What does it really take to lead one of Manhattan's most iconic brokerages through a historic acquisition while preserving its soul and scaling its influence?

In this episode of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Tracy Hayes sits down with Kevelyn Guzman, a visionary leader who took a 100-year-old boutique Manhattan brokerage through a transformative acquisition by Coldwell Banker. She opens up about her journey from Wall Street to real estate, her philosophy of treating agents as clients, and her approach to maintaining culture, innovation, and collaboration in a fiercely competitive market.

Kevelyn doesn't just talk about leadership—she lives it. From supporting women in real estate to demystifying CRMs and AI, she breaks down the real work behind agent retention, marketing strategy, and building a brand that lasts. Whether you're an agent, broker, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge you to lead with authenticity and strategy.

If you're a real estate leader or agent looking to elevate your business, follow Kevelyn Guzman on LinkedIn and keep an eye out for her upcoming book. Don't forget to subscribe to Real Estate Excellence, leave a review, and share this episode with a real estate pro who needs to hear it!

Highlights:

00:00 – 05:18 From Wall Street to Real Estate

• Never make emotional decisions
• Kevelyn's early career on Wall Street
• Realizing real estate is about relationships
• Moving into real estate in 2006
• Surviving the 2008 crash

05:19 – 13:25 Guiding a Legacy Firm Through Acquisition

• Warburg Realty's 100-year legacy
• Transition to Coldwell Banker
• Choosing the right buyer
• International reach and global network
• Supporting international clients

13:26 – 24:38 Building a Culture of Agent-Centric Leadership

• Treating agents as clients
• Helping agents build business infrastructure
• Leadership lessons from "boots on the ground"
• Recruiting and retaining top talent
• Putting the agent brand first

24:39 – 34:18 Coaching Through Change and Custom Strategy

• Quarterly strategy sessions with agents
• Helping agents adapt to AI tools
• Embracing individual marketing styles
• Social media resistance turned success
• Metrics-driven coaching and consistency

34:19 – 47:42 Tools, Tech, and the CRM Problem

• Matching tools to agent strengths
• Real-world uses for CRMs
• White-glove support vs. tech overload
• Key tools: Canva, Listing Concierge, Revitalize
• Building processes to let agents focus on deals

47:43 – 1:03:40 Women in Real Estate and Industry Outlook

• Launching the NYC chapter of "What Moves Her"
• Gender bias in luxury real estate
• Cultural and building-level dynamics
• 2026 NYC market predictions
• Embracing visibility, passion, and future goals

Quotes:

"Never make decisions when you are highly emotional. Just give it some time." – Kevelyn Guzman

"Our agents are the CEOs of their business—we're just here to support that infrastructure." – Kevelyn Guzman

"It's not always about the money. Support, culture, and visibility matter more than splits." – Kevelyn Guzman

"Real estate isn't just a job for me. It's a passion I live out seven days a week." – Kevelyn Guzman

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

Connect with Kaitlin Chernyshov!

Website: https://cbwarburg.com/agent/kevelyn-guzman

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevelyn-g-055676b/

Connect with me! Website: toprealtorjacksonville.com

Website: toprealtorstaugustine.com

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