In this episode, I sit down with Jimmy Mackin for a tactical deep dive into what’s truly working for real estate agents right now. We unpack the “triple threat” approach—combining direct mail, email, and social media—to help you generate leads and position yourself for growth in an ever-changing market.

Jimmy, co-founder of ListingLeads.com and a recognized thought leader in the Boston area, shares timely strategies for thriving even as many agents are feeling discouraged or stuck. He talks through real-world referral tactics, the power of focusing on neglected contacts in your CRM, and unveils high-converting scripts you can use immediately to spark conversations and win new business. From ramping up your referrals by reaching out to your “neglect list,” to crafting irresistible “Deal of the Week” offers that create urgency and curiosity, Jimmy’s insights are actionable and rooted in successful campaigns from thousands of top agents.

We also explore best practices for leveraging scarcity with coming soon listings on social media, the psychology behind writing engaging texts and emails, and how to overcome analysis paralysis in today’s overwhelming landscape of marketing choices.

If you’re a seasoned pro aiming to sharpen your edge, or an agent who’s felt lost in the noise of too many options and not enough results, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you systematize your outreach, generate predictable referrals, and build momentum heading into the next season.

In this episode, I sit down with Craig Grant, CEO of RETI and renowned tech educator, for a high-energy conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming the real estate industry. From practical insights on leveraging ChatGPT and Google Gemini for day-to-day efficiency, to a deep dive into must-have tools like Canva Pro and the game-changing HeyGen video platform, we unpack what’s working now for agents looking to level up their business with the power of AI.

Craig shares his perspective on the meteoric rise of AI, why every Realtor needs to embrace it, and how the right technology can automate heavy lifting—without sacrificing legal or ethical standards. We discuss real-world examples, from creating marketing content at lightning speed to AI video editing with Descript, and even how tools like Reimagine Home can help you virtually stage and redesign properties in seconds.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about new tech, Craig drops invaluable nuggets on avoiding AI pitfalls, choosing the right platforms for your workflow, and the importance of always treating artificial intelligence as your first draft—not your final word. He also gives listeners access to his resource-packed slides and a treasure trove of vetted AI recommendations to supercharge your marketing, client communications, and productivity.

If you’re ready to learn how AI can save you time, amplify your personal brand, and future-proof your real estate career, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can put to work immediately.

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of one of the most remarkable sales of my career—the nine-and-a-half-year journey to sell the iconic Empire Mansion, recently closing for a record $6.5M in Illinois. I break down exactly what worked, what I’d change, and the invaluable lessons this high-profile listing taught me about patience, perseverance, and staying sharp in the ever-evolving luxury real estate market.

As the third agent on the listing, spanning four brokerages, ten price adjustments, and countless strategy shifts, I dive deep into what kept us moving—from detailed buyer pre-qualification and personalized client communication, to creative event-based marketing (think thirty Ferrari owners in the driveway) and securing national press coverage. I also share what didn’t move the needle, like costly print ads and certain co-marketing partnerships, so you can leverage smarter strategy in your own business.

You’ll hear about handling the unique demands of high-net-worth sellers, best practices for scheduling and hosting standout showings, and why you should never judge a book by its cover—especially when working with luxury buyers. If you’re struggling with a long-standing listing or want to raise your game in luxury real estate, these real-world insights and case study takeaways are sure to help you work smarter, increase your value, and ultimately, get the deal done.

Keep raising the bar, and don’t hesitate to reach out for more resources, fresh eyes on a tough listing, or for information on our luxury designation and tools.

In this episode, I share some timely insights from our recent live stream, diving into the intricacies of the current luxury real estate market and the potential impact of tariffs. We navigate through pressing questions posed by clients and industry peers, unearthing the realities and misconceptions surrounding tariffs' effects on real estate.

I tackle timely issues such as stock market fluctuations and share invaluable advice on investments, emphasizing real estate's reliability as a long-term asset. The session also unveils a unique financial offering – the Buy Now, Sell Later program – designed to enhance buyer leverage and flexibility without the constraints of conventional loans.

Listeners are in for an informative session as I, alongside my guest Joe, dissect how these innovations can provide a competitive edge in buying luxury properties. Furthermore, we celebrate our nine-year milestone of the luxury designation course, announcing our most memorable location training event amidst a lineup of educational engagements across the U.S.

Whether you're an established agent looking to sharpen your strategy or a homeowner contemplating market movements, this episode equips you with the necessary tools to navigate and excel in today’s market dynamics.

In this episode of the Luxury Specials podcast, I sit down with Samir, the founder of Zillow Gone Wild, for an engaging conversation about the fascinating world of unique and eccentric real estate listings across America. We dive into the origins and success of Zillow Gone Wild, a social media phenomenon that showcases luxury, quirky, and downright wild properties.

Samir shares his journey from starting the platform during the pandemic in December 2020 to amassing over 5 million followers across multiple social media channels, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. His passion for real estate, despite not being a licensed agent, has resonated with millions who are captivated by the diversity and creativity of U.S. properties.

We discuss some of the most memorable and eccentric homes featured on Zillow Gone Wild, like the $20 million property in Gilbert, Arizona, complete with a go-kart track and a hidden shooting range. Samir also touches on the impact his platform has had on real estate sales, with agents reaching out to him to highlight their unique listings and even staging homes to attract attention.

For those curious about what's next for Zillow Gone Wild, Samir reveals exciting news about the upcoming second season of their HGTV show, which will continue to explore these extraordinary properties.

Whether you're an agent looking to understand the power of social media in real estate or a property enthusiast eager to see the wildest homes on the market, this episode is packed with insights and entertainment. Tune in for a deep dive into the world where luxury meets the unexpected.

In this episode, Michael LaFido dives deep into the alarming statistics released by the National Association of REALTORS® and explains why 71% of REALTORS® sold zero homes last year. He emphasizes the importance of educating consumers about choosing an active, successful agent over one who's not doing any transactions, shedding light on the broader implications for home sellers and buyers alike.

Michael discusses key strategies for maximizing exposure, marketing, and negotiating better deals for sellers, highlighting the significant differences between agents who invest in themselves and those who do not. He shares practical advice on effectively communicating these points to build trust and attract clients.

Additionally, Michael highlights the power of creating valuable content and being a local informational resource, whether through market updates, business recommendations, or showcasing local history. He underscores the benefit of adding layers to your real estate practice by incorporating educational and engaging community content.

Finally, Michael talks about the Luxury Designation program, a fantastic opportunity for agents wanting to specialize in high-end markets. He mentions upcoming in-person training sessions in Houston and Miami, along with flexible online training options.

Don't miss this insightful episode that not only presents a compelling argument for choosing the right real estate agent but also offers concrete steps to enhance your own real estate business.

Hey everyone, Michael LaFido here! I’m excited to share the latest developments from our recent podcast episode, featuring the extraordinary Jay Macklin. Jay’s journey from Michigan to establishing a thriving luxury real estate brokerage in Arizona is nothing short of inspirational.

First off, let’s talk about an important update in the real estate world: Starting August 17, there's a new US requirement for buyers to have a written agreement to schedule private showings of homes. This stems from a settlement between the NAR and the Department of Justice. If you’re booking a public open house, no agreement is necessary. This new rule impacts commission structures and adds a layer of complexity for us agents, but it's all about adapting and staying ahead in the game.

Jay Macklin, our special guest, has been a force in luxury real estate since 2010, focusing primarily on North Scottsdale. He's all about personal branding and creating unique selling propositions to stand out. He highlights the significance of consistency, creative messaging, and building strong client relationships. Jay’s approach aligns perfectly with the principles I discuss in my book, “Secret to Top Luxury Agents,” available now on freeluxurybook.com—grab your copy, just cover the shipping fee!

A fascinating topic we covered is the different dynamics within luxury markets. Transitioning into luxury real estate, especially if you're new to an area, requires understanding client needs and preferences. Jay's experience reinforces that adapting marketing strategies and maintaining a high level of personal branding are key to success. Speaking of branding, we’ve got some awesome news—our luxury listing specialist gear is now available at luxuryspecialsgear.com. From T-shirts to planners, we have it all to keep you stylish while you close those high-end deals.

In today’s competitive market, setting yourself apart is crucial. What’s your unique strategy? How do you ensure clients remember you? Whether it’s your negotiation skills or your standout marketing materials, remain consistent and innovative. And hey, if you’re curious about effective listing presentations and more, don’t miss our daily themes like 'Mindset Monday' and 'Tips Tuesday' on our YouTube channel.

As we wrap up the year, let’s stay connected and express our gratitude—to our clients, colleagues, and everyone who supports us. It’s not just about business; it’s about building enduring relationships. Make it a great day, and stay tuned for more exciting updates and insights!

Keep pushing the envelope, and let’s make waves in the luxury real estate market!

In our landmark 300th episode, I reflect on seven and a half years of insights and experiences, sharing with you the foundational strategies that have shaped the success of our Luxury Listing Specialist podcast.

We delve into the fundamentals of real estate that remain crucial regardless of market changes, from the importance of consistent coaching to the power of an optimized, segmented database. I emphasize the role of networking and strategic marketing—both warm and cold—as essential components for any real estate professional aiming to dominate the luxury sector.

Throughout this episode, I reiterate that real estate success, much like in sports, hinges on mastering the basics: blocking, tackling, and the fundamentals. By continually putting yourself out there and effectively managing your network, you can ensure a steady stream of opportunities.

To celebrate our journey, I also introduce you to our latest tools designed to facilitate your growth: a meticulously crafted luxury agent planner and various resources that can help you stay organized and focused.

Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting, this episode encapsulates the key takeaways from our 300 podcasts, aimed at empowering you to become the most trusted luxury agent in your market. Join me as I share stories, strategies, and advice from over two decades in the industry, dedicated to raising the bar and setting you apart in the high-end real estate arena.

In this episode, luxury real estate expert Nicole Gary and I dive into the current luxury market landscape in New York and Florida, sharing crucial strategies and mindsets that are driving success today. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your real estate career.

Nicole, a seasoned agent with over 13 years of experience, details her journey from selling high-end custom window treatments to becoming a top luxury real estate agent. She shares how leveraging her existing luxury client base and thinking big gave her the confidence to thrive in this competitive field.

From building authentic relationships and offering personalized care, Nicole explains the importance of a genuine, non-transactional approach in luxury real estate. She recounts her bold move to Miami, where she quickly established herself by actively networking and participating in community events, turning these new connections into business opportunities.

In this episode, we also delve into mindset mastery, with Nicole emphasizing the power of positive affirmations and self-belief. She shares an inspiring personal story of adversity and perseverance, highlighting how maintaining a positive mindset and organized plan is crucial for success.

We round out our discussion with a detailed look at Nicole's meticulous pricing strategies for high-end properties, the significance of move-in-ready homes, and effective ways to handle unrealistic sellers. Nicole's approach, grounded in education, authenticity, and continuous learning, provides a blueprint for excelling in luxury real estate.

If you're aiming to break into the luxury market or enhance your current strategies, this episode with Nicole Gary is a must-listen. Her real-world experiences and practical tips are sure to inspire and inform your journey in luxury real estate.

In this episode, Dean Jackson and I dive deep into the mechanics of successfully managing and expanding your real estate business, focusing on the before, during, and after phases of client engagement. We explore Dean's innovative methods for dissecting your business into three pivotal units and integrating the eight profit activators to optimize growth and client satisfaction.