Rethink Real Estate Real Estate the Right Way: Delivering Genuine Service and Building a Personal Branding That Lasts
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Kara Welliver, Realtor at Harcourts Prime Properties and one of the company’s original standouts. With over 23 years in the business, Kara has built a career that proves relationships—not transactions—create lasting success.From her early days climbing the corporate ladder at Nordstrom to becoming one of the most connected agents in Orange County, Kara’s story is a masterclass in authenticity, consistency, and the power of showing up. She opens up about her journey from retail to real estate, how she built an enduring client base through genuine relationships, and why her most successful marketing efforts are the ones infused with personal touch—homemade baked goods included.Ben and Kara dive deep into how to cultivate a business that feels like you, from personalized newsletters and client events to crafting experiences that create loyalty for life. Kara shares her approach to client retention through “pop-bys,” wine tastings, and ice cream socials—plus how she turns these thoughtful gestures into repeat business and referrals.Whether you’re a seasoned agent looking to reconnect with your “why” or a new Realtor searching for your voice in the market, this episode is a reminder that the best brand you can build is one rooted in who you truly are.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introducing Kara Welliver: A Harcourts Original[00:02:12] – From Nordstrom to Real Estate: Lessons in Service & Style[00:06:00] – Building Connection Over Transaction[00:11:00] – How to Stay Top-of-Mind Without Being Salesy[00:14:00] – Pop-Bys, Baked Goods & Personal Branding[00:18:00] – Creating Client Events That Actually Work[00:26:00] – The Value of Authentic Marketing & Consistency🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Kara Welliver:https://karawelliver.harcourtsna.com/https://www.instagram.com/karawelliver_baker_realtor/https://www.facebook.com/KaraWelliver4Homes🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more stories that redefine success in real estate.👇 Comment your favorite client connection strategy — and tell us how you make your business feel personal.