Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast RealTrending

The housing market may feel stalled, but Smokey Garrett, founder and operating principal of the GO Network at Keller Williams, says it’s still moving — just under a different set of rules. After years of ultra-low mortgage rates and fast-paced sales, buyers are hesitating over affordability and sellers are adjusting their expectations. Demand hasn’t disappeared as people are still searching and making major life moves. The agents finding success are slowing down, helping clients understand their options and replacing uncertainty with clear guidance. For brokerages, growth is about more than recruiting agents. Garrett’s team looks at market share, profitability, adoption of agent tools, and especially how many individual agents are actually productive. He sees scale as a local advantage, not simply a matter of having agents spread across the country. As consumer expectations evolve, he argues, agents need to offer value beyond the transaction and become trusted “home advisers.” Garrett also sees AI as a way to make the business more efficient — but not a substitute for relationships. It can help agents work smarter and give brokerages faster access to insights and support, while the human connection remains essential. And as MLSs reconsider their role, he says brokers and agents should have a stronger voice in how the industry’s data is managed and monetized. The larger challenge, in his view, is to adapt together and make sure the industry’s value is clear to consumers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Buyers and sellers are navigating uncertainty, but underlying housing demand remains active. Agents can stand out by slowing down, explaining the options and helping clients make confident decisions. Strong brokerages track market share, profitability, tool adoption and agent-level productivity — not just headcount. Local market presence matters more than broad scale without meaningful influence in a community. Agents who use AI to improve efficiency while protecting client relationships may be better positioned to succeed. Garrett believes brokers and agents should help shape how MLS data is stewarded, shared and monetized. Recruiting and retention reinforce each other when productive agents are succeeding and attracting like-minded talent. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Smokey Garrett's LinkedIn GO Network Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

What does it take to build a real estate business by doing things differently? On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Kenny Pleasant of Seattle-based NextHome Prolific shares how he went from laid-off iron worker to real estate entrepreneur and why he built a boutique brokerage focused on personal development, collaboration, and meaningful training. Kenny discusses why he favors training over higher splits, how finding an off-market land niche helped him stand out, and why agents should get serious about negotiation and investing. He also shares practical advice for choosing a focused lead source, adapting to a changing industry, and turning commission income into long-term wealth. From learning through books, courses, and mentorship to helping agents build confidence through one-on-one coaching, Kenny’s story is a reminder that growth often starts with the skills and strengths you already have. He shares why more conversations, a trusted mentor, and a clear niche can matter more than a big brand or the latest tools. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why Kenny believes the revenue-share model may attract agents with different priorities than his brokerage does. How Next Home Prolific was built to support agents who may be starting without an established network. Why Kenny spent five years developing the brokerage’s systems and training before focusing on growth. How personal development, consistency, and grit fit into his approach to agent coaching. How specializing in off-market land helped Kenny create a path into higher-end home listings. Why choosing a focused niche can help agents stand out instead of trying to serve every market. How buydowns, incentives, and down-payment assistance can help buyers navigate higher interest rates. Why Kenny sees direct access to brokerage leadership as an advantage for agents and clients. What agents can do to improve their negotiation skills—and why splitting the difference can be a costly mistake. How agents can think beyond commissions by directing a portion of their income toward real estate investments. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Kenny Pleasant's LinkedIn NextHome Prolific Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down with Chandra Vennapusa, a top-producing eXp Realty agent with a deep background at Deloitte, Amazon, and Expedia. Chandra pulls back the curtain on how tech-world principles like customer obsession, leverage, scalability and data-driven decision making can completely transform a real estate business—especially for agents working with high-income tech professionals. Chandra explains how today’s Microsoft, Amazon, Google and Meta employees are no longer asking, “What do I qualify for?” but instead, “What can I afford without losing my financial freedom?” He shares the biggest mistakes he sees tech buyers make with RSUs and stock-based compensation, and how savvy agents can step in as true advisors—balancing emotion with numbers to protect their clients’ long-term wealth. From migration trends between Washington and Texas to using real estate as a diversification tool for high-net-worth clients, Chandra breaks down what’s really driving demand in today’s market—and why proximity to the office and total cost of living now matter more than headline affordability. He also talks candidly about what’s scalable in his business, what will always require a human touch, and what ambitious agents must do now to stay relevant in an AI-driven future. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Tech buyers now ask: “What can I afford without losing freedom?” Biggest mistake: using all RSUs for the down payment. Don’t plan housing on today’s stock price or rosy forecasts. Migration is shifting back toward job hubs and office proximity. Decisions now factor total cost of living, not just home price. Real estate = diversification + unique tax advantages. Success requires hyper-local knowledge, not just online data. Agents win by negotiation, coaching, and decision support. Scalable: docs, marketing, CRM, client touchpoints. Not scalable: human judgment, negotiation, and local insight. Future-proof agents embrace tech, AI, and strong online presence. Chandra’s next move: luxury and commercial expansion in TX & WA. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Chandra Vennapusa's LinkedIn eXp Realty Buy one, get one FREE tickets to the Mortgage Banking Summit on October 1st Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down with broker-owner Corwyn Melette of Exit Realty Lowcountry Group breaks down what legacy really means beyond a single transaction. He shares how his own family lost generations of rental properties — and how that experience reshaped his mission to help consumers and agents build lasting wealth instead of simply consuming it. Corwyn explains why Charleston, South Carolina, is a “perfect storm” market, with geographic constraints, strong economic drivers, and intense demand that create both scarcity and opportunity. From workforce and affordable housing with layered funding to educating consumers on equity and long-term value, he walks through practical ways real estate can be the engine for financial freedom. He also digs into what real leadership and professionalism look like in today’s market amid lawsuits, rate anxiety and commission pressure. Corwyn challenges agents and brokers to lead with service, master their contracts and double down on real human connection, whether that’s picking up the phone or being a true “real estate sherpa” for clients navigating complex decisions. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Eddie Garcia’s Realty of America debuted on the Real Trends Verified rankings in its first full year, hitting number 45 by sides, 63 by volume, and 24 among private independents. Garcia’s journey from poverty and humble beginnings fuels his mission to create opportunity and a modern path to the American dream through real estate. Realty of America runs a cloud-based model anchored by a physical 27,000-square-foot Chicago headquarters, emphasizing culture, collaboration, and centralized support. The brokerage is built on revenue share and agent ownership, paying out hundreds of thousands of dollars monthly to agents instead of keeping profits solely at the broker-owner level. Seven founding partners with 170 years of combined experience and $17 billion in closed production still run teams, ensuring leadership decisions are made from a producer’s perspective. The company is intentionally profitable without mortgage, title, or insurance, operates with no debt and no outside investors, and still posts rapid agent growth across more than 24 states plus Puerto Rico. Garcia believes the industry is consolidating toward a handful of mega brokers while strong boutiques survive locally, with RevShare models expanding to a far larger share of agents. He sees disciplined, tech-forward, debt-averse growth as critical in a market defined by affordability challenges, rate uncertainty, and mounting competitive pressure on traditional brokerages. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Corwyn Melette's LinkedIn Exit Realty Lowcountry Group Buy one, get one FREE tickets to the Mortgage Banking Summit on October 1st Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down with Eddie Garcia, founder of Realty of America, a brokerage that stormed onto the Real Trends Verified rankings in its very first full year of business — landing at number 45 by transaction sides, 63 by volume, and 24 among private independents. Eddie shares how growing up in poverty, with parents who were once homeless, fueled his ambition to build his own version of the American dream and ultimately a fast-growing national brokerage. Eddie breaks down Realty of America’s cloud-based but culture-focused model, anchored by a 27,000-square-foot national headquarters in Chicago and powered by more than 3,500 agents across 24 states plus Puerto Rico. Unlike many legacy structures, the company is built on revenue share and agent ownership, with hundreds of thousands of dollars in RevShare paid out monthly—money that, in the traditional model, would have gone to the broker-owner. He stresses that the firm was intentionally designed to be profitable without mortgage, title, or insurance, operating with no debt and no outside investors. We also explore how a 7-partner leadership team — collectively bringing 170 years of experience and $17 billion in closed production — creates a different kind of value proposition. All of them still run teams, so every decision is made through the lens of a producing agent, not just a corporate executive. Eddie credits the firm’s rapid growth to attracting top producers and mega teams, which then draw in agents who want to plug into that productivity and culture. Looking ahead, Eddie shares his views on where the brokerage landscape is headed: continued consolidation into a handful of mega brokers, rising relevance of RevShare models, and increasing pressure on smaller boutiques to compete with national brands. Even in a challenging market marked by affordability issues and rate uncertainty, he believes life events will continue to drive demand—and that disciplined growth, smart leverage (or lack of it), and technology investment will separate the brokerages that thrive from those that simply survive. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Eddie Garcia’s Realty of America debuted on the Real Trends Verified rankings in its first full year, hitting number 45 by sides, 63 by volume, and 24 among private independents. Garcia’s journey from poverty and humble beginnings fuels his mission to create opportunity and a modern path to the American dream through real estate. Realty of America runs a cloud-based model anchored by a physical 27,000-square-foot Chicago headquarters, emphasizing culture, collaboration, and centralized support. The brokerage is built on revenue share and agent ownership, paying out hundreds of thousands of dollars monthly to agents instead of keeping profits solely at the broker-owner level. Seven founding partners with 170 years of combined experience and $17 billion in closed production still run teams, ensuring leadership decisions are made from a producer’s perspective. The company is intentionally profitable without mortgage, title, or insurance, operates with no debt and no outside investors, and still posts rapid agent growth across more than 24 states plus Puerto Rico. Garcia believes the industry is consolidating toward a handful of mega brokers while strong boutiques survive locally, with RevShare models expanding to a far larger share of agents. He sees disciplined, tech-forward, debt-averse growth as critical in a market defined by affordability challenges, rate uncertainty, and mounting competitive pressure on traditional brokerages. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Eddie Garcia's LinkedIn Realty of America Buy one, get one FREE tickets to the Mortgage Banking Summit on October 1st Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending with Tracey Velt, founding Compass agents and Paradigm co-founders Mark Jovanovic and Scott Hustis share how Compass grew from a 50-person tech startup in Union Square to a national luxury powerhouse.  They explain how helping build the platform from day one turned Compass into a true SaaS-style operating system for agents, with powerful backend tools that quietly drive their business.  Mark and Scott dig into where AI genuinely helps—from data-heavy tasks to workflow efficiency—and where human insight and relationships still matter most. They break down the debate around private listings, the controversy over New York’s pied-à-terre tax and why New York City’s luxury market remains vibrant, with strong demand for larger, amenity-rich homes.  They wrap with straight-talk advice for launching a modern luxury team: know your strengths, hire to fill the gaps, and don’t be afraid to move faster and think bigger. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Compass scaled from a 50-person NYC startup to a top national brokerage in about a decade. The platform’s edge is in its backend tools—deal tracking, metrics, and accounting. AI is useful for speed and data, but it can’t replace human judgment and relationships. Private listings can protect high-end sellers and highlight the value of local agents. NYC’s luxury market is resilient, with strong demand for larger, amenity-rich homes. The pied-à-terre tax worries owners as a new layer of taxation without clear benefits. Buyers split between turnkey new developments and value plays in pre-war renovations. Winning luxury teams lean into clear roles, complementary strengths, and faster moves. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Mark Jovanovic's LinkedIn Scott Hustis' LinkedIn Paradigm Advisory Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, Tracey sits down with veteran executive recruiter Stephen Kowalchuk to unpack why succession planning for brokerage owners can’t wait. With so many independent owners now in their late 50s and 60s, Stephen explains that the industry is heading into one of the largest generational ownership transfers we’ve ever seen. Add recent market volatility and aggressive consolidation from regionals, nationals, and private equity, and you get an environment where owners who haven’t planned often end up selling on someone else’s terms — not their own. Stephen breaks down what real succession planning is — and what it isn’t. It’s not just naming your son, daughter or a favorite manager as the heir apparent. It’s about building a deep leadership bench, creating an operating structure that doesn’t revolve around a single charismatic owner and giving yourself three to five years of runway.  Finally, Stephen gets tactical about protecting your agents, culture and valuation through transition. He also reframes M&A and strategic partnerships as proactive tools in a long-term succession strategy, not last-ditch exits.  For owners who’ve done little to no planning, his next-12-month playbook is straightforward: identify realistic future leaders, obtain an objective valuation, and start documenting how the business runs and why key decisions get made. In his view, succession isn’t just an exit plan — it’s a continuity and value-creation strategy for the entire organization. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Succession planning protects the value of your brokerage; it’s not just about retirement. Start planning three to five years out so you have time to develop leaders and clean up the business. Naming a successor—especially a family member—isn’t a plan unless they’re prepared and supported. If everything runs through the owner, the business is harder to transfer and usually worth less. Agents fear uncertainty more than change, so clear, early communication is critical. Clean financials and early legal prep prevent deals from falling apart. M&A and strategic partnerships can be proactive succession tools, not just last-resort exits. Documenting culture, processes, and decision-making helps transfer judgment, not just titles. An objective valuation shows you what you’re really trying to protect and grow. In the next 12 months, owners should identify future leaders, get valued, and start writing the plan down. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Stephen Kowalchuk's LinkedIn Corporate Management Advisors Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Jack Gaughan, president of Greater Nashville Realtors and managing broker at REMAX Choice Properties, about what’s really happening in the Greater Nashville housing market. Jack explains how the market has shifted from a post-COVID boom to a more balanced, hyper-local environment, where conditions can look completely different just a few miles apart. With buyers enjoying more choice and longer decision timelines, smart pricing and clear communication are no longer optional—they’re essential. Tracey and Jack dig into how brokers should be coaching agents differently in this climate. Newer agents, many of whom started during the boom, are now facing their first compressed market and need guidance on building a sphere, handling rejection, and setting realistic goals. Seasoned agents are wrestling with noise around lawsuits, mergers, and new models, and Jack urges them to stay grounded in the fundamentals that built their businesses rather than chasing every shiny object. They also explore how Nashville’s transit referendum ties directly into housing affordability and long-term growth. Jack makes the case that transit, sidewalks, and smart density planning along key corridors can unlock underutilized neighborhoods, support multiple generations—from young professionals to aging boomers—and ease inventory pressure. At the association level, he highlights two big priorities: leading on affordable housing solutions and deepening broker engagement so policy, MLS, and legislative decisions truly reflect what’s happening on the ground. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Nashville has moved from a boom market to a balanced, hyper-local landscape where micro-markets matter. Buyers now have more choice and time, making sharp pricing and strategy critical. Agents must set honest expectations upfront instead of overpromising to win listings. Newer agents need help building a sphere, resilience, and realistic goals in a slower market. Seasoned agents should lean on proven processes rather than chase every new model or tool. Economic uncertainty and headlines can cool even “hot” neighborhoods quickly. Nashville’s transit plan is tightly linked to affordability and smart neighborhood growth. Sidewalks, multimodal transit, and smart density can unlock underused areas and support local economies. The association is prioritizing affordable housing advocacy and closing the wage–price gap. Jack urges brokers to collaborate, use better data, and stay client-focused to maintain consumer trust. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Jack Gaughan's LinkedIn Greater Nashville Realtors REMAX Choice Properties Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, Jason Aleem, Redfin’s chief of real estate services, pulls back the curtain on what life looks like at Redfin one year after the Rocket Mortgage acquisition.  At the center of the strategy is Redfin Early Access, a premarket and coming-soon listings program designed to unlock reluctant sellers and put more homes in front of motivated buyers. Backed by survey data — 76% of sellers say they’d be more likely to list with greater certainty and 83% want to test the market first — Aleem argues that giving sellers more optionality could drive 6% to 12% more inventory into a starved marketplace, all while keeping transparency front and center on Redfin.com. Alim also walks through the three-way collaboration between Compass, Rocket and Redfin, framing it as a genuine win-win-win: Compass gains broader exposure and more leads for its agents; Rocket opens up new mortgage opportunities; and Redfin gets exclusive inventory and traffic growth.  Underneath the partnership is a simple but powerful idea — matching Rocket bankers with real estate agents to create real, long-term client relationships rather than one-off transactions. Early results, especially in key markets like Chicago, show that agents are embracing Early Access listings, and consumers are responding to the added visibility and choice. Inside Redfin’s own house, the company has quietly reinvented its agent model with Redfin Next. After years of being known for salaried agents, Redfin has shifted to a W-2 plus bonus/commission structure, giving agents more entrepreneurial upside while still preserving the support and systems of a major platform. Combined with Rocket’s scale and client-first culture, that change has helped Redfin retain top performers and attract new talent, with agents reporting strong satisfaction with Rocket’s level of service and the bigger stage the combined company provides. Finally, Aleem explores how AI and vertical integration are changing the playbook for real estate and mortgage. Redfin is leaning into AI not as a buzzword but as a productivity engine through its Agent Virtual Assistant (AVA), which helps agents craft client responses, surface database insights and refine comparative market analyses (CMAs), supporting an average of roughly 22 transactions per agent per year.  On the consumer side, AI and mortgage are being woven directly into the Redfin search experience with tools like conversational search, pre-approval flows and bundled savings programs like Rocket Preferred Pricing and Rocket & Redfin Super Savings. Looking ahead, Aleem envisions Redfin as a true homeownership platform — the digital front door to Rocket where consumers can search, buy, finance, manage equity and refinance in a single ecosystem. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Redfin Early Access gives buyers a view into premarket and coming-soon listings, aiming to unlock 6% to 12% more inventory. Seller data shows high demand for optionality, with 76% wanting more certainty and 83% interested in a “coming soon” test-the-market strategy. The Compass-Rocket-Redfin partnership is built around three pillars: mortgage, leads and inventory, with strong early traction in markets like Chicago. Redfin’s Redfin Next model has shifted agents from pure salaries to W-2 plus bonus/commission, boosting retention, attraction and entrepreneurial drive. AI-powered tools, including the Agent Virtual Assistant (AVA) and conversational search, are helping Redfin agents maintain industry-leading transaction volumes while delivering a more seamless, integrated experience across search, mortgage and homeownership. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Jason Aleem's LinkedIn Redfin Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, host Tracey sits down with Neda Navab, president of Compass, at what she calls a major inflection point for the company and the industry. They dig into how Compass is navigating consolidation, AI and a choppy housing market while trying to stay relentlessly agent-first. Neda unpacks why she spent her first 100 days on the road doing 125 in‑person agent events, what she learned from those rooms, and how that feedback is shaping Compass’s strategy — from coaching programs to AI tools. Neda explains how Compass is trying to deliver the “best of big and boutique”: national scale, tech, and data on one side, with hyper-local support and a deeply personal, advisory-style experience on the other. She pushes back on some of the industry’s loudest critiques—especially around private listings—and reframes Compass’s “private exclusive” phase as a sophisticated focus group rather than a black box. From AI-fueled bidding wars in San Francisco to why top agents see themselves as CEOs, not just agents, this conversation is a playbook for what it takes to compete—and win—in a slower, more complex market. Neda closes with a lightning round on trends, skills, and the future brokerage model, including why she believes brokerages will look less like traditional offices and more like Apple Stores, built around advice, experience, and one-to-one service. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How Compass is repositioning at scale at a key post-acquisition inflection point while trying to deliver both national power and a boutique, high-touch feel. What 11,000 Compass agents told Neda in her first 100 days on the road, from fears about rates and AI to the nuances across Dallas, Denver, Lower Manhattan, and beyond. How top agents think and operate like CEOs, using process, metrics, and team management to win in slower, more complex markets. Why CRM discipline is becoming a non‑negotiable foundation for personalization and effective AI-powered outreach. How Compass’s three-phased marketing program works in reality and why Neda frames private exclusives as a focus group rather than a closed-off listing strategy. Why the trend “more visibility equals more value” is overhyped, and why a sharp, differentiated perspective on the “why” behind the data matters more. Why Neda believes the brokerage of the future will look less like a traditional office and more like an Apple Store, centered on advice, experience, and one-to-one service.

In this RealTrending episode, Tracey Velt sits down with Anthony Djon, founder and CEO of Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate in Michigan, to unpack how his team consistently converts internet leads at a staggering 7–9%, more than double the industry’s 2–3% average. Anthony walks us through how he started small with just a few Realtor.com zip codes, never intending to build a team, and how demand ultimately forced him to scale into one of Realtor.com’s largest clients and Zillow’s biggest Flex partner in Michigan. Anthony breaks down the accountability engine behind those numbers: his MaverickRE system, weekly conversion reviews, and a leadership structure built around high-performing team captains. He explains the daily checklist and prospecting routine that keeps agents focused on what actually moves the needle—three hours a day split between new prospecting and disciplined follow-up. He also shares how his team uses AI in text and personalization to deepen connections at scale without sacrificing authenticity. The conversation tackles some of the industry’s biggest myths, especially the idea that “internet leads are bad.” Anthony argues that the real problem isn’t the leads—it’s broken follow-up and weak training. He lays out his simple but relentless philosophy: hit each lead at least 17 times, track everything, and “rotate the name in your calendar until they buy or die.” Along the way, he offers candid insights on portals, data control, and industry consolidation, and why independents who move fast, measure everything, and build strong cultures can actually thrive in a world dominated by big brands. To close, Anthony dives into a lightning round on the one metric he watches daily (appointment set rate), how quickly he can tell if an agent will succeed with internet leads, and why he’ll bet on the disciplined follow-up machine over the “natural” salesperson every time. He calls AI a true game changer, warning that agents who ignore it will be like “riding horseback while everyone else is in spaceships.” Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How Anthony scaled from a solo agent with a few zip codes to Realtor.com’s largest client and Zillow’s biggest Flex partner in Michigan The weekly accountability system (MaverickRE) his team uses to obsess over conversion, not just leads The daily checklist and 3-hour calling structure that keeps agents focused on revenue-producing activities Why most agents blame “bad leads” when the real issue is a broken follow-up system Anthony’s “17 touches minimum” follow-up rule—and how he keeps it simple with a basic paper calendar How his team uses AI-powered texting and personalization to warm up leads and boost connection rates The truth about portals, dependence, and data control—and why even your sphere may be going there first How independent brokerages can outmaneuver larger brands with speed, culture, and adaptability The one metric Anthony watches every single day and why it predicts everything else What separates agents who crush internet leads from those who burn them—and how quickly he can tell who’s who Why AI is a must-have, not a shiny object, for any team serious about lead conversion Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Anthony Djon's LinkedIn Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate MaverickRE Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode, RealTrending host Tracey Velt sits down with two powerhouse independent brokerage leaders on opposite coasts: Michele Harrington, CEO of FirstTeam Real Estate in Southern California, and Bess Freedman, CEO of Brown Harris Stevens in New York. Together, they unpack what it really means to be independent in an era of consolidation, margin pressure, and nonstop industry disruption. From culture and control to capital and technology, they share how independents can stay nimble, agent-centric, and deeply connected to the consumer. Michele and Bess pull back the curtain on their new East Coast–West Coast collaboration, a marketing- and relationship-driven partnership that stops short of a traditional acquisition model. Instead of rolling up into a single brand, they’re choosing to share ideas, marketing strategies, and referral opportunities while keeping their unique cultures fully intact. You’ll hear how their marketing teams are working in lockstep, what this means for listing exposure on both coasts, and why they believe “collaborative, not consolidated” is the model to watch. The conversation also dives into some of the most debated topics in brokerage today—private listing networks, Bed Bath & Beyond’s entry into real estate, and the long-tail impact of class action lawsuits and thin brokerage margins. Michele and Bess don’t hold back on where they see consumer risk, where private networks can actually serve sellers, and why they think the next decade will be the “age of the independents.” They share how agents’ expectations have shifted toward growth, coaching, and AI-powered tools—and why human connection, trust, and storytelling still matter more than ever in a tech-driven world. Finally, in a fast-paced lightning round, the two leaders offer sharp, one-word descriptors for the future of independents, pinpoint the biggest threats to their model, and call out what every brokerage CEO should be laser-focused on right now—from AI to consumer trust. If you’re leading a brokerage, building a team, or just trying to understand where this industry is headed, this episode delivers clear signals amid all the noise. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: What “independence” really means in 2026 Why Michele and Bess believe freedom, flexibility, and culture are their core strategic advantages How answering only to agents and consumers changes decision-making and speed of execution Inside the First Team–Brown Harris Stevens collaboration How an East Coast–West Coast partnership can expand listing exposure without an acquisition The role their marketing leaders play in aligning strategy across New York and California Why they view this as a model of sharing power rather than consolidating it The truth about private listings and consumer impact Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn Michele Harrington's LinkedIn Bess Freedman's LinkedIn FirstTeam Real Estate Brown Harris Stevens Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this RealTrending episode, host Tracey sits down with James Wong, CEO and founder of MAXA Designs, to talk about what it really means to become an AI‑enhanced real estate business. While most of the industry is still stuck on basic use cases—asking ChatGPT to write an email or a social post—James pulls back the curtain on how top teams and brokerages are using AI to reengineer workflows, elevate their brand, and free up more time for what actually moves the needle: relationships and sales. James walks through a practical framework for running an AI audit across your business, similar to what a great coach would do. He explains how elite producers categorize every task—what gives them energy, what doesn’t, what can be eliminated, automated, or delegated—and then plug AI into that system. From benchmarking your marketing spend with tools like Claude to building repeatable, AI‑driven processes, James shows how agents can turn AI from a novelty into a true operations engine. The conversation also dives into advanced AI use cases many agents haven’t even considered. James explains how top teams are “teaching” AI by recording their own workflows, saving them as reusable skills, and letting tools like Claude CoWork and its Chrome extension execute tasks across their desktop, CRM, design platforms, and accounting systems. It’s the equivalent of hiring an assistant—at a fraction of the cost—and training it once to work exactly the way you do. Finally, James explores why esthetic intelligence—having great taste in design and brand—is becoming a major competitive advantage in an AI‑everywhere world. He breaks down how high-performing brokerages are scaling deeply customized campaigns for top producers, and why more marketing leaders are building their own personal brands to attract and retain top talent. Listeners come away with a playbook for standing out in a market where anyone can generate content, but very few can create a brand that actually resonates. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How top real estate and mortgage marketing leaders really see AI reshaping their work A simple AI audit framework to evaluate every workflow in your business Which tasks you should eliminate, automate, or delegate—and where AI fits in How to use tools like Claude to benchmark your marketing spend and strategy What it means to “save skills” in AI and have it replicate the way you work The difference between Claude CoWork on your desktop and the Claude Chrome extension—and what each can automate Why basic AI content isn’t enough and how to avoid “AI‑generated slop” in your marketing The three pillars of esthetic intelligence: being uniquely distinctive, human and relatable, and esthetically obsessed How leading brokerages are building custom, AI‑assisted campaigns for their top producers at scale Why more marketing leaders are building personal brands—and how that’s driving recruiting and retention Related to this episode: Tracey Velt’s LinkedIn James Wong’s LinkedIn MAXA Designs Book a demo with MAXA Designs Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, Tracey Velt sit down with Thad Wong, founder and co-CEO of @properties Christie's International Real Estate, but under the Compass International Holdings umbrella, for a candid, wide-ranging conversation on the portal wars, national MLS, AI, brokerage scale and the future of data in real estate. Thad lays out why he believes a broker-agnostic national MLS is the industry's biggest missed opportunity—and how selling realtor.com derailed that vision. He pulls no punches on Zillow’s strategy to replace the MLS, arguing that its free access to broker data and lack of fiduciary duty pose the largest existential threat he's seen in nearly 30 years. We also dive into the Compass–@properties–Christie’s integration, how they’re blending tech stacks to create what Thad calls one of the strongest agent platforms in the country, and why agent adoption of technology is the make-or-break factor for brokerage margins. Finally, Thad explains how AI will amplify—not replace—high-EQ agents, enabling personalized service at scale and deeply tailored client communication instead of generic, one-size-fits-all marketing. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why a broker‑agnostic national MLS could transform transparency, scale, and consumer experience in U.S. real estate. How Zillow’s strategy may position it to replace the MLS and control key parts of the transaction. How portal economics work—and why free data for portals but high fixed costs for brokerages squeeze margins. What Compass, @properties, and Christie’s are doing to build a unified tech platform that agents actually adopt. How AI can power hyper‑personalized client communication, and why high‑EQ agents will win in an AI-driven world. Related to this episode: Tracey Velt's LinkedIn Thad Wong's LinkedIn @properties Christie's International Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Craig McClelland, a partner in McClelland & Hahn Consulting,  for a wide-ranging conversation about the forces reshaping residential real estate. Beyond the latest merger and acquisition headlines, Craig explains why the industry's biggest shift is happening behind the scenes, as brokerages become part of larger ecosystems driven by mortgage, technology, data and other high-margin businesses. He shares why independent brokerages need to rethink growth, specialization and profitability to remain competitive in an evolving market. The discussion also tackles one of real estate's most polarizing topics — private listings. Tracey and Craig examine the balance between seller choice, brokerage control and consumer access while exploring the changing roles of MLSs, portals and listing data. They also discuss how artificial intelligence and Google's growing role in property search could influence the homebuying experience without fundamentally changing the agent's role. To close the episode, Craig offers his predictions for where the industry is headed over the next five years, including why transaction data may become real estate's most valuable asset and why unexpected players like insurance companies could make deeper moves into the residential space. It's an insightful look at the trends, technology, and business strategies that will shape the next chapter of real estate. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why mergers are really about data, margins, and customer acquisition—not brokerage brands. How mid-sized brokerages can survive by specializing instead of competing on agent count. Why transaction data may become the industry's most valuable long-term asset. The future of private listings, MLSs, portals, and AI-powered home search. Which unexpected industries could become the next major players in residential real estate. Related to this episode: Craig McClelland's LinkedIn Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Rainy Hake Austin, president of The Agency, to talk about scaling a luxury brokerage without losing the culture that made it successful in the first place. Austin explains how The Agency has expanded from roughly 30 offices to more than 160 across 15 countries while staying intentional about hiring leaders who align with the company’s collaborative, creative and people-first mindset. Austin shares why culture isn’t something that can be delegated to HR or reduced to perks and office games. Instead, she says culture is reflected in every hiring decision, leadership interaction and client experience. She discusses how the brokerage balances boutique luxury branding with global scale, why authenticity matters more than appealing to everyone, and how the company uses AI and technology to enhance — not replace — human relationships. The conversation also explores the broader wave of industry consolidation, the risks of brokerages becoming too corporate or transactional, and why Austin believes the firms that will thrive over the next year are the ones that stay focused on their core strengths while adapting intelligently to market shifts and technology. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Culture has to evolve as companies grow — not stay frozen in time. The Agency prioritizes culture fit over production numbers when hiring leaders. Luxury real estate success still comes down to relationships and client experience. AI should create more time for human connection, not replace it. Brokerages that know their identity and core strengths will stand out during industry consolidation. Related to this episode: Rainy Hake Austin's LinkedIn The Agency Want more from Tracey? Don’t forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, host Tracey Velt sits down with Felix Bravo,managing director, international for eXp Realty,  to talk about growing up in real estate, building resilience through hard work, and helping scale one of the industry’s fastest-growing international brokerages. Bravo shares how watching his immigrant mother transition from lawyer to Realtor in Miami shaped his work ethic and perspective on the business. The conversation dives into his early grind in real estate, including old-school cold calling, learning to earn opportunities instead of waiting for them, and the mindset that helped him rise from solo agent to leading eXp’s international operations before turning 30. Bravo also explains how eXp’s cloud-based model is resonating globally, especially in markets without MLS systems, and how the company’s cross-border platform “LYVVE” is helping agents and consumers collaborate internationally with more transparency. The episode also explores leadership, international expansion, the future of global real estate collaboration, and why Bravo believes agents everywhere are looking for more independence and entrepreneurial freedom. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Felix Bravo credits his immigrant upbringing and his mother’s real estate journey for shaping his work ethic. Early success came from persistence, cold calling and embracing uncomfortable work. eXp’s international growth is fueled by its cloud-based, agent-first model. Many global markets still operate without MLS systems, creating challenges and opportunities. Bravo says leadership is less about personal achievement and more about helping others succeed. Related to this episode: Felix Bravo's LinkedIn eXp Realty LYVVE Want more from Tracey? Don't forget to subscribe to Real Estate Daily. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Chris Watters for a conversation that challenges one of real estate’s biggest assumptions: most teams don’t actually have a lead problem — they have a conversion and accountability problem. Watters argues that brokerages spend too much time focused on training and buying more leads, while ignoring the ongoing coaching and accountability systems that actually drive performance. Drawing comparisons to industries like automotive sales, apartment leasing and home services, he explains how top-performing companies “inspect what they expect” through call reviews, ride-alongs and consistent feedback loops — something he says real estate rarely does well because of broker-to-agent ratios and outdated business models. The conversation digs into why low-intent internet leads are burning out agents and creating massive churn inside teams. Watters says many agents are expected to work hundreds of weak leads just to close a single transaction, leading to frustration, low morale and quiet quitting. Instead, he advocates for focusing on high-intent seller opportunities tied to life events like divorce, probate and foreclosure. The episode also explores how AI is changing team management. Watters shares how his company uses AI-powered tools to record, transcribe and grade appointments and phone calls, helping agents improve conversion while reducing compliance risk. He believes the future of real estate teams will look more like “enterprise organizations,” where leaders oversee AI-driven systems that handle administrative work so agents can focus on relationships, negotiation and guiding clients through complex transactions. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Most brokerages train agents but fail to reinforce execution consistently. Low-intent internet leads are creating burnout and poor conversion rates. High-intent sellers often come from major life events like divorce, probate and foreclosure. Listening to calls and reviewing appointments dramatically improves conversion. AI tools are becoming a major advantage for coaching, compliance and operational efficiency. Teams focused only on recruiting often ignore the real issue: retention and accountability. The future “enterprise” real estate team will combine strong leadership with AI-driven support systems. Related to this episode: Chris Watters' LinkedIn Watters International Realty REALSYNCH The Million Dollar Real Estate Team The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

HousingWire’s acquisition of Keeping Current Matters (KCM) takes center stage in this episode as Tracey Velt sits down with KCM President David Childers to discuss what the deal means for agents, brokers and the future of real estate market intelligence. Childers shares the story behind KCM’s nearly 20-year mission of helping agents understand and communicate market trends, transforming complex housing data into practical, consumer-friendly insights that build confidence and trust. The conversation explores why local market knowledge matters more than ever in today’s highly fragmented housing environment. While national headlines often dominate consumer perceptions, Childers explains that real estate remains intensely local, with some markets seeing price growth while others experience price declines. By combining HousingWire’s research, Altos market analytics, RealTrends performance insights, and KCM’s communication tools, agents will have greater access to actionable data that helps them explain market realities to buyers and sellers. Childers also addresses some of the biggest misconceptions consumers have about today’s housing market, including expectations of a major home price correction. He explains why inventory shortages, homeowner equity positions, and locked-in low mortgage rates continue to support pricing in many markets, despite affordability challenges. The discussion highlights the growing need for agents to confidently explain changing market conditions, seller concessions, inventory trends, and shifting buyer expectations. The episode concludes with a look ahead at the future of HousingWire Solutions and how the combined strengths of KCM, Altos, RealTrends, and HousingWire can help agents become more informed local experts. Childers emphasizes that the agents who consistently communicate accurate market information—and understand both national and local trends—will be best positioned to win trust, attract clients, and grow their businesses. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: HousingWire’s acquisition of KCM expands access to market intelligence, data, and agent resources. Local market knowledge is more important than ever in today’s uneven housing market. Inventory remains the key metric driving home prices and market conditions. Many consumers still misunderstand why home prices have remained resilient. Agents who can clearly explain market trends build greater trust with clients. Seller concessions are becoming more common as buyers gain negotiating power. Consistent market communication helps agents stand out and win more business. The combined strengths of KCM, Altos, RealTrends, and HousingWire create new opportunities for agent growth and education. Related to this episode: David Childers' LinkedIn Keeping Current Matters The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Dan Rochon, head coach of the Greetings Virginia Sales Network,  to break down his “Teach to Sell” philosophy and why relationship-driven sales matter more than ever in today’s unpredictable housing market. Rochon argues that agents win by proactively educating clients, building trust before problems arise, and consistently showing up through lead generation and follow-up. The conversation dives into the four pillars of business success — belief, lead generation, organization building, and leadership — with Rochon emphasizing that consistent prospecting is still the foundation of predictable income, regardless of market conditions. He explains why agents should lean into the lead sources that fit their personalities and strengths, whether that’s sphere marketing, expireds, open houses or online advertising. Rochon also shares how his team is using AI to improve speed-to-process, client communication, and follow-up without replacing the agent relationship. He warns that agents who ignore AI and emerging technology risk falling behind over the next few years, while those who embrace it can create more time for high-value client interactions. The episode also touches on private listings, industry disruption, and the mindset shifts agents need to survive market uncertainty. Rochon’s message throughout is simple: stop focusing on what you can’t control, commit to daily lead generation, and do the work consistently. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Trust and education are the foundation of modern real estate sales. Consistent lead generation still solves most business problems. Agents should choose lead sources that match their personality and strengths. AI should support relationships, not replace agents. Speed-to-process is becoming a major competitive advantage. Mindset and self-belief are often the biggest barriers to success. The agents who survive tough markets are the ones willing to do the work consistently. Related to this episode: Dan Rochon's LinkedIn Greetings Virginia The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tamir Poleg, CEO of The Real Brokerage, sits down with Tracey Velt to unpack why Real’s acquisition of REMAX is less about market share and more about combining scale, brand power and technology under one umbrella. Poleg explains that Real saw an opportunity to bring its AI-driven platform and growth mindset to a legacy franchise brand that still carries enormous recognition with consumers and agents alike. The conversation digs into the cultural alignment between Real and REMAX, the growing debate around private listings and listing fragmentation, and why Poleg believes the industry may be nearing a “point of no return” when it comes to listing data fragmentation. While many brokerages are loudly taking sides, Real has intentionally stayed quiet, choosing instead to focus on what its agents and consumers actually want. Poleg also lays out his vision for AI in real estate — not as a replacement for agents, but as a productivity engine that creates “super agents.” He describes a future where specialized AI assistants handle contracts, marketing and administrative work behind the scenes, allowing agents to focus on the human side of the transaction.  Throughout the episode, he emphasizes that the future of real estate belongs to companies that can remove friction, improve transparency and create a smoother consumer experience without losing the trusted advisor relationship at the center of the business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Real says the REMAX acquisition is about combining complementary strengths: brand recognition, scale, growth and technology. Poleg believes REMAX’s slowdown was tied partly to a tech and value proposition gap that Real can help solve. Real plans to keep both brands culturally distinct while sharing technology, education and referral opportunities. The company intentionally stayed quiet during the private listings debate because most of its agents said clients weren’t asking about it. Poleg warned the industry may be approaching irreversible MLS and listing fragmentation. He believes fragmented listing access could ultimately hurt consumers by making housing data less accurate and harder to find. Real sees AI as a friction-reduction tool, not a replacement for agents. Poleg described a future where agents use multiple specialized AI assistants for contracts, marketing and transaction management. Real’s approach is to weave AI naturally into workflows rather than forcing agents to learn entirely new systems. Poleg says the industry’s biggest challenge isn’t technology — it’s delivering a simpler, faster and more transparent homebuying experience. Related to this episode: Tamir Poleg's LinkedIn The Real Brokerage, Inc. REMAX The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of RealTrending, host Tracey Velt sits down with Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty  and James Dwiggins, co-CEO of NextHome,  to unpack the growing wave of consolidation across the real estate industry and what it means for agents, consumers and the future of listing data. Pareja compares today’s real estate landscape to the airline industry’s consolidation era, arguing that fragmented industries eventually shrink into a handful of dominant players. But unlike acquisitions driven purely by “synergy” and cost-cutting, he says the eXp and NextHome alignment was built around philosophical fit, shared views on consumer transparency and a belief that agents still need open access to listing distribution. The conversation quickly turns to private listings and the growing debate around listing control. Dwiggins strongly criticizes private listing strategies, warning they could damage consumer trust, create more litigation and ultimately fracture the MLS system into a European-style marketplace where buyers and agents must search multiple disconnected platforms just to find inventory. Both leaders argue that broad listing exposure remains the best path for sellers and that restricting visibility benefits brokerages more than consumers. The trio also dives deep into AI and the future of home search. Pareja explains why eXp partnered with Google, HouseCanary and ComeHome, arguing that AI-powered search is fundamentally changing how consumers discover homes. Instead of filtering by bedrooms and bathrooms, future buyers may search conversationally — asking for homes near favorite restaurants, with specific lot orientations or lifestyle features. Both leaders believe the industry has moved too slowly to modernize search experiences and warn that MLS organizations risk becoming irrelevant if they can’t adapt quickly enough. Despite the heavy focus on technology, both executives end on a surprisingly human note. In a world increasingly driven by AI, they argue that relationships, trust and emotional intelligence will become even more valuable. Their message to brokers and agents is simple: stop obsessing over data wars and start focusing on people, communication and the value you bring to the transaction. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Consolidation in real estate is accelerating and leaders believe it’s only the beginning. Pareja and Dwiggins say private listings threaten transparency and consumer trust. Both executives warn MLS fragmentation could create a chaotic “European-style” market. AI-powered home search is expected to radically change how consumers find properties. The Google partnership is viewed as a way to expand listing exposure and future-proof search visibility. Both leaders believe real estate organizations have moved too slowly on innovation. They argue the real estate industry should prioritize consumers over data control. Human relationships and agent expertise may become even more important in an AI-driven future. Related to this episode: Leo Pareja's LinkedIn James Dwiggins LinkedIn eXp Realty NextHome The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the Real Trending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Paul Boomsma, CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE)  to unpack the biggest forces reshaping the real estate industry — from consolidation and private listings to AI and the changing expectations of agents. Boomsma describes today’s market as a moment of “hectic opportunity,” where mergers, acquisitions, AI innovation and economic uncertainty are all colliding at once. But amid the noise, he says strong leadership has never mattered more, especially for independent brokerages navigating uncertainty among agents and consumers alike. The conversation dives into why local brands still hold a major advantage in real estate, even as national consolidation accelerates. Boomsma argues consumers remain focused on trusted local professionals, not corporate ownership structures, creating opportunities for regional independents to differentiate through culture, leadership and community presence. Tracey and Paul also explore the future of brokerage models, generational changes among agents and the growing importance of collaboration-focused office environments. Boomsma explains why younger agents value teamwork, coaching and shared learning more than the traditional independent contractor model. The episode also tackles hot-button industry topics like private listings and AI adoption. While Boomsma believes private listings may be receiving more hype than necessary, he sees enormous potential for AI in agent coaching, role-playing and helping professionals sharpen their client conversations faster than ever before. Throughout the discussion, one theme stays consistent: the brokerages that thrive over the next few years will be the ones that lean into authentic local leadership, adapt to changing agent expectations and stay focused on consumer trust. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Real estate is still fundamentally local despite industry consolidation. Strong leadership matters more than ever during market uncertainty. Younger agents prefer collaboration, coaching and co-working environments. AI is becoming a powerful tool for agent training and productivity. Private listings may be overhyped compared to other industry shifts. Independent brokerages still have a strong competitive advantage through local trust and community presence. Related to this episode: Paul Boomsma's LinkedIn Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE)  The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending podcast, Tracey Velt sits down with Blake O’Shaughnessy, founder of Ownli, a platform aiming to rethink the traditional real estate transaction by removing agents entirely. Built around the idea that “search got modern, but pricing didn’t,” Ownli offers sellers a DIY platform where they can list homes, manage showings, negotiate offers and complete contracts without paying traditional percentage-based commissions. O’Shaughnessy argues that the post-NAR settlement environment has accelerated consumer skepticism around commission structures, especially as home prices continue climbing while fees remain tied to a percentage of the sale price. Ownli positions itself as a software-driven alternative, combining public listing data, pricing tools, contracts and third-party service providers into one platform. The conversation explores whether consumers are truly ready to handle transactions themselves, how Ownli plans to scale nationally, and where technology can — and can’t — replace traditional agents. While O’Shaughnessy acknowledges the emotional and relationship-driven aspects of real estate still matter, he believes the future of the industry is increasingly “unbundled,” with consumers choosing only the services they actually need instead of paying for full-service representation by default. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Ownli removes agents and replaces them with software-driven transaction tools. The platform charges flat fees instead of percentage-based commissions. O’Shaughnessy says consumers are questioning traditional commission structures. Ownli  launched nationally with access to more than 500,000 listings. The company believes the future of real estate is “unbundled.” Related to this episode: Blake O'Shaughnessy's LinkedIn Ownli The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending podcast, Ashley Thomas III, president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), joined Tracey Velt to discuss the policies, barriers and opportunities shaping homeownership access across the country — especially within Black communities. Thomas framed the Black homeownership gap as more than a market issue, arguing that it was created through decades of intentional policy decisions, from the Homestead Act of 1862 to Federal Housing Administration (FHA) lending practices and the GI Bill. Because policy helped create the gap, he said, policy must also play a major role in closing it. Throughout the conversation, Thomas emphasized that access remains the industry’s biggest challenge. Even with more inventory or lower prices, many qualified buyers still struggle to navigate outdated credit models, lending standards, and qualification requirements that don’t reflect how consumers earn and manage money today. The discussion also highlighted NAREB’s policy initiatives, including its Community Property Fairness Initiative, which focuses on FHA rules in certain states that require nonborrowing spouses’ debt to be counted during qualification. Thomas argued these rules create unnecessary barriers for housing affordability. Velt and Thomas also discussed the industry’s broader responsibility in shaping consumer confidence. Thomas encouraged agents and brokers to avoid fueling negative market narratives, arguing that real estate professionals help shape buyer behavior through their mindset and messaging. The conversation closed with a look at NAREB’s eight-city homeownership bus tour, which combines education, housing counseling, legal support and community outreach in cities where affordability remains within reach. For Thomas, the goal is simple: to move the conversation beyond whether it’s a good time to buy and focus instead on whether it’s the right time for individual families to begin building generational wealth through homeownership. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Policy helped create the homeownership gap — and can help close it. Access to credit remains a major barrier. Outdated lending models are limiting buyers. NAREB is pushing for FHA policy changes. The bus tour focuses on education and homeownership access. Agents help shape buyer confidence. Related to this episode: Ashley Thomas III's LinkedIn National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) NAREB Affordable Homeownership Bus Tour The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

LIVE from HousingWire’s Gathering, Tracey Velt sits down with Jim D’Amico, CEO of Brands by Integra, to talk about brokerage growth, industry consolidation and why he’s optimistic about the Compass acquisition of Anywhere. D’Amico built his company from two agents in Massachusetts into a multi-brand operation with roughly 2,000 agents across 18 states. Today, Brands by Integra includes multiple real estate franchises, mortgage, insurance, asset management and property management companies — all operating under one umbrella. The conversation centers on the industry’s accelerating consolidation, particularly Compass’ acquisition of Anywhere. D’Amico says the deal injected new energy into a brokerage landscape he felt had grown stagnant, and he believes Compass CEO Robert Reffkin brings a growth-focused mindset that could unlock the scale and lead-generation potential many franchise brands have never fully leveraged. He also addresses one of the industry’s most debated topics: Compass’ private listing network. In D’Amico’s view, the strategy has been widely misunderstood. Rather than limiting access, he believes the approach is meant to give agents and sellers more control over marketing timelines while restoring some of the value agents once held when listing information wasn’t instantly public. Beyond mergers, D’Amico sees the future of brokerage tied to scale, technology and ecosystem expansion. While he believes mortgage and brokerage can work together, he notes the operational complexity of running both businesses. What excites him most is how real estate companies are increasingly acquiring technology — a move he believes will define the next phase of industry competition. Despite rapid consolidation across the sector, D’Amico says the brokerage landscape will always support multiple models — from national platforms to local boutique firms. For his company, the focus now is simple: build density in existing markets, keep expanding through strategic acquisitions and continue growing nationally while maintaining a family-run culture. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Brands by Integra has about 2,000 agents in 18 states. The company plans continued expansion and acquisitions. The Compass–Anywhere deal brings new energy to brokerage. Robert Reffkin’s private listing strategy is widely misunderstood. Private listings may give sellers more marketing flexibility. Industry consolidation is accelerating. Brokerage scale is increasingly important. Technology is becoming a major competitive advantage. Mortgage and brokerage can work together with separate operations. Multiple brokerage models will continue to coexist. Related to this episode: Jim D’Amico’s LinkedIn Brands by Integra The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

On this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, host Tracey Velt sits down with Brandon Wells to talk about leadership, brokerage culture and how independent firms can compete in a rapidly consolidating real estate industry. Wells reflects on stepping into the CEO role at The Group Real Estate, a Northern Colorado brokerage founded in 1976, and explains that the company’s long-term success comes down to a simple principle: invest in the brokers. Through training, education and the brokerage’s connection to the Ninja Selling philosophy, Wells says the firm has built a culture focused on productivity, collaboration and shared success. As an employee-owned brokerage, that culture is reinforced by a sense of ownership among agents. Instead of competing internally, brokers share strategies and knowledge because everyone benefits when the company succeeds. The conversation also explores broader industry shifts, including brokerage consolidation and the growth of independent firms. Wells sees opportunity in the current environment, arguing that technology, automation and AI are lowering barriers that once favored large companies. Smaller brokerages, he says, can now access powerful tools that allow them to remain competitive while maintaining the flexibility and local expertise that many agents prefer. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Brokerage growth strategies Technology and AI in real estate Industry misconceptions and consumer perceptions Related to this episode: Brandon Wells LinkedIn The Group Real Estate The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

Chris Kelly breaks down how HomeServices is shifting from a behind-the-scenes holding company to a more active, value-driven parent organization — and why that evolution requires a louder voice in today’s rapidly changing brokerage landscape. He outlines a growth strategy that goes beyond traditional brokerage expansion, emphasizing a full-service ecosystem spanning mortgage, title, insurance and beyond. Kelly also explores the industry’s bifurcation between national, ecosystem-driven firms and cloud-based models, while making the case that local leadership and culture remain the defining advantage in recruiting and retention. Throughout the conversation, he stresses that the future of real estate hinges on simplifying the transaction for consumers without weakening the agent-client relationship. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: HomeServices is evolving from a holding company into a parent company focused on delivering value to its operating businesses Growth is driven by a mix of M&A, organic expansion and deeper investment across the real estate services ecosystem The industry is splitting between national ecosystem players and virtual/cloud-based brokerages Controlling more of the transaction — earlier in the consumer journey — is becoming a key competitive strategy Strong local leadership remains critical, even as firms scale nationally Diversified revenue streams (mortgage, title, insurance) are essential to maintaining profitability amid margin pressure Private listings and distribution strategies are less about disruption and more about expanding consumer reach The biggest risk to the industry is internal fragmentation that could weaken the agent-consumer relationship Related to this episode: Chris Kelly's LinkedIn HomeServices The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this insightful interview, Debbie De Grote of Forward Coaching shares essential mindset shifts, strategies and tools for real estate agents to thrive in a complex and evolving market. Topics include becoming a market expert, leveraging AI, effective prospecting and adapting to new business models. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Mindset shifts for agents in a complex market The importance of being a wise adviser and market expert Leveraging AI tools for efficiency and personalization Effective prospecting strategies in a changing environment Adapting to new business models and private listings Related to this episode: Debbie De Grote's LinkedIn Forward Coaching Debbie's Script Book The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode, Chris Day, managing broker of Worth Clark Realty in Orlando, shares insights on transitioning to a 100% commission model, effective recruitment and retention strategies, and how to succeed in the competitive Villages market. Discover how support, personal branding and innovative systems drive growth and success in real estate. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Transitioning to 100% commission model Recruitment and retention strategies Market insights for The Villages and Central Florida Support systems and training for agents Market challenges and opportunities in Florida Related to this episode: Chris Day's LinkedIn Worth Clark Realty The Villages The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this insightful interview, David Dickey, CTO of United Real Estate, discusses the transformative role of AI in real estate. Topics include AI's practical applications for agents, misconceptions about AI, ROI measurement, data privacy, and strategies for adoption. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: AI's impact on real estate agents' productivity Myths and misconceptions about AI in real estate Measuring ROI of AI tools in real estate Data privacy and security in AI applications Strategies for AI adoption among brokers and agents Related to this episode: David Dickey's LinkedIn United Real Estate The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

Billy Nash, a luxury real estate expert with Keyes in South Florida and TV show host, shares insights on building relationships with high-net-worth individuals, global marketing strategies and adapting to industry changes. Discover how authenticity, networking and strategic use of technology can elevate your luxury real estate career. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Building relationships with high-net-worth individuals Global marketing and exposure for luxury properties Industry changes: private listings, auctions and legal shifts Related to this episode: Billy Nash's LinkedIn Passport Properties The Keyes Company The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this insightful interview, Jonathan Lickstein, COO of LoKation Real Estate, shares his strategies for rapid growth, adapting to industry changes and maintaining a competitive edge as an independent broker. Discover how focusing on agent success, leveraging technology, and understanding market dynamics can transform your real estate business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Growth drivers of Location Real Estate Importance of agent-centric models Impact of industry lawsuits and market shifts Private listings and pricing strategies Buyer representation agreements and client guidance Industry consolidation and independence advantages Technology's role in brokerage operations Future trends in real estate brokerage Related to this episode: Jonathan Lickstein's LinkedIn LoKation® Real Estate The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode, Corey Hasting shares his strategic journey of transitioning from a billion-dollar brokerage to Christie's International Real Estate, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and future plans in the luxury real estate market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Brand transition and strategic growth Technology and operational improvements Market expansion into new regions Agent recruitment and retention strategies Industry consolidation and future outlook Related to this episode: Corey Hasting's LinkedIn Christie's International Real Estate First Coast The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Michele Harrington, CEO of FirstTeam Real Estate, discusses the evolution of her brokerage, the challenges faced in the current market and the importance of an agent-centric approach. She emphasizes the need for technology and accountability in supporting agents, while also addressing the impact of legal pressures on regional brokers. Michele shares her insights on defining growth in the industry and expresses optimism for the future of real estate as a viable investment for building wealth. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Michele emphasizes the importance of being agent-centric in real estate. The past few years have been challenging for many brokerages due to market downturns. Legal pressures, such as class action lawsuits, significantly impact regional brokers. Profitability should be prioritized over growth for sustainable success. Creating value for agents is essential to attract and retain talent. Technology should enhance agent productivity, but accountability and coaching are crucial. Regional brokers have a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves in a consolidating market. The real estate industry offers potential for generational wealth building. Michele believes that the future of real estate is bright despite current challenges. Flexibility and creativity are key for adapting to changing market conditions. Related to this episode: Michele Harrington's LinkedIn FirstTeam Real Estate The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Katie Hill, CEO of Unlisted, discusses the problem she is solving with her platform, which features homes that are not currently for sale. She explains the missed opportunities in the real estate market for homeowners who are considering selling but are not yet ready to list their properties. The conversation delves into the inefficiencies in the current transaction flow, the role of MLS and AI in the industry, and the importance of data management and accuracy. Katie emphasizes the need for real estate professionals to adapt to changing consumer needs and the evolving landscape of home buying. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Unlisted focuses on homes that are not for sale. There is a significant market opportunity in the gray space of real estate. The platform allows buyers to express interest in homes not currently listed, join a waitlist and be contacted when the property comes to market. Real estate agents play a crucial role in facilitating transactions when homeowners are ready to sell. AI is not a threat; not adopting it is a risk for agents. Data management is essential for accurate property listings. The real estate industry needs to focus on consumer needs. Unlisted aims to serve homeowners throughout their journey, not just at the point of sale. The future of real estate will involve changes in search and consumer engagement. Related to this episode: ⁠Unlisted⁠ Katie Hill's  ⁠LinkedIn⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Jim Remley, founder of eRealEstatecoach.com and RealTrends 500 brokerage owner, shares his extensive experience in the brokerage industry, discussing key trends and strategies for success. He emphasizes the importance of agent productivity over headcount, effective recruiting techniques and the necessity of retaining agents through continuous engagement. Jim also reflects on his own experiences, highlighting the significance of coaching and the need for brokers to simplify their operations while focusing on building relationships with agents. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 70% of agents in America didn't close a transaction last year. Retention should be viewed as re-recruiting your own agents. Building relationships is key to successful recruiting. Brokers should treat their agents as part of their CRM. Recruiting should be a daily activity for brokers. Listening is an underrated leadership skill in real estate. Brokers can operate with a smaller physical footprint than before. Focus on recruiting experienced agents for growth. Setting realistic recruiting goals is essential for success. Related to this episode: Jim Remley's Linkedin The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

James Becker on building a sphere-based business model and navigating the valley of despair In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, host Tracey Velt speaks with James Becker, founder of Fusion, a company  that helps real estate agents grow their businesses. Becker shares how he developed a program at his brokerage to provide comprehensive support to agents, allowing them to focus on their core business while he and his team handled the operational aspects.  He’s left the brokerage world and continued to hone his growth program. Becker discusses the concept of the 'valley of despair' that agents often face when starting new initiatives, highlighting the need for persistence and the willingness to learn from failures to achieve long-term success. The conversation delves into the critical role of building relationships over chasing leads, advocating for a sphere-based business model. Becker stresses that agents should focus on nurturing their networks and developing genuine connections, which can lead to sustainable success.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: You have to put yourself out there and take risks. The valley of despair is where many agents quit too soon. Relationships are built over a long period of time and lost in an instant. You must be the CEO of your own business. If you want to be better, you must be held accountable. Caring for your clients is the key to success. Focus on nurturing relationships, not just chasing leads. Every agent goes through a cycle of uninformed optimism to informed pessimism. You have to measure your time and energy to see where it's going. The number one fundamental is to become the agent you would hire yourself. Related to this episode: James Becker's LinkedIn The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Wendy Forsythe, CMO of eXp Realty, discusses the evolution of real estate teams, the challenges of scaling  and the importance of technology and profitability. She emphasizes the shift in mindset from traditional agent roles to team leaders acting as CEOs, focusing on holistic success and lifestyle balance. The conversation also highlights emerging trends and the future of team leadership in the real estate industry. Here's what you'll learn: Teams have evolved significantly over the years. New agents joining teams are more likely to succeed. Scaling teams requires understanding operational efficiencies. Profit per person is a crucial metric for success. Team leaders must balance support and profitability. Automation and technology are essential for modern teams. Emerging trends include content creation and remote operations. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of RealTrending, Ginger Wilcox, the president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, discusses the latest design trends in real estate and their impact on homebuyer behavior. She emphasizes the importance of emotional connections to design, the shift toward functionality in home layouts and the influence of social media on buyer expectations. Wilcox also highlights regional variations in design preferences and offers strategies for agents to leverage these trends in their marketing efforts. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of real estate and the evolving needs of consumers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Today's buyers are detail-oriented and expect strong design. Emotional connections to homes influence buyer decisions. Design trends are shifting towards functionality and wellness. Social media impacts what buyers are looking for in homes. Instagrammable features are becoming essential in marketing. Regional preferences in design vary but core themes remain. Agents should leverage design trends in their marketing strategies. Understanding consumer behavior is crucial for agents. Trends in home design are evolving rapidly due to technology. Livability and functionality are key considerations for buyers. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this conversation for the RealTrending podcast, Donny Samson discusses the growth and strategies of his brokerage, emphasizing the importance of a unified company culture, intentional market expansion and the challenges of navigating the current brokerage economics. He highlights the impact of recent mergers in the industry and the need for adaptability in the face of changing market conditions. Samson also reflects on the future of brokerage models, the significance of education for realtors and the enduring value of in-person connections in a predominantly virtual world. Related to this episode: Donny Samson LinkedIn Samson Properties Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: One family, one vision, one company is key to growth. Intentional planning and training are crucial for success. Market expansion should be cautious and well-planned. Brokerage economics are challenging due to margin pressures. Realtors are seeking value and support from their brokers. Mergers in the industry create both challenges and opportunities. Education is vital for success and retention. The average age of first-time homebuyers is rising. In-person connections are essential in real estate. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Tracey Velt speaks with Rick Haase, President & COO of United Real Estate, about the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on the surge of lawsuits, particularly regarding private listing networks. They discuss the importance of having a clear mission for brokerages, the strategies for growth in a changing market, and the implications of the NAR settlement. Haase emphasizes the need for operational excellence and the financial wellness of agents as key components for success in the industry. Here is a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The real estate industry is currently facing a surge in lawsuits, particularly related to private listing networks. Private listing networks are not a new concept; they have existed in various forms for years. A clear mission focused on the financial trajectory of agents is crucial for brokerage success. Financial literacy and wellness programs can significantly impact agents’ financial health. The market is fragmented, and competition will naturally evolve without external intervention. Operational excellence and disciplined cost management are essential for thriving in the real estate market. The NAR settlement has complex implications that may not lead to a complete overturn but will require adjustments. Growth strategies should focus on organic recruitment and mergers with smaller brokerages. Agents need to be mission-driven and integrity-focused to succeed in the current market. The market will ultimately dictate the success of new business models and strategies. To learn more about Homebot click here. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Gavin Swartzman discusses his role as president of Christie's International Real Estate and the evolving landscape of luxury real estate. He shares insights on market opportunities, the importance of branding and affiliate relationships, and the challenges of navigating change in the industry. Gavin emphasizes the need for empathy and authenticity in leadership, as well as the significance of providing valuable advice to clients. The conversation highlights the shifting definition of luxury and the importance of understanding client motivations in a changing market. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Gavin Swartzman emphasizes the importance of communication and connection among agents. The luxury real estate market is seeing growth opportunities in South America, Asia, and the Middle East. Branded developments are becoming a significant trend in luxury real estate. Confidence in the market is crucial for high-end clients to make decisions. The definition of luxury is evolving to include a broader experience. Empathy is a key leadership quality in navigating change. The onboarding experience is critical for retention and success in real estate Authenticity is essential in building trust with clients. High net worth individuals view real estate as part of their investment portfolio. The real estate industry must adapt to technological advancements and changing client expectations. To learn more about Homebot click here. Related to this episode: Christie's International Real Estate Gavin Swartzman LinkedIn The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Dru Wischhover, CEO of Inspired Title, discusses the often-overlooked role of title companies in real estate transactions. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement, fraud prevention and the critical nature of communication between real estate agents and title companies. Dru also addresses the rising threats of cybercrime, particularly with the advent of AI, and shares insights on the significance of title insurance in protecting property ownership. The conversation concludes with a lightning round of common myths and best practices in the industry. Takeaways Dru Wischhover emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the title industry. Communication is key in preventing fraud during real estate transactions. Real estate agents should build strong relationships with their title companies. Title insurance is crucial for protecting property ownership. AI has increased the risk of identity fraud in real estate. The first hour after a fraud incident is critical for response. Educating clients about the title process can prevent issues. Many people underestimate the value of title insurance. Real estate agents should be proactive in understanding title issues. Timing is essential when dealing with wire fraud in transactions. Related to this episode:https://www.housingwire.com/title-escrow/ Inspired Title Group The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Alex Vidal discusses the key strategies for brokerage growth, emphasizing the importance of accountability in coaching, expanding value beyond local markets, and addressing affordability challenges in real estate. He highlights the need for real estate pros to adapt to market changes and maintain professionalism while facilitating family moves and exploring government roles in housing affordability. The conversation concludes with a lightning round of insights on common advice and habits for realtors. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: It takes guts to recruit, coach, and pull the trigger on M&A. How accountability is crucial for brokers to push their agents. Real estate is a hyper-local business, but agents should think globally. What the major challenge is for buyers in the current market. Professionalism and commitment are increasing in the industry post-settlement. Realtors need to facilitate conversations about joint mortgages and family moves. Government policies can impact housing affordability significantly. Understanding consumer behavior is key to success. What is is essential for buyers in today's market. Related to this episode: ERA Real Estate HousingWire Youtube More info about HousingWire To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode, RTC Consulting Founder Steve Murray discusses the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on brokerage mergers and acquisitions, the impact of Zillow’s legal challenges, and strategies for brokers to prepare for the future. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to market changes, understanding antitrust issues and leveraging technology like AI to enhance business models. How the real estate landscape is evolving with significant changes in brokerage M&A activity. How Zillow’s legal challenges reflect broader power struggles in the industry. How brokers need to prepare for potential changes in referral fee structures. AI technology is beginning to influence how consumers find homes. The market share concerns that may impact future brokerage mergers and acquisitions. Brokers should consider transparency in referral fees as a competitive advantage. Understanding antitrust regulations is crucial for brokers navigating mergers. Successful brokers are those who manage costs effectively and focus on fundamentals. ⁠RTC Consulting ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Lauren Henss, VP of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives at FirstTeam Real Estate, a RealTrends Verified top 30 brokerage in national sales volume. Tracey and Lauren dive into the realities of leading a complete digital transformation in under a year, including shifting from legacy to modern branding and creating agent-centric marketing that drives real results. Lauren shares how consumer brand tactics from her work with Chanel, Nike, and Salesforce translated into real estate, the challenges of brokerage consolidation, and why treating agents as the heroes of your story changes everything. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How to shift from legacy brand messaging to future-focused value propositions The "Behind the Agent" campaign that achieved 98% retention and 32% conversion increases Why buying more leads without fixing conversion is the most overrated marketing tactic The strategic middle lane approach that balances corporate scale with boutique agility How AI and answer engine optimization are reshaping agent visibility and listing generation The five critical elements brokerages need to survive consolidation Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Henss | LinkedIn First Team Real Estate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Dre Baldwin, former professional basketball player turned business coach and author of "Work on Your Game." Tracey and Dre dive into the mental game of real estate, exploring how the discipline, resilience and systematic thinking from professional sports can transform an agent's performance in today's market. Dre shares how mental toughness separates high performers from those who fall out during tough times, the power of detaching from outcomes while staying committed to process, and much more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why mental toughness and resilience are the #1 skills missing in real estate today How to create personalized daily routines that save mental energy for what matters most The art of transmuting rejection and disappointment into productive energy Why discipline beats motivation every time, and how to show up on your "third day" How 85% of your communication happens before you even speak Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dre Baldwin Dre Baldwin  | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Tom Ferry, founder of Tom Ferry International, and Josh Altman, celebrity real estate agent with The Altman Brothers Team at Douglas Elliman. They dive into Tom and Josh’s new partnership, discussing the gap they saw in the market for affordable, high-quality training and how they're combining Tom's coaching expertise with Josh's proven sales strategies. They also talk about the importance of discipline, branding, and AI in today's market, plus the common mistakes that prevent agents from reaching their potential. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How Tom and Josh identified the need for accessible, world-class training for agents Why 6% of agents control 60% of listings and what separates top performers The biggest mistakes agents make: insufficient follow-up for top performers and inadequate marketing for everyone else Josh's approach to being a "24/7 agent" and building a brand that attracts global buyers How AI is transforming marketing and why agents need to update their social media bios The importance of content creation and being a "chameleon" in an ever-changing market Why both experts believe AI-enabled agents will dominate the future of real estate Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Altman Brothers Tom Ferry Josh Altman | LinkedIn Tom Ferry | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠here.⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Keith Robinson, co-CEO of NextHome and author of the Substack "Crazy Uncle Keith." Tracey and Keith dive into the seismic shifts reshaping real estate, including the potential Compass-Anywhere merger, the ongoing fallout from the settlement lawsuit and the pro-agent group pushing for more transparency at NAR. Keith shares his take on private listing networks, why the industry's most defensible position is "the human being," and how agents can capitalize on the current rate environment to boost their business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why the Compass-Anywhere merger could trigger an "arms race for listings" How agents can actually make more money now, post-settlement, by creating better buyer offerings The real impact of private listing networks on home buyers and sellers Why Keith believes NAR is finally heading in the right direction under Nykia Wright How rates below 6.5% for 60+ days signal a market shift agents can't afford to miss The three traits every agent needs to develop by 2030, including a "healthy fear of AI" Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Keith Robinson | SubStack NextHome Keith Robinson | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠here.⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.