How can combining professional coaching and emotional intelligence lead to long-term success in real estate?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Wendy Griffis. Wendy is a Realtor®, Author and Group Leader in Jacksonville, Florida. Wendy has been serving the Jacksonville and surrounding areas since February 2000. Her experience and understanding of the area and market allows her to give accurate and thorough advice to her clients; providing successful, streamlined results, regardless of market conditions. Wendy acts in a consulting role – having an honest & direct approach with her clients. She knows how to help buyers and sellers follow her customized, but tried and true processes that gets results! Wendy has significantly outperformed the majority of the agents in our MLS in year over year sales numbers, property days on market, and list to sold price. Wendy is an advocate for her clients before, during and after the transaction. Wendy can be seen annually in the Jacksonville Journal Book of Lists. She was on the cover of Jacksonville Real Producers Magazine, and featured in articles in Florida Realtor and Buffini & Company magazines. 

Wendy discusses the importance of emotional intelligence, crafting relationship-based business models, and navigating difficult market conditions with grit and grace. Listeners will hear about her approach to balancing professionalism and personal connection, the lessons she learned during the Great Recession, and how she uses insights from industry leaders like Brian Buffini to stay ahead in an ever-evolving field.

Ready to transform your real estate career? Explore coaching opportunities and take time to develop your emotional intelligence.

Highlights

00:32 – 06:53 Wendy Griffis: Recognize the Difference

·       We welcome Wendy Griffis to the show!

·       How she transitioned from aspiring math teacher to successful realtor.

·       Rebounding from job loss due to Y2K and finding her path in real estate.

·       The growth and her philosophies for sustained success in the industry.

06:54 – 13:19 Emotional Intelligence in Real Estate

·       Wendy talks about her journey from selling six houses in the first year to over twenty annually by the second year.

·       Initially driven by the need for income and lacking a CRM.

·       The evolution of technology and its impact on customer service.

·       The transitioning phase of not wanting to be a sale-sy agent and choosing to build a relationship-based business. 

·       Maintaining professionalism and changing industry perceptions.

13:20 – 25:56 Coaching and Continuous Learning

·       How Wendy’s journey went from hosting client events to enduring the economic turmoil of the late 2000s.

·       The emotional toll of difficult client conversations and personal financial struggles.

·       The underestimated daily tasks of a realtor.

·       Building long-term business relationships and setting personal boundaries.

·       The often-ignored emotional intelligence required in the industry.

25:57 – 36:49 Handling Tough Conversations

·       The crucial role of a seasoned real estate agent in guiding clients through complex home-buying processes.

·       The significance of soft skills like emotional intelligence.

·       The necessity of developmental learning and effective client interactions.

·       Competent service and the impact of personal growth through literature and networking.

·       Effective strategies for new which includes blending short-term client acquisition with long-term relationship management.

36:50 – 55:07 Developing Emotional Intelligence

·       Wendy’s journey of personal and professional growth through reading and developing emotional intelligence.

·       How emotional intelligence helps in not taking rejection personally and swiftly moving towards solutions.

·       How handle setbacks promptly.

·       How personal notes fostered a genuine connection with clients.

·       The value of buyer consultations and the proper handling of buyer broker agreements are examined.

55:08 – 01:23:06 Strategic Selling and Pricing

·       Wendy discusses how effective pricing and negotiation tactics to the importance of deepening client relationships.

·       The challenges faced by agents dealing with new constructions and builder incentives.

·       The importance of consistent systems, client engagement through events.

·       Leveraging additional help such as transaction coordinators and operations managers.

·       Conclusion.

Quotes:

“Real estate is not sales. I’m not selling anybody anything—I’m helping them achieve their goals.” – Wendy Griffis

“ Emotional intelligence is about not taking things personally and focusing on solutions.” – Wendy Griffis

“Price isn’t always the problem, but it’s often the solution” – Wendy Griffis

To contact Wendy Griffis, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendygriffis/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WendyGriffisGroup

Website: https://www.wendygriffisgroup.com/

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What foundational skills from your past have unexpectedly become critical to your success today?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Cindy Bleiel. Cindy has over 10 years in the real estate industry, she has honed her skills to provide unparalleled service to her clients. Her extensive background includes a proven track record of successful transactions, demonstrating her commitment to professionalism, integrity, and achieving optimal results. Cindy Bleiel is not just a Realtor but a dedicated partner committed to turning your real estate dreams into reality.

Cindy reflects on the lessons she learned from her early career, including the importance of staying calm under pressure and fostering clear communication. These skills have become cornerstones of her success in real estate, where she navigates complex negotiations and emotionally charged transactions. The conversation also delves into the evolving real estate market, the power of leveraging AI tools for efficiency, and the critical role of consistency in building a thriving referral-based business. Cindy’s insights offer a wealth of inspiration for both new and seasoned agents.

Tune in to this episode as Cindy as she highlights her approach to negotiations, staying informed on industry changes, and embracing technology like AI to enhance her work!

Highlights

00:00 - 06:23 Grit from the Ground Up

·       We welcome Cindy to the show!

·       Cindy’s upbringing on a small farm taught her grit and responsibility.

·       Early mornings spent mucking stalls and feeding animals instilled discipline.

·       These traits became key to her professional success.

06:24 - 21:17 Transitioning Careers

·       Cindy’s desire for a more flexible yet professional career led her to real estate.

·       Initial challenges: figuring out lead generation and navigating commission-based work.

·       The role of mentorship and learning from seasoned agents.

21:16 - 45:21 Early Challenges in Real Estate

·       Cindy stresses the value of being physically present in the office to learn from peers.

·       Shadowing experienced agents provides real-world insights.

·       Finding a brokerage that offers growth opportunities is critical for new agents.

45:20 - 52:07 The Human Side of Real Estate

·       Cindy shares how AI tools like ChatGPT have streamlined her work, from writing client emails to crafting property descriptions.

·       The importance of balancing technology with a personal touch in client communications.

52:06 - 01:13:35 Building a Referral-Based Business

·       Staying calm and focusing on facts is key to effective negotiation.

·       Cindy recounts unique challenges, such as navigating 1031 exchanges and rural property deals.

·       Collaboration with experts helps resolve complex situations.

01:13:35 - 01:22:38 Unique Transactions and Problem Solving

·       Cindy highlights the value of maintaining a strong database and consistently staying in touch with clients.

·       Success stories show how persistence and relationship-building pay off in the long term.

·       Tips for new agents: build a referral-based business over chasing leads.

Quotes:

“You don’t know what you don’t know. Sitting at home won’t teach you the business—get into the office, ask questions, and shadow experienced agents.” – Cindy Bleiel

“ Early on, I learned to stay calm under pressure. In real estate, that skill helps diffuse emotional situations and keep transactions on track.” – Cindy Bleiel

“Overpricing doesn’t work anymore. If you price it right, you’ll generate interest and likely get offers close to asking.” – Cindy Bleiel

To contact Cindy Bleiel, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therighthome4u

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cindy4U

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cindybleiel2124

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-bleiel-22597576/

Website: https://www.TheRightHome4U.com

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Do you want to boost your real estate game with videos?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Rick Gonzalez. Rick is an Elite real estate professional specializing in residential properties, with a deep commitment to serving military families moving to or from Eglin AFB and the surrounding area of the Florida Panhandle (Fort Walton Beach/Destin Metro Area). Helping his private clients sell their existing homes and clients find new homes, ensuring that each client receives personalized and dedicated service.

Rick Gonzalez shares his insights and strategies for creating impactful real estate content. Rick discusses the importance of getting to know the market, forming relationships with other agents, and utilizing video content to build a brand. With practical tips on conducting open house tours, producing long-form walkthrough videos, and leveraging social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for both new and experienced agents looking to enhance their online presence and grow their business in 2025.

Tune in to this episode as Rick shares how to boost your real estate game with social media content!

Highlights

00:00 - 09:48 Rick Gonzalez: The O.H.A.N.A Strategy

·       We welcome Rick to the show!

·       Rick details how new and seasoned agents can revamp their strategies for better results.

·       Utilizing community engagement, content creation, and market knowledge.

·       The need to adapt and build a strong, localized presence in a new market.

09:49 - 23:55 Learning Local Market Nuances

·       Rick discusses his innovative approach called the O.H.A.N.A (Open House Agent Network Opportunity) Strategy.

·       He aims to build relationships with local realtors.

·       Create engaging content for social media.

·       Enhancing market presence and client relations.

23:56 - 44:56 Outsourcing Content Creation

·       Meeting local agents and exploring the hidden aspects of new communities.

·       Rick emphasizes the value of being on the ground, gathering local insights, and forming strategic partnerships.

·       Enhancing the agent’s confidence and credibility in unfamiliar territories.

·       Rick provides practical tips on leveraging video content, community engagement, and digital techniques.

44:57 - 52:36 Leveraging AI and Outsourcing for Video Content

·       The importance of consistent content creation for real estate agents on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

·       Utilizing longer video formats like those allowed on TikTok.

·       Real-world examples and successful strategies from other content creators are shared to illustrate effective practices.

·       The goal is to focus on providing valuable information and establishing oneself as a local expert to drive engagement and sales.

52:37 - 56:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

·       Rick offers practical advice, including using voiceovers, hiring a videographer, and utilizing AI tools.

·       The importance of becoming an expert in your field.

·       Using thoughtful content strategies to grow your business.

·       Finding creative ways to produce content.

·       Conclusion.

Quotes:

“ Be the expert in those builders, be the expert in those communities, be the expert in your city, and show the expertise as you're talking to your audience.” – Rick Gonzalez

“ You don't have to be overly excitable. You don't have to be this fake persona. You need to be you.” – Rick Gonzalez

“R real estate is a people business.” – Rick Gonzalez

To contact Rick Gonzalez, learn more about his business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Website, and Email.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rick.a.gonzalez/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rickagonzalezrealtor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RickGonzalezRealtor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickagonzalez/

Podcast: https://www.realrandompodcast.com

Website: https://rickgonzalez.chime.me/

Email: [email protected]

Sharran Srivatsaa: https://www.youtube.com/@sharran

Roland Osage: https://www.tiktok.com/@rolandosage?lang=en

Raj Sahoo: https://www.youtube.com/@RajSahoo

Rick’s editor: https://www.videolaunch.co/ https://www.instagram.com/conor_murnane/?hl=en

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How do you maintain your real estate edge?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Debbie Tufts. Debbie Tufts is a top-producing real estate agent with Engel and Völkers in Northeast Florida, shares her extensive knowledge and experiences.

With over 20 years in the industry, Debbie discusses the importance of leveraging skilled team members, the value of maintaining a high-engagement database, and the impact of working with the right brokerage. She also touches on the challenges faced in the ever-changing real estate market and how staying educated and adaptable is crucial for success.

Tune in to this episode as Debbie shares her valuable tips and personal stories that highlight the highs and lows of a career in real estate!

Highlights

00:00 - 08:11 Debbie Tufts: Running A Professional Real Estate Business

·       We welcome Debbie Tufts to the show!

·       Debbie shares her insights into a well-managed database, leadership culture, and choosing the right brokerage.

·       Focusing on a core group of high-value contacts.

·       Sustaining and growing a successful real estate business.

·       Maintaining strong relationships.

·       How her team plans to enhance their methods in 2025.

08:11 - 20:57 Engaging Clients Through Creative Marketing

·       Debbie’s innovative methods to stay top-of-mind.

·       Her monthly themed mailers and community spotlights.

·       Engaging clients but also ensure they feel like VIPs.

·       Consistent communication.

·       The role of CRM tools.

·       Leveraging data to enhance client relationships.

·       The balance between traditional methods and creative tactics.

20:57 - 40:50 Starting a Real Estate Career in Atlanta

·       Debbie needed to re-enter the workforce to ensure her daughters received the best education.

·       Starting as an assistant to a top real estate producer.

·       Learning the ins and outs of the business.

·       The importance of mentorship, continuing education, and staying updated on market trends.

·       The value of choosing the right brokerage.

·       How a supportive environment can significantly influence an agent's career.

·       The role of data in making informed decisions.

·       Understanding market dynamics are also discussed.

40:50 - 01:07:38 Engel & Völkers: A Unique Brokerage

·       Debbie’s experiences of real estate agents at Engel & Völkers.

·       Focusing on the unique supportive environment fostered by broker Corey.

·       The distinct global offerings of Engel & Völkers.

·       The high standards set by Corey that drive agent performance.

·       The value of mentorship, preparation, and leveraging team strengths.

·       Positive work culture and continuous learning to break through career ceilings.

·       Advising new agents to seek out experienced mentors.

·       Embracing the diverse aspects of the real estate business.

01:07:38 - 01:19:11 Consistency and Faith in Business

·       The importance of consistency, love, and laughter in both personal and professional life. Debbie’s daily practices like morning prayers.

·       The use of checklists to stay organized.

·       Updating business processes by implementing a new CRM system.

·       Surrounding oneself with knowledgeable people.

·       The value of building relationships with local businesses.

·       The impact of networking and consistent communication with clients.

·       Conclusion.

Quotes:

“ I came to realize what a gift it is because  they knew so they could do things much better than I could even though I thought I could do it better.” – Debbie Tufts

“Sometimes our setbacks are the best breakthroughs that we can possibly.” – Debbie Tufts

“ When you look at the results of our brokerage in such a very short time, the results speak for themselves.” – Debbie Tufts

To contact Debbie Tufts, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Website, and Email.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbietuftsgroup

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3yIi_U6ekA

Website: https://debbietuftsgroup.evrealestate.com/about

Email: [email protected]

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Why Is community at the heart of successful realtors?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Daniella Ottone. Daniella Ottone, a seasoned real estate agent with over 21 years of experience in Jacksonville, Florida. Daniella shares her journey from moving to the U.S. from Chile to becoming a leading figure in the Jacksonville Hispanic community. With a rich background in mortgage and underwriting, Daniella offers invaluable insights into real estate, emphasizing the importance of consistency, community engagement, and resilience. She also discusses her unique approach to building a successful real estate team and the pivotal role of cultural understanding in her market.

With over 21 years of experience in the Real Estate Industry, Daniella Ottone has become a trusted name in Jacksonville, Florida. Originally from Chile, Daniella has made this vibrant city her home for over two decades, immersing herself in its diverse neighborhoods and communities. Her deep understanding of the local market makes her the perfect partner for anyone looking to invest or purchase real estate in Northeast Florida.

Tune in to this episode as Daniella shares whether you're an aspiring agent or a seasoned professional, Daniella’s story and strategies offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration!

Highlights

00:00 - 04:57 Daniella Ottone: A Leader In The Hispanic Real Estate Market

·       We welcome Daniella Ottone!

·       Daniella how she established a successful career in the real estate and mortgage industry.

·       Her active involvement in the Hispanic community in Jacksonville.

·       Her role as host of Daniella's Real Estate Show.

·       The value of being a community leader and utilizing social media effectively.

·       Targeting specific client demographics.

·        Remi Graphics ad.

04:58 - 28:45 Challenges and Strategies in Serving the Hispanic Community

·       Daniella’s inspiring journey of a woman who started by cleaning houses.

·       How she navigated her way through various roles in mortgage collections and loan officiating.

·       Her story speaks about resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in building a successful business amidst challenges.

·       Her innovative approaches such as lunch-and-learns to capture the Hispanic market.

·       Leveraging her deep understanding of mortgage underwriting to streamline real estate transactions.

28:46 - 38:33 Building Client Relationships

·       The financial literacy challenges faced by Latino customers in the U.S.

·       The distrust of people of banks and are unfamiliar with credit systems.

·       Daniella aims to help these customers navigate these systems, establish credit, and build financial stability.

·       The importance of long-term customer relationships and loyalty within the Latino community.

·       The need for real estate agents to look beyond immediate transactions.

·       Her humble beginnings and passion for assisting in achieving financial milestones like homeownership.

38:34 - 51:36 The Importance of Team Chemistry

·       How Daniella started with humble beginnings to managing a successful team.

·       The importance of consistency in business and the structured training provided to new agents.

·       Her focus is on the cultivation of a positive team culture and personalized customer service.

·       The vital role of persistence and adaptability in overcoming financial challenges and achieving nearly 90 transactions in a year.

51:37 - 01:00:50 Leveraging Social Media and Content Creation

·       The challenges of building trust and credibility in the real estate industry.

·       Teamwork and leveraging collective experience to establish credibility.

·       Effective marketing techniques such as:

o   Emphasizing the integration of video content; and

o   Social media to reach a broader audience.

·       How she encourages her agents to learn from their successes and mistakes.

·       The necessity of delegation to avoid burnout.

·       Utilizing live streaming and recorded content to maximize audience engagement.

01:00:51 - 01:14:14 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

·       Daniella shares her journey of transforming clients into team members.

·       The importance of retaining a core team for long-term success.

·       The value of personality fit and creating a supportive culture.

·       The evolving strategies in the current market conditions.

·       Learning from her experiences of focusing on the Latino community and foreign investors to thrive in challenging times.

·       Conclusion.

Quotes:

“They don't trust people in general because a lot of people take advantage of them and that's what made me get into my community.” – Daniella Ottone

“You don't have to be the smartest person to make the most money, you have to be consistent.” – Daniella Ottone

“ You have to consistently work on the business. I don't think that if anybody that wants to be an entrepreneur or wants to work for themselves is cut for that.” – Daniella Ottone

To contact Daniella Ottone, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Email.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellaottone/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniellasellsjacksonville/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ottonegroup

Email: [email protected]

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Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful real estate business?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes interviews Gretchen Territo, co-owner of a successful husband-and-wife real estate team. Gretchen shares her journey from corporate sales and teaching to becoming a key player in the real estate market. The discussion highlights the importance of time, consistency, and a focus on mastering each task before moving on to new challenges. Gretchen emphasizes the role of personalized value-adds like staging, pressure washing, and building strong vendor relationships. The episode delves into the significance of maintaining touchpoints with a large clientele through consistent newsletters and community-focused events. The conversation also addresses the evolving market, the challenges of initial real estate ventures, and the strategies that make Team Territo a standout choice for clients, whether they are buying, selling, or investing.

Tune in to this episode as Gretchen shows you what it takes to create a successful real estate business that truly serves client needs!

Highlights

00:00 - 04:59 Gretchen Territo: "What's it going to look like?"

·       We welcome Gretchen Territo to the show!

·       Gretchen shares her unique journey from obtaining a sociology degree.

·       Transitioning to educational sales to ultimately finding her passion in real estate alongside her builder husband, Matt.

·       Their strategy of flipping distressed properties while balancing personal life changes, like adopting their children.

·       How she has transferred from her diverse career background to excel in the real estate industry.

·       Remi Graphics ad.

05:00 - 28:16 CRM Strategies and Newsletter Insights

·       The journey of a successful educational sales professional transitioning to the real estate market.

·       The strategies for effective marketing and relationship management.

·       The significance of consistent efforts like newsletters.

·       The pivotal role of staging in selling homes.

·       The importance of long-term planning, leveraging personal and professional networks, and adapting sales tactics.

·       Practical advice for new agents.

·       The importance of consistency, relationship building, and staging in achieving success.

28:17 - 37:38 Leveraging Newsletters for Real Estate Success

·       Effective strategies for utilizing a CRM to maintain and grow a client base through consistent communication and personalized touchpoints.

·       It details a dual newsletter approach—one focusing on community and lifestyle, and the other on market updates and listings.

·       The newsletters boast a subscriber base of 7,000, aiding in client and local business engagement.

·       How her team uses automated, tag-driven email campaigns to nurture potential buyers.

·       The importance of consistently adding contacts to the CRM, leveraging internet leads, and incorporating team members' databases is emphasized.

·       Special attention is given to the strategy of focusing on repeat and referral business.

·       Sending personalized quarterly gifts and events for clients to reinforce relationships and customer loyalty.

37:39 - 50:03 Understanding Client Needs for Long-Term Success

·       Prioritizes building strong local connections over spending on internet leads for real estate business.

·       Gretchen organizes an annual event at Sykes Family Farm to appreciate their 'friends of Team Territo'.

·       The significant return on investment (85% of the business) from these personal connections versus impersonal internet leads.

·       The rising costs of staging homes and how some agents are managing their own staging to cut costs and enhance control.

·       The challenges agents face when they reach their capacity and the strategies for hiring to support scaling, such as:

o   Leveraging Keller Williams’ models

o   Hiring admin staff.

·       Leveraging her husband’s expertise in construction help build trust with clients.

·       Confidence and understanding in the real estate market.

50:04 - 1:04:40 Conclusion and Why Choose Team Territo?

·       Transparent conversations and understanding clients' long-term goals in real estate is emphasized.

·       The significance of looking beyond immediate needs.

·       Team Territo's approach focuses on creating a luxury experience by:

o   Blending consultative selling with deep industry knowledge;

o   Staging; and

o   Personalized relationships.

·       The value of a personalized consultation, like those held by Team Territo, which can lead to better client satisfaction and referrals.

·       Contrasting it with a transactional real estate business model.

·       The relevance of understanding each client's unique needs to build lifelong client relationships.

·       Conclusion.

Quotes:

“There are a lot of successful agents and teams that do run a very transactional business. Every portion of the transaction is leveraged out.” – Gretchen Territo

“Anything that you decide to do, do it until you master it and it just becomes the way it's just part of your process before you take on something else.” – Gretchen Territo

“It’s smart for agents to think about ways that they can add value to their businesses and whatever that means for them.” – Gretchen Territo

To contact Gretchen Territo, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamterrito/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamTerrito

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gterrito

Website: https://trustedterritory.com/

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What Happens When Real Estate Agents Embrace Grit and Growth?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, Tracy interviews Kate Swain. Kate is a second-generation North East Floridian and Jacksonville native. Real Estate is Kate’s full-time career and passion. She has excelled while being licensed in both Florida and Georgia. She is in the top 5% of all Zillow agents earning her “Best of Zillow” status. Kate was the top selling agent in her brokerage, selling the most properties in 2021 and earning Nassau County top producer status for 2021. In 2021, Kate Swain sold 68 properties totaling 20 million dollars. Kate has the expertise and determination to work hard for you.

Kate shares her journey from broadcasting to becoming a top-performing agent. They cover various topics such as the importance of staying active in the industry, utilizing systems for client management, the necessity of mentorship, and leveraging video marketing. Kate emphasizes the value of forming authentic relationships with clients, adapting to market changes, and continuously sharpening one's skills.

Tune in to this episode as Kate shares her practical advice for both new and experienced real estate agents looking to excel in their careers!

Highlights

00:00 - 06:21 The Importance of Continuous Learning

·       We welcome Kate Swain to the show! She shares her initial interest in politics and broadcast journalism during her college years.

·       Her experiences at Florida State, including covering the Bush-Gore election controversy.

·       The challenges and demands of pursuing a career in broadcast journalism.

06:22 - 20:01 Networking and Referrals

·       Kate's career transition from working in media to becoming a successful real estate agent.

·       After a tragic family event and disillusionment with media's exploitative nature, she pivoted to real estate.

·       Encouraged by her broker husband, Kate obtained her real estate license in 2018.

·       Juggling a family and an unstructured start.

·       She found success by developing efficient systems for managing clients and transactions.

·       The importance of mentorship, organization, and choosing the right brokerage for long-term success.

20:02 - 36:35 The Importance of Systems in Real Estate

·       The career progression of a real estate agent who begins with a significant referral from a gold medalist athlete.

·       Kate’s transition from their initial brokerage to becoming a leader within Keller Williams.

·       The challenges, learning opportunities, and the value of training and persistence.

·       Overseeing operations in Jacksonville, Florida, under the Keller Williams Sports and Entertainment division.

·       Continuous improvement and networking.

36:36 - 50:31 The Power of Video Marketing

·       The aspects of real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of persistence and creative problem-solving.

·       Personal experiences, including the purchase and sale of multiple homes and handling complex transactions involving condos.

·       Managing professional relationships and the indispensable role of having a capable assistant to achieve success.

·       Addressing the current real estate market challenges and strategies to effectively manage listings.

50:32 - 01:11:36 Tips for New Agents and Conclusion

·       Focusing on the transition to incorporating video marketing.

·       Boosting visibility and engagement through YouTube.

·       Maintaining authentic client relationships. Leveraging videos for lasting impact.

·       Effectively using social media.

·       They practical aspects such as:

o   Buyer broker agreements,

o   Staying active during slower months, and

o   Strategies for new agents to remain top-of-mind and client-focused.

·       Professionalism, authenticity, and the strategic use of technology to enhance real estate business outcomes.

Quotes:

“You’re never too busy, in my opinion, to carve out something.” – Kate Swain

“I know this is a cliché but I truly love helping people.” – Kate Swain

“One of the things when I got into real estate is I did not give up time with my family. Family is super important to me.” – Kate Swain

To contact Kate Swain, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on LinkedIn and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate.swain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.r.swain

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEXTMOVEATLANTICCOAST

Website: https://nextmoveatlanticcoast.com/

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Can Social Media Really Change the Game in Real Estate?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Colleen Gerke. Colleen shares her fascinating journey from being a successful winery owner in Missouri to becoming one of the top real estate agents in Northeast Florida. Colleen discusses the intricacies of transitioning from agriculture and wine production to the competitive world of real estate. She emphasizes the importance of consistent branding, the role of social media, and the power of video marketing. 

Colleen is recognized by the Amelia Island Nassau County Association of Realtors as a Top Producer Realtor, recognized by the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors as a Real Producer, is a Top Residential Real Estate Agent on Jacksonville Business Journal’s Book of Lists, and is part of Engel & Volkers Diamond Elite Club. She also has a 5-Star rating on Zillow, Yelp, Realtor.com and Facebook.

Tune in to this episode as Colleen sheds light on her personal experiences, including the challenges and rewarding moments of her career changes!

Highlights

00:00 - 04:09 Colleen Gerke: How Wine Made Me A Great Real Estate Agent

·        We welcome Colleen Gerke to the show!

·        How she established herself as one of the top agents in the region.

·        Her dedication as a real estate professional in the Fernandina Amelia Island community.

·        Her decision to move to Florida, and her early experiences in real estate.

·        The appeal and growth of Nassau County as a prime location for new residents.

09:08 - 24:35 Transition to Real Estate

·        Colleen began with a career in agricultural communications and public relations.

·        Transitioning into opening and managing a successful winery in Kansas City.

·        Starting with small-scale vine planting, expanding the winery operations.

·        Creating engaging customer experiences through innovative events.

·        The sale of one winery and the contemplation of further life changes.

24:36 - 40:03 The Joy of Closing Deals

·        Colleen’s aspiration to live at a peaceful place like Amelia Island and devises a concrete plan to make it happen.

·        The process of selling their winery through a business broker.

·        The importance of not letting emotions affect business deals.

·        Transitioning from a winery to a simple life on a boat.

·        They face challenges brought about by COVID-19.

·        Homeschooling their children, and adapting to a new lifestyle.

·        Leveraging their skills in building relationships and educating clients.

·        Her ability to connect with people and adapt to new circumstances, despite initial plans being focused on simple property transactions.

40:30 - 51:31 Leveraging Social Media and AI

·        Colleen’s journey in real estate and entrepreneurship.

·        The joy of making clients happy with their first home purchase.

·        The importance of love, laughter, and joy in overcoming challenges.

·        Colleen shares personal anecdotes from the winery business and real estate.

·        Focusing on consistency and branding, as well as the importance of perseverance through difficult times.

·        The impact of global branding with Engel and Volkers and provides insights on handling higher-end cash transactions in real estate.

51:31 - 01:17:02 Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents and Conclusion

·        Utilizing social media and AI tools, specifically mentioning LinkedIn and ChatGPT.

·        Colleen shares how consistent social media strategies like 'Real Estate Tuesday' and 'Tip Tuesday,' as well as detailed monthly market analysis reports.

·        The benefits of using video content for real estate marketing.

·        The importance of maintaining an online presence:

o   The significance of collaboration,

o   Staying updated with market changes, and

o   Adopting new technologies in the real estate industry.

·        Colleen shares their positive experience at Engel & Volkers and how their professional environment aids in their success.

·        Conclusion.

Quotes:

“I knew from the get go, it needs to be consistent.” – Colleen Gerke

“I knew coming from that marketing side that you can build it but that's not necessarily going people to come.” – Colleen Gerke

“When I'm out in public and hanging out with friends not to talk real estate, if you want to talk real estate, they can bring it up. And I'm happy to talk about it with them.” – Colleen Gerke

To contact Colleen Gerke, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Email, and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/close_with_colleen/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/closedwithcolleen

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@closewithcolleen

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.closewithcolleen.com

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Can Social Media Really Change the Game in Real Estate?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Erica Wolfe. Erica Wolfe from Jupiter, Florida. Known as the 'Wolfe of Real Estate,' Erica shares her journey from being a young mom needing more income to building a successful real estate team. She discusses her early days dealing with foreclosures, the importance of social media marketing, and her proprietary tech tools. Erica emphasizes the significance of education, consistency, and creating a successful team culture. She also offers insights into leveraging digital ads for real estate and explains the importance of showing up regularly on social media.

Since breaking into the Real Estate market in 2008, Erica Wolfe has proven herself to be an industry leader and innovator. Utilizing video and community enrichment, she dominates the digital marketing sector with expansive knowledge of digital ads, print ads, geo farming, and a multitude of systems that have stream-lined her processes. Over the years, Erica has grown her team of experts, placing her talents in areas where they thrive- ensuring her reputation as a pack of efficient, communicative, ethical and knowledgeable professionals

Tune in to this episode as Erica Wolfe shares her practical advice for both new and experienced agents looking to elevate their real estate game!

Highlights

00:00 - 03:34 Erica Wolfe: The Wolfe of Real Estate

·        We welcome Erica Wolfe!

·        Erica leads a team of women and has built a strong reputation in Palm Beach County. She leads through social media and a commitment to service and integrity.

·        The rapid growth of the real estate market in Northeast Florida and the innovative technology driving the industry.

·        The importance of collaboration between salespeople and tech developers to create effective solutions.

03:35 - 18:44 Choosing the Right Brokerage

·        Erica’s transition from a young mother to a successful real estate agent.

·        She gained experience working in banking and insurance before obtaining her real estate license in 2008.

·        Capitalizing on opportunities in foreclosures and short sales.

·        Building a strong professional relationship with a Canadian investor. Becoming a mentor has significantly influenced Erica's career.

·        The importance of adaptability, technology, and mentorship in real estate.

18:45 - 30:30 Understanding and Leveraging Market Trends

·        Erica’s struggle with overwork before creating the Wolfe Team.

·        Hiring a buyer's agent and later expanded to include family members and additional agents.

·        Emphasizing client care and team retention.

·        The importance of systems, controlling client interactions, and ensuring quality of life for team members.

·        The value of treating clients like family and maintaining a positive reputation.

·        Focusing on providing support, training, and maintaining a manageable team size.

·        Ensuring every member meets their goals and can have a fulfilling career without the stress of managing real estate business intricacies alone.

30:31 - 48:38 Consistency and Accountability in Real Estate

·        The importance of real estate agents understanding their local market.

·        Educating clients and to ease their decision-making process.

·        Self-education through available online resources and suggests seeking advice from experienced agents.

·        The value of attending national and regional events for professional growth.

·        The efficacy of digital marketing, particularly social media ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

·        Using consistent posting to leverage algorithms. Creating a daily, weekly, and monthly checklist of tasks to ensure consistent success in real estate.

48:39 – 53:28 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Agents

·        The importance of maintaining a consistent to-do list and holding oneself accountable.

·        Three daily practices recommended for real estate agents include:

o   Spending an hour calling database contacts,

o   Conducting CMAs or home equity reviews, and

o   Being active on social media.

·        The significance of video content, it also offers advice for new real estate agents, such as:

o   Getting licensed, Joining broker training, and

o   Becoming active in community Facebook groups.

Quotes:

“I've never been scared to work. I still will work a lot.” – Erica  Wolfe

“I feel like there are two types of people in the real estate world. The ones that are constantly learning and growing, and educating themselves and implementing.” – Erica  Wolfe

“I have a daily, weekly, monthly checklist, and it sits to the right of my computer on my desk, and it's all the tasks that I want to do daily, weekly, and monthly that I've found to be successful.” – Erica  Wolfe

To contact Erica Wolfe, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Email, and Website.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfeofrealestate/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericawolfeofrealestate

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WolfeOfRealEstate

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jupiterflrealtor/

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://wolfeofrealestate.com/

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How can real estate boards build trust and enhance value in a changing industry?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence podcast, host interviews Jeanette Langford. Jeanette Langford is the Chief Executive Officer of the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS®. Before assuming her current role, she was the Vice President of Professional Services at the MIBOR REALTOR® Association in Indianapolis, a position she held since April 2015. Jeanette has an extensive history of involvement with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), having served on numerous committees and currently holding a position on the NAR Professional Standards Committee.

Prior to her tenure at MIBOR, Jeanette was the Director of the Indiana Real Estate Commission, the Real Estate Appraiser Licensure & Certification Board, and the Home Inspectors Licensing Board. Her career with the State of Indiana spanned 21 years, during which she held various significant positions.

Jeanette shares her extensive experience working her way up through various positions with the Indiana Real Estate Commission and the Mid Indiana Board of Realtors before her current role. Jeanette discusses the challenges and importance of establishing trust in workplace relationships, her strategic vision for the board, and her ongoing efforts to enhance member value. She also highlights the implementation of a new membership portal and the introduction of a leadership program aimed at bolstering professionalism and success among realtors.

Tune in to this episode as Jeanette to get an inside look at the responsibilities of a real estate board CEO and the key initiatives underway to support real estate professionals!

Highlights

00:00 - 06:28 Jeanette Langford: CEO of the St Augustine St Johns Board of Realtors

·        We welcome Jeanette Langford to the show!

·        Jeanette shares her extensive background in real estate.

·        Her previous roles with the Mid Indiana Board of Realtors and the Indiana Real Estate Commission.

·        Working her way up through various roles over 21 years.

·        The challenges and politics of working within state organizations.

·        Her personal motivations, and her vision.

06:29 - 29:21 Adapting to Regional Differences in Real Estate

·        Jeanette’s experiences and strategies in leadership roles.

·        Her transition from the State of Indiana's larger board to a smaller one.

·        Managing the dynamics of constantly changing board members.

·        Earning trust from colleagues and navigating political directives with diplomacy is emphasized.

·        Handling ethical complaints, maintaining professionalism, setting high standards, and promoting a positive reputation for realtors.

·        Her daily responsibilities, interactions with other real estate associations, and the support received from the Florida Realtors Association.

29:22 - 41:07 Enhancing Communication Strategies

·        The differences in real estate practices between Florida and Indiana.

·        Focusing on flood insurance and short-term rentals.

·        Her involvement in day-to-day operations and addresses various initiatives.

·        Data sharing among multiple MLS systems and directives.

·        Improving member services and best practices from other regions.

41:08 - 51:57 Challenges and Solutions in Real Estate

·        Improving communication and engagement within a real estate board.

·        Jeanette shares their five-month evaluation and initiatives like:

o   Enhancing clear and effective communication channels;

o   Exploring member preferences for communication, and

o   Suggesting a new portal for personalized information.

·        The challenges of reaching members through various platforms.

·        The need for frequent and consistent messaging.

·        Attending events and education classes is emphasized.

·        Encouraging members to schedule them proactively.

51:58 - 01:13:58 The Importance of Member Engagement and Conclusion

·        Strategies and initiatives being implemented by the new CEO of the St. Augustine Board of Realtor.

·        Enhancing communication and engagement among members by:

o   Improving the clarity and functionality of communications,

o   Finding better ways to disseminate information, and

o   Encouraging brokers and agents to get more involved.

·        The importance of providing clear value to members.

·        Her outreach and education to reduce failure rates among new agents.

·        The challenges faced by the board in managing operations, compliance, and maintaining high standards of professionalism.

Quotes:

“The number one important thing that I did is that you have to earn that trust.” – Jeanette Langford

“Sometimes people want to call and talk about it and fine. I give as much explanation as I can, you know, that wouldn't be outside of what that hearing panel found.” – Jeanette Langford

“My goal is to make sure that our board knows all of the different opportunities to make that happen.” – Jeanette Langford

To contact Jeanette Langford, learn more about her business, and make her a part of your network, make sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-langford-60943832

Email: [email protected]

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