It's Closing Time

• How tech companies and market dymanics have shaped the industry over the past year
• Resistance to and adaptation of inevitable changes
• The complexity of forming Bright MLS
• How innovative projects like Redistribute and Nestfully are designed to return value to brokers
• How buyers' agents could see increased commissions in 2025 following new rule changes this year

In this episode of "It's Closing Time," RentSpree CEO and host Michael Lucarelli speaks with Richard Haggerty, CEO of OneKey® MLS about the merger that created New York’s largest multiple listing service. The conversation also touches on Richard’s induction into the National Association of Realtors Political Action Committee (RPAC) Hall of Fame, highlighting the importance of advocacy for associations and MLSs. The conversation touches on the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and ongoing fair housing education. Richard shares his approach to building a strong executive team and talks about his initial skepticism toward AI, which was changed after a practical demo. Lastly, he notes a significant post-Covid increase in rental inventory, with a focus on supporting rental agents in a high-interest rate environment.

In this episode of "It's Closing Time," RentSpree CEO Michael Lucarelli explores the digital transformation of an MLS with Brad Bjelke, CEO of UtahRealEstate.com. Brad discusses how UtahRealEstate.com differentiates itself with innovative technology and a startup mentality, focusing on niche market needs and rapid adaptation. Brad underscores the importance of staying customer-centric amidst technological evolution, highlighting the ongoing entrepreneurial spirit driving MLS innovation.

In this episode of "It's Closing Time," RentSpree CEO and host Michael Lucarelli speaks with seasoned real estate professional Gene Millman, CEO of REColorado, the state’s largest multiple listing service. Transitioning from a banking career, he embraced the entrepreneurial spirit, guided by family influence, and ventured into real estate. Starting as one of the youngest hires, he emphasized exceptional client service over sales numbers. Over the next two decades, he evolved from practitioner to office manager, eventually founding his own company. His passion for the MLS led to a variety of influential roles, ultimately culminating in his current position. Through his story, he shares insights on leadership, industry challenges, and the importance of staying connected with customers.

In this episode of It's Closing Time, RentSpree CEO and host Michael Lucarelli sits down with David Casarez, CEO of Greater McAllen Association of REALTORS. David shares how to get into the real estate business and how he leveraged his diverse skill set as a licensed electrician to get started. David emphasizes the importance of networking, marketing, and approaching real estate with a business mindset, highlighting his organization’s ability to stay profitable during the pandemic. He discusses his focus on improving the real estate MLS system, including international partnerships, and touches on the important opportunity in the rental market. 

In this episode of It's Closing Time, RentSpree CEO and host Michael Lucarelli sits down with Art Carter, CEO of CRMLS, one of the largest multiple listing services in the country. With a focus on meeting consumer needs through technological advancement in the real estate industry, Art discusses how MLSs are evolving to cater to agents and also directly to consumers, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly technology in today's market. Art advocates for swift change in the real estate industry, recognizing the necessity of keeping pace with technological advancements. He aims to empower MLSs by ensuring they have a stake in the PropTech game, thus giving them the power to shape the industry's future.

In this episode of It's Closing Time, RentSpree CEO and host Michael Lucarelli interviews Merri Jo Cowen, CEO of Stellar MLS, the largest multiple listing service in Florida and Puerto Rico and the third largest in the US, representing over 84,000 members. With over 40 years of experience in real estate, Merri Jo shares insights into her career journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style. She emphasizes Stellar MLS's commitment to customer service and fostering an inclusive, value-driven culture within the organization. Merri Jo discusses the importance of stakeholder engagement, highlighting the integration of shareholder associations into decision-making processes and the emphasis on education for board members. She also underscores the significance of MLS data in the real estate marketplace and the potential for international expansion. Despite challenges such as legal complexities, Merri Jo advocates for proactive adaptation and forward momentum in the industry.

In this lively podcast episode, Michael Lucarelli, CEO of RentSpree, and Jason Jakus, a Florida real estate broker, delve into the real estate market, discussing Jason's insights, educational emphasis, and the emotional aspects of transactions. They tackle the booming Florida real estate scene, spotlighting increased rentals amid population growth and escalating home prices. Jason underscores the ongoing client connection, revealing the triumphs and challenges faced during the tumultuous fourth quarter 2020 to June 2022 market period, emphasizing the vital role of follow-ups and effective communication in client relationships.