Customer Relationship Manager (CRM)

Trend 7: The Digital End-To-End Real Estate Transaction Dream

Closer than Ever, But Still Far Away

This is the fourth blog post in a series of ten that covers the trends that will shape the residential real estate industry in 2019 and beyond according to the publication, Swanepoel Trends Report 2019.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this post belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer or the publication cited.

The real estate transaction has long been an analog process that has, until recently, been more than adequate. Real estate agents who could manage the plethora of different systems and personalities (i.e. mortgage, inspection, title, insurance, etc.) could excel in the business.

More companies, both inside and outside our industry, are now recognizing that the real estate transaction is broken. Too many unknowns; too many systems; too many parts that don’t talk to each other; too much duplication – – – and none of them create an exceptional customer experience. But that is changing.

Continue reading →

Getting Started in Real Estate – The Thirteen Dirty Little Secrets No One Will Tell You

People have a habit of making huge, life-changing decisions at the end of December because they reflect back on the year that was and realize, “I don’t want to do this anymore” or, “This job isn’t getting me where I want to be” or, “All the kids are gone, so it’s time for me to do something.”  Sound familiar.

This is usually the point where they investigate how to get a real estate license.  All you have to do is take a couple of classes, pass a test, and PRESTO!  You’re in the business.  How difficult could it be?  And just think of all the MONEY!

Over thirty years ago, I entered the real estate business with no idea that the path I had chosen would lead me to where I am today.  I have survived multiple recessions, high interest rates (16½%) and the introduction of the internet into the real estate business.  Through it all, there have been some guiding principles that have kept me focused on not only surviving in this business but thriving while others have faded away.

As you are contemplating whether to take that first step and enroll in classes or you already passed your licensing exam and are deciding which company to affiliate with, consider the following key points that most real estate recruiters will not cover in an interview:  Continue reading →