This week, we are bringing you a fantastic chat with Michelle Berman-Mikel, the owner and founder of Berman Media PD and the developer behind a program called Beyond the Method, which teaches real estate professionals how to use Instagram in a way that helps them grow their business.She and Tracey do a deep dive into how to use and leverage Instagram and other social media to turn superficial follower engagement into a full-blown lead-generation tool. Michelle has what she calls the “Four Pillars of Engagement” and gives some great insight into how to make and stick with meaningful Instagram content that will help you stand out.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Instagram is a powerful platform for real estate marketing, but many agents don’t use it to its potential. The four pillars of success on Instagram include value series, testimonials, listing day, and lifestyle content. Outbound prospecting is about creating opportunities and building relationships within the community. The 'black line approach' is a strategy for success, inspired by Michelle's swimming career, and emphasizes focus, discipline, and trust in the process. Related to this episode: Michelle Berman-Mikel | LinkedIn  Michelle Berman-Mikel Instagram Can you have a “presence” on Instagram without being “present” | HousingWire Berman Media HousingWire | YouTube Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we have a fantastic chat with Jim D’Amico, the CEO and president of Century 21 North East. Jim is a 2020 RealTrends Gamechanger, touting an impressive transaction growth rate of 179% between 2014 and 2018.Jim shares the one small change that he made early in his career that led to massive growth in his professional and personal life. Jim also discusses his specific approach to acquisitions, the inherent value of continuing education for agents, and much more.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Acquisitions have played a key role in the company's growth strategy, with a focus on cultural fit and opportunities that align with their goals. It’s important to say ahead of industry changes and adapting to market dynamics. Agent education is a top priority, with a focus on providing training and resources to help agents navigate industry changes and better serve their clients. Personal setbacks often come with lessons, including the importance of humility and personal growth. The future holds organic growth, attracting top agents, and continuing to provide resources and support for their team. Related to this episode: James D'Amico | LinkedIn James D'Amico, III, CENTURY 21 Real Estate Agent in Everett, MA Century 21 REAL Trends Game Changer: Jim D'Amico, President of Century 21 Northeast in Massachusetts HousingWire | YouTube Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we speak with the co-founder & CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), Gary Acosta. Gary is a real estate and mortgage entrepreneur, public policy advocate, investor, and advisor, who has served on boards for several Fortune 500 companies including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and JP Morgan Chase.Tracey and Gary’s conversation focuses on Gary’s career passion: the health of Hispanic and Latino homebuyers in today’s market. They discuss the impact of the NAR settlement on Hispanic agents and homebuyers and how broker cooperation benefits first-time homebuyers. They also talk about takeaways from NAHREP’s State of Hispanic Homeownership Report and the priorities that NAHREP is focusing on as they see more opportunities in the changing market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The NAR settlement and potential changes to broker cooperation could have a disproportionate impact on Latino real estate agents and first-time homebuyers. The Latino community has shown resiliency and has rising income and education levels, making them an important demographic for the real estate industry. The NAHREP Homeownership Report highlights the increasing homeownership rate among Hispanics and their mobility to affordable markets. NAHREP's priorities include housing affordability, access to credit, and diversity in the industry. Opportunities in the real estate market lie in the changing dynamics of the industry, such as remote work and advancements in technology. Related to this episode: Gary Acosta | LinkedIn NAHREP Gary Acosta | NAHREP State of Hispanic Homeownership Report | NAHREP HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we welcome Sharran Srivatsaa, the president of Real, to the RealTrending podcast! Sharran joined Real in 2022 and has personally overseen the onboarding of over 13,000 agents while Real has moved up to #6 from #11 by transaction sides in the 2024 RealTrends Verified brokerage rankings. He brings over two decades of business and entrepreneurial experience to today’s conversation from several companies across the real estate, finance and technology sectors.In today’s conversation with Tracey, he talks about Real’s strategic growth plan on a granular level, including his personal commitment to showing up for his agents even in the most unexpected of places. He also talks about how they’re navigating industry-wide changes amid the commission lawsuits, and how brokers can best provide building blocks for their agents to build out their unique businesses.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Deploying goodwill and generosity is a powerful strategy for growth in the real estate industry. Showing up in unexpected places and staying true to the business model can create a sense of belonging and warmth. Training agents to navigate upcoming changes in the industry is crucial for success. Providing results in advance and being entrepreneur-centric can attract and retain agents. Brokers should provide agents with building blocks to build their unique businesses. Related to this episode: Sharran Srivatsaa | LinkedIn Sharran Srivatsaa | Instagram Sharran Srivatsaa Real HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of RealTrending, we talk to the newly appointed CEO of eXp Realty, Leo Pareja. He has over two decades of real estate and entrepreneurial experience, and it was just announced last month that Leo was to move from his role as Chief Strategy Officer into the role of CEO, which was previously held by Glenn Sanford. Sanford moves to Chairman of eXp Holdings.In today’s conversation, Leo shares eXp’s plan for future growth, how they are educating agents on the terms of the NAR settlement and how technology at the company is evolving. He and Tracey talk about the importance of proper agent support systems, the challenges happening during the transition of compensation models, and how eXp is embracing generative technology to aid in long-term growth.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: There is a need for real estate agents to treat buyers and sellers as valued clients and provide full support throughout transactions. There is a paradigm shift in the real estate industry with compensation models and technology adoption, and the lack thereof. Embrace technology to stay ahead of industry trends, specifically the use of AI and generative language models to enhance processes. Collaboration among agents is more important than you realize, and there are real benefits of proximity to successful peers. Related to this episode: Leo Pareja | LinkedIn eXp Realty Leo Pareja takes over as CEO of eXp Realty | HousingWire HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of RealTrending, we welcome Jason Mitchell, the founder and president of the Jason Mitchell Group. In 2023, JMG had over 8500 transaction sides and almost $4.2 billion in transaction volume according to RealTrends verified data.Jason offers insight into the impact of the NAR settlement on the industry as well as the lack of transparency in the settlement agreement. JMG’s model focuses not only on buyer leads from lender referrals, but also a lot of veteran buyers, which he believes will be much more negatively impacted by changes in the commission model. He also talks about the Real Estate Agent Pledge, a commitment to educating clients about cooperative compensation and promoting transparency in the industry.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The NAR settlement will require buyer-broker agreements, which can create more loyalty between consumers and agents. The lack of transparency in the settlement, particularly regarding cooperative compensation, is a concern. Low-income buyers, such as veterans and those using down payment assistance programs, may struggle to afford out-of-pocket fees. The Real Estate Agent Pledge aims to educate clients about cooperative compensation and promote transparency in the industry. Related to this episode: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Jason Mitchell Group Jason Mitchell Real Estate - Real Trends  The Real Estate Agent Pledge HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of RealTrending, we welcome two industry figureheads: Thad Wong and Mike Golden, the co-CEOs of Christie's International Real Estate and founders of @properties. Thad and Mike have been in business together for 27 years and are an extraordinary duo.During the conversation, the two talk about their business arrangements and how they’ve managed to get along after almost three decades. They also talk about some insights gleaned from Christie’s recent luxury real estate report, including the rise of luxury markets in university towns, Gen-Z buying trends, and long-term strategies to adapt to an evolving market.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: University towns are becoming hotspots for luxury real estate due to the presence of educated populations, vibrant culture, and better quality of life Gen Z buyers prioritize eco-friendly features and low maintenance living, and Christie's is adapting its offerings and marketing to meet these preferences Malta and Nicaragua are attractive emerging markets for luxury real estate investment due to factors like foreign ownership visa programs and affordability Adapting to industry trends and staying ahead requires being nimble, taking risks, and focusing on the client's needs and preferences Related to this episode: Connect with Thad on LinkedIn Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Christie's International Real Estate @properties HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode of RealTrending, we welcome Jason Waugh, the President and CEO of Coldwell Banker Affiliates, who, despite just recently starting in this position some eight months ago, brings to the table many years of brokerage experience at another brand.Waugh talks a lot about the importance of empathy and understanding, specifically when it comes to the challenges of making tough decisions that may negatively impact people but are necessary for the long-term success of the organization. He also talks about their growth-driving strategies used to unify the franchise and company-owned sides as they work on becoming the premier provider of home ownership and commercial real estate services.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Empathy and understanding are crucial for leaders in the real estate industry to support brokers and sales professionals. Making tough decisions that may negatively impact people is necessary for the success of the organization. Collaboration between the franchise and company-owned sides of a real estate organization is essential for unity and success. The future of real estate leadership will continue to prioritize relationships and human involvement. Related to this episode: Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Coldwell Banker The Gathering HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the RealTrending podcast, we welcome Michael Repka, the CEO and managing broker of DeLeon Realty, a Palo Alto-based brokerage with a unique business model of salaried agents. In this conversation, Mike and Tracey talk about DeLeon’s brokerage model and its place in the market post-NAR commission lawsuit settlement, as well as scalability and sustainability of the salaried agent model. They also talk about what the future holds for buyer’s agents and what agents need to do to demonstrate their value to consumers.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: DeLeon Realty is structured differently from traditional brokerages, with all agents being salaried and the commission going to the buyer's side. Value-added services, such as providing legal and contractor support, can set a brokerage apart and offer additional value to clients. The recent NAR settlement may lead to the emergence of new business models and services. Buyer's agents may need to demonstrate their value and offer unique services to justify their commission. The future of buyer's agents may involve a shift towards a more a la carte approach and specialized services. Related to this episode: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn DeLeon Realty The Gathering HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the RealTrending podcast, Tracey Velt sat down with Alex Vidal, the president of ERA Real Estate. Today’s conversation is all about mindset, leadership, and challenging yourself with both personal and career goals. They discuss the power of positive thinking, and he shares his coaching strategies for helping agents develop a positive mindset and master their goals. He also discusses his vision for the future of ERA Real Estate and the real estate industry at large.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Mindset is a key factor in real estate success. Agents can work on their mindset just like they work on their physical fitness. Practicing gratitude and positive affirmations can help agents maintain a positive mindset. Grit is essential for overcoming challenges and achieving goals in real estate. Leaders should focus on helping agents see the opportunities in the industry and develop deep, meaningful connections with clients. ERA Real Estate aims to become a brand that agents and broker-owners are raving fans of, setting an example for the rest of the industry. Related to this episode: Connect with Alex on LinkedIn ERA Real Estate The Gathering HousingWire’s YouTube Channel Enjoy the episode!The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices