RealTrending

James Becker on building a sphere-based business model and navigating the valley of despair In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, host Tracey Velt speaks with James Becker, founder of Fusion, a company  that helps real estate agents grow their businesses. Becker shares how he developed a program at his brokerage to provide comprehensive support to agents, allowing them to focus on their core business while he and his team handled the operational aspects.  He’s left the brokerage world and continued to hone his growth program. Becker discusses the concept of the 'valley of despair' that agents often face when starting new initiatives, highlighting the need for persistence and the willingness to learn from failures to achieve long-term success. The conversation delves into the critical role of building relationships over chasing leads, advocating for a sphere-based business model. Becker stresses that agents should focus on nurturing their networks and developing genuine connections, which can lead to sustainable success.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: You have to put yourself out there and take risks. The valley of despair is where many agents quit too soon. Relationships are built over a long period of time and lost in an instant. You must be the CEO of your own business. If you want to be better, you must be held accountable. Caring for your clients is the key to success. Focus on nurturing relationships, not just chasing leads. Every agent goes through a cycle of uninformed optimism to informed pessimism. You have to measure your time and energy to see where it's going. The number one fundamental is to become the agent you would hire yourself. Related to this episode: James Becker's LinkedIn The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Wendy Forsythe, CMO of eXp Realty, discusses the evolution of real estate teams, the challenges of scaling  and the importance of technology and profitability. She emphasizes the shift in mindset from traditional agent roles to team leaders acting as CEOs, focusing on holistic success and lifestyle balance. The conversation also highlights emerging trends and the future of team leadership in the real estate industry. Here's what you'll learn: Teams have evolved significantly over the years. New agents joining teams are more likely to succeed. Scaling teams requires understanding operational efficiencies. Profit per person is a crucial metric for success. Team leaders must balance support and profitability. Automation and technology are essential for modern teams. Emerging trends include content creation and remote operations. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of RealTrending, Ginger Wilcox, the president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, discusses the latest design trends in real estate and their impact on homebuyer behavior. She emphasizes the importance of emotional connections to design, the shift toward functionality in home layouts and the influence of social media on buyer expectations. Wilcox also highlights regional variations in design preferences and offers strategies for agents to leverage these trends in their marketing efforts. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of real estate and the evolving needs of consumers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Today's buyers are detail-oriented and expect strong design. Emotional connections to homes influence buyer decisions. Design trends are shifting towards functionality and wellness. Social media impacts what buyers are looking for in homes. Instagrammable features are becoming essential in marketing. Regional preferences in design vary but core themes remain. Agents should leverage design trends in their marketing strategies. Understanding consumer behavior is crucial for agents. Trends in home design are evolving rapidly due to technology. Livability and functionality are key considerations for buyers. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this conversation for the RealTrending podcast, Donny Samson discusses the growth and strategies of his brokerage, emphasizing the importance of a unified company culture, intentional market expansion and the challenges of navigating the current brokerage economics. He highlights the impact of recent mergers in the industry and the need for adaptability in the face of changing market conditions. Samson also reflects on the future of brokerage models, the significance of education for realtors and the enduring value of in-person connections in a predominantly virtual world. Related to this episode: Donny Samson LinkedIn Samson Properties Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: One family, one vision, one company is key to growth. Intentional planning and training are crucial for success. Market expansion should be cautious and well-planned. Brokerage economics are challenging due to margin pressures. Realtors are seeking value and support from their brokers. Mergers in the industry create both challenges and opportunities. Education is vital for success and retention. The average age of first-time homebuyers is rising. In-person connections are essential in real estate. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Tracey Velt speaks with Rick Haase, President & COO of United Real Estate, about the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on the surge of lawsuits, particularly regarding private listing networks. They discuss the importance of having a clear mission for brokerages, the strategies for growth in a changing market, and the implications of the NAR settlement. Haase emphasizes the need for operational excellence and the financial wellness of agents as key components for success in the industry. Here is a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The real estate industry is currently facing a surge in lawsuits, particularly related to private listing networks. Private listing networks are not a new concept; they have existed in various forms for years. A clear mission focused on the financial trajectory of agents is crucial for brokerage success. Financial literacy and wellness programs can significantly impact agents’ financial health. The market is fragmented, and competition will naturally evolve without external intervention. Operational excellence and disciplined cost management are essential for thriving in the real estate market. The NAR settlement has complex implications that may not lead to a complete overturn but will require adjustments. Growth strategies should focus on organic recruitment and mergers with smaller brokerages. Agents need to be mission-driven and integrity-focused to succeed in the current market. The market will ultimately dictate the success of new business models and strategies. To learn more about Homebot click here. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the RealTrending Podcast, Gavin Swartzman discusses his role as president of Christie's International Real Estate and the evolving landscape of luxury real estate. He shares insights on market opportunities, the importance of branding and affiliate relationships, and the challenges of navigating change in the industry. Gavin emphasizes the need for empathy and authenticity in leadership, as well as the significance of providing valuable advice to clients. The conversation highlights the shifting definition of luxury and the importance of understanding client motivations in a changing market. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Gavin Swartzman emphasizes the importance of communication and connection among agents. The luxury real estate market is seeing growth opportunities in South America, Asia, and the Middle East. Branded developments are becoming a significant trend in luxury real estate. Confidence in the market is crucial for high-end clients to make decisions. The definition of luxury is evolving to include a broader experience. Empathy is a key leadership quality in navigating change. The onboarding experience is critical for retention and success in real estate Authenticity is essential in building trust with clients. High net worth individuals view real estate as part of their investment portfolio. The real estate industry must adapt to technological advancements and changing client expectations. To learn more about Homebot click here. Related to this episode: Christie's International Real Estate Gavin Swartzman LinkedIn The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Dru Wischhover, CEO of Inspired Title, discusses the often-overlooked role of title companies in real estate transactions. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement, fraud prevention and the critical nature of communication between real estate agents and title companies. Dru also addresses the rising threats of cybercrime, particularly with the advent of AI, and shares insights on the significance of title insurance in protecting property ownership. The conversation concludes with a lightning round of common myths and best practices in the industry. Takeaways Dru Wischhover emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the title industry. Communication is key in preventing fraud during real estate transactions. Real estate agents should build strong relationships with their title companies. Title insurance is crucial for protecting property ownership. AI has increased the risk of identity fraud in real estate. The first hour after a fraud incident is critical for response. Educating clients about the title process can prevent issues. Many people underestimate the value of title insurance. Real estate agents should be proactive in understanding title issues. Timing is essential when dealing with wire fraud in transactions. Related to this episode:https://www.housingwire.com/title-escrow/ Inspired Title Group The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode of the Real Trending Podcast, Alex Vidal discusses the key strategies for brokerage growth, emphasizing the importance of accountability in coaching, expanding value beyond local markets, and addressing affordability challenges in real estate. He highlights the need for real estate pros to adapt to market changes and maintain professionalism while facilitating family moves and exploring government roles in housing affordability. The conversation concludes with a lightning round of insights on common advice and habits for realtors. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: It takes guts to recruit, coach, and pull the trigger on M&A. How accountability is crucial for brokers to push their agents. Real estate is a hyper-local business, but agents should think globally. What the major challenge is for buyers in the current market. Professionalism and commitment are increasing in the industry post-settlement. Realtors need to facilitate conversations about joint mortgages and family moves. Government policies can impact housing affordability significantly. Understanding consumer behavior is key to success. What is is essential for buyers in today's market. Related to this episode: ERA Real Estate HousingWire Youtube More info about HousingWire To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

In this episode, RTC Consulting Founder Steve Murray discusses the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on brokerage mergers and acquisitions, the impact of Zillow’s legal challenges, and strategies for brokers to prepare for the future. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to market changes, understanding antitrust issues and leveraging technology like AI to enhance business models. How the real estate landscape is evolving with significant changes in brokerage M&A activity. How Zillow’s legal challenges reflect broader power struggles in the industry. How brokers need to prepare for potential changes in referral fee structures. AI technology is beginning to influence how consumers find homes. The market share concerns that may impact future brokerage mergers and acquisitions. Brokers should consider transparency in referral fees as a competitive advantage. Understanding antitrust regulations is crucial for brokers navigating mergers. Successful brokers are those who manage costs effectively and focus on fundamentals. ⁠RTC Consulting ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Lauren Henss, VP of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives at FirstTeam Real Estate, a RealTrends Verified top 30 brokerage in national sales volume. Tracey and Lauren dive into the realities of leading a complete digital transformation in under a year, including shifting from legacy to modern branding and creating agent-centric marketing that drives real results. Lauren shares how consumer brand tactics from her work with Chanel, Nike, and Salesforce translated into real estate, the challenges of brokerage consolidation, and why treating agents as the heroes of your story changes everything. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How to shift from legacy brand messaging to future-focused value propositions The "Behind the Agent" campaign that achieved 98% retention and 32% conversion increases Why buying more leads without fixing conversion is the most overrated marketing tactic The strategic middle lane approach that balances corporate scale with boutique agility How AI and answer engine optimization are reshaping agent visibility and listing generation The five critical elements brokerages need to survive consolidation Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Henss | LinkedIn First Team Real Estate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Dre Baldwin, former professional basketball player turned business coach and author of "Work on Your Game." Tracey and Dre dive into the mental game of real estate, exploring how the discipline, resilience and systematic thinking from professional sports can transform an agent's performance in today's market. Dre shares how mental toughness separates high performers from those who fall out during tough times, the power of detaching from outcomes while staying committed to process, and much more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why mental toughness and resilience are the #1 skills missing in real estate today How to create personalized daily routines that save mental energy for what matters most The art of transmuting rejection and disappointment into productive energy Why discipline beats motivation every time, and how to show up on your "third day" How 85% of your communication happens before you even speak Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dre Baldwin Dre Baldwin  | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Tom Ferry, founder of Tom Ferry International, and Josh Altman, celebrity real estate agent with The Altman Brothers Team at Douglas Elliman. They dive into Tom and Josh’s new partnership, discussing the gap they saw in the market for affordable, high-quality training and how they're combining Tom's coaching expertise with Josh's proven sales strategies. They also talk about the importance of discipline, branding, and AI in today's market, plus the common mistakes that prevent agents from reaching their potential. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How Tom and Josh identified the need for accessible, world-class training for agents Why 6% of agents control 60% of listings and what separates top performers The biggest mistakes agents make: insufficient follow-up for top performers and inadequate marketing for everyone else Josh's approach to being a "24/7 agent" and building a brand that attracts global buyers How AI is transforming marketing and why agents need to update their social media bios The importance of content creation and being a "chameleon" in an ever-changing market Why both experts believe AI-enabled agents will dominate the future of real estate Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Altman Brothers Tom Ferry Josh Altman | LinkedIn Tom Ferry | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠⁠here.⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Keith Robinson, co-CEO of NextHome and author of the Substack "Crazy Uncle Keith." Tracey and Keith dive into the seismic shifts reshaping real estate, including the potential Compass-Anywhere merger, the ongoing fallout from the settlement lawsuit and the pro-agent group pushing for more transparency at NAR. Keith shares his take on private listing networks, why the industry's most defensible position is "the human being," and how agents can capitalize on the current rate environment to boost their business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why the Compass-Anywhere merger could trigger an "arms race for listings" How agents can actually make more money now, post-settlement, by creating better buyer offerings The real impact of private listing networks on home buyers and sellers Why Keith believes NAR is finally heading in the right direction under Nykia Wright How rates below 6.5% for 60+ days signal a market shift agents can't afford to miss The three traits every agent needs to develop by 2030, including a "healthy fear of AI" Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Keith Robinson | SubStack NextHome Keith Robinson | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click ⁠here.⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

.This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with James Harris, principal at Beverly Hills-based boutique brokerage Carolwood Estates and former cast member of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing. Tracey and James dive into why disruption is actually a positive force, how AI is transforming the way agents work, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in today's changing market. James shares his perspective on embracing change rather than fearing it, and discusses his current project to disrupt the industry with AI-driven tools designed specifically for real estate agents. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why AI adoption is becoming table stakes for real estate success How to become data-obsessed and master your local market The importance of building systems and processes that save time Why consistency beats perfection in content creation How to get uncomfortable to achieve growth in your business Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Carolwood Estates James Harris  | LinkedIn James Harris (@jamesbondst) | Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To learn more about Homebot, click here. The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Josh McGrath, CEO and founder of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central and 2025 RealTrends Verified GameChanger.  Tracey and Josh dive into his journey from getting his real estate license at 18 to building a brokerage with over 90 agents across five offices in West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio. He also shares how his 2020 affiliation with Better Homes and Gardens during the pandemic led to exponential growth. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How he transitioned from sales to brokerage leadership in 2010 The strategic decision to affiliate with Better Homes and Gardens in 2020 and its impact Why protecting company culture means saying no to top producers who don't fit His approach to scaling internal systems while maintaining team cohesion How AI and technology investments are reshaping client nurturing Why he believes mergers and consolidations will continue to dominate the industry Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Josh McGrath | LinkedIn Joshua McGrath - Real Estate Agent Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central | RealTrends Verified ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Gretchen Coley, leader of The Coley Group at Compass in Raleigh, North Carolina. Tracey and Gretchen dive into how she scaled her team from $3 million to $214 million in just five years, the power of video storytelling in real estate and her innovative "Best of Raleigh" platform that transformed how she connects with her community. Gretchen shares how her background in new home sales shaped her approach to educating agents, why she invested in two full-time videographers and how a pandemic pivot led to creating a lifestyle brand with over a million podcast listens. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How she grew from $3 million to $214 million in volume in five years How the "Best of Raleigh" platform started during COVID and became a community phenomenon The leadership lessons learned from rapid team growth and maintaining culture Why luxury real estate is about lifestyle integration, not just price point How AI integration and content optimization are shaping the future of real estate marketing Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Coley Group | RealTrends Verified The Coley Group Gretchen Coley, Real Estate Agent - Compass ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending Tracey Velt talks with Eric Bramlett, broker-owner of Bramlett Partners in Austin, Texas. Tracey and Eric dive into the strategies for maintaining a local identity while leveraging technology, the importance of agent retention in a competitive market, and how to stay focused amid speculative industry distractions. Eric also shares how tight hiring standards and a personal touch have led to a 90% retention rate, his approach to tech integration without overwhelming agents, and much more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How Bramlett Partners maintains their local identity while competing with national firms The hiring discipline that drives 90% agent retention vs. 65% market average His single-dashboard tech approach that enhances rather than hinders productivity Why focusing on retention beats aggressive recruiting every time How to filter industry noise and stay focused on what moves the needle Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Bramlett Partners Eric Bramlett | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with the “queen of real estate video” Glennda Baker, of Glennda Baker and Associates at Coldwell Banker Realty in Atlanta. Tracey and Glennda dive into how social media and video content have transformed her 33-year real estate career, from building authentic connections through video to attracting clients who have never even met her in person. Glennda shares her journey from terrible YouTube videos in 2016 to becoming one of the most recognized voices in real estate, and how AI production tools have totally transformed her short form content game. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How consistency beats perfection when building your social media following Why posting the "struggle" stories performs better than just success highlights The client who went from TikTok follower to closing in just 53 days How 67% of her business now comes from referrals and repeat clients influenced by her online presence Why agents need to embrace AI and answer engine optimization to stay competitive The three moves every agent should make to get started on TikTok and Instagram Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Glennda Baker Atlanta (@glenndabaker) • Instagram photos and videos Glennda Baker (@glenndabaker) | TikTok Glennda Baker | LinkedIn Glennda Baker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

This week on RealTrending, Sarah Wheeler, sitting in for Tracey Velt, talks with Heather and Zach Harrison of The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass, the #20 large team nationally by volume and #4 team in New York state by volume, according to RealTrends Verified. The Harrisons dive into their unique approach of offering lifestyle tours rather than just property showings, helping clients choose not just a home but an entire community in Westchester County, New York. They also talk about changes in their market since the NYC mayoral race started, how they’re utilizing AI tools and more. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: How they built their vision to "change the face of real estate" in Westchester County How their interactive downsizing tours for empty nesters are solving inventory challenges The impact of NYC's mayoral race on suburban real estate demand How luxury amenities like golf simulators and indoor pools are reshaping buyer preferences Why combining AI with human connection is the future of real estate Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Zach & Heather Harrison Team The Zach & Heather Harrison Team at Compass | RealTrends Verified ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.

Yesterday, it was announced that real estate giant Compass is acquiring another real estate giant: Anywhere Real Estate, which includes Coldwell Banker, Century 21, Corcoran, ERA Real Estate, Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate, and Sotheby’s International Realty. Today, we’re bringing you a special bonus episode with Tracey and Steve Murray, senior advisor for HousingWire and the founder of RealTrends and RTC Consulting. Steve is an expert on all things mergers and acquisitions and provides us with some interesting insight into the industry implications and ramifications of such a landmark deal.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The strategic implications of the acquisition How the deal might face antitrust scrutiny in major markets The integration challenges, including agent retention and cultural alignment Potential impacts on Zillow, NAR, and the broader brokerage landscape Steve’s insights on the future of brokerage competition and consumer trust Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Compass buys Anywhere Real Estate for a combined 340,000 agents What to know about Anywhere following acquisition by Compass ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠More info about HousingWire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio.