaped their approach to dealing with people, confidence, and rejection. ·        The importance of maintaining a positive outlook while being aware of the industry's darker aspects. ·        The significance of self-worth, setting boundaries, and striving for personal growth. ·        How women in real estate face unique challenges and stresses the importance of supporting and retaining new entrants in the profession. 11:33 19:47 Overcoming Obstacles ·        Her pivot to real estate, and ultimate decision to pursue it after modeling in LA. ·        Despite facing resistance and identity challenges initially when trying to integrate her modeling persona into the business world. ·        Embracing your authentic self. ·        The hurdles faced in traditional brokerage environments, namely: o   The importance of self-belief, and o   Leveraging her on-camera confidence built during her modeling career. ·        Staying authentic and the power of raw, relatable content in building a brand. 19:47 - 27:51 Essential Habits for Success ·        The initial challenges faced during the first year in the real estate industry. ·        The importance of focusing solely on real estate rather than juggling multiple jobs. ·        Building a personal brand and not letting others dictate one's career. ·        Learning from mistakes, such as: o   Septic system errors, and o   Building and Maintaining relationships with clients. ·        Holly talks about why women may have natural advantages in real estate due to their nurturing and caring qualities. ·        Essential habits that have contributed to career success, such as: o   Consistent communication and o   Personal growth. 27:51 - 35:48 Finding the Beauty Within ·        Scheduling days off for real estate agents and how failing to do so can result in industry burnout. ·        Founding of Women Empower Women Co. ·        Personal development. ·        Overcoming limitations. ·        The agency's culture. ·        Empowerment through community. 35:48 – 44:02 Community Involvement and Future Plans ·        Holly's origins and goals of their course, 'Finding the Beauty Within.' ·        Building confidence through modeling techniques. T ·        Holly shares her volunteer work and its impact on personal growth and real estate career. ·        The importance of community involvement. ·        Holly invites listeners to her upcoming book 'Closing Deals in Heels,' which addresses personal struggles and empowering women in sales.   Quotes: “If you don't take control you're the industry will take control of you.” – Holly Carroll “It's not just about having the richest clients and closing all these deals. It's literally about being around good people and learning and growing through every transaction.” – Holly Carroll “It's important for us to protect our energy and have our boundaries because we are actually the expert in that situation.” – Holly Carroll   To contact Holly Carroll, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Website, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyanncarroll/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holly.carroll.56232 Email: holly.carroll@theagencyre.com Website: https://www.theagencyre.com/agent/holly-carroll   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

What recent changes in real estate laws are discussed, and how do they impact agents and clients? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Natali Zaher. Natali was born and raised in Syria and she moved to the US when she was 9, she graduated from UNF with double degree undergrad in international business and logistics. She worked full time & tried to open a tutoring center and when that fell through, she decided to get into real estate. She joined Herron real estate and in her first year and a half in real estate, she has closed 41 properties totaling almost $15m. Natali talks about the importance of social media in modern real estate, particularly Instagram, which accounts for 45% of her business. Natalie emphasizes the significance of building genuine relationships with clients, leveraging her cultural background, and staying adaptable to the evolving industry. Tune in to this episode as Natali discusses current trends, the impact of recent changes in real estate laws, and the essential strategies real estate agents should employ to thrive in the current market!   Highlights 00:00 - 07:16 Natali Zaher: A Passion and Perseverance in Real Estate ·        Tracy welcomes Natali Zaher. ·        Natali's background in marketing. ·        Her early life, the reasons her family moved to America. ·        The challenges she faced adapting to a new culture and language. ·        Having assistance in her real estate career and her surprise at her rapid success. ·        RemyGraphics Ad. 07:17 - 24:02 Marketing and Mentorship ·        The challenges faced during their transition. ·        How Natali's experience learning English, and her involvement in sports as an outlet. ·        Her role in mentoring and guiding students. ·        Transitioning into real estate. ·        Overcoming cultural challenges, developing confidence, and the joy of helping others achieve the American dream. ·        The differences in real estate between Syria and America and the sense of accomplishment in assisting friends and clients to own homes. 24:03 - 40:44 The Importance of Community and Mentorship ·        Natali shares her belief that bad events happen in succession. ·        Her persistence and faith lead to eventual successes. ·        How she was able to handle multiple deals fell through and how she was able to turn it around. ·        The importance of community, consistency, and leveraging social media in her career. ·        Her into real estate, including mentorship and the supportive structure of her brokerage. ·        The challenges of entering the industry, the value of grit, and the shifting paradigms in education and self-learning. 40:45 - 54:09 Leveraging Social Media for Business ·        The role of mentorship, community engagement, and the evolving nature of the industry. ·        Natali's initial reluctance towards mentorship due to financial concerns. ·        How she eventually relied on peer support and selling agent guidance. ·        The impact of recent real estate changes. ·        The importance of continual learning and adaptation. ·        Social media as a crucial tool for targeting potential clients. 54:10 - 01:21:04 Choosing the Right Brokerage and Conclusion ·        The unique aspects of working with Arab clients in the real estate industry. ·        The importance of negotiation and understanding cultural differences. ·        She explores strategies for negotiating home prices, maintaining confidentiality, and fostering trust with clients. ·        Her approach to buyer broker agreements, stressing the significance of honesty and patience. ·        Effective communication, leveraging community networks, and the support provided by their brokerage. ·        The value of open houses and the benefits of being part of a supportive professional community.   Quotes: “I have decided like I need two ways to prospect and I need to focus on them.” – Natali Zaher “People want to see your face, not the house.” – Natali Zaher “If you have a title, that means you're doing something right to attract people one way or another.” – Natali Zaher   To contact Natali Zaher, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nat.the.realtor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/CpYNP9aLbiGkLYwF/ Email: zahernatali@gmail.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

 Ever wondered how one transitions from a career in firefighting to becoming a top-performing real estate agent? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Daniel Hulett. Daniel began to understand homes and construction at a young age. Prior to real estate, he proudly served as a Firefighter Engineer and Paramedic for 15 dedicated years with the Fernandina Beach Fire Department, which aided his structured and methodical approach to real estate. His vast understanding of the local area, industry knowledge, and helpful nature is what drives his success. Daniel and his wife, Kristin, also own and operate a luxury home-watch and concierge firm titled Coastal Concierge, Amelia Island. As an Amelia Island native, every listing Daniel represents is elevated by his passion for this extraordinary town and complimented by the unparalleled reputation and global reach of Sotheby's International Realty. Daniel shares his journey from being a firefighter and paramedic for over 12 years to becoming a top producer in real estate within just three and a half years. He highlights the importance of knowing your local market, building genuine relationships, and maintaining consistency in marketing strategies. Daniel emphasizes the value of community expertise, particularly in his hometown of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island, and how this knowledge helps in selling not just homes but a lifestyle. Tune in to this episode as Daniel shares how to leverage social media, outsource non-essential tasks, staying educated on industry changes, and understanding both micro and macro market trends!   Highlights 00:00 - 03:23 Daniel Hulett: Local Firefighter to Successful Real Estate Agent ·        We welcome Daniel Hulett ·        Daniel is a former firefighter and paramedic of over 12 years who has become a top producer at One Sotheby's International. ·        The local distinctions between Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island. ·        RemiGraphics Ad 03:24 - 16:52 Building Relationships and Mentorship ·        Reflections on the changes in Fernandina Beach over the years, comparing it to other areas like Cape Cod and St. Augustine. ·        Daniel's personal experiences of growing up in Fernandina, emphasizing its blue-collar roots and the influence of zoning laws on its growth. ·        Daniel describes his transition from firefighting to real estate. ·        He shares the challenges and strategies of shifting public perception, namely: o   Being a firefighter to a real estate agent, o   Professional experiences in both fields, and o   His decision-making process in choosing brokerages. 16:53 - 36:47 Ninja Training and Gratitude Practices ·        The challenges faced by new real estate agents are highlighted, particularly the importance of selecting the right brokerage. ·        The key elements that contribute to a successful career in real estate, such as: o   Accountability, o   Consistent training, and o   The value of mentorship. ·        The importance of building authentic relationships, maintaining a structured routine, and focusing on genuine customer care to achieve long-term success. ·        The role of trust and effective communication in client relationships is also explored. 36:48 - 01:06:29 Outsourcing and Efficiency ·        Daniel discusses his journey as a former firefighter who transitions to a successful real estate career. ·        The importance of gratitude, consistency, and relationship-building in personal and professional life. ·        Key insights include the need for daily practices, such as: o   Gratitude, o   the challenge of balancing adversity and complacency, o   and the impact of mentorship and support from partners. ·        The significance of understanding market trends, consistent marketing, and outsourcing tasks to scale business operations efficiently. 01:06:49 - 01:14:03 Current Market Strategies and Final Thoughts ·        Real estate agents who have reached a pivotal point in their careers transitioning from solo agents to needing to outsource tasks. ·        The difficulty of relinquishing control and the benefits of outsourcing to focus on core money-making activities. ·        Using in-house resources provided by Sotheby's, such as: o   The importance of allowing professionals to handle specialized tasks, and o   The potential benefits and considerations of hiring virtual assistants versus local ones. ·        Daniel proposes regular updates to share industry challenges and solutions to elevate the overall industry.   Quotes: “I truly believe it is all about building relationships with every customer you have.” – Daniel Hulett “I think writing letters is old school and people really are caught off guard and appreciate it.” – Daniel Hulett “If I can trust other people to do that job for me, it takes a little bit off me, by all means. At some point, you have to relinquish a little bit of control for the greater good of what your purpose is.” – Daniel Hulett   To contact Daniel Hulett, learn more about his business, and make him a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielhulettrealtor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DanielHulettRealtor/ Email: dhulett@onesothebysrealty.com Website: https://danielhulett.onesothebysrealty.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How do successful real estate agents manage to build lasting relationships in a fast-paced, transactional industry? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Amber Strong. Amber is a dedicated real estate professional with over a decade of experience in the real estate industry. Her journey began in 2011 while attending Berkeley College in Manhattan, where she obtained her real estate license and worked for Nancy Packes, Real Estate Marketing. During her time in New York City, Amber specialized in leasing luxury condos throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, honing her skills in one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world. Amber talks about the dynamics of relationship-based transactions in real estate, the significance of maintaining long-term client relationships, and effective strategies for managing difficult clients. Amber shares her journey from working in the hospitality industry to becoming a leading real estate agent, highlighting the importance of open communication, active listening, and personalized attention. She explains how she was able to transition from a salaried position to commission-based work, the challenges of competing with new construction homes, and the benefits of aligning with a supportive brokerage. Tune in as Amber shares her practical advice when you provide on maintaining professionalism, continual learning, and leveraging technology for client interactions!   Highlights 00:00 - 02:13 Amber Strong: Real Estate and Yoga She Is Obsessed ·        We welcome Amber Strong. ·        Amber's ability to save clients time and money through: o   Open communication, o   Active listening, and o   Personalized attention. ·        Remi Graphics Advertisement. 02:14 - 08:57 Challenges in Real Estate Transactions ·        Amber reflects on her career journey and working in the hospitality. ·        Her experiences in hospitality provided her valuable customer service skills, which later proved beneficial in a decade-long real estate career. ·        The importance of listening and staying calm when handling difficult clients. 08:58 - 21:21 Finding the Right Brokerage ·        The challenges and strategies in handling difficult clients and transactions in real estate, particularly through phone communication. ·        The importance of listening calmly and responding with facts ·        The influence of an agent's experience on negotiations ·        Maintaining a positive and professional demeanor. ·        The sales processes in leasing high-end properties versus selling individual homes, emphasizing client education on amenities and community aspects. ·        Dealing with market competition from builders and the value of mentorship for new real estate agents. 21:22 - 36:34 Realizing Real Estate as a Lifelong Career ·        Amber emphasizes the importance of researching brokerages and finding a supportive team. ·        Her journey from housekeeping to real estate, starting as a listing coordinator and moving up by learning from top agents and networking strategically. ·        The value of aligning with growth-oriented individuals ·        Transitioning from transactional to relationship-based client interactions and continuously learning. ·        Gaining confidence about the necessity of human interaction in transactions. ·        The significance of maintaining client relationships. 36:35 - 46:53 The Value of Continuous Learning and Training ·        Amber talks about when she decided to commit fully to the industry. ·        The importance of building relationships and leveraging networks for long-term success. ·        Transformative strategy involving asking contacts for referrals, which significantly impacted their mortgage business. ·        The evolving requirements and best practices for real estate agents, including ongoing education and readiness for regulatory changes. ·        She shares their experience transitioning from a large brokerage to a smaller, more communicative one, and the value of strong core teams in real estate. 46:54 - 01:05:01 Maintaining Consistency and Making Connections ·        The importance of continuous education and adaptability in the real estate profession. ·        She talks about time-blocking strategies for training and client interactions: o   The value of attending training sessions with other agents, o   The significance of building relationships, and o   Credibility in the industry. ·        Handling stress through laughter and consistent routines, such as yoga and making extensive daily phone calls. ·        The role of video communication in building trust with out-of-town clients. ·        The importance of staying knowledgeable about market trends, specifically interest rates, and always providing value to clients. 01:05:01 - 01:12:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ·        The anticipated post-election impact on real estate, including a specific focus on interest rates and infrastructure developments in Northeast Florida: o   Local knowledge for agents, o   The value of maintaining connections and networking, and o   Balancing new online leads with referrals. ·        Effective marketing strategies such as using local coupons (Lolo) to engage past clients. ·        Leveraging support structures within a real estate team to handle high transaction volumes. ·        Reaching higher productivity levels and the significance of having an assistant or transaction coordinator to manage workload and maintain work-life balance.   Quotes: “We network and we mastermind with agents throughout able to find and connect, and I can feel confident to know that I'm aligning you with the right agent.” – Amber Strong “Staying in front of them, just checking in. I mean it could be as small as a text just to stay top of mind. That's when I started realizing that this is something I'm going to do for life.” – Amber Strong “I want to be at the bottom, so I can see my way up to the top and learn and then you can kind of evaluate, who are those people that I want to align myself with. So, you kind of get different perspective.” – Amber Strong   To contact Amber Strong, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chasingamberyogi/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amber.lloyd.52 Email: amber@floridacoastalteam.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How can a person embrace challenges through sheer dedication and passion in real estate? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Bailey Burnside. Bailey epitomizes excellence in the real estate realm, drawing from a lifetime of experience thanks to familial legacy steeped in the industry. With a track record that speaks volumes, Bailey has consistently ranked amongst the Top 250 Agents out of over eleven thousand in Northeast Florida, a testament to unparalleled dedication and expertise. With focuses not only on the residential side, but also in land acquisition and large-scale developments, Bailey possesses an unrivaled understanding of the intricacies of all property transactions. Bailey's commitment to client satisfaction and a keen eye for detail set a standard of service that exceeds every expectation. Whether guiding clients through intricate negotiations, or showcasing premier properties, Bailey truly is your trusted partner in realizing real estate aspirations.  Reflecting on her versatile background—including stints in the dental field and on a real estate reality show—Bailey discusses the integral skills she transferred from her previous roles to her real estate practice. Bailey covers her transition into real estate, comprehensive training experiences at DJ & Lindsey, and overcoming challenges new agents face. The episode underscores the importance of hands-on experiences, mentorship, client care, and detailed knowledge of contracts. She also elaborates on superior service standards, the value of professional property cleaning, and leveraging personalized marketing strategies. Captivating excerpts include her insights on managing workloads, balancing careers, and finding joy in real estate. Tune in as Bailey Burnside as she shares her inspiring narrative on embracing challenges and achieving success through dedication and passion in real estate!           Highlights 00:00 - 03:00 Bailey Burnside: New Agent Capper ·        We welcome Bailey Burnside. ·        Her transition from a dental hygienist to real estate. ·        Her experience on a real estate reality show. ·        Her approach to providing personalized and professional services. ·        Remi Graphics advertisement. 03:01 - 09:36 Challenges and Successes in Real Estate ·        Bailey's ventures in the entertainment industry and her shift to the dental field. ·        Her early graduation, various jobs, and experiences. ·        How her past has shaped her current role in real estate. ·        The challenges of transitioning between different careers and the importance of varied experiences. 09:37 - 17:15 Learning and Growing in Real Estate ·        Bailey reflects on their experiences in the dental industry and how those experiences relate to their work in real estate. ·        The importance of handling customers, asking probing questions, and being confident in both fields. ·        Her personal journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming a successful real estate agent. ·        How she was inspired by family members in the industry and driven by a need to return to the workforce. ·        The similarities between dealing with dental patients and real estate clients. ·        The need for personal interaction and the ability to handle diverse situations. 17:16 - 37:31 Balancing Workload and Growth ·        Embarking on a real estate career and achieving excellence in the industry. ·        The personal journey of starting at a real estate firm. ·        The choices involved between working at a family boutique or joining DJ & Lindsey. ·        Intensive training and practical experience at DJ & Lindsey are emphasized as key to quick success in the field. ·        The complexities inherent in real estate transactions, especially the significance of quality control, dealing with new regulations. ·        Maintaining agent-client and agent-builder relationships. ·        The critical role of customer service, attention to detail, and practical knowledge over theoretical learning. ·        Strategic ways to 'wow' clients, handle objections, and maintain credibility amidst industry challenges like lawsuits. ·        Real-life anecdotes and personal experiences from the narrator serve to bring these lessons to life. ·        Showcasing how exceptional customer service and an in-depth grasp of contracts can set successful real estate agents apart. 37:32 - 45:52 The Importance of Professional Cleaning ·        Five primary topics are explored in detail: o   The challenges of transaction negotiations, o   Managing workload, o   Balancing professional relationships, o   The financial and emotional efforts in difficult transactions, and o   Client satisfaction tactics. ·        Handling egos during negotiations. ·        The pitfalls of mixing friendship and business, and dealing with demanding clients. ·        Significant financial investments to meet client expectations. ·        Managing minimal seller efforts versus high buyer demands. 45:53 - 56:13 The Value of Referrals ·        Professional services in real estate and insurance sectors. ·        The critical role of professional cleaning and concierge services, particularly for high-value properties in real estate transactions. ·        The complexities of working in real estate and insurance in Florida, discussing key elements like: o   homeowner's permits, o   flood insurance policies, and o   the importance of local regulations. ·        The necessity for listing agents to include professional cleaning in their offerings to meet luxury market client expectations and justify higher commissions. ·        The importance of maintaining strong referral networks and adapting strategies to showcase value to clients effectively. ·        Expertise in navigating the regulatory landscape and handling insurance claims is presented as crucial for successful real estate transactions and business growth. 56:14 - 01:17:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ·        A comprehensive guide to thriving in the real estate industry: o   Effective sales and marketing strategies, o   Emphasizing the creation of systems like CRMs, o   Leveraging referrals, and o   Personal branding through newsletters and social media. ·        The importance of enhancing online presence on LinkedIn and YouTube, creating engaging content, consistency in posting, and transparency with clients. ·        The essential practices for success, such as: o   Maintaining detailed records, o   Systematic communication, and o   Fostering a passion for real estate. ·        The collaboration over competition, effective time management, and the flexibility afforded by modern technology.   Quotes: “I'm not looking at another agent as my enemy like, I don't get that. We all have to be able to work together.” – Bailey Burnside “I didn't know the importance of being at a brokerage where you can literally learn from being thrown in the deep end essentially.” – Bailey Burnside “We all have to be able to work together because at some point we're probably going to be on either end of the transaction together. Let's be cordial.” – Bailey Burnside To contact Bailey Burnside, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefoermanteam/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/thefoermanteam/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

What truly drives success in real estate? In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Deanna attended the University of North Florida where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration majoring in Business Marketing and Management. With this focus, she worked in the financial industry for nearly twenty years where her primary responsibilities were Relationship Management and Fund Reconciliation with various mutual fund companies. Each of these roles required extreme attention to detail and excellent communication skills which have served her well in her real estate career. Deanna is focused on providing stellar customer service and makes it a point to understand her customers and their goals so that she can help them to achieve those goals with ease. She prides herself in the relationships that she builds with her customers which is evidenced through the exemplary customer reviews that she has received from customers who recognize her dedication to them. She specializes in residential sales in Northeast Florida with a primary focus in Clay, St. Johns, and Duval counties. Deanna underscores the critical role of building strong client relationships and engaging with the community, alongside endorsing the importance of selecting the right brokerage and constant professional development. Additionally, the discussion sheds light on the power of structured training sessions, highlighting the need for organized agendas and offering practical learning opportunities as crucial elements in professional growth. Tune in as Deanna Foerman encourages listeners to rethink their approach to real estate by integrating personalized interactions and impactful training into their practices!           Highlights 00:00 - 03:09 Deanna Foerman: Finance, Teacher to Successful Real Estate Agent ·        We welcome Deanna Foreman to the show! ·        Deanna has successfully integrated her skills to excel in real estate, consistently selling over a million dollars monthly. ·        Diverse experiences contribute to success in real estate. ·        Sponsor, Remi Graphics. 03:09 - 09:56 The Role of Real Estate Agents in the Community ·        Recognizing the efforts of pilots, including former Navial aviators and Delta pilots, who used their planes to provide emergency supplies like diapers and formula to areas affected by a recent hurricane. ·        How community and individual efforts can make a tangible impact. ·        Real estate agents as community influencers. ·        Their role not only in housing but in contributing to local services and information networks. ·        Setting up referral networks for various local services, providing valuable community connections. ·        Being a proactive, giver mentality in both real estate and community efforts, expecting nothing in return but potential reciprocal kindness. 09:56 - 17:50 Balancing Teaching and Real Estate ·        Deanna discusses her journey growing up in Orange Park. ·        Her role as a relationship manager, dealing with client funds, and how it prepared her for a career in real estate. ·        Transitioning into teaching, motivated by a desire for a change in pace and a closer commute. ·        Deanna became an elementary school teacher, allowing her to spend more time with her family. Reflecting on her experiences. ·        How her time in both finance and education has influenced her current role in real estate, emphasizing the importance of building relationships. 17:50 - 22:01 Choosing the Right Brokerage ·        Deanna was initially hesitant to enter a commission-based field, encouragement from others prompted them to finally consider real estate. ·        How she became a five-million-dollar producer while still teaching, leveraging their existing network for support. ·        Managing the challenges of balancing both professions by effectively managing their time and never revealing to clients that they were teaching concurrently. ·        Ensuring clients received full-time service and demonstrated their confidence and growth in real estate, with plans to discuss their first brokerage choice next. 22:02 - 36:30 The Importance of Real Estate Agents in the Community ·        Deanna talks about being part-time real estate agent who emphasizes the significance of selecting the right brokerage by exploring team dynamics and office culture. ·        Initially starting with a team, how the culture provided a sense of belonging and support, akin to family. ·        The role of managers and agents in fostering a positive environment. ·        The value of personal relationships in business success, and the risks faced by agents in virtual settings. ·        Maintaining personal connections with clients, which promotes trust and referrals, and shares practical strategies like personalized communications and monitoring social media for engagement. ·        The evolving dynamics in the real estate market, urging agents to remain adaptable and prioritizing negotiations with empathy as client needs and market conditions fluctuate. 39:10 - 44:28 Breaking Through Barriers with Support ·        The significance of real estate agents in fostering relationships and building trust with clients, likening their role to that of a guide. ·        How agents guide their clients through the stressful and significant process of buying a home, often forming lasting bonds. ·        The importance of a supportive work environment and brokerage culture. ·        How it can aid agents in overcoming challenges and achieving success. ·        Real estate transactions are often the largest in a client's life. ·        The responsibility and impact agents have in facilitating these experiences. 44:28 - 58:58 The Value of Mentorship and Accountability ·        The significance of training, education, and mentorship in achieving success in the real estate industry. ·        Having a supportive atmosphere, such as transaction coordination and a marketing department, which allows agents to focus on client relationships without getting bogged down in operational tasks. ·        The 'Ninja Selling' approach is emphasized for building long-term client relationships through personal interactions like coffee meetings and lunches. ·        The role of accountability groups in maintaining goals and commitments, stressing the need for self-discipline and the influence of mentors, both formal and informal, within the industry. Treating all clients with equal respect, irrespective of their financial standing, as a strategy for building a strong reputation and lasting business relationships. 58:58 – 01:12:29 Keys to Success in Real Estate and Final Thoughts ·        The essential elements leading to success in the real estate industry. ·        Three primary components: o   The desire to continually learn, o   Active involvement in industry-related activities, and o   The importance of fostering strong relationships with clients. ·        The necessity of finding a brokerage that aligns with the agent's needs, particularly with robust training programs. ·        The value of participating in real-world training rather than relying solely on virtual methods is also discussed. ·        The necessity of community involvement and making personal connections as a part of the business strategy, referring to practices such as hosting regular social events.   Quotes: “Find one that is really a good fit because if the fit's not there, nothing else is going to come naturally.” – Deanna Foerman “In real estate, you're dealing with what is usually people's most valuable asset. you're dealing with their money, you better be spot on and be able to account for everything.” – Deanna Foerman “I always tell people that I'm working with, I don't want you to worry unless I worry and if I'm worried, then you can worry.” – Deanna Foerman To contact Deanna Foerman, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefoermanteam/ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/thefoermanteam/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

In this engaging episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes welcomes Ricky Caruth. Ricky Carruth is a top real estate agent in Alabama. He also started speaking, writing and coaching in 2017 through his Zero to Diamond free real estate coaching company with a mission to reduce the failure rate in the real estate industry by bringing awareness that it's not about the deal, it's about the relationship. Ricky is the No-Pressure Agent. Born and raised on the Gulf Coast, Ricky has been selling real estate since he was 20 years old. Starting his career in 2002, he has been through this roller coaster of a market and back. After tons of life lessons of ups and downs, Ricky has emerged as the #1 agent on the Gulf Coast since 2014. Ricky discusses the keys to real estate success, emphasizing the importance of personal branding, conversations, and consultations in building a successful career. Ricky shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a top solo agent with over $1 billion in gross volume sales. He highlights the role of mentorship, learning from failures, and the impact of technology on real estate practices. Ricky addresses current industry challenges, such as the changing dynamics of commissions and the value of agents, encouraging realtors to embrace new opportunities and enhance their skills. Tune in as Ricky Carruth expresses his dedication to his clients, hard work ethic and market knowledge are his key attributes that have place him a step ahead of the rest!           Highlights 00:00 - 03:30 Ricky Carruth: Zero To Diamond ·        We welcome Ricky Carruth to the show! ·        The potential opportunities arising from changes in real estate professional standards. ·        Changes as a chance for agents to enhance their skills and negotiate better deals, particularly on the buyer's side. ·        His optimistic approach toward the evolving real estate landscape. 03:31 - 07:04 Innovative Tools for Real Estate Agents ·        The misconceptions surrounding the value of real estate agents ·        The gap in perception between what agents do and what the general public believes they do. ·        Most people underestimated the hours agents work on a deal ·        A need for the industry to better communicate its value. ·        More experienced agents are negotiating better commissions compared to newer agents. ·        The importance of experience and skill development within the profession. ·        The disparity in understanding could lead to newer agents earning less due to a lack of skills, but also provides an opportunity for them to grow. ·        The hidden efforts agents make, which are often unrecognized by the public, similar to how lawyers track their hours. 07:05 - 13:18 Ricky Carruth's Journey into Real Estate ·        A real estate tool called 'Rayse' that tracks activities and automates reporting for agents, helping them provide detailed breakdowns of their work to clients. ·        This tool aims to improve transparency in agent-client interactions. ·        The residual concerns about how agents educate clients on agreements and evolving industry norms due to legal and media pressure are also highlighted. ·        Despite fears, most sellers still willingly pay buyer agent fees. ·        The way compensation is offered is predicted to change as agents adapt to a model where no upfront offer is made. ·        The focus will shift to negotiations and client net figures. 13:19 - 25:25 Surviving the Market Crash and Lessons Learned ·        Becoming a real estate agent at the age of 20. ·        The allure of financial stability that motivated him to pursue real estate. ·        Successfully builds his career, becoming a millionaire by 2004, only to experience financial loss during the market downturn that began in 2005. ·        He reflects on the learning curve and challenges associated with achieving success in real estate. 25:25 - 33:58 Passion for Coaching and Helping Agents ·        The challenges faced by an individual in the real estate market during economic downturns, specifically around 2008. ·        The adaptation required to handle short sales and foreclosures, detailing personal experiences of hardships, including being homeless, and the strategies implemented to thrive despite market fluctuations. ·        The importance of building relationships over transactions and learning from past mistakes to ensure business sustainability regardless of market conditions. ·        Significant turning point where the speaker shifted focus to representing buyers for foreclosures, leading to a successful career with a long-term vision in real estate. ·        How most new agents have a short-term perspective and the necessity to adopt a longer-term view to achieve true financial freedom and success. 33:59 - 41:13 The Power of Conversations in Real Estate ·        Ricky's passion for reducing the high failure rate among real estate agents. ·        The importance of authentic relationships over high-pressure sales techniques. ·        He advocates becoming the person capable of achieving success through continuous learning and relationship building. o   Common struggles faced by agents, like: o   Reluctance to make calls or initiate conversations. ·        Stress the need for personal development to overcome these challenges. ·        The impact of genuine communication in creating business opportunities and sustaining longevity in the real estate industry. 41:14 - 50:36 Creating Content and Personal Branding ·        Making clients feel comfortable to open up about their needs in real estate dealings. ·        Ricky criticizes agents who focus too intently on listings and sales without understanding clients' true goals. ·        Establishing a deep connection with clients can lead to lifelong relationships and high lifetime value. ·        Proactive lead generation by contacting people directly rather than relying on leads provided by other channels. ·        Enabling agents to tailor interactions and potentially turn more leads into meaningful business relationships. 50:37 - 57:15 The Role of Real Estate Agents as Community Influencers ·        The critical role of maintaining consistent conversations and creating valuable content in building a successful real estate business. ·        Prioritizing direct interactions with clients as the foundation of a business. ·        Establishing a weekly email strategy to maintain long-term connection with clients. ·        Ricky recommends agents document and share their daily activities through social media to showcase expertise and reliability ·        Agents are encouraged to continuously educate themselves on market trends and use this knowledge as content to enlighten their clients. ·        The significance of real estate agents as local influencers who can impact their community by sharing valuable insights about the area. 57:16 – 58:07 Event Announcement and Conclusion ·        Ricky announces an upcoming event sponsored by the St. John St. Augustine board set for October 15th at Palencia. ·        Meeting Ricky in person at the event!   Quotes: “If I'm going to put it in somebody else's hands, I don't think I'm going to be very successful in this business.” – Ricky Carruth “You're never going to sell a piece of property without talking to the client.” – Ricky Carruth “The future you could actually have is whenever you want it to be.” – Ricky Carruth   To contact Ricky Carruth, learn more about his business, and make him a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickycarruth/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557354928972 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RickyCarruth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-carruth-373359161/ Website: https://carruthteam.com/ If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How can a personalized, stress-free approach revolutionize your real estate experience? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy interviews Meredith Rowe, a concierge real estate agent from Real Broker, to uncover the secrets behind providing exceptional client experiences. Meredith shares her journey from her early days in real estate, through her successful photography business, and back to her true passion in real estate. Meredith Rowe is a concierge real estate agent focusing on luxury properties in the Northeast Florida market. Meredith's journey in real estate began in college as a brokerage office manager, where she developed a passion for the industry. With a background in photography and marketing and a love for educating, she combines her creative eye and market expertise to elevate every listing. As a featured Realtor on the new pilot television series, "So You Think You Can Sell Luxury," Meredith brings a dynamic and competitive approach to helping her clients succeed. Tune in as Meredith Rowe provides practical tips for agents, focusing on training, role-playing, and the significance of understanding one's value in the luxury market!   00:00 - 06:31 Stress-Free Real Estate Experience with Meredith Rowe ·        We welcome Meredith Rowe to the show! ·        Her journey from her interest in real estate during college to becoming a concierge agent. ·        Auditioning and being cast for a reality show focused on luxury real estate, 'So You Think You Can Sell Luxury.' ·        The importance of personalized gifts for clients and the reality of the hard work real estate agents do behind the scenes. 06:32 - 20:31 Choosing the Right Brokerage: Mentorship and Growth ·        The reality of working in real estate, contrasting it with the glamorous depiction often seen in popular media. ·        The hard work and dedication involved in tasks like cleaning and maintenance and highlights the personal stories of the podcast participants. ·        Her personal journey from a rural upbringing in North Carolina to their ventures in photography and eventual transition into a real estate career. ·        Authenticity and relationship-building in both photography and real estate, noting that the same marketing and customer retention strategies apply to both fields. ·        Balancing family life, homeschooling, and entrepreneurial endeavors. 20:32 - 35:32 Connecting Through Social Media ·        Journey of a new real estate agent who, after earning their license, interviews various brokerages to find the right fit. ·        Mentorship, collaboration, and the invaluable support from experienced agents. ·        The process of learning through shadowing seasoned professionals and the emphasis on clear communication and client consultation are underscored as vital components in building a successful real estate career. ·        Overcoming initial challenges and how remaining curious and proactive has continued to pay off in their business. 35:33 - 47:29 Balancing Real Estate and Personal Life ·        How to conduct virtual consultations, especially through social media, have changed the dynamics of real estate interactions. ·        The importance of showing one's authentic self on social media to build trust and rapport with potential clients. ·        She shares her personal experiences of clients who feel they know them through social media, making face-to-face interactions more comfortable. ·        Embracing one's unique personality, being authentic, and effectively using social media and other marketing strategies to attract like-minded clients. 47:30 - 1:15:56 Reflecting on Success and Future Plans ·        The challenges and insights of being a real estate agent are explored through personal stories and professional advice. ·        Relationship building in real estate and the commitment to work beyond regular hours ·        Transitioning from photography to real estate and the significance of gut instincts in professional decisions, and the nuances of luxury real estate. ·        The valuable advice for dealing with clients and how understanding the full-time nature of the job can better prepare new agents entering the industry.   Quotes: "I do always go above and beyond. So, I just do all the things that I can to make every experience is stress free as possible.” – Meredith Rowe “The best marketing that you can do is to have someone else recommend you.” – Meredith Rowe “Work hard and be kind.” – Meredith Rowe   To contact Meredith Rowe, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://instagram.com/meredithrowe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandameredith.rowe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-rowe-6b384276 Website: https://www.meredithrowe.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Are you ready to elevate your real estate career? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, we explore the dynamic landscape of the real estate market with insights from Russell Nicholson, a leader at one of the largest real estate offices in Northeast Florida. Russell shares his expertise in managing and expanding a successful real estate business, emphasizing the significance of leveraging talent and understanding one's value proposition. With over six years of experience, he discusses strategies for overcoming common challenges, effective recruitment, and the importance of continuous professional development. The episode also highlights the power of teamwork, daily interactions, and persistent learning. Discover how a growth-oriented mindset and being part of an interdependent brokerage like Keller Williams can provide robust support and resources, helping agents thrive in an ever-changing industry!   00:00 - 03:58 Welcoming Russell Nicholson ·        Welcome Russell Nicholson, the team leader of Keller Williams in St. Augustine, Florida. ·        Emerging as a key leader, managing one of the largest offices in Northeast Florida. ·        The challenges facing real estate agents today, particularly with recent industry changes. ·        The importance of adaptability, noting that agents unafraid of change are continuing to grow, while more hesitant agents are retiring or leaving the business. ·        Long-term planning and the value of leveraging one's network for sustained success. 03:59 - 13:16 Leveraging Your Network ·        Utilizing existing personal relationships to gain success in real estate. ·        The importance of working within one's sphere of influence, dealing with imposter syndrome, and leveraging industry training. ·        How new agents can capitalize on current market opportunities with proper guidance and training. ·        Maintaining personal and professional development within the real estate sector is crucial. 13:17 - 39:33 Brokerage Structure and Team Roles ·        Russell's journey from the initial challenges to remarkable growth within a few years. ·        Hitting high transaction numbers, assembling a successful team, and pioneering processes like the buyer broker agreement. ·        The importance of accountability, leveraging support systems, and the impact of financial ceilings on agent performance. ·        Detailed strategies for recruitment, retention, and scaling are shared, highlighting the critical stages of growth and the necessity of leadership and mentorship in real estate success. 39:34 - 41:58 Value Proposition and Agent Retention ·        The challenges and strategies of being a successful real estate broker. ·        Staying informed and coaching agents, even if the broker is not in regular production. ·        Different brokerage setups where a managing broker handles transactions while a team leader helps agents grow. ·        Choosing the right brokerage for new agents to prevent failures and underlines recruiting strategies at Atlantic Partners. ·        Aligning with the right brokerage to fit one's culture and needs. ·        The importance of adding value to new recruits through proper training and support. 41:59 - 01:02:56 Pipeline Evaluation and Emotional Connection ·        How to simplify real estate processes for new agents, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability and in-person interactions. ·        The challenges within the real estate industry, such as inadequate brokerage training and agents relying too heavily on internet sources. ·        Thorough training practices, including mandatory interviews with multiple brokerages to understand their unique value propositions. ·        Key strategies for success include time management, maintaining a full-time schedule, leveraging social media, and participating in regular trainings and events. ·        Identifying personal strengths and niche areas for effective prospecting, using tools like personality assessments. ·        The need for understanding and communicating one's value proposition to clients, advocating for a strong community and supportive environment within the brokerage. 01:02:57 - 01:17:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ·        The pipeline evaluation methods used by a successful real estate professional, breaking down clients into categories based on life events ('six D's': deaths, divorces, diamonds, degrees, and more). ·        How this categorization helps in managing and targeting clients. ·        The benefits of being part of a larger real estate group like Keller Williams St. Augustine, citing examples of successful real estate teams. ·        Support systems they leverage, including training, administrative assistance, and inter-office collaboration. ·        Relationship management, continual learning, and surrounding oneself with successful peers.   Quotes: "If you're not where you need to be financially, then you can't go higher and leverage these other people in their roles okay but then I also will look through the task and I know what tasks can be done by a virtual assistant And I know what tasks can be done by a human and I know what tasks the agent needs to do.” – Russell Nicholson “If you can't be with me, you can't be with buyers or sellers.” – Russell Nicholson  “I'm results driven. So, I don't want to know what you do every day. I just want to make sure your results are getting to where they need to be.” – Russell Nicholson   To contact Russell Nicholson, learn more about her business, and make him a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Email.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellerwilliamsstaug/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kwstaugustine/ Email: russell.nicholson@kw.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from corporate success to real estate excellence?  In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, top-performing agent Danielle Wolbert. Helping others achieve their goals and dreams has always been a guiding light for Danielle Wolbert. Originally from Maryland, Danielle has spent most of her life in the Jacksonville area. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a degree in marketing and worked previously in banking sales. She bought her first home when she was just 21 years old, so she's thrilled to be helping others fulfill their own dreams of homeownership. Danielle discusses the critical importance of providing exceptional value to clients, continuous education, and active involvement in industry associations. She also emphasizes strategies for adapting to a changing market, the evolving nature of client relationships, and the impact of new buyer broker agreements. Tune in for actionable insights and personal experiences that highlight the power of a strong work ethic and legislative advocacy in achieving real estate success!   00:00 - 04:31 Today's Guest: Danielle Wolbert ·        Tracy welcomes Danielle Wolbert, a top-performing real estate agent with nearly 20 years of corporate experience before transitioning into real estate. ·        She shares her journey from purchasing her first home at 21 to becoming a consistent top performer in her region. ·        Danielle's background, her move from Maryland to Jacksonville, and the role of personalized client gifts in her business. 04:31 - 18:13 Managing a Spa: Early Leadership Experience ·        Danielle's personal and professional journey of an individual who starts working in a spa during high school ·        How she landed a managerial role while attending the University of North Florida. ·        Driven by a passion for business inspired by her father's career in sales, she gains extensive management experience early on. ·        Her pivots towards marketing before exploring corporate account management roles. ·        Her mother's involvement in real estate and her own interest in home decoration 18:14 - 35:13 Consistency in Real Estate Farming ·        Danielle's transition into real estate after COVID-19 halted her face-to-face interactions ·        She explores the initial fear and eventual courage required to leave a stable banking job, highlighting significant steps taken, including: o   Taking a real estate course; and o   Seeking mentorship. ·        Her journey from her first licensing steps to her rigorous approach in learning the market ·        Establishing client relationships, and navigating the challenges of her new career. 35:13 - 38:23 The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing ·        Effective strategies for real estate agents to build and maintain relationships within their communities to drive business growth. ·        The importance of finding a unique channel for engagement, whether through sports, church, or other community activities. ·        The benefits of personalized marketing, such as wearing branded apparel at events and utilizing newsletters, both digital and print. ·        The significance of a Buyer Broker Agreement is discussed as a tool to enhance professionalism and clear communication of value to clients. ·        The role of consistent word-of-mouth referrals and how to nurture these relationships through appreciation and continuous engagement. 38:23 - 01:12:22 The Value of Continuous Learning and Final Thought ·        The evolving practices in real estate, particularly focusing on how listing presentations have changed post-August 17th. ·        The need for sellers to budget for buyer broker compensation and the importance of high-quality marketing and presentation strategies, such as professional photography and staging. ·        The value of clear communication about industry changes and staying educated and involved in the industry. ·        The benefits of active participation in organizations like NIFAR and the Florida Realtors to stay informed and advocate for clients. ·        Focusing on client satisfaction and maintaining a growth mindset.   Quotes: "It's not just about selling this house and making a commission. It's about being a part of the big picture and really seeing change happen.” – Danielle Wolbert “I've always just been a super driven person. I've worked since I was 14 years old. The minute I could get a job, I had a job, and so, just always wanting to better yourself I think is the most important thing.” – Danielle Wolbert “Your goal is that you're giving people more than what you're receiving and that they feel like that at the end of the transaction, that they got more than they could ever pay you.” – Danielle Wolbert   To contact Danielle Wolbert, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniwolbert Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dmwolbert LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellewolbert Website: https://daniellewolbert.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How do repeat business and trust impact a successful real estate career? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Paula and Antonio Pou, share their extensive 25-year journey in the Northeast Florida real estate market. With over $17 million in sales volume in 2023 alone, they talk about their successful partnership in real estate, the importance of mentorship, the power of building lasting relationships, and staying educated on the latest market trends. Paula and Antonio Pou are both Latino back ground. Antonio was born and raised in PR, he ios of Colombian parents born in NY and have lived in Jax since 1984.  He started his real estate career since 1999 at the young age of 23 and has been his life long career. They average about 1 sale per week for the last 10 years selling over 10 million a year, this career is their passion and they are a power team that loves to help their customers and making dreams come true. Taking every challenge in this market and turning these challenges into opportunities to thrive. Tune in to this episode as Paula and Antonio provides practical advice on how to use social media effectively, maintaining personal connections with past clients, and the value of building a supportive team!    00:00 - 03:40 Meet Paula and Antonio Pou ·        Introducing Paula and Antonio Pou, a powerhouse couple with over 25 years of experience in Northeast Florida real estate. ·        Consistently achieving million-dollar sales months. ·        Their journey from meeting at church in the early '90s, engaging in missionary work, to building a successful career in real estate. ·        Paula began her real estate career in 1989, while Antonio joined her in 2003, after working at the post office and a similar delivery company to UPS or FedEx. 03:41 - 15:14 Working as a Real Estate Team ·        Professional transition from a data entry role at Merrill Lynch to becoming a successful real estate agent. ·        They recounts early challenges, including working weekends and needing extensive support, which led to joining the well-regarded Watson Realty Corp. ·        Important elements that contributed to their success included: o   Mentorship; o   Supportive brokerage environment; and o   Intensive floor time for lead generation. ·        Dividing responsibilities based on their strengths, ensuring effective teamwork. ·        Trust, patient negotiation, and reliability are noted as key attributes that have fostered long-term client relationships and repeat business. 15:14 - 39:56 Balancing Work and Personal Life ·        The significance of establishing trust and connection with clients in the real estate industry. ·        Emphasizing the 'know, like, and trust' factor ·        Strategies for new agents, handling uncooperative agents, and the importance of personal and consistent client communication. ·        Experiences in handling short sales and foreclosures are shared, along with the benefits of expanding into investment properties. ·        The value of a long-term approach, genuine relationships, community involvement, and the pivotal role of real estate agents in the housing market. 39:56 - 44:46 Referral-Based Business and Past Marketing Efforts ·        The significance of long-term relationships in the real estate industry. ·        How real estate professionals benefit from nurturing friendships with clients, who may eventually provide referrals or repeat business. ·        Selling homes to multiple generations within the same families and highlight the flexibility and rewarding aspects of their work. ·        The value of community involvement and how their business practices, including: o   Bilingual marketing strategies; o   Serve diverse client bases effectively. 44:46 - 57:18 Mentorship and Supporting New Agents ·        The importance of continuous training and relationship building in the real estate industry. ·        Their engagement with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and their dedication to monthly training to stay up-to-date with industry changes. ·        The value of attending training sessions and making personal connections with referrals, such as sending handwritten cards. ·        Mentoring new agents, helping them with practical advice such as partnering with loan officers and title companies. ·        The importance of being proactive and knowledgeable to effectively assist clients, ensure successful transactions, and foster long-term relationships. 57:18 - 01:07:06 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways ·        The mindset behind using social media in real estate, emphasizing storytelling over simple posts. ·        The importance of short, engaging videos, and the need for captions. ·        The value of training, building a support network, and the importance of confidence for new agents. ·        Real-life examples illustrate how social media can build relationships and trust with clients, even from a distance. ·        Persistence and the joy of helping others in the real estate industry.   Quotes: "Get to know the customer, give them your strengths, that gives people confidence in you and they feel that they can trust you and get to know you a little better.” – Paula Pou “To me, it's very important to be trained and to be knowledgeable because that's the only way you can help your customer.” – Paula Pou “If we can help you and a client wants to buy an investment property but we see it's not a smart decision. We'd rather not sell it to them because we are actually helping them avoid a disaster and lose money.” – Antonio Pou   To contact Paula and Antonio Pou, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Website.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pousellsjaxhomes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paula.hernandezpou.9 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-pou-36b458159/ Website: https://thepouteam.yourfhrm.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, the host welcomes Gogo Bethke, Gogo immigrated from Csikszereda, Romania to the US in 2003 as an au pair. She did all kinds of jobs from babysitting, working in a warehouse, waitressing, selling jewelry, and eventually getting her real estate license in 2011. She quickly became a top producer and founded Gogo's Real Estate Team.  Gogo built an international organization called #teamgogo that is standing strong with 1500+ agents who did $2.1B in sales in 2023. She is named the Social Media Queen of Real Estate and she has been featured in SUCCESS Magazine and Metropolitan Magazine. She built Gogo's Bootcamp a 2x 2 Comma Club award-winning bootcamp, and she just got her 3rd 2 Comma Club Award for her Partner With Me funnel. She also has a Podcast/Radio//TV Show called Gogopreneur on Your Home TV Network on Roku with over 36 million views in the 1st year. Gogo loves nothing more than helping other like-minded entrepreneurs achieve their goals, so she started the GoGet'Em Community where she is building a massive knowledge library to teach others. Tune in to this episode as Gogo provides practical advice on hiring virtual assistants and building a personal brand! 00:00 - 04:30 The Social Media Queen of Real Estate ·        Gogo Bethke, the 'Social Media Queen of Real Estate,' who has made an indelible impact in the real estate industry. ·        Gogo shares her remarkable journey from moving to the United States with minimal resources to becoming a powerhouse in the real estate sector. ·        Founding her international real estate team, Team GoGo, which boasts over 1500 agents and impressive sales figures. ·        Gogo's endeavors as a podcaster and media personality and expresses her excitement about speaking at eXpCon 2024. ·        Finding her calling in real estate 04:31 - 24:18 Mastering Real Estate Through Social Media ·        Gogo's diverse job history and challenges faced learning American English and cultural nuances after moving to the US in 2003. ·        Transitioning into real estate ·        Gogo's career progression and her emphasis in selecting the right brokerage, understanding hourly rates, and focusing on listings over buyers due to efficiency. ·        Her strategic use of social media to build their client base and the value of fully committing to a chosen career path. ·        Success in building a significant team within EXP Reality. 24:19 - 29:09 Realizing True Freedom in Business ·        The importance of building a supportive team in a real estate business, including the use of virtual assistants (VAs) and transaction coordinators (TCs). ·        The need for agents to delegate below-hourly-rate tasks to free up time for more valuable activities. ·        Her personal experience, recommending hiring multiple VAs for cross-training and operational resilience. ·        Gogo details a step-by-step training process and advocates for hiring buyer's agents and listing specialists to reclaim personal time and improve business efficiency. 29:10 - 33:28 Creating Passive Income with Digital Products ·        The concept of financial freedom by removing oneself from day-to-day operations and emphasizes the importance of creating multiple revenue streams. ·        Risks of relying solely on commission-based income and suggests avenues for passive income such as coaching, online courses, real estate investments, and stock options. Underutilized potential among real estate agents to share their expertise through eBooks and courses for residual income. ·        Practical steps for creating and promoting such products. 33:29 - 40:14 Expanding Your Brand Through Media ·        The value of sharing personal expertise without feeling like an imposter and encourages teaching those who are less experienced. ·        Finding, hiring, and training virtual assistants (VAs) to manage various tasks, providing a resource for step-by-step instructions. ·        The benefits of joining the GoGetEm community for further training and support. ·        Optimizing websites for better visibility. 40:14 - 59:28 Building a Personal Brand on Social Media ·        Gogo's journey from receiving high ratings for her podcast website to tackling YouTube SEO challenges. ·        GoGo outlines her transition into hosting a TV show, 'GoGoPreneur,' which expanded into a podcast and radio show format. ·        The importance of consistency in social media and shares insights on content creation and leveraging existing audiences. 59:28 – 1:02:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ·        She talks about her real estate training programs, including GoGo's Bootcamp and the GoGetem Community, which offer extensive courses on agent attraction and business growth strategies. ·        The balance between professional commitments and family time. ·        Gogo provides a special offer with the code '10OFF' for a 10% discount on the GoGetEm community membership, aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals.   Quotes: "I don't want to burn myself out to make millions, but I want to make millions and I want to have a life.” – Gogo Bethke “You are two steps ahead of the person who is two steps behind you. So, if there is something that you're really good at, teach the people who are still two steps behind.” – Gogo Bethke “Just like anything else, if you want to be really good at it, just push the buttons. Go in there every day, put it into your calendar, fake it till you make it.” – Gogo Bethke   To contact Gogo Bethke, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Website. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gogosrealestate?igsh=aDJsb29wbHhzbXNh Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gogosrealestate YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/GogoBethke LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/gogobethke/ Website: https://gogobethke.com/ Podcast: https://gogopreneur.com/    If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How can you thrive in the ever-changing real estate market? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy engages with Josh Cohen, a broker with nearly 20 years of experience from Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Florida Network Realty. Josh Cohen has over 20 years of experience and over 1,300 closed transactions in Northeast Florida, Josh has a deep understanding of the real estate market and a commitment to providing exceptional service to clients and agents. Josh shares his journey from a real estate agent to a leadership role, discussing strategies for navigating a fluctuating market, the importance of agent relationships, and effective buyer and seller consultations. He talks about managing multiple offer situations, the impact of buyer broker compensation on offer competitiveness, and the role of transparency. Further, Josh talks about his leadership style, his transition into coaching brokers, and supporting agents in building successful careers through authenticity, communication, and intentional business practices.  Tune in for real-life coaching scenarios and success stories that offer practical advice for real estate professionals!   00:00 - 03:26 Introduction to the Guest: Josh Cohen ·        Josh Cohen is a seasoned broker with nearly 20 years at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Florida Network Realty. ·        Josh shares his journey from starting as a real estate agent to becoming a respected leader. Challenging times of the real estate market, particularly around short sales and foreclosures. ·        Josh's adaptability and staying on the cutting edge. 03:27 - 06:41 Assumable Loans and Market Trends ·        How adaptable real estate agents can thrive in varying market conditions ·        Using past experiences during market downturns as context. ·        The challenges posed by today's low-interest rates ·        Early communication with loan servicers and the role companies play in expediting the assumption process through efficient handling of paperwork. 06:42 - 11:24 Building Relationships and Authenticity ·        Josh's background in the restaurant and hospitality industries ·        His transition into real estate in 2003 and how he balanced his restaurant job with his new career in real estate ·        Using his network to gain initial clients. ·        The importance of hard work, relationship-building, and hustle in successfully bridging the gap between his former and current careers is emphasized. 11:25 - 19:26 Coaching and Mentorship ·        The importance of authenticity and hard work in the real estate business ·        Building and maintaining relationships ·        How agents can find their unique voice and leverage their true motivations (or 'why') to succeed. ·        The necessity of delayed gratification and consistency in activities such as prospecting and following up with leads. ·        Mentorship and training programs are also discussed as vital tools for overcoming the discomfort associated with the early stages of a real estate career. ·        How a strategic focus on listings can help agents balance their personal and professional lives. 19:27 - 33:08 The Role of Relationships in Real Estate ·        The internal psychological challenges real estate agents face amid market changes and media negativity. ·        The importance of buyer agreements, relationship-building, and thorough communication with clients. ·        The need for effective processes, quality conversations, and maintaining a positive outlook is highlighted. ·        Transitioning from managing deals to leading a team ·        Underlining the significance of long-term relationship management in the real estate business. 33:09 - 39:24 Challenges and Solutions for New Agents ·        How crucial are relationships with other agents in real estate? ·        The importance of maintaining good relationships with agents from other brokerages to facilitate smoother transactions. ·        The consequences of adversarial attitudes, often driven by ego, on real estate deals. ·        The significance of empathy and personal interaction, as well as respecting differing opinions while navigating the complexities of changing regulations in the industry. ·        The real estate exam should be more challenging to ensure serious commitment to the profession. 39:25 - 46:22 What I Love About the Industry ·        The challenges faced by new real estate agents ·        The importance of mentorship and apprenticeships. ·        The role of brokers and mentors in guiding agents through their initial hurdles. ·        Josh's personal journey in leadership, discussing the significance of authenticity and tailored coaching for brokers. ·        Effective time management, providing value in sales meetings, and adapting to hybrid work modalities 46:23 - 56:28 The Role of Social Media in Real Estate ·        The shifting dynamics of the real estate market, from the high-demand period during the pandemic to the current scenario of rising inventory. ·        The importance of helping agents move listings by providing comprehensive service provider lists and feature sheets. ·        The necessity for real estate professionals to stay visible and engaged on social media, the benefits of open houses, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude. ·        Effective coaching and the role of agents as influencers in the community. 56:29 - 01:03:15 Coaching Success Stories ·        The critical role of offering buyer broker compensation in selling properties. ·        Failing to offer such compensation can significantly reduce the potential buyer pool. ·        Addressing common objections, such as: o   Sellers focusing solely on their net profit, and o   Explores how offering compensation can make a listing more competitive ·        The logistics of managing compensation agreements and encourages transparency and good communication between agents and clients. 01:03:15 - 01:13:26 Final Thoughts and Reflections ·        How do you build a successful real estate career and maintain a thriving business in a competitive market? ·        The negotiability of real estate commissions and how experienced brokers guide new and seasoned agents through various challenges. ·        Detailing the importance of personalized coaching, transparent fee structures, and strong marketing strategies ·        How agents can increase their market share and handle the emotional stress of volatile deals. ·        Effective coaching methods and celebrates rigorous support systems that bolster agents' confidence and business acumen.   Quotes: "You have to be focused on your relationships, focused on what you're going to do. Good agents are going to find a path forward on every transaction on every market condition because markets have ebb and flow.” – Josh Cohen “This business is pretty uncomfortable all the time, so I'm going to find a way to just be uncomfortable and still make it happen.” – Josh Cohen “The core of your business is always going to be your relationships. The quality of your business is tied to the quality of your relationships.” – Josh Cohen To contact Josh Cohen, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow him on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and visit their website.   https://www.instagram.com/jtree705/ https://www.instagram.com/bhhsmetro/ https://www.facebook.com/josh.cohen.16121 https://www.youtube.com/@JaxDrummer https://www.facebook.com/FloridaNetworkRealty josh.cohen@floridanetworkrealty.com   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

What drives success in the real estate industry? In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Brandi Jo Condon, a U.S. Marine veteran and top recruiter at DJ and Lindsey Real Estate in Northeast Florida, shares her career transition from the military to real estate and her journey within the industry.  Brandi Jo emphasizes the supportive and structured environment at DJ and Lindsey Real Estate, focusing on extensive training, mentorship, and innovative marketing strategies that empower agents. The brokerage's dedication to agent success, adaptability to market changes, and the importance of a collaborative culture.  Brandi Jo invites agents who are interested to explore opportunities at DJ & Lindsey!   00:00 - 06:30 Marine Corps Experience and Leadership 06:29 - 16:02 Transition to Civilian Life and Real Estate 16:01 - 41:08 Recruitment Insights and Industry Changes 41:09 - 51:18 Recruitment and Retention Strategies 51:19 - 01:05:30 The Value of Marketing and Back Office Support 01:05:31 -  01:13:04 Final Thoughts and Conclusion   Quotes: "As an agent matures in this career, their needs, their priorities, and what they want from their broker will change.” – Brandi Jo “A client is so much more likely to become your friend than a friend is to be a client.” – Brandi Jo “I wanted back in it. I needed to find my professional identity again. So, I got my real estate license and my husband being in commercial real estate, he was like, you need to interview as many brokers as you can.” – Brandi Jo   To contact Brandi Jo Condon, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn and visit their website. https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-condon-85848625b/ If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation! SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

Have you ever considered how blending your personal and professional lives can lead to extraordinary success in business? This episode features an engaging conversation with Lindsy Norse and Caroline Knight. Lindsy Norse, a Jacksonville native, specializes in residential and commercial property sales throughout North East Florida, tirelessly working with a wide variety of customers. Whether selling, buying or renting, Lindsy is detail oriented, proactive, patient and driven as she focuses on ensuring that her customers are well informed and well equipped to make their real estate journey as effortless and exciting as it should be. Caroline Knight, a dynamic force making her mark on the world. Caroline specializes in residential real estate working with locals as well as relocation to the First Coast. She is driven, innovative, and takes pride in helping her customers meet their goals. Your goals are her goals. They discuss key aspects of real estate, including partnerships, mentorship, team management, and career transitions. The conversation includes operational strategies, client interaction techniques, and the importance of selecting the right brokerage. New regulations, such as the buyer broker agreement, are also explored, along with the use of transaction coordinators and evolving marketing dynamics. Tune it to this episode offers practical advice for new and experienced agents to help grow their business and effectively manage client expectations!   [00:00 - 01:38] Meet Lindsy Norse and Caroline Knight Lindsy Norse and Caroline Knight of the JAX Luxe Group are introduced The common challenges real estate agents face, such as growth and partnering up, and share personal backgrounds and how they entered the real estate business. Caroline speaks about her upbringing in Jacksonville, interest in real estate from a young age, and career shifts. Lindsy recounts her transition from varsity soccer to medical studies, working in Charleston, and finally moving back to Jacksonville to pursue real estate. Their motivations and support systems that guided them into the industry. [08:50 - 39:47] Challenges and Strategies in Real Estate Transitioning from veterinary nursing to real estate professional roles. The financial challenges in the veterinary field, the inspirations behind entering real estate. The ups and downs of the initial journey within the industry. The benefits of having a strong support network and mentorship, and the use of transaction coordinators to manage workload. Emphasizing the value of working within a supportive real estate environment and leveraging connections and expertise for success. [39:47 - 40:49] Mentorship and Buyer Consultations The importance of collaboration between listing and buyer's agents in real estate transactions. The need for listing agents to do their part to facilitate the process, making things easier for buyer's agents. The various responsibilities, including setting client expectations, reverse prospecting, and the value of exclusivity in agent-client relationships. The importance of buyer's agents providing thorough support and transparency to their clients The need for effective communication, contract knowledge, and emotional support during the often-stressful process of buying or relocating homes. [40:48 – 01:16:43] Navigating Buyer Agreements and Market Changes The vital roles and challenges of real estate agents, focusing on their importance within communities and the economy, despite recent devaluation attempts. The agents' efforts in making relocation easier for families, including military families, and emphasizes the necessity of personalized service that considers clients' specific needs and preferences. The strategies for effective client communication and overcoming objections, especially amid rising costs and changing market conditions. The benefits of assumable loans, the intricacies of custom builds, and the commitment required from agents to ensure client satisfaction and seamless transactions, regardless of the challenges encountered.   Quotes: "We're investing in you just like you are investing in us. I want you while you're at work to know and feel confident that I'm doing what I can to get you in your home. I'm doing everything for you and I might not be sleeping, but I want you to sleep.” – Lindsy Norse “One of the big pillars of our business is we want you to understand and I don't care if it takes 10 minutes, I don't care if it takes 2 hours. I am in it to help you. This is your purchase, this is not my purchase, I want you to feel comfortable understanding it as a whole.” – Caroline Knight “Regardless if you use me, if you use anybody else, you're going to have this done and they were very receptive of it, you got to get paid and we're willing to work with you and figure it out together.” – Lindsy Norse   To contact Lindsy Norse and Caroline Knight, learn more about their business, and make them a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Facebook and Instagram and visit their website. https://www.instagram.com/lindsynorse/ https://www.instagram.com/carolinesellsfirstcoast/ https://web.facebook.com/LindsyRealtor/ https://jaxluxegroup.evrealestate.com/   If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.

How will the new Buyer's Broker Agreement requirement reshape the real estate landscape, and what unexpected challenges might agents face? This episode is sponsored by Remi Graphics! owned by Dunya Taylor, Remi Graphics offers stunning, personalized mugs perfect for closing gifts or client appreciation. With no minimum order and quick turnaround, it's easy to add a personal touch. Contact Dunya through Instagram or Facebook, or visit her website and make a lasting impression today!   In this special edition of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes dives deep into the upcoming changes in real estate practices with respected attorneys Rose Alberre and David Heekin of Landmark Title. The discussion centers around the Buyer's Broker Agreement, set to become mandatory on August 17th. The experts break down the intricacies of the new forms, potential pitfalls, and best practices for real estate professionals. From antitrust concerns to practical implementation advice, this episode offers invaluable insights for navigating the evolving real estate landscape.   [00:00:00 - 00:15:00] Decoding the Antitrust Dilemma   1. The antitrust lawsuit resulted in a $1.78 billion verdict due to alleged conspiracy to fix brokerage commissions. 2. The new requirements aim to increase transparency, especially for buyers. 3. Local MLSs are responsible for compliance and enforcement of the new rules.   [00:15:00 - 00:30:00] Navigating the New Agreement Landscape   1. Three types of agreements are now available: property pre-touring agreement, showing agreement, and exclusive buyer broker agreement. 2. Compensation must be objectively ascertainable and cannot be open-ended or range-based. 3. Agents must have a signed compensation agreement before or simultaneously with submitting an offer.   [00:30:00 - 00:45:00] The Open House Conundrum   1. Agents hosting open houses are seen as representatives of the seller. 2. A Buyer's Broker Agreement becomes necessary when providing services beyond basic property information. 3. Ethical considerations arise when listing agents request to see Buyer's Broker Agreements before showing properties.   [00:45:00 - 01:00:00] Contractual Clarity and Compensation   1. It's recommended to include agent compensation terms in the purchase contract for transparency. 2. Agents should be cautious about advertising blanket commission offers on their websites. 3. Existing listings and buyer broker agreements signed before August 17th need to be amended to comply with new rules.   [01:00:00 - 01:10:00] Education and Adaptation in the New Era   1. Continuous education and training are crucial for understanding and implementing the new requirements. 2. Agents should stay updated with the latest form versions and guidelines from Florida Realtors. 3. Providing value and adapting to changes are key to thriving in the evolving real estate landscape.   Quotes:   "This settlement did not prohibit sellers from paying. It did not prohibit listing agents from paying. It did not say that we can't do this anymore. So we're still getting, I mean, it's, the result is the same, the path is different." - Rose Alberre   "If you add value, you will always have a seat at the table." - David Heakin   Connect with Landmark Title:   Website: www.landmarktitle.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/landmarktitlejacksonville/ If you want to build your business and become more discoverable online, Streamlined Media has you covered. Check out how they can help you build an evergreen revenue generator all  powered by content creation!   SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW as we discuss real estate excellence with the best of the best.