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Pat is amazing – the penny really dropped for me as Gary interviewed him. Pat has such amazing discipline and has grown his skill by sharing knowledge with the top people in his field. A great inspiration!
What a treat to hear from a man who has reportedly done 900 transactions per year! One of my favorites in the interview: the 1/2 hour open house: lots of promotion before-hand, generate the traffic and have everyone come during a short window of time… Allan said, “we’ve sold alot of properties that way!” Thanks Gary & Diana for bringing such awesome people to us!
You first must start with the medium…your clients. Then you work on the basics of the picture…what your clients “really” want in a home – peel back the onion. You then rough draw the picture at the buyer’s consultation and your first showings. As you put the paint on the canvas, you are seeing your clients eyes light up as their dream home is visualized and identified. You find tune the painting with color to depict the escrow, loan and inspections process. As the painting comes to life, you get the word from the title company that it is a closed transaction. Hanging the picture on the wall is like handing the keys to a first time buyer with that priceless smile of a dream come true… When you visit your clients home a few months later, you see that the picture hanging on the wall as you enter their “home” is a priceless piece of art and you are their Realtor for life! That is Real Estate and why we are lucky enough to be helping others buy and sell the most valued asset of their lives!
Awesome week so far! Mega Tech Camp left us with hands on applications to increase our business. Mega Agent Camp reinforced that premise that basics and following MREA models are so important for success. And then just when you think you can’t sit through anymore Mo Anderson keeps everyone spellbound with her state of the culture speech. Thanks to all KWRI staff for all hard work in putting this together. It was well worth the trip from north of Philadelphia!
Gary good luck this year with the Mega Agent Camp. I work in a great office (La Mesa CA. Market Center) with some superstars! (Shelia, Dave, Chuck, and many others) Take good care of them this week.
I am a fairly new agent and want to say thank you to you for the great work on the MREA book. THINK BIG – AIM HIGH – START SMALL – Great words to build a career by.
ps…..
Hi to all my friends from the La Mesa CA Market Center. Hope you guys are having a great time. Learn and grow and teach me when you return.
Michael Salois
The Rip Fritzer Team at Keller Williams La Mesa
619-417-1954
Isn’t it amazing that every one who is successful has accomplished it by being hyper focused on one thing for a long time! Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers talks about this in length and it is SO encouraging!!! Focus+Time=Success
Always good to wake up to your words! Looking forward to BOLD!
Thanks for the “Think Small” message!
My Think Small aha echo’s the words of a woman who talked with me when I was a teenager….. She was 60 – really old or so I thought. She was a wise sage and I knew that even then. She was one of the most caring and positive people I had known. When she told me to “live my life in dying order”, I took a step back and felt that was so negative. But now I understand that by living life “small” keeping it focused and intentional, ultimately I can achieve my goals better and faster and that will allow me to discover new goals and charter new territory without unfinished business.
This message takes me back to that message. I use the KW videos you to inspire my team every week. Thank you for all you do.
Gift…..Twitter Tony Robbins…..he has a great 28 minute clip on breaking through the barriers of achievement by gaining certainty!
See you in New Orleans for Family Reunion.
Kathy Kleber, KW Tacoma – Team RED
Resourceful – Experienced – Dedicated
KW Cultural ICON Pacific NW Region
I am on a Grow Your Profit Share Tree-profit share committee since June of this year-I thought the grow your tree campaign was great-to keep the excitment going and the turn out to our meetings has been a challenge-we are still using the power point and teacher’s manual from June-is there any different material to shake up our agents to come to these meetings? Our office has 116 agents but had lee than 1% come to our sessions-mostly the new agents who wanted to learn about PS. We had food and prizes and it was fun but it was 4-5pm in afternoon every Wednesday. We would appreciate some help in attracting more agents and we decided to make it only once a month.Look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Robin
Gary,
Thank you, “think big, start small” is mindset or what I like to think of as a life rule that I have followed most of my life, however as a husband and father embarking on a new career in real estate it’s one rule I haven’t been following lately.
Thank you again for a wakeup call that I badly needed.
Joining the social networking arena can be daunting, but it is the present and the future of our businesses/careers and vitally essential for us to launch NOW. Deciding on the time and effort you intend to put into it, is the first step… or leap. It’s your choice.
Greetings Robin,
Great question! We have just added a new Profit Share learning opportunity! We’re thinking of it as a complement to the Grow Your Profit Share Tree course. You can think of the Grow Your Profit Share Tree course as a learning “event.” It covers all of the fundamentals of Profit Share and is a great starting point.
To this learning “event,” we’ve added the Wealth-Building Workshop: Profit Share. We think of the workshop as an “achievement journey.” It will help associates stay plugged into the activities that yield results. It’s set up a little differently from some of our other courses, so that it can stay dynamic and fresh with each visit. It includes short content chunks and exercises, and good amount of group strategizing and accountability.
You’ll be able to download it from the http://www.kellerwilliamsuniversity.com website on Wednesday, Sept. 2. If you have any questions or comments about it, please let me know! I’d be more than happy to help in any way I can!
Have a wonderful day and thank you for your question!!
I was at Mega Camp and had the honor of hearing Liz in person. Just like my dad always told me. You can do anything you set your mind to do. Gary, Mega Camp is always the most moving and inspiring thing in my life. It changes who I am each year and I see something else to accomplish. Thank you for the Keller Williams Model and thank you for the culture.
Nick was P H E N O M E N A L. I am inspired and motivated. Nick, I know my potential, my identity, my destiny and my legacy.
My favorite quote: “We do not know which day has no tomorrow – decide today what you want”
Nick has been an inspiration to myself and others for many years. The teen group that I help with has seen his video and talked about Nick’s life and aside from the obvious physical differences “what makes Nick different?”.
WOW!!!! How moving. WE have soooo very much to be thankful for. Attitude of gratitude fo the accomplishments we have acheived. Greatful for the opportunity for all that we will accomplish this next year. Thank you for the refreshing experiance of this most wonderful and special speaker Liz Murray. Witnessing this testimonial made all the hard work for the last year worth it. Thanks you Liz Murray for sharing and caring.
As a new agent (Nov 08) I can attest to the training, support and motivation to ensure you succeed in a shift market. All the agents at our Dallas North Office want you to succeed and grow. It is the KW family style of business. Everybody wins!
Liz was one of the most inspirational speakers, I have seen in a very long time, and was moved and impressed with what she has accomplised. All the speakers were great and Gary was awesome as ever.
The energy you get from all for, 1 and 1 for all in the kw family recharges me. After a long and bizzy summer, mega gets you fired up again to finish out the year and plan next. This award is evidence that training and culture. Go heartland region
I was there. The energy was great. I gave their cds to my 8 year old who plays and he insisted on going to sleep with the music. Thanks for the music guys. ” best thing I ever brought him back from a trip”. Thank u Gary K. Making this happen has your. Fingerprints all over it.
I am awestruck by the magnitude and depth of the spiritual conviction this company has. Absolutely thrilled with the new energy, new determination that I received being a part of the greatest company on the earth !
From the beginning of 1986 when I first joined Keller Williams Realty I knew that this was the company to keep. Gary, Mark, Mo, and Mary bring us the tools and we are the culture keepers! This was the best Mega Camp and the family continues to raise the bar for next years Camp!
I am not surprised! My office is growing and exceeding numbers posted by other companies that have been around here for Decades! Did I mention our KW office is less than two years old! Go KW Louisville East!
This Mega Agent camp really was impressive this year. The guests were phenomenal!! Nick, Tommy, Liz… Wow! Tommy’s guitar playing just brought me to tears. Unbelieveable… especially the song about “My Daddy”.
Gary… you and your team have built a great company. Thank you. Let’s keep moving forward!
Liz has such a great sense of humor and a whit about her that keeps you captivated with her story. She inspired me to be the best me I can be. Push through the lows and make the best of every situation. Thank you Liz for enriching my life.
Words can not describe Nick. So full of life and humor! It was MY PLEASURE to have him enrich my life! He is incredible!
I am going to get his DVD and share it with my family and my team!
Wow, how exciting…great music and great fun…your committment, and focus has inspired me to keep after it each and every day…Your passion shows in each and every note you play…thank you..
This was my first Mega Camp. Listening to Liz and others has changed my life. Thank you to Gary and Keller Williams for helping me to see things from a different perspective. No more excuses or limiting beliefs! I’m pumped!!
Once again another “Excellent” Mega Camp…I love the way that “Incredible” people are chosen to share their stories and talents like Liz/Nick/Tommy etc…Always appreciated!
And of course Gary was great again…no surprise there!
Best
Richard Goates
Your Broker for the Redding California area for referrals!
530-248-5627
Listening to Liz Murray alone was worth the time, money and effort it took to get to Mega Camp and I had the fallowing breakthroughs
What if read my goals twice a day
What if I got up at 5:30am
What is I worked out daily
What if lost 75 lbs.
What if I did affirmations and roll played Mon-Fri.
What if I did lead generation for 3 per day
What would I do with all the Money?
Yes Yes Yes!!! All of these things are true. We already have all the tickets we need to go to all the places we want. Yes, you can have the career, the body, the mindset you want. It’s just figuring out what is holding you back. Start NOW and go from mini to MEGA!!!
I throughly enjoyed Mega Camp. I learned from listening to others who have done it and I realized I have the power within me to be a MEGA Agent! I am proud to be a member of the Keller Williams family.
BOLD has enBOLDED me to shot for higher goals.
It impressed me that ordinary people have and are doing extraordinary things.
Thanks !
This is my 2nd Mega Agent Camp – and what I continue to take away from these events is the continued importance of inspiring and being there for one another. None of us are at this alone, and we need to hear that loud and clear through all of the guest speakers and performers that stepped onto that stage. They all have the support and encouragement of others, they are there for people in their lives and are in the lives of others. Almost every speaker spoke of NOT being the star or a hero, but being helped a great deal along the way of their story, and finding the “fire within” in a big way to do what they are passionate about at that moment or in that found vision!
Thank you so much for the speakers – they make a significant difference in our lives and in our hearts, and we go back to our homes and continue to share these stories and find strength within our own spirits to build the plan and get to work on it – and build the accountability partners to keep us on track.
Thanks for the renewed spirit and inspirations that you bring to the stage and into our lives!
It’s young men like Nick who give you your own life back to mold into whatever shape you want it to take! What an awesome guy, and the power and passion that he brings to the children of our lives and our future is key! We need more passion like his to impact the lives of others.
Thanks for allowing us the opportunity to have those few minutes with him. Very powerful messages delivered throughout the Mega Agent Camp and one of the best elements that I look forward to, and encourage our recruits to come and attend for the many layers that are in play to deliver the same messages threaded through the presentations.
Thanks for putting us first KW, and empowering us and our lives through the stories of others… I say this all the time “we all have a story” and it’s all about sharing them with one another and “life long learning” on all levels of ourselves.
The moment that report came out, or Market Center began to use it in our recruiting packets and some of our agents have begun to print it on the back sides of all of their listing sheets that they leave at properties to continue to have something to share with our consumers about what a great company we are.
Idea: our market center is creating a “Why Keller Williams” recruiting business card and this would be awesome to incorporate onto the front of the card. The back of the card is white with lines for the KW agent to write in their contact information.
Let’s find creative ways to get this information our into our Markets! 2 years running – that tells an awesome story in this and every market!
Once again,…Mega Agent Camp has served to be inspirational, motivational always based on sound business, spiritual, emotional and physical principals.
Nick’s bigger than life’s presence has served to effect many in very positive ways.
Suit up, show up and NEVER, ever give up!
Thanks for the joyful tears.
Liz Murray’s story is similiar to another – Jeannette Walls, an MSNBC contributor and author of her story in “The Glass Castle”. These women CHOSE to rise above their circumstances – what inspiration – thanks Gary Keller for reminding us to rise – terrific Mega Camp!
Billy & Rhett were both incredible and together they are unbelievable….can’t wait to hear the CD! Thank you to Gary Keller for bringing them into our lives at Mega Camp.
Truly inspirational the speakers, panel
and the amazing stories. I believe!
I am so happy to be in such a wonderful
family. Gary thank you for opening my eyes,
allowing me to see straight
bless you all
This was my first Mega Camp, after joing KW last month, after 17 years with another company. I was blown away by the whole thing! Billy and Rhett contributed to the intense emotional experience I had. Their talent is truly amazing, and I told that to Billy when I chatted with him at the airport book store as we were both waiting to catch our planes. He had just come from making the big announcement and was tremendously excited about the whole KW cares — so down to earth and genuine. I look forward to the CD and even more so to a lasting relationship with Keller Williams.
Liz… your move from the streets to Harvard graduate is just incredible. Super inspiring. I know you did it but I just can’t quite get my head around how tough it must have been for you. Congratulations. You deserve everything you’ve achieved.
Liz, saw you at Mega Agent on Friday. You and Nick were inspiring, You are so right that Your life is Your choice. You decide. Those who make bad decisions must live with those consequences. Unfortunately, sometimes those consequences effect others, but it’s still how you deal with it. Girl, you dealt with it IMPRESSIVELY! Also agree, that NO ONE DOES IT ALONE! Keep it up!
Nick Vujicic, what a character! Hilarious and a great public speaker and motivator. His presentation was strong and will throw anyone’s excuses right out the window!
If you missed it, I recommend finding it online, especially if you need to come to terms with “what’s really holding you back out there”.
I was really disappointed by Susan Scott’s keynote today. I was really excited and anticipating a great presentation to end the conference. This presentation was dry and boring. I hope that KW brings a better caliber to future events.
My Ah ha! The best we can do is to do our part at the highest level of which we are capable. Liz, I know I am capable of so much more…Thanks so very much!
I am so very proud of KW – and so thankful to be part of such an incredible company. I want the agents that I know & care about to see for themselves what we offer!
Nick is my new hero! What an amazing young man with an attitude that will take him where ever he wants to go. I showed a small segment of his dvd to my Sunday School clas this morning as we discussed Joshua and his courage as he lead the Israelites into the Promised land. Talk about a man of courage…as I showed Nick the room was so mesmorized that you could hear a pin drop. I am sharing the dvd with a teacher who has some troubled kids. What a ministy Nick is spreading. KW thank you for providing us with such inspiration.
Liz, I heard you Friday and knew I’d never be the same again. Then I heard you again on Saturday and was simply blown away by your inspiration and love. Thank you
When you Believe and Dream you achieve and thrive…..Thank you Gary Keller and all at KWRI for Believing and Dreaming for with that KW and all its associates are truly THRIVING!!!!!!!
Only grown by 2%? I guess that means, I need to lead generate (heard that somewhere) and be Bold, asking for business and Mega Agents. I realize that I am where I am supposed to be, learning how to do Real Estate as a business, not just selling houses.
Thanks Gary Keller, and the staff that he talked about @ Mega Camp, that brought him the success.
I want Liz to know how proud I am of her. She says there were people along the way, guiding and helping, but it must start with Liz.
Please keep up the good work, for yourself (first), and then for others. Your experience is the best teacher.
Truly your story touched my heart and the love for your mother was flowing into the universe. I’m sure she is very proud of you and can feel your message, I know we could!! Thank you for sharing your inspiring story!
THIS IS MY 15TH YEAR IN RE AND I JUST GOT TO KW. I HAVE ASKED MANY QUESTIONS THRU THE YEARS ABOUT HOW TO GROW A BUSINESS, NOT JUST SELL HOMES. WELL, NOW I HAVE IT. THANK YOU KW. I AM PROUD TO BE A KW AGENT. I LOVED MEGA CAMP AND CAN’T WAIT FOR FAMILY REUNION. GEAUX NEW ORLEENS!!!!! MY HOME!!!!
Very disappointing. The fact she decides to make a political statement wihtin her speach is outragious. Until that point of the speach I thought it was dry and boring and hard to follow. Ms. Scott has lot to learn form KW on leadership and should heave qualified her audience ahead of time. I would suggest she learn what true servant leadership is.
Liz,
Thank you for a powerful message delivered with elegance and courage.
If I were young enough,… I would want to grow up and be just like you!
I can’t thank you enough for what you have done for so many.
Nan Cie
When Dreams are BIG, facts don’t count!
Thank you Liz, you are IT!
And thank you Gary & Diana for helping us to see further and further standing on the shoulders of Giants!
Liz, You inspired me to do something that I have been putting off for far too long. Your comment about having your hand on the door knob and deciding whether to open the door or not made me think of a fridge and cupboard door that I have been opening far too often! I choose to keep the door closed. I have decided to start my 2010 New Year’s resolution today to be completed by Jan 1st – 30.5 lbs in 120 days. I’ve posted it onto my Facebook and will continue to post it daily. Thanks, in that and many more ways, you’ve changed my life. You are a Hero (even if your modesty prevents you from saying so.)
Wow! This was definitely the best Mega Agent Camp and Mastermind Event that I have attended. Gary was on his game, Mark, Mary and Mo, continue to shine and show why Keller Williams leads the field. Nick, Liz, Tommy, Rhett, and Billy? How do they do that. Attitude is Altitude. Thank you Gary, Mo, Mark and Mary, and also Dianna and Tony, and the whole MAPS team. This one will be hard to beat. We brought 19 people and they won’t forget this one for a while. This is not an expense, it is an experience. GO Keller Williams!
I was not able to attend Mega Camp this year. Susan Scott’s book has been a great asset to those fierce conversations I have had to have. In one instance I had a contractor confrontation and using the 7 steps to a fierce conversation in letter form, I was able to make the point and collect $5000.00 in a settlement that to that point had been ignored. In another instance an investor who was not holding up their end and needed to let go got the 7 point treatment in our emails back and forth and the investor conceded and left the deal so that we could move on. And, like all of us, sometimes we have an off day and maybe the talk did not “hit you” so my advice is to read the book, “Fierce Conversations” it has some very important infomrmation for people in the “people business.”
Although I didn’t make it to Mega Camp this time, I am delighted to see these speaker video clips on our KW BLOG… they are inspiring, encouraging, and empowering; the Keller Williams culture at it’s best!!
Once in a great while you hear a story that resonates in your heart and makes you understand the abundance that awaits those who want to access it. Liz Murray’s story should inspire all of us who feel that we have it tough or don’t have the opportunities we think we should have. It is not what you have, but what you want to have that matters most. As Liz stated it, it’s all about the “What if” . What if I did something that would move me to a better place in life or what if I did nothing. Which would be the better result.
Liz’s story is all about the “What if’s”! These are the stories we all need to hear from time to time to bring us back to reality. Thank you for such a great speaker!
Nick is the guy most of us want to be! He has the attitude the drive and the thirst for life that makes us all realize that we all have something more we can do. For me, Nich illustrated that anyone can overcome challenges and have whatever life they desire. It is a choice.
Thanks again for allowing us to listen to someone who inspires us and makes us realize that there is plenty of opportunity in this world.
I LOVE this book. I have it on CD and listen to it often.
Anyone that hasn’t read it, I highly recommend it!
Michelle Shelton
Creator of the kw.com toolbar for your computer http://kwcom.ourtoolbar.com/
What a great blessing to share the time togeter we were able to spend with Nick at Mega Agent. He is truly an inspiration and it was very humbling to hear his joy, passion and enthusiasm for life and attitude of gratefulness! He beautifully reminded us of the opportunity that is all around us. We just need to reach for it!
I was not able to attend this year and I heard a lot of people were disappointed with Susan Scott. I would say, don’t throw the baby out with the bath water as she has a lot of valuable information. It is sort of like eating a steak dinner….push the bone out of the way and take the good stuff that is there. No one is perfect and we can all learn from what doesn’t work….keep moving!
Michelle Shelton
Creator of the kw.com toolbar for your computer
Great suggestions. I especially like the one about posting something to Craig’s List. I tell my 1st time buyer’s it’s a “perfect storm” for being the best time in recorded history to buy your first home!
Have a friend in CA that went to a fellow agent who does a lot of property management. They had an agreement that anything my friend generated from the renters, he would pay a referral fee to the property manager. They’ve generated two contracts since the middle of August. The property manager is now calling the rest on his list.
Great info, i try to post several times a day on face book, basically letting every one know that time is running out, and i also have twitter and tweet as often as i can looking for first time home buyers.
If you are a top Keller Williams agent in your area, please call me! We are featuring two area specialists on zillow.com. It is a great way to get new listings business b/c you can snatch up people who come to look at Zestimates of thier homes on our site and help them with a real CMA/listing.
Call me 206-515-8249 kater@zillow.com
Blogging is becoming more complex because of the fact that every site wants you to create a blog – activerain, trulia, your own site. Also, Twitter and Facebook “micro blog” entries do not rank nearly as high in Google for real estate related terms as activerain. Activerain seems to be the place to focus on right now for real estate.
In addition, if you guys want to help out right now from the mother ship you could make a static file directory from the kw.com homepage (no searchable .do java dynamic file) and backlink the individual franchise office sites with “Xcity Real Estate”.
Blogging is becoming more complex because of the fact that every site wants you to create a blog – activerain, trulia, your own site. Also, Twitter and Facebook “micro blog” entries do not rank nearly as high in Google for real estate related terms as activerain. Activerain seems to be the place to focus on right now for real estate.
In addition, if you guys want to help out right now from the mother ship you could make a static file directory from the kw.com homepage (no searchable .do java dynamic file) and backlink the individual franchise office sites with “Xcity Real Estate”.
This is a good marketing tool that should really create urgency in the 1st time home buyer market. I’m personally trying to close a few deals by the 8K tax credit deadline (which I personally believe should be extended), with some of my 1st time buyers and I came across this and thought it would be great to share with everyone.
I think this is an incredible AHA for many Megas! I am sharing it with the top teams in my office now and we will be masterminding how to implement it in their businesses. Thank you for sharing this!
As I sat at Mega Camp watching this presentation with my Lead Buyer Specialist…he practically fell out of his chair! He loved the fact that he could bring leverage into his job other than using our existing staff. We are about to start implementing this idea of using showing assistants and would certainly like as much information on this topic as possible. Thanks for posting this so I could get another look at it! My notes had a few holes in them!
This post couldn’t have come at a better time for me as I seem to be busting at the seams right now. This is some fabulous advice to consider. Thank you!
I love this concept, but in Oklahoma, I am 99% sure that showing a house requires a real estate license. Would 25% be enough for a licensed showing assistant?
117Jay Papasan, VP of Publishing and Executive Editor
We’ve heard from top agents who offer as little as 20 percent. It really depends on your value proposition to the showing. Just realize if you offer more then 25 percent, then your Buyer specialist will be working on a smaller margin. If the Showing Assistant earns 30 percent, then the Buyer Specialist is left with 20 percent.
This assumes, you won’t accept less than 50 percent as the Mega agent generating the leads and that’s what we recommend.
Licensing is an extra expense. If your MLS requires a license to show houses, then you have no choice. They have to be able to open the lock box!
Thanks for your comments and questions.
Jay P.
118Jay Papasan, VP of Publishing and Executive Editor
If you’re looking for something to share with potential buyers, the e-books are great. Just go to http://mykw.kw.com and search with the key words “Your First Home”
I received just over $100 last month, and I must say, it was $100 I did not have the month before! That paid for fuel in my car for a week and every little bit helps. I have had months where the number was over $700 in the past. I only have 4 people in my PS tree right now, but I am developing a plan to pro-actively go out and find more to add to it. I have friends that have earned over $20,000 in a month – now that would be something to brag about! So, I have decided I would like to do that.
What a wonderful gift our company has decided to give back to us! I know that someday, this will be funding my retirement!
Thanks for REPEATING that awesome info again Jay! That is a great piece!
That is exactly where my Top Buyer’s Specialist Steve Massey is at right now-overloaded! Mainly because he delivers 110% customer service to every one. But, at the end of the day, it is still the END of the day! One person can only do so much!
Towards the end of last year I began building my Team – The hearing Group. I have been blessed to have Steve, Bryan Carpenter – my admin, Kimberly Silverstein – listing specialist, Bob Gagne – buyer and listing specialist, and a high energy, brand new licensee, Caitlin McCusker – buyer specialist.
I feel that I have reached the point where we are ready for another admin, and a couple more buyer specialist, but, maybe, a couple showing assistants is more the answer.
Can you expand a little? Do they hire on as an unlicensed, independent contractor that you pay a fee for their weekly service, then the bonus on closed transactions?
Thanks Jay,
Sincerely,
Dennis Hearing
The Hearing Group
NE Ft Lauderdale #711
I just came to Keller Williams last week. I am impressed! I am in Arlington Texas. We have a great office!
It is good to know I made the right decision!
123Jay Papasan, VP of Publishing and Executive Editor
We’re actively researching the best practices. In fact, I got the opportunity to mastermind with a group of top agents in Colorado just last week and we had a great discussion on showing assistants.
It’s early in the game, but here’s how our research would answer your questions:
1) Unlicensed is preferable if an unlicensed assistant is able to show homes in your MLS (this is not always the case.) When they earn the right to be your buyer specialist, they can get their license.
2 Pay them on bonuses based on buyers closed. Just like a Buyer Specialist, they are independent contractors who must help you close buyers before they earn anything. This is still sales even if they are unlicensed. Your value proposition will be the buyer leads you can provide them on a consistent basis–three or four per month is a great living for such a highly focused job.
3) Train, train, train! Even as an unlicensed showing assistant they will need to know both your systems and the best scripts for showing homes and writing offers.
We started the KW Blog as a forum for us to communicate to our agents, recruits and the real estate industry in a way we hadn’t yet. When thinking about the “true essence” of a blog, my thought is that there isn’t a wrong or right way to do it. Some blogs have one author, some multiple authors…and some have guest contributors. That is the great thing about blogs-you can make them be whatever you would like them to be. Ours happens to be a forum for us to communicate what is on our minds!
Honestly though, commenting on a blog post is an incredibly powerful forum for you to make your voice heard and link back to your blog. Comments keep the conversation going, and starts new conversations-really a blog isn’t a blog without them! So, I hope you keep reading and keep commenting…even if you aren’t posting.
And, although we aren’t soliciting guest blog posts now, it doesn’t mean we won’t later. Let me know if you want to talk more about this and I will send you my contact information.
Question on paying unlicensed team members based on closed sales:
In some states real estate commission can only be paid by the broker to a licensed agent. If the 1099 pay to an independent contractor is based on a percentage of closed sales volume/commission, it is considered commission.
Have you come across any other pay models out there that are less strictly tied to specific closed transactions?
If paying on a straight percentage of commissions isn’t possible, then you might consider a flat bonus on every buyer transaction closed.
Take your average commission and work out a flat bonus based on 25 percent of that amount. On lower priced homes you’ll be overpaying and on higher than average priced homes you’ll be saving. Over time, it should even out. The point is this: as much as possible, base your pay on performance.
As always, clear this program with your broker and your CPA to make sure your program is in compliance with your office standards, board policies and local regulations.
Here’s my question…with all the different websites where you can post blogs…Trulia, ActiveRain, personal website, etc is there a way to blog once and have it hit different websites or do you have to post on each individual website where you’d like your blog to appear?
Although it seems like a quick fix to save time, remember to always consider your audience. For example, for my personal accounts, I know when I am on Twitter, it is usually speaking to a different group than on Facebook. So, if I feed Twitter to Facebook, some of my Facebook friends may wonder why the heck I am including # or @ in messages. So, just make sure that the message suits that particular group.
We are about to launch with two showing assistants. We are excited about the leverage it will provide to our buyer specialist who has been working a lot of hours. It will be interesting to see the additional production that we fully expect to be done by using this model. Kristan in Alaska
The rumor is correct and infection rates are high. CDC has issued a bulletin to all KW agents as it is localized only with KW agents. Three is a pandemic spreading and a vaccine is available but no one will step forward for the first Shot.
The CDC is hoping there won’t be any deaths!
The cure to the LG1Z1 virus is a good “funnel” system of Unified Communications and asking for the business. All that is explained in the latest edition of Guerrilla Real Estate Marketing: http://bit.ly/kLfCQ
Thanks Matt for posting this. I am new to the whole social media thing and this short article helped. Also Happy Birthday and wishes for much more sucess.
Does anyone have the “Job Description” and DISC of the Executive Assistant Position (as opposed to the “marketing and administrative” position off of the MREA profiles)?
A few years back, Gary interviewed his EA Valerie Vogler-Stipe at Mega Camp on the difference between an assistant and an executive assistant. They also discussed her hiring another EA “Suzie Smith” and walked through the process.
Never thought of it like that. But that is so true, children have no problem going up to houses and ringing the bell, this should be a lesson to us adult’s, just do it, what have we got to loose that we don’t already have?
I did trick-or-treat in reverse. We recently moved into the neighborhood and I hadn’t met the neighbors so I made up little bags of treats and attached a card offering a Market Snapshot and went door to door delivering them to the neighbors. People liked it and it’s a foot into the neighborhood!
Some churches have what they call a “trunk or treat” in which all the candy is brought together to one place. You take your kids, and after they’re done playing games and jumping on inflatables, they are given a bag of treats. I agree we should prospect more and wouldn’t it also be cool host an event and then get a bag of Buyers and Sellers?
Great comments.
I received several of the phishing offers over the past two or three weeks. As with anything internet, vigilence and common sense must prevail!
Thanks.
Steve Jameson
Santa Rosa, CA
Thanks for this. I’m pretty new to FB and was suprised when I got a request to update my info. Fortunately I looked closely and saw it was sent to an old email address that still happens to be forwarded to me…one that I didn’t use on Facebook. Whew
Thank you for this information. I was on facebook looking at some pictures on a friends site and some how, I now have a trojan loop. I am not sure how much, but it will cost me to repair it. This was scary and I wasn’t sure how it happened. Now I know.
Thanks so much!!!!
Thank you, this is very helpful. As I venture into the world of FB and Twitter, I will be very careful and know what to watch for. This helps me have some guidelines.
How could you get a virus by looking at pictures of friends? What do I need to look at in the URL do make sure it is a trusted site? I’m hope other people have some of the same questions as me; I thought I was more aware of scams but I’m obviously not.
Lisa, It isn’t from actually looking at pictures, but from links. A great example is in this article from Mashable: http://mashable.com/2009/09/25/warning-facebook-worm-spreading-via-news-feed/. Mashable is quick to alert people to scams, so I would suggest following them on Twitter or checking their site often.
Usually, if I want to make sure I am going to a trusted site that I login to (banks, Facebook, email etc), I type in the Website address in my URL/address bar myself instead of following a link.
Thank you….I am teaching a class this Thursday on FB to other Agents in my office. We are all beginners and I want to be able to give them useful information. If you have any other basic info that would help us get started I would deeply appreciate it.
Lisa, Are you a KW agent? If so, we have created a social media page on the intranet (go to mykw.kw.com, then the marketing tab) which includes short how-to articles, a guide for Facebook, a quick start guide for Twitter, as well as KW-branded Twitter backgrounds to download.
If you are not an agent, let me know and I will pull some links to sites I find helpful! We are all beginners at some point, and I find I am always learning. Good luck!
It is more important to obey state laws about paying any body except Broker to Broker payments and MLS rules against showing by unlicensed hired help or giving keys to any one.
If state laws allow go for all the assistants and non assistants to sell homes, show homes and buy homes.
TKBisht,
Absolutely. How they are paid and what they can do must comply with local laws and regulations. Recently, at our KW masterminds, I conducted a straw poll of top agents using showing assistants and 100% reported theirs were licensed due to their board rules.
Thanks for your comment,
Jay P
It is helpful to know what a “real” notification looks like from the different services. This is what Facebook sends when a friend really does tag you in a photo or post “Deborah tagged a photo of you in the album “Mobile Uploads”.
They don’t send messages like “hey I saw a picture of you on..”. Also, on Facebook if you want to see if someone has really tagged you, you can always go to your profile and the notification should be there.
The one thing I ALWAYS do if I get sent a notification from my bank or anywhere else is to click my email program closed then manually type in the url (website address). I foiled a phishing scheme about my Bank of America account that way. Someone sent me a message requesting all my information and upon logging in I found out it was a lie. Just be very wary and always go to the source!
This is an excellent video! Distills some very big concepts down to easily understood conversation. One early concept of the Red Book is learn before you earn. The idea of a Showing Assistant confirms this, but it is presented here from the hiring agents perspective.
I think that starting out as a showing assistant would have some great benefits for a new agent as well. They would get to walk the walk, but would be able to hand off the buyer when things get complicated. Then, as they learn more, they can do more. And as the hiring agent, I can watch them to see how quickly, and how hard they bug me to start having a role beyond just showing, which will be a good indicator of the type of buyer agent they will be. Thanks for this great reminder!
I am still receiving the, “Is that you in this video” wall posts on my Facebook. Knowing they are scams for virus’, I have taken it upon myself to send my friends emails letting them know their account has been hacked and to change thier password. We can all help eachother!
RM is quite correct, don’t ever click on “links” to anything that you can easily type in the http://www.suntrust.com or what ever your financial/paypal/etc websites are!
If you even remotely unsure about a link, copy and paste it into google and if it is suspicious, someone in IT security has likely posted something about it on the web.
I have taught a FB class in at least 8 MCs and have 42K in GCI from FB this year, about to write an offer on an 850K house with clients via FB. The big picture about FB is it is replacing email for a lot of people in their sphere. If you are going to do it for business, you must do it daily. People expect instantaneous response to questions and just like email, if you snooze, you lose.
And please don’t play any of the games like Farmville or Mafia wars if you are going to use it for lead generation.
Sorry Irene and Larry, thanks for alerting us. Tom is right, it doesn’t seem to be working in Internet Explorer. We are working on the fix! Try refreshing the page and if that doesn’t work, here is the link to the video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3oD9zFwEiU
These have been great tips. Additionally, I try to remember to click on “Details” (at least on gmail pages), which might reveal something about the sender that will ring a bell.
I use the on-screen keyboard at lot for loggin in to accounts where security is more of a concern; that is, bank accounts, paypal, etc. I’m not sure if all operating systems have an on-screen keyboard; MS does. I saved it to my desktop. Anyway, the keystroks don’t register–so I’m told–as they do on the typical keyboard.
It is so true that building relations in your business is the first thing you need to establish to see success. Some people do that by sharing things for free, some do that by creating highly unique content and some do that by getting personal. I am trying to combine all three and in the long term I’m sure this will work.
Great video and these key hires are so true! As a Keller Williams agent, we get to see so much of this video training from KW. I think if you continue to post these types of videos on YouTube that agents from Realogy will jump ship and come over to the fastest growing major real estate company!
NO. Absolutely, a business CANNOT survive without culture. All successful businesses that last, have a common denominator…. the employees (or contributors) have PRIDE in what they do. It is not about the money, because at each individuals heart, they know that they must do what they love and the money will follow. Unless there is pride for the organization that you are affiliated with, there is no excitement to get up in the morning and do what is necessary to accomplish a goal. Enthusiasm comes from pride. Many successful businesses have failed over time when they did something that changed the “culture”. The airline industry is a good example. KW needs to invest in those with a “heart” and not just those that have a “high D” and no heart. Culture will always float to the top.
I’ve been engaged in taxations for lengthier then I care to acknowledge, both on the private side (all my working life story!!) and from a legal point of view since passing the bar and pursuing tax law. I’ve furnished a lot of advice and corrected a lot of wrongs, and I must say that what you’ve posted makes complete sense. Please persist in the good work – the more individuals know the better they’ll be outfitted to deal with the tax man, and that’s what it’s all about.
Our language is the road map of our culture. It tells us where our people come from and where they are going. It is the true point of seperation in our industry.
From Mastering the Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish -
“Having a few rules, repeating yourself a lot, and acting in ways that are consistent with the rules – these are the 3 keys whether you’re poviding your children with a good moral foundation or providing a company with a strong cultural foundation. And the evidence is irrefutable that a strong culture leads to superior performance, higher employee retention , and a better-aligned organization. Equally important, a strong culture driven by a handulf of rules (core values) makes leading people much easier, reduces the need for stacks of policies and procedures, gives everyone a foundation from which to make tough decisions, and generally brings simplicity and clarity to many of these “people” systems within the firm”.
Sound familiar?? In other words – NO – you can’t succeed at a high level without a strong culture!
I started blogging 2 years ago in November 2007 and in 2009 it was definitely a source of leads for me. My personal opinion is that you want your blogging efforts to be focused on your own site, not on a profile page that is part of a larger blog system such as Active Rain or Trulia.
My problem with these blogs is that once a potential client finds one of your posts, they are more likely to bounce off of your posts and continue reading regardless of who is the author than to click on your name and stick with you. The result is that they don’t connect the voice of authority with you but with the site. I really doubt agents will get much business that way.
Instead, I’ve chosen to create my own Wordpress.org blog. Once a visitor lands on my site, every bit of content they find is by me. All of my marketing efforts direct people to my blog and I’m doing well at capturing google visitors too.
Blogging takes a lot of time and commitment. Always stay focused on your goals and who you are trying to reach. I’m trying to reach local buyers and sellers, so I stay out of the politics of real estate and insider commentary.
I do think it would be great if each market center could have a group blog like this one. Agents could be invited to contribute. My goal in participating would be more for profit share than finding buyers/sellers. Wouldn’t it be a great selling point for KW if you could let agents know that your market center was THE authority in town when it came to cutting edge technology and internet presence. You could let agents know that they market center has a group blog so they don’t have to start one and be responsible for the back end administration completely on their own. I don’t know about anywhere else, but I’m not aware of any brokerage in St. Louis that has a group blog for their agents. We should be the first.
As a witness in our Market Center from launch to achievement, it is easily observable that those who are in culture are thriving in today’s marketplace. Without sounding judgmental, the agents who struggle with culture seem to have their focus distracted by problems, gossip, negativity or trouble. They usually end up leaving the Market Center if their core values are drastically different from the group.
I believe our OP’s presence and commitment to high standards keeps our Market Center in balance
I have experienced Keller Williams culture, and only 1 person who was out of culture all the time. My belief is that the ones who are out of culture do get lonely, and will eventually get in culture or move on to an enviornment better suited for them! The culture remains, and will not leave the KW office or company. There are too many people who love this company and what it stands for to let a few bad seeds destroy the crop!
Anyone who has not experienced working with Keller Williams is missing a great opportunity, for friendship, encouragement, training, and most of all THE CULTURE that remains day in and day out! I am proud to say I work with Keller Williams!
So well said and I could not agree more! Culture sets the foundation for long term success of any organization. Talent for the job is very important and talent that has not just a passion for culture but a willingness to demonstrate it in their own walk even when no one is looking is a necessicity. Without that respect, pride, and passion are eventually lost. And wherever the culture is lost in the organizational chain is where the weakest link is and the higher up the chain that it is lost, the more vulnerable is the organization. The hardest part of recruiting anyone from another company is leaving the great people with whom they now work. It’s not the money. Also, if culture does not float to the top, culture will float out of the door! That makes recruiting really GREAT people and retaining them very hard. Sometimes I believe people are confused about what culture is or is not. Culture is not about not having disagreements and even passionately debating issues. Jim Collins says in his new book “How the Mighty Fall” that in Stage 3 of a declining company “there is an erosion of healty team dynamics that shows a marked decline in the quality and amount of dialogue and debate; there is a shift toward either consensus or dictatorial management rather than a process of argument and disagreement followed by unified commitment to execute decisions.”
Never before has culture been so very obvious to me. For all of my career, seeking something, but not knowing what it was. Perhaps this void was always the motive for moving on. Creating the company that no agent would ever want or need to leave is so very refreshing. The power knowing that if I succeed, it is up to me…with a whole lot of support from KW people! Our market center embraces this concept from OP and MCA right on down to the newest rookie. The agents at Brand X just don’t know what they’re missing!
Recently when one of our agents had the opportunity to fight for a higher commission where the bank reduced the commission of a short sale and the other agent didn’t protect herself in the MLS with the appropriate 50/50 commission split, the agent was conflicted. Should he take the 3.5% commission and leave .5 to the listing agent? They both worked hard for months but he was entitled to the posted commission. As his coach, he asked me what I would do. I asked him to look into his own heart and do what was right for him. I didn’t tell him what to do and was deeply moved when he remembered that one of the reasons he came to KW was for our W4C2Ts. He let it go, split the 4% with the listing agent and two days later went into another escrow. I too, joined KW because of win-win, do the right thing and I celebrate that I rub elbows everyday with like minded people. Business more than succeeds with culture.. it thrives.
Our culture is the Golden Rule (do unto other as you would have them do unto you) and so much more…it’s really going outside yourself and looking for opportunities to make a difference.
Look at the list Kay Evans compiled in “What Is Culture”
*Complimenting others regularly
*Smiling at others in the Market Center regularly
*Staying home if you’re having a bad day attitudinally
*Speaking without profanity
*Committing a random act of kindness every day
*Giving seven hugs a day
*Being considerate of the staff
These are just seven of the 31 examples Kay gave us. It’s not only doing unto others, it’s being proactively and on purpose in our thoughts, actions, and feelings.
Ashley Wrobel’s story brings tears to my eyes. I know that on the surface it looks like the agent’s decision cost him money, but we all know that it comes back ten-fold in other ways.
Culture is an environment where we can all thrive.
As the owner of several small businesses (and as a real estate broker), I know first-hand the benefits of promoting a sense of camaraderie and a culture in my small business. I believe that to have been an essential element in the success of my businesses.
No a company cannot survive without having values!!
I believe that if you are going to talk the talk then you MUST walk the walk. It is easy for us in the market centers to practice culture because it comes from the top down.
When working at other brokerages and different companies in my past, I always had to practice my own desire to work out of integrity and trust because it was never like it is now for me here at Keller Williams. When the owner of the company I work for is allowing me to have Faith and work out of that Faith it is so easy to work out of and in the spirit of our culture…So to that I say “hats off to you”!!!!
Daniel Gomez.
“Culture” such and intangible thing. Something that is hard to explain yet easy to feel.
To answer the question “Can business succeed without Culture?” I suppose it could but I don’t think the business would be very rewarding or much fun. I have been selling real estate for 23 year and have been with 4 other companies. The difference I feel at KW is being part of something big through the sharing, caring, and wanting everyone to succeed.
When I get asked what my license plate means (KW4EVER), I just smile and say it means I am lucky to work with a company that I consider to be my family. KW ROCKS! See ya in New Orleans!
Nancy Farber
Canton Ohio (home of the Pro-football hall of fame)
Every company has a culture…not every company have a culture that they can be proud of. KW has a very solid business model that is the best in the business and we could survive on that business model alone. Our real success will be because of our culture. More than anything else, culture is what sets us apart from any competitor in the marketplace. World class training, state of the art technology and tools for the agents, combined with a culture of sharing and caring make KW an amazing opportunity. Why settle for surviving when you can succeed! KW ROCKS!!!
As a new ALC member, I was asked what committee I’d like to be on. Immediately, I said “Culture” because it was the KW culture that made my move to KW almost two years ago a no-brainer. Then, when asked what subject I would like to teach in our office, the answer was MINDSET! I feel so strongly about these two areas as being integral to our daily life and business success, and am excited to take on the privilege of being an ALC member. And where did I go first to seek training materials? Mo’s videos, of course!
I had worked for a Corporate Well known Real estate company in upper management for over 20 years… The only reason I left was because they did not even remotely understand “Culture”.. I was not sure what was missing until I went to Austin, met Kathy Neu and Mo Anderson and from that day on, it was so very clear. For years I listened to the rumors about KW and the Cool-Ade jokes… and I could not be happier..I was fortunate to be asked to Start a new office for KW and had a lot of learning opportunities . While I was not able to build the office to the level needed at the time , I was very successful at setting the culture… After 9 months as a team leader I had 78 agents in one of the worst down markets in years and in an undesirable office setting.. Yet the weekly meetings had 70% attendance and the “family” unity and desire to be of service was evident. I can not thank Mo enough for being the amazing example that she is.. Clearly this is something that speaks to how Mo lives her life… day in and day out.. You can not get better than to be around people who truly “walk the talk.” Thank you KW…
KW culture has changed my life and the lives of those around me. I have the honor of being an OP in a market center that we launched. We went from nothing to being #3 in our County – you don’t do that is this market without a strong culture! BTW we opened in 2006 in Florida – I know we all have great stories like this share – let’s keep doing so.
I have experienced first hand what the lack of a cultured business owner can do to a company. While they may still be in business they are definately not thriving, they are merely surviving. I am so blessed to be involved with a company that holds culture as the maintay of our existance. There is nothing more powerful than the simple belief that doing the RIGHT thing is alwas the best thing.
All business have culture, however, some are just not “good” culture! I came from a company that had a “bad” culture, and to say the least, it was not a fun place to work. One of the things I, as a TL, together with my leadership team are doing at our office in Chicago is to build a “CULTURAL FORTRESS.” In other words, make it a place that is so good, that no one will want to leave, and it will always be improving as we raise the bar every week. We have been very successful in the past year, since I have been here, improving the culture, and what we have found is that more agents come into the office to work, more participate in our activities, we are raising more money that before, and we have a place now that other agents want to be a part of!
Culture is the bottom line to have a successful, productive, fun, and happy environment to work in. Without it, or with “bad” culture, the business simply fails.
“Helping someone else achieve their goals..” I think this is the phrase, out of all the descriptive phrases that you have used, Mo, that best describes my feeling of what “culture” is… or should be.
Sometimes, we get so immersed in trying to plan for and achieve our OWN goals that we lose out on opportunities to lend an ear, a hand, or a shoulder to someone else. Let’s all stop for a moment.. somewhere in our busy day to listen for an S.O.S coming from a friend, family member, or colleague and respond in kind. There will be many blessing to count for sure!
You have inspired me and so many others and I am so proud of the company that I work for that understands the need to expose agents to other people who have had tough challenges to overcome! I look forward to keeping up with you and to watch how you continue to change lives by your decision to change your life. It has made me understand even more so as a team leader that there is only so much I can do….it really is up to each person….but I can inspire them or challenge them or listen to them and show them a better way…..thanks
Eric-I agree, since more people are utilizing social sites (sometimes even instead of email), it is a good reminder to treat our security on these sites with as much caution as we do financial sites. It almost seems that we feel safe because we have already logged in-and we are not.
I recently got a spam/scam DM on Twitter from a friend-she didn’t even know it was sent. So, the big lesson I learned was to make sure to let my friends/followers know if I get something from them-if it seems like a phishing scam.
I use Bit.ly to shorten my longer links-it looks like they are trying to help out to battle these scams: http://mashable.com/2009/11/30/bitly-security/. Hopefully all of the sites will be able to address these issues soon.
In the meantime, I recommend following Mashable (@mashable) and Spam Watch (@spam) on Twitter, or subscribing to their RSS feed for news on scams.
I agree in using this “slower economy” to build a network and improve strengthen alliances. Who knows, by doing these activities I might find that real estate is not as slow as CNN (Panic) Headlines might suggest…
Absolutley agree with establishing new relationships with your existing clients. Keep them focused and calm. This is now part of the redefined CRE Expert responsibility to educate and inform the client of the daily changing trends. Are you sending related, current reports, news articles? Are you attending local Commercial Board Meetings and Mastermind Meetings? Are you staying informed? Actions which will give you an edge, the expert. Take advantage of this time and continue your education goals, continue to develop a full force lead generation program. Part of my business develoment is to gain a larger share of the tenant representation, network with my residential colleagues, and get back to street level lead generating!! There are great opportunities in this market.
“RESPA wants to make it easier for borrowers to shop for the lowest-cost, most convenient ”
You make no reference to quality, competence and integrity. How will the buyer determine these important characteristics and will they take the time to go through the process?
Our broker advised us long ago not to “refer” just one person for a job. So I have a list to hand out if asked. but, I agree with Doug, cheeper is not always better. There is a list of interview questions you should ask when looking for a service provider – weighing out everything to make a decission. I hope that they will some how make this clear.
How many should we include on our list. Is three enough? Should we copy the telephone book? I agree the choice is the client’s. Our job is to educate, empower and enable them to make good decisions during the real estate transaction. They come to us for our advice and guidance through a very intimindating process. We all know cheaper is not necessarily better. I am afraid a long laundry list will delay the process and have us working with providers we don’t know and systems that are as new to us as our client.
So much for one-stop shopping! As most of our competitors also have ownership in title companies and mortgage companies, it will be interesting to see how this shakes out. I wonder how one gets a “comprehensive list” that will be useable? If you go to the website for the Wisconsin Reg & Licensing, I don’t believe there is a breakdown by location. Will a 3-choice list be considered “comprehensive”? Can’t wait to find out the details.
Suggestion…always refer at least 4. That is 3 actual providers and then a reference to the phone book. This way you are covered and not setting yourself up for a problem.
What a great reminder for me that I need to be putting money away – I so rarely think about it because it seems so difficult. I like the breakdown as well, I’ve never had a consultation regarding retirement so I never really knew how much I should be saving. This article is an example of one of the reasons I love KW so much: it’s not always about selling real estate, it’s about having and building a better life.
I am curious as how this will affect production builders as well as far as them using their preferred lender to offer incentives like point buy downs, covering closts costs and other perks.
John-Yes, RESPA affects all relationships that involve settlement service providers included on HUD-1 statements, such as mortgage and title.
Doug-Absolutely you are correct that quality, competence and integrity are of great importance. It is also in the buyers best interest to do their due diligence as well. We provide many tips and guides for home buyers, including the HUD Home Buying Guide here: http://www.kw.com/kw/MortgageInformation.html
I wonder how the new RESPA laws will affect our Keller Williams Market Centers where some of the owners are in joint ventures with mortgage companies.
In the past Keller Williams was definitely safe because the profit from the Mortgage company goes into the profit sharing pool and then is distributed through our system to all agents who qualify for profit sharing by referring agents to Keller Williams.
I imagine the Profit Pool aspect will still be within RESPA guidelines. What I wonder about is the complications of one person, or several people, being in ownership of both the market center and the mortgage company.
Great video! A couple of questions – what does compensation look like for a showing assistant…hourly? And if so on the same pay scale as an administrative assistant? Do you pay for gas?
I wonder if this new regulation also will apply to the Banks that force consumers to use their services to send an offer (you must be pre-qualified with such and such bank ); or use their pre selected attorneys, and title companies. I am willing to bet that the regulation will not apply to banks. So this is just going to be more regulations for the Real Estate Professionals.
Is it permissible in California, to give a non licensed person a monetary finders fee–say $500 upon closing–for a lead they provided. A recent attorney said okay, but I wanted another opinion.
A prominent local attorney and a lender briefed the RESPA changes (on GFEs and HUDs) at our market center this week.
Between the GFE/HUD changes, the HVCC, and the TILA, it’s funny that HUD thinks this is going to make things easier and save Buyers money. They really just need to put down the crack pipe.
An attorney (or title company) previously charging $700 (including abstract and fees) for a 45 minute closing now has to budget for at least an hour and fifteen minutes per transaction. That cost is certainly going to be passed on to the consumer, as will the lender’s increased time in ensuring they meet all the new guidlines.
With an expected 1st or 2nd Quarter increase in FHA downpayment requirements and decrease in allowable seller contributions – it is nowhere near time to put our dog-eared “Shift” books up on the shelf.
Somethings never change,the few bad apples in the industry always spoil it for the majority. Instead of new HUD and RESPA requirements, Why not have tougher requirements for lisensure in Real Estate,Title,Mortgage,Builders,Inspectors,Appraisors and other related real estate providers.
Hello Mo! Thank you for that beautiful message. While initially I thought I would be having a dark holiday season, but the family in our Market Center has been such a fabulous and supportive group of associates, I find I can sit back and just enjoy the reason for the holiday!
It is such a pleasure to be in business with you – one of our fabulous leaders, Shaun Rawls and Keller Williams Realty! In all of my years I have never been this happy in this business. We love you dearly and wish you a Very Merry Christmas!
What a wonderful message for all of us as we celebrate the season! I too am grateful for the wonderful diversity in our great company. Every day our associates inspire me in so many, meaningful ways.
Thank you for all you do and for your wonderful encouragement!
Hi Mo, nice post. Thanks for the message. As a KW client, I would like to express my gratitude and warmest wishes to your associates here in L.A. Your company has an awesome culture and the service I have received has always been excellent. I look forward to my future dealings with KW. I hope you have a very happy Xmas and a wonderful new year.
Katie Kay. XXXXX
Hi Mo,
Thank you so much for your meaningful message. You always know just the thing to say to help everyone understand the big picture!
I am so thankful to be a part of the KW family in Atlanta.
Dearest Mo,
Thank you for sharing your holiday message. You personify the culture of our company and serve as an icon for our KW family to follow. It is with true gratitude that I feel toward belonging to our great company. Happy HOLY DAY to you and yours!
Lynn Seevers
Keller Williams SouthShore
Apollo Beach, FL
Excellent concept. I am in the process of rebuilding my past “group”, and creating a dynamic MREA “TEAM”. I can’t wait to share this concept with my lead buyer agent. Thanks
There is always backlash when bad actors show up however, we are all focused on offering our clients the best and easiest process we can. We chose top mortgage and title people based on their track record and feel we are serving our clients in their best interest. I wish I had a dollar for every mortgage loan that didn’t close on time or at all which our in-house mortgage company then rescued and got to closing. It’s typical that any “government” protection will always cost more and take more time. In light of how bribery is working to pass unpopular and unnecessary programs today I think “they” need to look at their crooked practices and leave us alone. THEY caused this mortgage debacle, remember?
Caring to make a difference in other peoples lives is the reason Keller Williams appeals to my team in the business world. The more we can impact the clients we work with, their view of real estate will change. I thank every KW agent that takes there culture with our comnpany to the next level seriously. Don Kolenda
Good morning Mo,
What a joyous HOLY DAY we enjoyed with our family! Christmas Mass is always special and as the Children’s Choir began with Happy Birthday Jesus and our young grandson sang along….wow….Thank you for your inspiration and for your beautiful message. Hugs from Boise, Idaho.
Gail Hartnett
Facebook has become my 33 touch. It is the best way to stay in constant contact with my SOI. The amount of leads generated is astounding.
Big in ‘10? Hard to say, but I think twitter has peaked, while Facebook will continue to expand. I am waiting to see a more interactive “group” software in either Facebook or some such. I have some email threads going with some specific groups of people within Facebook but it’s clumsy at best.
I believe social media is here to stay and I was excited to get http://www.facebook.com/activSalesAgent as our fanpage. I can say that a key to social media is to manage the time you invest in it a keep an eye on the result you generate from it. I believe that the real time internet trends are a great opportunity and going forward website are going to evolve into actual retail spaces. Fully interactive (with a live chat solution) in order to help connect with your prospective clients while they are looking you up!
It amazes me that social media has taken off the way that it has. The biggest advantage that I have seen is the ease in which knowledge can be gained, and shared. Not only can we connect with more people than ever before, we also get to see what is working for other Real Estate professionals. This helps us design our plan, learn and grow, and achieve a greater level of success. (and have some fun along the way!)
On a recommendation from this blog, I read the book, Crush It! by Gary Vaynerchuck. While it did not give a lot of technical info on setting up a video blog, it was a great message for mixing your passion (real estate for must of us) into a social media and video format.
This month I will be changing http://BuilderCoupon.com into a video blog. I am betting that video will increase my conversion rates on the website. It worked for Gary V!
I also set up a Fan Page for BuilderCoupon on Facebook, this way – I am not spamming friends and family with my irresistibe real estate marketing updates
Gotta go with what Eric said – it’s a wonderful touch-tool. Just last week I recruited my first facebook agent, and it snowballed into three more before the week’s end. If used the way smarter people than me teach, it can become a powerful portion of your marketing effort. I suggest the mastermind panel video on soical media from megatech camp 2009 on kwconnect.
New here, but wanted to comment on the respa stuff.
Along with the List we will now have to provide, it may be a good idea to have a few questions in mind to give to your clients to ask of the people on the list. If we are going to empower the people, they should probably get a few questions answered by the people on the “list”.
I think by doing this the client will either like the company they are asking the questions of or not like them and move on. and don’t forget to get the clients feedback so you can keep a log. here in Tx customer service is still KING.
Just a thought
Having been a Financial Advisor prior to becoming a Real Estate Agent, I’d like to add one suggestion to the list. Invest in Real Estate If you purchase an Investment Property while in your 30s the mortgage will be paid for in your 60s and the Rental Income you earn can help supplement your retirement income, or, you can chose to sell the property which will have appreciated nicely over 30 years, and in the meantime your tenants would have paid off most of, if not all of your mortgage.
The only problem with getting a vanity URL is a lot of people are getting them for their profile and not for the fan page. Which is a bad choice because google does not index profiles and does index fan pages. You can also sell a fan page (think retirement and selling your data base)
PS: Fan my page and I will Fan you back. This will also give your page and mine more exposure by the way.
I understand the provider list but do we have to calculate a charge for each provider listed or are we listing just the settlement charge for the closing?
Awesome post, thanks for the info! I agree with each and every one and work hard at keeping up my website and it is – yes, it is! – generating leads! Hooray!
Trish Giassa
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty in Crested Butte, Colorado http://www.homes-in-crested-butte.com
Great title and excellent, concise article on Internet Lead Generation. The numbers are in. The internet is the way to go — and understanding how to attract, cultivate, and work with internet Buyers will enable those that “get it” to ride the online wave to success.
Some of the easier key words to focus on are what people want. If a person is considering moving to an area, what are they searching besides houses? Schools Parks and Crime.
2-3 decent keyword enriched articles about each and you are there.
I am consistently in the top 5 search results for Cottonwood Heights Parks, CH Schools, CH Police, CH City Council
The ones that beat me out are the city, the school, the parks and recreation…
I pay per click some of the more expensive parts.
The point is the long tail words are easy to control. Remember families moving want to know schools, parks and crime.
I keep a search widget on my site defaulted to the city, I have crime report links defaulted to that city.
Seth Godin spoke about it in Atlanta, you cannot compete with the big boys in big areas, but the big boys cannot compete with you in the small areas.
I followed #kwfr, not quite the same as being there. But learned some really good things believe it or not.
Like when some tweeted that the most searched phrase was Luxury Foreclosures. Well I happend to be sitting at my computer and I went to Go Daddy and bought SaltLakeLuxuryForeclosure.com
Rob Aubrey, Just because you rank for a long tail keyword does not mean the traffic is there to make it a good choice. For example I just did an analyses on key phrases you gave and Cottonwood Heights Parks only gets 3 searches a day and out of that 3 you will get maybe 1 click thru to you’re site.
Also ‘Lakefront homes for sale in Austin’ get’s zero searches how ever ‘Austin Home for sale’ will get you 74 clicks. “Austin MLS” will get 374
You are right about long tail keywords being easy to control. You just have to know which ones are worth controlling.
I just reached 25 fans on my Facebook fan page and got my new keyword rich vanity URL. http://www.facebook.com/ashevillehomes If you notice from my first post the old URL had all those numbers. That made it look ugly in print advertising. A Facebook fan page is a must and every agent should have one along with a Twitter and Youtube account.
Thank you for this fantastic article! I am just getting around to refining my new website & incorporating SEO, & this really helps! Thanks for all the great comments too! Candy in Sherman Oaks
That’s great information, but nothing in the article will generate you any business from the internet. For that you will need rankings and for rankings you will need incoming links. Good content might help generate a few links, but, until you build relationships with people online who link to you and know you, you won’t get rankings and therefore won’t get leads.
Also, you might think about adding the “subscribe to comments” plugin so people who comment get notified when new comments are added to posts.
Nice post Karey! I tell all our agents who use KW websites that they have got to customize that main page or Google will never find them. Great tips here!
Excellent starter tips in a concise delivery, Cary.
Ryan brings up a good point (although I disagree with his “nothing in the article” assesment). You must get out there and surf to find the relevant sites that provide you the link-love he describes. I routinely comment on four agent-centric or real estate related sites on a daily basis – weekends included. When coupled with our other SEO efforts, it’s taken my site to #2 for our keywords (over 14,000 hits a month).
Be relevant, be consistent – it’s like any other job.
You’ve hit the nail on the head. This is no longer technology. It is part of your marketing plan.
As for turning clicks into appointments, it’s right there in SHIFT. Make Offers for Immediate Response. The more creative the better, and there’s always companies inventing new mousetraps (SmarterAgent, Market Snapshot, IDX for mobile, etc…) Family Reunion, Mega Camp, and Masterminds are THE place to get your creative juices flowing by hearing what works and what doesn’t from agents in different markets. See you there, rockstars!
Jeff, they were examples, I get a fair amount of traffic from what I call the non sexy keywords. The key is lots of them.
Those articles bring me quite a bit of traffic from many variations of the searches
ie
canyons school district employment
cottonwood heights school district
the canyons district
That’s just on a few articles on the schools
Then there is parks
cottonwood heights movies in the park
bark in the park utah
bywater park cottonwood heights
Those few articles create good ranking and traffic on the above searches.
I am amazed at the variations of searches that show up.
That is what the long tail is about.
The best example of the long tail is a physical book or record store.
Because of space they can only afford to carry items that sell a fair amount, in SEO that means a more expensive keyword. Either through a lot of work or pay per click.
However an online bookstore can afford to carry less popular items, that may only sell a few a year but because their space is not an issue, they can carry thousands of items that a physical store cannot. Again in keywords, that means less expensive per keyword. It takes more time and more content, but over time a focused effort and eventually you can control a small market place without paying google (Google pay per click has it’s place)
Eventual after controlling many lesser keywords, you will start ranking better on more popular keywords.
The other side of the long tail concept is after time it is hard for competition to catch you.
There is a tool called http://www.HitTail.com awesome. It will track your keywords, rank them, make suggestions…
This is a great article!! As far as making sure you website has information on it that people are looking for, does it matter if it is in just on the website in a page, or is it always better to post your info in the form of a blog? I see that KW offers the eAgenC Blog feature powered by Top Producer and was going to give it a try.
Lori, blogs are the easiest to use. They are very easy to ad information. Also they are built with SEO in mind.
You can categories to make information easy to find and many other things.
I think the eAgentC blogs are great and they are built with Word Press my absolute favorite.
I recommend getting your domain and getting it hosted under that domain. One of the benefits of a good blog is the SEO, it would be a shame to not have that SEO on a domain you own.
Great article and perfect timing. I’m getting ready to redesign my site, have a a few domains and need all the SEO/internet lead generation help I can get. Was wondering abouut the AR blog verus a wordpress blog as far as “Google juice?”
Once again you are coming through with great information for our associates! I really think amping up the discussion around the “Long Tail” effect is a necessity in today’s online world. Far too many real estate agents are getting hooked in to expensive deals where SEO optimization companies are promising them the world in exchange for thousands of dollars.
Jay, great perspective – thanks for sharing. I agree that by focusing on the opportunity of the gift of profit share, the ROI of time is astonding. I’ve been with KW about four and a half years and my profit share has totaled over 60K…with about seven in my front line. I’d say that is quite a nice start on ANY financial goal…what do you think?
When I switched from Coldwell Banker to KW, I told my team leader at the time, that I was not interested in recruiting and was just coming to KW for the training and better commission splits. It was not until I went to Mega Camp and got the chance to listen to Gary speak that I finally ‘GOT IT’!
Once I realized that profit share was real, and more importantly, that the KW model was truly the best place for an agent to run their business, I was genuinely excited about sharing the KW opportunity with others. Five years after recruiting my first agent, I have made over $119,000 in profit share!! Thanks KW!
KW Family: Feel free to utilize my recruiting blog for your own personal recruiting efforts….good luck!
This is one of the best parts of partnering with such a great company like Keller Williams Realty. They give you ownership in the company. It couldn’t be better. This is a goal I am going to have to set myself.
Profit share is no joke. It is no different than referring a good doctor or a good restaurant to someone. When you believe something is good, share it. Chances are they think its good too.
It’s really not difficult. I think most people are frozen into inaction and probably more so than ever. You need to pick your niche and write about it. Presumably you are passionate about your niche and as a result you can’t possibly use the old excuse of not having anything to write about. Come up with a strategy on how you will consistently feed your blog and get started. One of the great features of WP is being able to schedule posts, so you can time-block a couple times a week to write, but schedule your posts to come out over a period of time. Also great if you’re going away on vacation.
Thanks for sharing, Mo. I first learned at FSO about 3 years ago just how seriously our leadership takes the WI4C2TS. This is a great story about how part of that originated.
This is a great story you shared, it shows how simply doing the right thing can impact anyone. Your life surely was impacted by someone else taking that stand.
Great post. “Do the right thing” is the only option no matter how ominious or challenging a situation may seem. The fruits produced by doing the right thing leads to perserverance, and holding to what is true and right leads to maturity. Thanks for the reminder.
Thank you for making many great points in this conversation. The follow up to the work of driving visitors to a site is to have a powerful call to action and an easy way for anonymous web shoppers to take that step.
Being able to leverage a website as a live web retail space space require a shift, that shift is to be able to “see” your web shoppers live and be able to interact with them. Engage them into a conversation and convert them into prospective clients.
I hope to be at family reunion and maybe meet to expand on what that looks like!
Thank you Mo!!! It’s a great reminder we should all post at eye level at our desks! “Do the right thing”, not what’s easy! Inspirational…you’re the best!
Thank you, Mo, for reminding us that even the most successful business people have come through very challenging times! I’m so proud to be a part of the Keller Williams family.
It’s my understanding that google is now indexing tweets, this means a fast easy one way directional link to your website, just tweet using keywaords and a link to your website like the following –
If anyone wants to add me, I’m SellHouseNY, also, if your mutually following someone, they’re technically posting your tweets which means addition one way tweets to your website
Thanks Mo,
In the end it’s not just about making money, it’s about doing the right thing and the rest will follow. That’s one of the many reasons why I am partnered with Keller Williams Realty!
Great article and suggestions as well – domain name, meta-tag, keyword, title and landing page is probably some of the most important information needed for a website.
One of the readers suggested that you need to include some hyperlinks from other sites (another great idea) – this is essential. As an example, I’ve included links to the local county school systems, service providers, and area businesses on my site.
Also, if you can add your website link & info onto other business websites (such as a local community’s listing, business listing, real estate, service listing, etc) on the internet – this will help TREMENDOUSLY!
You can also register your website’s link with Yahoo, Google, and other search engines. You may want to sign up for the “Google Analytics”. KW has a space on the SITE INFO page to include your “Google Analytics” number. This will allow you to get ‘in-depth’ reporting and statistics.
If you have a personalized domain name – there are many other things you can do to make each page within your site searchable. If you are interested: http://www.homesalesmaryland.com Susie Lemar
You may need to use pay-per-click for a few months to drive traffic to your site, but soon enough you will start seeing your site rank up there on the first fiew pages.
ALSO, don’t forget to make sure that your domain name is displayed prominently on your business card, flyers, and postcards! Continue passing those puppies out every chance you get because, ultimately, the internet isn’t the ’sales rep’ – you are.
Kudos to KW’s IT dept for giving its agents real sites and the tools to develop them further!
Do the right thing! I like the unedited version best about how you prayed for direction. We thank God for you, Mo and your sterling example. Thank you for sharing that inspiring story.
Thank you Mo. I am a fairly new Realtor. I started with C21 and recently joined the Keller Williams Family and your story truly touch me. Your story and those four words, “Do The Right Thing” will stay with me always!! Thank You!!
Do the right thing! Those are four powerful words that can change the world. I’ll be adding them to my Facebook page, website, email signature, and more.
Mo, thanks for reminding us of these 4 HUGE words. If you are clear about these 4 words; peace surrounds you and decisions come without struggle. What a relief from anxiety and stress these 4 words do when you live by them!
I think you are the best!
Mo I’m so grateful for you, & the Keller Williams leadership!
God has led me to a great company, & I’m proud to be a part of the KW family! God bless you all, I look forward to seeing you at family reunion!
Mo…You Rock! And you are our cultural rock! Thank you for keeping that bar high for our company. Whenever I read a “Mo quote” I actually hear her voice as I read to myself. Does anyone else experience that?
Mo~ That story is great! One for its own merits but also because that is a staple of conversation throghout our house with 5 children. (Must be said often to the 3 teenagers). Thank you for all you do!
Mo, Your story brought back to mind something that happened to me. While working with a new client and learning about the job offer he had just accepted, I talked him out of taking that job because it was not giving him anything that he didn’t have already and he was putting his family through great stress. As a result, there was no relocation and no sale for me. When I told my wife what I had done, she got angry at me. I turned to her and said, exactly, “I have to do the right thing!” Guess what? 4 months later, the same client was recruited for a new job in my area and he came back and bought a house through me resulting in a $21,000 commission. He and his wife are now amongst my best “bird dogs” for new introductions. I live by those words; there’s just no other way!
Mo:
I had read your story years ago, and it is inspiring. I am so honored to be involved with a company that put ethics at the top of the list. I joined the real estate business because I experienced so many agents that would do anything to get a sale while my wife and I were house hunting I believed that clients deserved better and resolved to make a difference. I am glad I finally joined Keller Willliams. It was the best decision I could have made.
WOW! My husband Lewis and I are new to Keller Williams Realty. We have collectively been in residential real estate sales for over 40 years, with Coldwell Banker and most recently with Prudential CT Realty.
You have just validated for us why we joined this great company with your powerful story. Thank you!
Beth L McIntyre
Keller Williams Realty
Farmington Valley Market Center
Avon, CT
06001
Great story, thanks for sharing. I have always believed that if you do things for the right reasons that everything will turn out right! As I embark on a new career, you continue to be an inspiration.
Thank you for sharing Mo! Your example continues to inspire all those you come in contact with. I am truly honored and humbled to be a part of leadership in this awesome company of moral and ethical values. Your powerful story also attests to the wonder of prayer and how our spirtual lives must intertwine with our business life!
Mo,
I just read the story and it gives me such inspiration to keep going through these difficult times. At the beginning of 2009 I had started a pretty good year and everything was moving and going great. As the mid year hit all possible transactions seem to come to a halt and anything and everything was either delayed or cancelled. I am no stranger to difficut times and this was very challenging even for me. It is now Feb 1st and I have not been able to close a transaction as of yet. I know what I need to do, and I am currently enrolled in BOLD and I am getting back to the basics and lead generating like I should have been always.
This helped me in more ways that I can say!
Thank you,
Leslie Guzman
Keller Williams Benchmark Properties
We love this culture. I joined KW after 8 years with Remax. My husband joined me last year. KW fits like a glove. BOLD has helped us both as well. Thank you for all your inspiration and vision.
When people ask why I volunteer to help others, I always say that karma pays me back with interest. You will never know how much of a difference you can make in someones life by doing the right thing. Especially yours.
Dianna Kokoszka has said to me several times “No single conversation can change the trajectory of a person’s life, and any single conversation can.”
What a great example of a wonderful principle.
Fantastic example Mo! It is great to be in the mist of a great culture
like the one that Keller Williams Realty has. I love the words….”Do the right thing!” That is what the Lord expects of us.
That’s what it is all about. I must put this on my facebook. Thanks for your
inspiration! God Bless you.
It is always easy to find someone to blame.. In this case they do deserve it but here is my question… If we can not go back in time.. what good does it do to dwell on the damage that has been done?
I would like to find a way to build up trust, morale and momentum in the real estate industry.. Please do not think I am overly enhusiastic or unrealistically positive.. I just feel we must get our heads out of the sand and hope we can erase the damage because we can not.. I believe the public needs to see us emerge once again as the professionals most of us are with confidence… and it is great if we have lenders who can be trusted .. lenders who know how to be creative while ethical..
There is and will be fraud… we can not totally control that.. but I feel we can concentrate on what we can control and re-establish the great value in real estate…Please join me.
As a new agent in 1997 at Realty One, I had just the opposite experience. In church one Sunday, a friend who owned a mortgage company asked why Suzy Buyer had written a contract with an experienced agent in my office when he had recommended me. Turns out, the agent was answering phones when Suzy called and asked for me but mispronounced my last name. “Do you know Nancy?” experienced agent asked. “No, but my loan officer said I should call her,” Suzy said. “Have you signed papers with her?” agent inquired. “No, I’ve never met her,” Suzy replied. Experienced agent convinced her she had to use her since she answered the phone, showed her one house and earned a commission!
Fast forward to my first week at Keller Williams in 2004. I got a call from from one of our owners, also named Nancy. “First welcome to Keller Williams,” owner Nancy said. “I got a message I think is yours since I don’t know this person. They asked for Nancy and got connected to me.” It was a referral, I sold them a home and listed theirs.
The tale of two companies. Boy, do I love Keller Williams! Thanks for reminding me, MO.
this is one of my tweets, if you want to know how effective blogging is, I googled one of my websites domain names and this blog right here came up on the google search. Trulia is another good one, when you answer questions on it, keyword stuff it and put in links to your websites.
Jay, my story is so similar to yours. I joined KW at the end of 2005. For years I thought, I don’t want to sell someone on KW. I couldn’t do that. What was I thinking. Linda McKissacks downline should show us all, 20 people in your immediate downline can equate to thousands of dollars annually. It’s now 2010 and I just recruited my first two agents this January. What’s astounding is both agents are big producers and have already committed to bringing three and 5 agents over with them respectively in the next few months. That means my small family tree has potential to grow exponentially. And that’s just the beginning. There’s no stopping me now…
Thanks, Mo, for sharing and reminding us to do the right thing. I will miss you at the family reunion this year. I have been attending the past three years since I joined KW. Hopefully, I can go to the Mega Camp this year. Agains, thank you for your inspirations!
I believe we need to make it more accessable and easier to make complaints for mortgage brokers and loan originator we know of breaking the rules and the law. A lot of times we think it is not right to “snitch” because of Karma, but in any other field, if there was a doctor or an attorney per say, breaking the law and committing fraud in their fields, their industry and colleagues would come down on them immediately and report them to the proper authorities. We need access to these departments that will take these matters serious and not just put them in the back burner like some Departments of Real Estate do today.
Let’s better this industry continuing to rise the ethics and deminish the fraudulant agents out there who continue to bring our value down. We need to bring the education lever up and enforce the licensing process to filter out the bad apples.
Wow!! The first time I heard this story was when I first joined Keller Williams back in 1998. I think about it most every time I read the WI4C2TS.
But then I left the business in 2001 because of a serious health problem and because of what I saw happening in the lending business. But real estate has always been my career, so I worked in a foreclosure law firm for a few years as a paralegal. When I realized in 2007 what was actually happening to the real estate industry, I decided to get back into real estate sales.
Fast forward to 2009 and my story is a duplicate of Leslie’s — pretty good first half of the year, slow second half with only one closing, and so far in 2010, nothing. But I made a REALLY good decision about my real estate career in June of 2009, and that was to rejoin Keller Williams (mainly because I saw information on the internet that Sandy Murphy had returned to Keller Williams Realty Downtown as the team leader — and because I pulled out some old “Mo” quotes and restudied them).
Thanks to your wonderful retelling of your story, Mo, I have offered it up to God, and asked for His guidance — both He and you, Mo, have inspired me this morning to “JUST DO IT!” and “DO THE RIGHT THING”. Starting today, February 8, this will be the best real estate year of my life!!
Thanks so much for keeping your story in front of our eyes! You are a true inspiration to all of us.
Tracy Howard
Keller Williams Realty Downtown
Denver, Colorado
Thanks Gary. That was a great video on the importance of staying focused on the goal at hand. You tell yourself that the other things are helping you get to your goal, but in reality they are just weighing you down.
I really enjoyed this blog. Sometimes we can pick up the extra rocks and still think that we are focusing on the goal. But like you said, we are actually slowing ourselves down from attaining the one goal we started out trying to accomplish. thanks…
I’m new to the company and I am joining my wife to form a team. There are so many things pulling at me as a newbie. Somehow I have found myself dragging that same bag o’ rocks.
My delema is that even though my first priority this year was just to set up our business, I have been getting involved in everything else and have not executed my plan. We are half-way through the first quarter of the year, I will focus on my rock and drop the bag. Thanks.
I am packing and on my way! First time to FR and I am a team leader. Mega Camp was absolutely amazing and I am told this is even better. Not wearing socks because I am sure they would be blown off:)
This Family Reunion is amazing! Gary Keller’s panel was insightful and motivating. Loved hearing the personal stories of triumph over defeat. His interview of Warren Macdonald left me in tears. I’ll definitely read his book. So much already and we’re just getting started!
I met with Bert last week to get him going on kw tech stuff. He already has his domain name set up (correctly) and now he at kwfr. Go Bert, go! Just another reason I am so proud to be. A part of such an amazing company. Take advantage of the resources kw provides.
Absolutely brilliant words of Gary’s: NO MATTER the market, your success is defined by your actions…so easy to do but also so easy not to…
With smiles,
Bo in Yukon
Gary was great….and as he has been over the years, realistic and still positive, and still very encouraging. Kind of back to the basics, with creativity and inovation.
Should be a good day today…Ron Largent, Redding,CA
I am so sorry I missed this. I am going to start saving NOW for next year’s convention and you all should as well! Please check out my FACEBOOK page…Michele Lundgren-Keller Williams Realty Royal Oak.
Enjoy the show!
Commercial real estate is a thriving business when done right. Now’s the time to get involved with KW Commercial as the pendulum swings to the buying side. Come join me in Las Vegas. Make your move today!
Derek Belanus
KW Commercial
Dean & Ross
Las Vegas, Nevada
KW Usually is amazing with Techonology…can’t seem to point me in the direction to watch the actual live feeds! Even the live feeds page just has the dates and times of the available items. This is extreemly irritating!
It really was a great opening. A very realistic encouragement to keep on doing the basics in a consitent and determined way to produce success in 2010.
I think we should all take memory of these times in our career and and success in following through on these four Huge words. Reflecting on those times with great outcomes can drive us forward in our not so great times, when we may find ourselves on the ‘not so fair’ side of the Ethical fence. Please Mo, do Quantum Leap again…. You were truly inspirational in your honesty and effect for me at that time!
It is the positive mindset and the ‘belief’ in yourself and what you do that makes the difference. The support and training is here at KW and known ny the competition…Wish I was able to attend this year…
If you haven’t visited the DotLoop team (The DeLorian from “Back to the Future”) you MUST talk to them. They give going green new meaning. Our industry has been looking for a way to simplify and DotLoop has the solution.
Great presentation. Lots of nuggets to use in my business. My take away was that customers want websites basically to look for homes. Give them that ability, make sure you have all homes for sale available, and give some neighborhood information and you are ahead in the game.
Perhaps the best words of encouragement that I’ve heard in the past 2 years – no hype but just the facts and stats that speak for themselves. Our clients really do need to hear this message of encouragement. As agents, it’s our job to help eliminate fear and provide perspective. Thank you Keller Williams, for re-framing this market and providing perspective.
This class was – by far – the most informative class of the week thus far. They gave away actual secrets. Thanks guys! Do you ware the vests all the time?
Important highlights – we are number one in all areas except for amount of agents. We are not far behind in amount of agents and can easlily meet the goals set for us for 2011. We have been recognized by and rated by all important companies that rate real estate companies and JD Powers said we are the “Crown Prince” of real estate. We are the number one rated company for name recognition and out of the top rated companies we are the only company that had an increase in amount of agents added where the others had a negative result in net agents. More agents left the other companies than those who joined. We are number one in sales and many other top ratings and our culture stands out amoung all other top real estate companies. We are so proud to be connected with such a strong company that has no debt!
Outstanding information! Nancy and I are done trying to do it “our” way – now we will just follow Gene and MREA – look for a whole new Cross Team in 2010!
Wow Nina, that is the first time I have ever seen something like this on the KWFamily Reunion Comment website. And with the emphasis on Healthcare, taking care of yourself and having life goals in business, fitness, etc., it’s not a surprise that Keller Williams cares about our health. Must be because they want us to enjoy our profit share as long as we can. Hah, hah. But needless to say, we have a surge of energy going on at our Ballantyne office as we have Core classes twice a week and we are working on having a healthy office with full of energy. And, Family Reunion is a treat to go on, if they over did it a little bit there, they will be back on track when they return. We all love Keller Williams. Thank you for the health tips for nutrition at Family Reunion. They always have healthy snacks available for us during the breaks.
For those who have just joined the real estate business or for those that are veterans in the business; I can only say that the State of the Company address will jump-start your new career or re-energize your existing involment in the business.
It is a must watch if your serious about your business and if your serious about your affliation with this company.
Wish I were there. Looks like a great time again. I was at Vegas, Atlanta and Orlando. Looking forward to next year after a tremendous 2010! I just opened a guitar store and can’t leave it yet. http://www.DandDGuitars.net
I’m so proud and honored to be part of an amazing company and see they have great goals. Being debt free is one of a kind thing in the corporate world and is wonderful.
Wish I could have been there this year but will be there next year for sure. Enjoy everyone and lets make 2010 best ever.
If you didn’t attend this class, you should be the first person in line today to hear them teach it again! I’ve heard a lot of people talk about Short Sales, but few have actually talked about them AND experienced them! This was definitely the best class I went to all week/weekend!! I would have paid to hear just Kevin & Fred…seriously!!
Great stuff! Gene Rivers is inspirational. He is one of my favorites on the KWU falculty. Thanks Gene! Looking forward to seeing you again in the Greater PA Region.
Great Job Guys! The buyer consultation Kevin and Fred are talking about should be under Education and then KW Connect. That page has recently been changed so if you have a hard time finding it just search Nikki Ubaldini in the search tab at the top of your KW site. I recently joined Group 46:10 as a Buyers agent and every buyer I have met with so far has signed a buyer rep with me after using this presentation along with the education of Short Sales vs REO’s.
This State of the Company report reminds all KW agents across the continent that you’re partnered with the right people, the best model, the right dynamics moving forward into the next decade. We ALL perfectly positioned to make great gains in our markets and have our highest-earning, most-rewarding years ahead of us. Great job, KW agents!
This report reminds all KW agents across the continent that we’re partnered with the right people and the best model (by a long shot) moving into the next decade. The culture just works, plain and simple, and it’s a recipe for every KW agent to gain great market share this year — and have our best,
most-satisfying and most-profitable years ahead of us.
Wow, I still can’t get over the information that I had to process today from Kevin and Fred’s class. I absolutely know for a fact that you could sit in this class a dozen times and get something completely different out of it each time. It’s absolutely crucial that you attend class today and give your complete undivided attention with all Iphones and Blackberries turned off. I will be looking forward to seeing you all in class again today to learn not only how to list a short sale but most importantly how to close it! Props to Kevin and Fred on teaching the best class I’ve seen yet at Family Reunion!
Keller Williams leadership does it again! More than ever I know I am in the right company, with the right people, with the best leadership in the industry. Meeting the agent growth goals benefits every one of us with our unique profit share opportunity. I’m going to share this State of the Company information with agents from every other company. Everyone wants to belong to a great team, the best team, and we have it. Invite them all!
I heard these guys speak and beware that their success rate and experience level is not substantiated by any facts. I learned nothing from the class. I’d pass if i were you…
Definitely an area that we need to continue to leverage. Social media has proven to be the great equalizer across multiple industries. Opportunities for real estate agents to grow their business is unlimited.
This is my first Family Reunion and I can’t tell everyone how blessed I have been by attending this event. I was honored by meeting Mo Anderson, in person,
and received an award as a “Cultural Ambassador” from my fellow agents for Northern Florida. Although I have been a realtor for years, I have to emphasize that this is the best training, best networking and most rewarding experience I’ve ever experienced.
It was so exciting to see Diana in person. BOLD is life changing and Career changing! If you are on the fence about this program…… choose to get off the fence and move forward in your successful life and career! Signed up for MAPS coaching to stay on target.
Best wishes fom the Crescent City, home of the Super Bowl Champions, and the Super BOLD Realtor Champions!
Who Dat in charge of your career an life? You Dat!
Anaheim is Feb 20-25. Ben Kenney is the best. What is the website to find all of your clients with email address on all the social websites? #KWFR has been awsome.
My wife and I are trying to work out our roles as we begin to work together as a team. Unfortunately this was not our year to attend Family Reunion and we missed this session. Sooo, where and when can we pick up Gene’s manual for building small teams???
Dave – How many short sales have you closed? How many have foreclosed? Do you specialize in Short Sales too? What is it that you would have taught differently? I am just curious…You made a bold statement without having any facts Dave and I will challenge you to do your homework.
This is fantastic! Before I began my Real Estate career I was a Personal Trainer for about 10 years. I have always believed that the mind, body and spirit are connected in ways that all must be vitally important for us to be healthy. Once I left the fitness industry I too struggled with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Of course, that affected my business health as well. Once I realized that I was not really taking care of my “best asset” to it’s highest and best use, everything changed for me. I watch as my fellow Realtors continue to struggle with these ideas. I share my expertise in this area of health and nutrition when ever possible. It benefits us all when when we all are at our best!
You have all shown that a firm resolve and a determined mind is a powerful tool. Thank you for setting the bars high, so that our KW family of agents will now have these wonderful goals, that they know they have the ability to achieve or surpass, if they desire! You all think big, live large and act bold…congratulations!
Congrats to all the winners!! Its important to have goals in your life and I see that all of you reached them. This is great to show everyone that it is neccessary to SHIFT our business and achieve our goals!!!!
Congratulations to one of my recruits, Brent Mitchell, for winning the Growth Partner of the Year award(top recruiting agent in all of KW). That makes five years in a row for the Moving Careers recruiting system!!
Wow… can’t think of a better way to start the day in New Orleans. I will remember it’s not just the big things, but small events can change lives. Wish my kids could have been here to hear Kevin.
The awards ceremony was fabulous and I am inspired by the winners to make this my best year. Thank you Keller Williams and thank you to all of the fabulous agents who were honored for being part of our growing family of agents.
Keven was fantastic. You know how you intend on doing thing but you never get around to doing them? I went home and took the morning writing a letter to my 7 brothers and sisters about that I had intended on writing for several years. Thank you very much for the inspiration.
Moving from E to P is an eye opener for many agents. Each of us will hit a ceiling of achievement, whether it be production, income, etc. Moving from E to P means you move from what comes natural to doing what is unnatural by implementing better models and systems, adding more accountability with coaching, thinking “outside” of the box. This will ensure that you breakthrough your ceiling of achievement.
Thank you ” LITTLE FAST KID”….what a treat Kevin was ! You have inspired me to take action on projects I would love to accomplish “AHA” I will learn to fully appreciate those 86,400 seconds of every day !
I want give a shout out to Karen Kraft. We saw her at the Cafe Nigel the night of her win, and we were absolutely thrilled to share her delight, her pride and her dedication. She represented us all well and even better was a lot of fun. Here is to you Karen and all the winners!! A big Who Dat!
Congratulations, to all in Keller Williams Agents what an awsome group of people. There is one thing for sure we know as KW agents we have joined the best of the best.
It is difficult to stay properly focused at times but it ‘must’ be done in order to succeed. We must think out of the box embrace the new technology that is out there and most of all be consistent. My compliments to you for achieving what you have via sheer determination…
I loved Kevin Carroll! The hardship him and his two brothers went through when they were young was sad. The red ball was significant and also the ah-ha in Kevin’s life, being invited to play kick ball, soccer, baseball, etc. from a team of kids that he didn’t know after playing kick ball in the park by himself.
Becoming the Katalyst for Nike because they needed someone to motivate and inspire employees in different departments they opened up a job description just for Kevin.
Wow!! You’ve come a long way, Kevin! Congratulations!!!!
I have only been with Keller Williams Realty for a few short weeks. I am absolutely thrilled with the decision to join this wonderful team of agents. I have only been a REALTOR for a few years and only wish that I had started my career with Keller Williams Realty!
Family Reunion was such an awesome experience for me. The leadership and training is so much more than I expected.
I look forward to growing my business and being a part of the Keller Williams team for many years to come!
Thank You!!
“Ordinary will not change the world.” Thank you Kevin Carroll for showing us that extraordinary is just a few bounces away. We are blessed each day to be “above it ” and not “below it”–we need to grab the rubber ball and be ready to play!
Thank you Kevin for showing us to live our lives with a mindset that our circumstances can not dictate our destiny. We must get up every day and check our “want to”. I loved that!!!! I have my little red ball on my desk hutch as a reminder and inspiration. Thanks again!
Congratulations, Mary Jo! We’re proud of you in Tampa!
As a new agent, it’s great to hear what a wonderful company I’m working with–and it’s not just lip service. The training is unmatchable and the people couldn’t be more supportive. GO KW!
Another fine example of what Keller Williams is, a First Class Operation!
A BIG CONGRATUTATIONS to The Chiodo Team in Beautiful Pottstown, Pa. for thier Award Winning numbers! It is AWESOME !
Market Center 275 Keeping the K W spirit Alive!!!!
This “little fast kid” made an everlasting impression on my life. Kevin Carroll is amazing. I have never been so inspired to leave behind my life of mediocrity to face exciting challenges! What a powerful presentation!!! If he could play his way to success, we all can! Thank you
Kevin was amazing! What an inspiration. I came home and talked to my 11 year old son about checking his “want to”. We will check our “want to” every morning, because ordinary will not change the world.
Way to go Kev and Fred! You guys rock. You know your stuff. I’m very proud of you and THANK YOU for contributing back to our agents at KW – and helping them to help others. Love you guys! Knolly
Thank you Keven Carroll for an inspirational speech you gave us at the Annual Keller Williams Realty Convention. “Don’t talk about it, be about it”. Loved that. I also am a believer of “Why Not”…you are so right, why not!! I will always think of you when I look at my Red Rubber Ball on my desk.
I went to Holly’s Consulting by the Book, and of course she is right on target every time!! Would love to have been to this class as well as many, many more…Great Family Reunion….how can it get better than this???
Wow…was he inspirational!! Not only that but entertaining to boot. He exemplifies a life lived to the fullest and examined in order to be the best! We have some much more we could all accomplish if we would only quit talking about it and “BE about it!” Thank you Kevin!
This class was by far the one that I gleaned the most relevant and timely information for my business. Fred and Kevin not only validated my frustrations with my short sale transactions, but encouraged me to continue to NOT shy away but embrace them. Outback, here I come! Kevin,I will update you on my experiences with Chase and their (possible) new proactive system with listing agents of short sales.
Thank you K W Technology Department for putting Kevin’s speech on the intranet!!! We, mistakenly, took the city tour on Tuesday morning. The comments about the “experience of Kevin” had me concerned that we had missed it entirely. Lesson learned – come a day early to Family Reunion to see the city – NEVER miss one of the events!
As a 2010 Cultural Icon, I would like to thank Mo Anderson, the leadership at Keller Williams International and my entire market center family for their support and love. It was humbling and an honor to be nominated for this prestigous award.
I look forward to the KW family continuing to support a cause that affects everyone, which is Breast Cancer Awareness!! Thank you again!!
Keller Williams Family Reunion Convention in New Orleans was OUTSTANDING as usual! The breakout sessions were awesome and the interaction with fellow agents was priceless. The time spent listening to Gary Keller is always worthwhile and motivating.
Hi Guys-
Didn’t make it to Family Reunion, but am the short sales specialist in my office in Andover – do you guys require the buyers do a home inspection before they “hunker down” for the negotiation period with the bank? I’ve heard people are starting to do that now so the buyer doesn’t walk after the approval comes in.
Thanks!
Thank you Keller Williams for the truly special Keynote speaker. As he spoke I could see that scared little nine year old boy facing the insecurities and overcoming the challenges that we all face during our evolution from childhood to adulthood. Kevin Carol’s story is truly inspiring.
Kevin,
What an amazing message you had for all of us! I was in tears hearing you describe your childhood and laughing as your new friend asked you to share a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! So many messages that will inspire me forever. I wish my family could have been there to hear you as well. I will just have to retell it the best I can! I will move forward thinking “Why not!”, instead of “I can’t”. Thank you!!
Had a blast at the Red Bash..and the whole time.Classes were great and very informative. Hope to implament at least one and hopefully more of the things I brought back. We drove so we could attend Mo’s Breakfast..It was wonderful and we were certainly glad we attended. It is the first one we have been able to attend due to flight schedules and such..Hope to see all there next year.
Linda Kornegay Atlanta Partners Fayetteville, GA
My 1st year and it OPENED my eyes to this incredible company. GARY FOR PRESIDENT 2012!!!! Can you imagine GARY ,MO, MARK AND MARY in the White House. I’m sorry the RED HOUSE. If this fantastic four can change the lives of over 77 thousand people (agents) what do you think they can do for this country. Love you guys.
First off – Knolly, we love you buddy! Thanks for everything you do for our company.
Lynn – I love that you’re Outback and I can’t wait to hear your updates. Please send to me directly (which you can do via http://www.ShortSalePowerHour.com)
Debbie – Sorry you missed it…We do NOT require an inspection prior to us getting the approval but we do require an AS-IS addendum with the purchase contract. Hope that helps.
What an inspiration you are to many. You have proven that we all make choices – those choices to grow or those choices to blame and not grow. Thank you for reminding us all we have choices to grow and “get our shine on”!
Love Carlos’ post and have to second that motion! WOW… is all I can say about Family Reunion 2010! I am fairly new with the company and went to MegaCamp in August and was not sure anything could beat it, but I was wrong. Feel blessed beyond belief to be a part of such a wonderful company. Thanks for the dedication and inspiration and for turning the real estate world upside down! You guys ROCK! See you in Austin this September.
Robyn Scharlach
Lake Conroe, Montgomery, The Woodlands
I have two words for the Red Bash and the whole Family Reunion “World Class”. I have been a REALTOR for over 25 years and worked with three of the largest real estate franchises and I can say “RED ROCKS”. Classes were on target for what REALTORS need to excel in the market place. Loved the inspirational stories of people who have overcome incredible odds to not only survive but thrive! Thank you Gary Keller for your Vision! Thank you Mo Anderson for inspiration. Thank you Mark Willis for your leadership.
Sylvia Stewart Alabama Gulf Coast – Fairhope, Al.
All these folks work very hard to be of service to the attendees and it is very much appreciated. Including all those who keep the restrooms stocked and clean … I was impressed with each of them …… Thank you Mo for extending that special spark of gratitude for a job well done.
I was amazed with all events, specially regards KW Cares and our Culture. I’m proud to be part of this company and from now on I will do my best to promote our culture and share with everybody I know. Is beautiful to see that we can be profitable without forget our human nature and the necessity to care about the people around us or everywhere. If the world could absorb this concept I’m sure that we could have peace, progress and solutions for all problems.My first Family Reunion and certainly not the last, I will be back.
Juliette gave a great account of different approaches to build relationships online. Thanks for getting such a great speaker at Mega Camp!
Pat is amazing – the penny really dropped for me as Gary interviewed him. Pat has such amazing discipline and has grown his skill by sharing knowledge with the top people in his field. A great inspiration!
It was funny seeing Gary and Allan talk about the Shift book. I love the fact that Allan has a target of 100 calls a day. That’s humbling!
What a treat to hear from a man who has reportedly done 900 transactions per year! One of my favorites in the interview: the 1/2 hour open house: lots of promotion before-hand, generate the traffic and have everyone come during a short window of time… Allan said, “we’ve sold alot of properties that way!” Thanks Gary & Diana for bringing such awesome people to us!
You first must start with the medium…your clients. Then you work on the basics of the picture…what your clients “really” want in a home – peel back the onion. You then rough draw the picture at the buyer’s consultation and your first showings. As you put the paint on the canvas, you are seeing your clients eyes light up as their dream home is visualized and identified. You find tune the painting with color to depict the escrow, loan and inspections process. As the painting comes to life, you get the word from the title company that it is a closed transaction. Hanging the picture on the wall is like handing the keys to a first time buyer with that priceless smile of a dream come true… When you visit your clients home a few months later, you see that the picture hanging on the wall as you enter their “home” is a priceless piece of art and you are their Realtor for life! That is Real Estate and why we are lucky enough to be helping others buy and sell the most valued asset of their lives!
Awesome week so far! Mega Tech Camp left us with hands on applications to increase our business. Mega Agent Camp reinforced that premise that basics and following MREA models are so important for success. And then just when you think you can’t sit through anymore Mo Anderson keeps everyone spellbound with her state of the culture speech. Thanks to all KWRI staff for all hard work in putting this together. It was well worth the trip from north of Philadelphia!
Gary good luck this year with the Mega Agent Camp. I work in a great office (La Mesa CA. Market Center) with some superstars! (Shelia, Dave, Chuck, and many others) Take good care of them this week.
I am a fairly new agent and want to say thank you to you for the great work on the MREA book. THINK BIG – AIM HIGH – START SMALL – Great words to build a career by.
ps…..
Hi to all my friends from the La Mesa CA Market Center. Hope you guys are having a great time. Learn and grow and teach me when you return.
Michael Salois
The Rip Fritzer Team at Keller Williams La Mesa
619-417-1954
Isn’t it amazing that every one who is successful has accomplished it by being hyper focused on one thing for a long time! Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers talks about this in length and it is SO encouraging!!! Focus+Time=Success
Gary
Always good to wake up to your words! Looking forward to BOLD!
Thanks for the “Think Small” message!
My Think Small aha echo’s the words of a woman who talked with me when I was a teenager….. She was 60 – really old or so I thought. She was a wise sage and I knew that even then. She was one of the most caring and positive people I had known. When she told me to “live my life in dying order”, I took a step back and felt that was so negative. But now I understand that by living life “small” keeping it focused and intentional, ultimately I can achieve my goals better and faster and that will allow me to discover new goals and charter new territory without unfinished business.
This message takes me back to that message. I use the KW videos you to inspire my team every week. Thank you for all you do.
Gift…..Twitter Tony Robbins…..he has a great 28 minute clip on breaking through the barriers of achievement by gaining certainty!
See you in New Orleans for Family Reunion.
Kathy Kleber, KW Tacoma – Team RED
Resourceful – Experienced – Dedicated
KW Cultural ICON Pacific NW Region
Thank you so much for making this possible!
Judy
Great insight! Life seems to be overwhelming at times due to all the distractions. It is an art to stay focused and filtered.
Thank you for allowing those who couldn’t attend, a view into the programs and excitment MEGA CAMP OFFERS!
Proof that niche marketing is better than marketing yourself as the best at everything in real estate. Wow! Allan is having amazing results.
I am on a Grow Your Profit Share Tree-profit share committee since June of this year-I thought the grow your tree campaign was great-to keep the excitment going and the turn out to our meetings has been a challenge-we are still using the power point and teacher’s manual from June-is there any different material to shake up our agents to come to these meetings? Our office has 116 agents but had lee than 1% come to our sessions-mostly the new agents who wanted to learn about PS. We had food and prizes and it was fun but it was 4-5pm in afternoon every Wednesday. We would appreciate some help in attracting more agents and we decided to make it only once a month.Look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Robin
Gary,
Thank you, “think big, start small” is mindset or what I like to think of as a life rule that I have followed most of my life, however as a husband and father embarking on a new career in real estate it’s one rule I haven’t been following lately.
Thank you again for a wakeup call that I badly needed.
Sincerely,
John Clark
Keller Williams Realty GCW
Joining the social networking arena can be daunting, but it is the present and the future of our businesses/careers and vitally essential for us to launch NOW. Deciding on the time and effort you intend to put into it, is the first step… or leap. It’s your choice.
Greetings Robin,
Great question! We have just added a new Profit Share learning opportunity! We’re thinking of it as a complement to the Grow Your Profit Share Tree course. You can think of the Grow Your Profit Share Tree course as a learning “event.” It covers all of the fundamentals of Profit Share and is a great starting point.
To this learning “event,” we’ve added the Wealth-Building Workshop: Profit Share. We think of the workshop as an “achievement journey.” It will help associates stay plugged into the activities that yield results. It’s set up a little differently from some of our other courses, so that it can stay dynamic and fresh with each visit. It includes short content chunks and exercises, and good amount of group strategizing and accountability.
You’ll be able to download it from the http://www.kellerwilliamsuniversity.com website on Wednesday, Sept. 2. If you have any questions or comments about it, please let me know! I’d be more than happy to help in any way I can!
Have a wonderful day and thank you for your question!!
Sounds like you guys
The point I got from Gary’s discussion with Pat Matthews is the fact that whatever line of work you’re in, you create a masterpiece every day.
Awesome! Was even better live!
I was at Mega Camp and had the honor of hearing Liz in person. Just like my dad always told me. You can do anything you set your mind to do. Gary, Mega Camp is always the most moving and inspiring thing in my life. It changes who I am each year and I see something else to accomplish. Thank you for the Keller Williams Model and thank you for the culture.
That is incredible! I was so bummed that I didn’t see them so this will definitely make up for that! Thanks Billy and Rhett!
Nick was P H E N O M E N A L. I am inspired and motivated. Nick, I know my potential, my identity, my destiny and my legacy.
My favorite quote: “We do not know which day has no tomorrow – decide today what you want”
Thank you KWRI!!!!!
LOVE IT! I’m so thankful to be a part of this company!
I am totally in for this – Christmas presents for my clients – yeh!!!
Keller Williams is an AWESOME company to work for. They offer the best training, support,and you get the best return on the dollar! Check it out!
Nick has been an inspiration to myself and others for many years. The teen group that I help with has seen his video and talked about Nick’s life and aside from the obvious physical differences “what makes Nick different?”.
WOW!!!! How moving. WE have soooo very much to be thankful for. Attitude of gratitude fo the accomplishments we have acheived. Greatful for the opportunity for all that we will accomplish this next year. Thank you for the refreshing experiance of this most wonderful and special speaker Liz Murray. Witnessing this testimonial made all the hard work for the last year worth it. Thanks you Liz Murray for sharing and caring.
Great News!! Wished I could have been at Mega Camp to hear the news live!
I’m not even surprised! It’s such a blessing to be a part of this amazing company!
As a new agent (Nov 08) I can attest to the training, support and motivation to ensure you succeed in a shift market. All the agents at our Dallas North Office want you to succeed and grow. It is the KW family style of business. Everybody wins!
Wow – wish I was there – Billy McLaughlin is terrific.
OK, OK, I’ll sign up for next time!
Liz was one of the most inspirational speakers, I have seen in a very long time, and was moved and impressed with what she has accomplised. All the speakers were great and Gary was awesome as ever.
Billy is an inspiring person. I’ve no doubt his new CD will be just as inspiring.
The energy you get from all for, 1 and 1 for all in the kw family recharges me. After a long and bizzy summer, mega gets you fired up again to finish out the year and plan next. This award is evidence that training and culture. Go heartland region
I was there. The energy was great. I gave their cds to my 8 year old who plays and he insisted on going to sleep with the music. Thanks for the music guys. ” best thing I ever brought him back from a trip”. Thank u Gary K. Making this happen has your. Fingerprints all over it.
Keller Williams ROCKS!! ALL ROADS LEAD TO KELLER WILLIAMS!
I am awestruck by the magnitude and depth of the spiritual conviction this company has. Absolutely thrilled with the new energy, new determination that I received being a part of the greatest company on the earth !
I have been telling everyone about Nick!! What Nick teaches us is that the sky is the limit, when you trust in yourself AND Jesus!
From the beginning of 1986 when I first joined Keller Williams Realty I knew that this was the company to keep. Gary, Mark, Mo, and Mary bring us the tools and we are the culture keepers! This was the best Mega Camp and the family continues to raise the bar for next years Camp!
I am not surprised! My office is growing and exceeding numbers posted by other companies that have been around here for Decades! Did I mention our KW office is less than two years old! Go KW Louisville East!
This Mega Agent camp really was impressive this year. The guests were phenomenal!! Nick, Tommy, Liz… Wow! Tommy’s guitar playing just brought me to tears. Unbelieveable… especially the song about “My Daddy”.
Gary… you and your team have built a great company. Thank you. Let’s keep moving forward!
Liz has such a great sense of humor and a whit about her that keeps you captivated with her story. She inspired me to be the best me I can be. Push through the lows and make the best of every situation. Thank you Liz for enriching my life.
Words can not describe Nick. So full of life and humor! It was MY PLEASURE to have him enrich my life! He is incredible!
I am going to get his DVD and share it with my family and my team!
Wow, how exciting…great music and great fun…your committment, and focus has inspired me to keep after it each and every day…Your passion shows in each and every note you play…thank you..
This was my first Mega Camp. Listening to Liz and others has changed my life. Thank you to Gary and Keller Williams for helping me to see things from a different perspective. No more excuses or limiting beliefs! I’m pumped!!
Once again another “Excellent” Mega Camp…I love the way that “Incredible” people are chosen to share their stories and talents like Liz/Nick/Tommy etc…Always appreciated!
And of course Gary was great again…no surprise there!
Best
Richard Goates
Your Broker for the Redding California area for referrals!
530-248-5627
Listening to Liz Murray alone was worth the time, money and effort it took to get to Mega Camp and I had the fallowing breakthroughs
What if read my goals twice a day
What if I got up at 5:30am
What is I worked out daily
What if lost 75 lbs.
What if I did affirmations and roll played Mon-Fri.
What if I did lead generation for 3 per day
What would I do with all the Money?
Yes Yes Yes!!! All of these things are true. We already have all the tickets we need to go to all the places we want. Yes, you can have the career, the body, the mindset you want. It’s just figuring out what is holding you back. Start NOW and go from mini to MEGA!!!
I throughly enjoyed Mega Camp. I learned from listening to others who have done it and I realized I have the power within me to be a MEGA Agent! I am proud to be a member of the Keller Williams family.
BOLD has enBOLDED me to shot for higher goals.
It impressed me that ordinary people have and are doing extraordinary things.
Thanks !
This is my 2nd Mega Agent Camp – and what I continue to take away from these events is the continued importance of inspiring and being there for one another. None of us are at this alone, and we need to hear that loud and clear through all of the guest speakers and performers that stepped onto that stage. They all have the support and encouragement of others, they are there for people in their lives and are in the lives of others. Almost every speaker spoke of NOT being the star or a hero, but being helped a great deal along the way of their story, and finding the “fire within” in a big way to do what they are passionate about at that moment or in that found vision!
Thank you so much for the speakers – they make a significant difference in our lives and in our hearts, and we go back to our homes and continue to share these stories and find strength within our own spirits to build the plan and get to work on it – and build the accountability partners to keep us on track.
Thanks for the renewed spirit and inspirations that you bring to the stage and into our lives!
Sam
It’s young men like Nick who give you your own life back to mold into whatever shape you want it to take! What an awesome guy, and the power and passion that he brings to the children of our lives and our future is key! We need more passion like his to impact the lives of others.
Thanks for allowing us the opportunity to have those few minutes with him. Very powerful messages delivered throughout the Mega Agent Camp and one of the best elements that I look forward to, and encourage our recruits to come and attend for the many layers that are in play to deliver the same messages threaded through the presentations.
Thanks for putting us first KW, and empowering us and our lives through the stories of others… I say this all the time “we all have a story” and it’s all about sharing them with one another and “life long learning” on all levels of ourselves.
The moment that report came out, or Market Center began to use it in our recruiting packets and some of our agents have begun to print it on the back sides of all of their listing sheets that they leave at properties to continue to have something to share with our consumers about what a great company we are.
Idea: our market center is creating a “Why Keller Williams” recruiting business card and this would be awesome to incorporate onto the front of the card. The back of the card is white with lines for the KW agent to write in their contact information.
Let’s find creative ways to get this information our into our Markets! 2 years running – that tells an awesome story in this and every market!
Makes you want to be a “Team Leader” for a day – to get a shot at hearing her speak again. Thanks for taking such great care of our team leaders…
Once again,…Mega Agent Camp has served to be inspirational, motivational always based on sound business, spiritual, emotional and physical principals.
Nick’s bigger than life’s presence has served to effect many in very positive ways.
Suit up, show up and NEVER, ever give up!
Thanks for the joyful tears.
Musicians will always find a way to give their gifts to those who will listen.
Awesome!
ROCK ON!
Awesome! KW agents Rock! We will be #1!!
Liz Murray’s story is similiar to another – Jeannette Walls, an MSNBC contributor and author of her story in “The Glass Castle”. These women CHOSE to rise above their circumstances – what inspiration – thanks Gary Keller for reminding us to rise – terrific Mega Camp!
Billy & Rhett were both incredible and together they are unbelievable….can’t wait to hear the CD! Thank you to Gary Keller for bringing them into our lives at Mega Camp.
Much thanks to Gary Keller for the wonderful musical gift to all of the agents who attended Mega Camp.
Truly inspirational the speakers, panel
and the amazing stories. I believe!
I am so happy to be in such a wonderful
family. Gary thank you for opening my eyes,
allowing me to see straight
bless you all
This was my first Mega Camp, after joing KW last month, after 17 years with another company. I was blown away by the whole thing! Billy and Rhett contributed to the intense emotional experience I had. Their talent is truly amazing, and I told that to Billy when I chatted with him at the airport book store as we were both waiting to catch our planes. He had just come from making the big announcement and was tremendously excited about the whole KW cares — so down to earth and genuine. I look forward to the CD and even more so to a lasting relationship with Keller Williams.
Wow, very powerful statements.
Thank you so much for posting this information!
Positive Choices Positive Results!
Thank you Liz and Keller Williams for continuing to inspire!
Liz is truly inspirational. I’m honored that I get to keep my fellow agents at Mega Camp as “the company I keep”!
Culture is so important. Thanks for sharing
Liz… your move from the streets to Harvard graduate is just incredible. Super inspiring. I know you did it but I just can’t quite get my head around how tough it must have been for you. Congratulations. You deserve everything you’ve achieved.
Thanks for such great new looks and informaion at the web. All that I was looking for and needed are now at my figer tips.
Great,
Valmar Figueiredo
Liz, saw you at Mega Agent on Friday. You and Nick were inspiring, You are so right that Your life is Your choice. You decide. Those who make bad decisions must live with those consequences. Unfortunately, sometimes those consequences effect others, but it’s still how you deal with it. Girl, you dealt with it IMPRESSIVELY! Also agree, that NO ONE DOES IT ALONE! Keep it up!
“Get Your Butt On The Train And Go”… Liz says.
…to school
…to work
…to lead generate
…to knock
…to ask
…to win
…to win!
…to win!!
Nick Vujicic, what a character! Hilarious and a great public speaker and motivator. His presentation was strong and will throw anyone’s excuses right out the window!
If you missed it, I recommend finding it online, especially if you need to come to terms with “what’s really holding you back out there”.
I was really disappointed by Susan Scott’s keynote today. I was really excited and anticipating a great presentation to end the conference. This presentation was dry and boring. I hope that KW brings a better caliber to future events.
Thanks for bringing the full JD Powers report to life http://annarbortalks.com/ann-arbor-real-estate/ann-arbor-mi-real-estate-keller-williams-ranks-highest-in-customer-satisfaction-according-to-jd-power-associates/
Holding up the plaque and sharing makes it come to life.
Thank you Mike! You are living proof the WI4C2TS is demonstrated every day through leaders like you!!
My Ah ha! The best we can do is to do our part at the highest level of which we are capable. Liz, I know I am capable of so much more…Thanks so very much!
I am so very proud of KW – and so thankful to be part of such an incredible company. I want the agents that I know & care about to see for themselves what we offer!
Nick is my new hero! What an amazing young man with an attitude that will take him where ever he wants to go. I showed a small segment of his dvd to my Sunday School clas this morning as we discussed Joshua and his courage as he lead the Israelites into the Promised land. Talk about a man of courage…as I showed Nick the room was so mesmorized that you could hear a pin drop. I am sharing the dvd with a teacher who has some troubled kids. What a ministy Nick is spreading. KW thank you for providing us with such inspiration.
Liz, I heard you Friday and knew I’d never be the same again. Then I heard you again on Saturday and was simply blown away by your inspiration and love. Thank you
Liz thank you for the reminder that its about Being and Doing your very best!!!!
When you Believe and Dream you achieve and thrive…..Thank you Gary Keller and all at KWRI for Believing and Dreaming for with that KW and all its associates are truly THRIVING!!!!!!!
THANK YOU
Only grown by 2%? I guess that means, I need to lead generate (heard that somewhere) and be Bold, asking for business and Mega Agents. I realize that I am where I am supposed to be, learning how to do Real Estate as a business, not just selling houses.
Thanks Gary Keller, and the staff that he talked about @ Mega Camp, that brought him the success.
I want Liz to know how proud I am of her. She says there were people along the way, guiding and helping, but it must start with Liz.
Please keep up the good work, for yourself (first), and then for others. Your experience is the best teacher.
Mega Camp was incredible this year! Gary continues to expand our mind with the same simple message….Master our Craft & stay small!
Onwards….
Liz, You inspired us all to be a “Perry” in someone’s life. Thank you for sharing your incredible story!
Liz,
Truly your story touched my heart and the love for your mother was flowing into the universe. I’m sure she is very proud of you and can feel your message, I know we could!! Thank you for sharing your inspiring story!
Billy,
Your story is truly an inspiration and your music just made my heart sing. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I want to be someone’s Perry. Liz, thanks for being you!
THIS IS MY 15TH YEAR IN RE AND I JUST GOT TO KW. I HAVE ASKED MANY QUESTIONS THRU THE YEARS ABOUT HOW TO GROW A BUSINESS, NOT JUST SELL HOMES. WELL, NOW I HAVE IT. THANK YOU KW. I AM PROUD TO BE A KW AGENT. I LOVED MEGA CAMP AND CAN’T WAIT FOR FAMILY REUNION. GEAUX NEW ORLEENS!!!!! MY HOME!!!!
Mike is an inspiration and a shining example of what makes a perfect TL. He lifts up his agents daily no matter what. No wonder he has so many agents!
Very disappointing. The fact she decides to make a political statement wihtin her speach is outragious. Until that point of the speach I thought it was dry and boring and hard to follow. Ms. Scott has lot to learn form KW on leadership and should heave qualified her audience ahead of time. I would suggest she learn what true servant leadership is.
Liz,
Thank you for a powerful message delivered with elegance and courage.
If I were young enough,… I would want to grow up and be just like you!
I can’t thank you enough for what you have done for so many.
Nan Cie
When Dreams are BIG, facts don’t count!
Thank you Liz, you are IT!
And thank you Gary & Diana for helping us to see further and further standing on the shoulders of Giants!
Indeed, our Altitude depends upon our Attitude!
Thank you Nick for not giving up!
You are awesome!
Liz, You inspired me to do something that I have been putting off for far too long. Your comment about having your hand on the door knob and deciding whether to open the door or not made me think of a fridge and cupboard door that I have been opening far too often! I choose to keep the door closed. I have decided to start my 2010 New Year’s resolution today to be completed by Jan 1st – 30.5 lbs in 120 days. I’ve posted it onto my Facebook and will continue to post it daily. Thanks, in that and many more ways, you’ve changed my life. You are a Hero (even if your modesty prevents you from saying so.)
Wow! This was definitely the best Mega Agent Camp and Mastermind Event that I have attended. Gary was on his game, Mark, Mary and Mo, continue to shine and show why Keller Williams leads the field. Nick, Liz, Tommy, Rhett, and Billy? How do they do that. Attitude is Altitude. Thank you Gary, Mo, Mark and Mary, and also Dianna and Tony, and the whole MAPS team. This one will be hard to beat. We brought 19 people and they won’t forget this one for a while. This is not an expense, it is an experience. GO Keller Williams!
I was not able to attend Mega Camp this year. Susan Scott’s book has been a great asset to those fierce conversations I have had to have. In one instance I had a contractor confrontation and using the 7 steps to a fierce conversation in letter form, I was able to make the point and collect $5000.00 in a settlement that to that point had been ignored. In another instance an investor who was not holding up their end and needed to let go got the 7 point treatment in our emails back and forth and the investor conceded and left the deal so that we could move on. And, like all of us, sometimes we have an off day and maybe the talk did not “hit you” so my advice is to read the book, “Fierce Conversations” it has some very important infomrmation for people in the “people business.”
Although I didn’t make it to Mega Camp this time, I am delighted to see these speaker video clips on our KW BLOG… they are inspiring, encouraging, and empowering; the Keller Williams culture at it’s best!!
What a fantastic company and what a great honor!
As a new agent to KW, I really appreciate the vast amount of information that you provide. Thanks for making it even easier to access.
Dianne Bartlett
Broker Associate
Keller Williams Lake Travis Market Center
Once in a great while you hear a story that resonates in your heart and makes you understand the abundance that awaits those who want to access it. Liz Murray’s story should inspire all of us who feel that we have it tough or don’t have the opportunities we think we should have. It is not what you have, but what you want to have that matters most. As Liz stated it, it’s all about the “What if” . What if I did something that would move me to a better place in life or what if I did nothing. Which would be the better result.
Liz’s story is all about the “What if’s”! These are the stories we all need to hear from time to time to bring us back to reality. Thank you for such a great speaker!
Nick is the guy most of us want to be! He has the attitude the drive and the thirst for life that makes us all realize that we all have something more we can do. For me, Nich illustrated that anyone can overcome challenges and have whatever life they desire. It is a choice.
Thanks again for allowing us to listen to someone who inspires us and makes us realize that there is plenty of opportunity in this world.
I LOVE this book. I have it on CD and listen to it often.
Anyone that hasn’t read it, I highly recommend it!
Michelle Shelton
Creator of the kw.com toolbar for your computer
http://kwcom.ourtoolbar.com/
What a great blessing to share the time togeter we were able to spend with Nick at Mega Agent. He is truly an inspiration and it was very humbling to hear his joy, passion and enthusiasm for life and attitude of gratefulness! He beautifully reminded us of the opportunity that is all around us. We just need to reach for it!
Now THAT is an achievement to be proud of! I’m proud that it all started here in Austin. Congratulations, KW!
I was not able to attend this year and I heard a lot of people were disappointed with Susan Scott. I would say, don’t throw the baby out with the bath water as she has a lot of valuable information. It is sort of like eating a steak dinner….push the bone out of the way and take the good stuff that is there. No one is perfect and we can all learn from what doesn’t work….keep moving!
Michelle Shelton
Creator of the kw.com toolbar for your computer
Great suggestions. I especially like the one about posting something to Craig’s List. I tell my 1st time buyer’s it’s a “perfect storm” for being the best time in recorded history to buy your first home!
Have a friend in CA that went to a fellow agent who does a lot of property management. They had an agreement that anything my friend generated from the renters, he would pay a referral fee to the property manager. They’ve generated two contracts since the middle of August. The property manager is now calling the rest on his list.
Great info, i try to post several times a day on face book, basically letting every one know that time is running out, and i also have twitter and tweet as often as i can looking for first time home buyers.
I am loving the new myKW. So much easier to navigate and as always am very thankful for the endless amount of resources provided.
Sara O’Canna
Keller Williams Realty
Ft. Worth
If you are a top Keller Williams agent in your area, please call me! We are featuring two area specialists on zillow.com. It is a great way to get new listings business b/c you can snatch up people who come to look at Zestimates of thier homes on our site and help them with a real CMA/listing.
Call me 206-515-8249
kater@zillow.com
Blogging is becoming more complex because of the fact that every site wants you to create a blog – activerain, trulia, your own site. Also, Twitter and Facebook “micro blog” entries do not rank nearly as high in Google for real estate related terms as activerain. Activerain seems to be the place to focus on right now for real estate.
In addition, if you guys want to help out right now from the mother ship you could make a static file directory from the kw.com homepage (no searchable .do java dynamic file) and backlink the individual franchise office sites with “Xcity Real Estate”.
Blogging is becoming more complex because of the fact that every site wants you to create a blog – activerain, trulia, your own site. Also, Twitter and Facebook “micro blog” entries do not rank nearly as high in Google for real estate related terms as activerain. Activerain seems to be the place to focus on right now for real estate.
In addition, if you guys want to help out right now from the mother ship you could make a static file directory from the kw.com homepage (no searchable .do java dynamic file) and backlink the individual franchise office sites with “Xcity Real Estate”.
This is a good marketing tool that should really create urgency in the 1st time home buyer market. I’m personally trying to close a few deals by the 8K tax credit deadline (which I personally believe should be extended), with some of my 1st time buyers and I came across this and thought it would be great to share with everyone.
I think this is an incredible AHA for many Megas! I am sharing it with the top teams in my office now and we will be masterminding how to implement it in their businesses. Thank you for sharing this!
As I sat at Mega Camp watching this presentation with my Lead Buyer Specialist…he practically fell out of his chair! He loved the fact that he could bring leverage into his job other than using our existing staff. We are about to start implementing this idea of using showing assistants and would certainly like as much information on this topic as possible. Thanks for posting this so I could get another look at it! My notes had a few holes in them!
This post couldn’t have come at a better time for me as I seem to be busting at the seams right now. This is some fabulous advice to consider. Thank you!
I love this concept, but in Oklahoma, I am 99% sure that showing a house requires a real estate license. Would 25% be enough for a licensed showing assistant?
We’ve heard from top agents who offer as little as 20 percent. It really depends on your value proposition to the showing. Just realize if you offer more then 25 percent, then your Buyer specialist will be working on a smaller margin. If the Showing Assistant earns 30 percent, then the Buyer Specialist is left with 20 percent.
This assumes, you won’t accept less than 50 percent as the Mega agent generating the leads and that’s what we recommend.
Licensing is an extra expense. If your MLS requires a license to show houses, then you have no choice. They have to be able to open the lock box!
Thanks for your comments and questions.
Jay P.
If you’re looking for something to share with potential buyers, the e-books are great. Just go to http://mykw.kw.com and search with the key words “Your First Home”
We also got interviewed by Smart Money on some do/don’ts for first time buyers as the deadline approaches: http://www.smartmoney.com/Personal-Finance/Real-Estate/4-Ways-to-Shave-Time-Off-Buying-a-Home/
Thanks for the comments!
Jay P.
I received just over $100 last month, and I must say, it was $100 I did not have the month before! That paid for fuel in my car for a week and every little bit helps. I have had months where the number was over $700 in the past. I only have 4 people in my PS tree right now, but I am developing a plan to pro-actively go out and find more to add to it. I have friends that have earned over $20,000 in a month – now that would be something to brag about! So, I have decided I would like to do that.
What a wonderful gift our company has decided to give back to us! I know that someday, this will be funding my retirement!
Thanks KW!
Thanks for REPEATING that awesome info again Jay! That is a great piece!
That is exactly where my Top Buyer’s Specialist Steve Massey is at right now-overloaded! Mainly because he delivers 110% customer service to every one. But, at the end of the day, it is still the END of the day! One person can only do so much!
Towards the end of last year I began building my Team – The hearing Group. I have been blessed to have Steve, Bryan Carpenter – my admin, Kimberly Silverstein – listing specialist, Bob Gagne – buyer and listing specialist, and a high energy, brand new licensee, Caitlin McCusker – buyer specialist.
I feel that I have reached the point where we are ready for another admin, and a couple more buyer specialist, but, maybe, a couple showing assistants is more the answer.
Can you expand a little? Do they hire on as an unlicensed, independent contractor that you pay a fee for their weekly service, then the bonus on closed transactions?
Thanks Jay,
Sincerely,
Dennis Hearing
The Hearing Group
NE Ft Lauderdale #711
Hi Amber,
This blogsite only allows agents to comment? We are not able to initiate?
Shouldn’t it allow both to emobody the true essense of a blog?
Thanks,
Dennis Hearing
The Hearing Group
NE Ft Lauderdale #711
I just came to Keller Williams last week. I am impressed! I am in Arlington Texas. We have a great office!
It is good to know I made the right decision!
Dennis,
We’re actively researching the best practices. In fact, I got the opportunity to mastermind with a group of top agents in Colorado just last week and we had a great discussion on showing assistants.
It’s early in the game, but here’s how our research would answer your questions:
1) Unlicensed is preferable if an unlicensed assistant is able to show homes in your MLS (this is not always the case.) When they earn the right to be your buyer specialist, they can get their license.
2 Pay them on bonuses based on buyers closed. Just like a Buyer Specialist, they are independent contractors who must help you close buyers before they earn anything. This is still sales even if they are unlicensed. Your value proposition will be the buyer leads you can provide them on a consistent basis–three or four per month is a great living for such a highly focused job.
3) Train, train, train! Even as an unlicensed showing assistant they will need to know both your systems and the best scripts for showing homes and writing offers.
Hope this helps,
Jay P.
I have been with KW for only about 2 1/2 years and have already made almost $10,000 in profit share! It is just about having conversations!
Thanks for the question Dennis!
We started the KW Blog as a forum for us to communicate to our agents, recruits and the real estate industry in a way we hadn’t yet. When thinking about the “true essence” of a blog, my thought is that there isn’t a wrong or right way to do it. Some blogs have one author, some multiple authors…and some have guest contributors. That is the great thing about blogs-you can make them be whatever you would like them to be. Ours happens to be a forum for us to communicate what is on our minds!
Honestly though, commenting on a blog post is an incredibly powerful forum for you to make your voice heard and link back to your blog. Comments keep the conversation going, and starts new conversations-really a blog isn’t a blog without them! So, I hope you keep reading and keep commenting…even if you aren’t posting.
And, although we aren’t soliciting guest blog posts now, it doesn’t mean we won’t later. Let me know if you want to talk more about this and I will send you my contact information.
Thanks! Great insight, as always!
Question on paying unlicensed team members based on closed sales:
In some states real estate commission can only be paid by the broker to a licensed agent. If the 1099 pay to an independent contractor is based on a percentage of closed sales volume/commission, it is considered commission.
Have you come across any other pay models out there that are less strictly tied to specific closed transactions?
Dave Conord
Ellicott City, MD
Great post Alexis! I love profit share.
Dave,
If paying on a straight percentage of commissions isn’t possible, then you might consider a flat bonus on every buyer transaction closed.
Take your average commission and work out a flat bonus based on 25 percent of that amount. On lower priced homes you’ll be overpaying and on higher than average priced homes you’ll be saving. Over time, it should even out. The point is this: as much as possible, base your pay on performance.
As always, clear this program with your broker and your CPA to make sure your program is in compliance with your office standards, board policies and local regulations.
Warmly,
Jay P.
Here’s my question…with all the different websites where you can post blogs…Trulia, ActiveRain, personal website, etc is there a way to blog once and have it hit different websites or do you have to post on each individual website where you’d like your blog to appear?
I have heard a lot about Ping.fm, although I haven’t used it personally. Here is an article that talks about this subject with several options: http://www.labnol.org/internet/blogging/post-blog-entries-to-multiple-blogging-platforms/4943/.
Although it seems like a quick fix to save time, remember to always consider your audience. For example, for my personal accounts, I know when I am on Twitter, it is usually speaking to a different group than on Facebook. So, if I feed Twitter to Facebook, some of my Facebook friends may wonder why the heck I am including # or @ in messages. So, just make sure that the message suits that particular group.
A person doing a good job balancing multiple sites is Missy Caulk-she recently posted about this…”Your Internet Presence…How Much is Too Much.” (http://activerain.com/blogsview/1290171/your-internet-presence-how-much-is-too-much-) Her Active Rain feeds to her main blog, but she also guest blogs unique content.
I would love to hear what other bloggers are doing! Anyone agree or disagree either way?
LOL. That’s pretty funny.
We are about to launch with two showing assistants. We are excited about the leverage it will provide to our buyer specialist who has been working a lot of hours. It will be interesting to see the additional production that we fully expect to be done by using this model. Kristan in Alaska
The rumor is correct and infection rates are high. CDC has issued a bulletin to all KW agents as it is localized only with KW agents. Three is a pandemic spreading and a vaccine is available but no one will step forward for the first Shot.
The CDC is hoping there won’t be any deaths!
Looks like the vaccine poses no risk, so why are agents still afraid of the vaccine.
The cure to the LG1Z1 virus is a good “funnel” system of Unified Communications and asking for the business. All that is explained in the latest edition of Guerrilla Real Estate Marketing: http://bit.ly/kLfCQ
Thanks Matt for posting this. I am new to the whole social media thing and this short article helped. Also Happy Birthday and wishes for much more sucess.
Awesome, Kristan. We look forward to hearing your insights on integrating Showing Assistants into your business. Thanks for sharing.
Jay P.
Does anyone have the “Job Description” and DISC of the Executive Assistant Position (as opposed to the “marketing and administrative” position off of the MREA profiles)?
Chris,
A few years back, Gary interviewed his EA Valerie Vogler-Stipe at Mega Camp on the difference between an assistant and an executive assistant. They also discussed her hiring another EA “Suzie Smith” and walked through the process.
Here are the slides for that presentation: http://drop.io/EA_Job_Description
The DISC for an EA is SIC or the “tent” graph.
We’ll be adding more info on this when we update the MREA courses next year and in our Recruit Select materials.
Best,
Jay P.
Never thought of it like that. But that is so true, children have no problem going up to houses and ringing the bell, this should be a lesson to us adult’s, just do it, what have we got to loose that we don’t already have?
I did trick-or-treat in reverse. We recently moved into the neighborhood and I hadn’t met the neighbors so I made up little bags of treats and attached a card offering a Market Snapshot and went door to door delivering them to the neighbors. People liked it and it’s a foot into the neighborhood!
Amen! Great post! Time to prospect.
Some churches have what they call a “trunk or treat” in which all the candy is brought together to one place. You take your kids, and after they’re done playing games and jumping on inflatables, they are given a bag of treats. I agree we should prospect more and wouldn’t it also be cool host an event and then get a bag of Buyers and Sellers?
Great comments.
I received several of the phishing offers over the past two or three weeks. As with anything internet, vigilence and common sense must prevail!
Thanks.
Steve Jameson
Santa Rosa, CA
Thanks for this. I’m pretty new to FB and was suprised when I got a request to update my info. Fortunately I looked closely and saw it was sent to an old email address that still happens to be forwarded to me…one that I didn’t use on Facebook. Whew
Thank you for this information. I was on facebook looking at some pictures on a friends site and some how, I now have a trojan loop. I am not sure how much, but it will cost me to repair it. This was scary and I wasn’t sure how it happened. Now I know.
Thanks so much!!!!
Thank you, this is very helpful. As I venture into the world of FB and Twitter, I will be very careful and know what to watch for. This helps me have some guidelines.
How could you get a virus by looking at pictures of friends? What do I need to look at in the URL do make sure it is a trusted site? I’m hope other people have some of the same questions as me; I thought I was more aware of scams but I’m obviously not.
Lisa, It isn’t from actually looking at pictures, but from links. A great example is in this article from Mashable: http://mashable.com/2009/09/25/warning-facebook-worm-spreading-via-news-feed/. Mashable is quick to alert people to scams, so I would suggest following them on Twitter or checking their site often.
Usually, if I want to make sure I am going to a trusted site that I login to (banks, Facebook, email etc), I type in the Website address in my URL/address bar myself instead of following a link.
Hope that helps!
Thank you….I am teaching a class this Thursday on FB to other Agents in my office. We are all beginners and I want to be able to give them useful information. If you have any other basic info that would help us get started I would deeply appreciate it.
Lisa, Are you a KW agent? If so, we have created a social media page on the intranet (go to mykw.kw.com, then the marketing tab) which includes short how-to articles, a guide for Facebook, a quick start guide for Twitter, as well as KW-branded Twitter backgrounds to download.
If you are not an agent, let me know and I will pull some links to sites I find helpful! We are all beginners at some point, and I find I am always learning. Good luck!
thanks for the invite i will be there
It is more important to obey state laws about paying any body except Broker to Broker payments and MLS rules against showing by unlicensed hired help or giving keys to any one.
If state laws allow go for all the assistants and non assistants to sell homes, show homes and buy homes.
I’m not sure how to use this site is there instructions somewhere that I’m missing?
Great job (again!) on keeping KW Associates informed and productive. Posts like this are easy to share and benefit my entire market center – thanks!!
TKBisht,
Absolutely. How they are paid and what they can do must comply with local laws and regulations. Recently, at our KW masterminds, I conducted a straw poll of top agents using showing assistants and 100% reported theirs were licensed due to their board rules.
Thanks for your comment,
Jay P
It is helpful to know what a “real” notification looks like from the different services. This is what Facebook sends when a friend really does tag you in a photo or post “Deborah tagged a photo of you in the album “Mobile Uploads”.
They don’t send messages like “hey I saw a picture of you on..”. Also, on Facebook if you want to see if someone has really tagged you, you can always go to your profile and the notification should be there.
The one thing I ALWAYS do if I get sent a notification from my bank or anywhere else is to click my email program closed then manually type in the url (website address). I foiled a phishing scheme about my Bank of America account that way. Someone sent me a message requesting all my information and upon logging in I found out it was a lie. Just be very wary and always go to the source!
Realtor Marketing – Those are great points!
jpaul – Are you talking about the KW Blog, or a specific social media site?
This is an excellent video! Distills some very big concepts down to easily understood conversation. One early concept of the Red Book is learn before you earn. The idea of a Showing Assistant confirms this, but it is presented here from the hiring agents perspective.
I think that starting out as a showing assistant would have some great benefits for a new agent as well. They would get to walk the walk, but would be able to hand off the buyer when things get complicated. Then, as they learn more, they can do more. And as the hiring agent, I can watch them to see how quickly, and how hard they bug me to start having a role beyond just showing, which will be a good indicator of the type of buyer agent they will be. Thanks for this great reminder!
I’d love to see this…there is no video that pops ups for me!
I would also love to see this video but it does not pop up for me either!!
I am still receiving the, “Is that you in this video” wall posts on my Facebook. Knowing they are scams for virus’, I have taken it upon myself to send my friends emails letting them know their account has been hacked and to change thier password. We can all help eachother!
I couldn’t get the video to work with internet explorer so i opend it with Mozilla Firefox and it worked fine. Very good video.
RM is quite correct, don’t ever click on “links” to anything that you can easily type in the http://www.suntrust.com or what ever your financial/paypal/etc websites are!
If you even remotely unsure about a link, copy and paste it into google and if it is suspicious, someone in IT security has likely posted something about it on the web.
I have taught a FB class in at least 8 MCs and have 42K in GCI from FB this year, about to write an offer on an 850K house with clients via FB. The big picture about FB is it is replacing email for a lot of people in their sphere. If you are going to do it for business, you must do it daily. People expect instantaneous response to questions and just like email, if you snooze, you lose.
And please don’t play any of the games like Farmville or Mafia wars if you are going to use it for lead generation.
Do post interesting articles, such as this one on downsizing homes in the WSJ:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125807017854346243.html
cheers,
Eric
Sorry Irene and Larry, thanks for alerting us. Tom is right, it doesn’t seem to be working in Internet Explorer. We are working on the fix! Try refreshing the page and if that doesn’t work, here is the link to the video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3oD9zFwEiU
These have been great tips. Additionally, I try to remember to click on “Details” (at least on gmail pages), which might reveal something about the sender that will ring a bell.
I use the on-screen keyboard at lot for loggin in to accounts where security is more of a concern; that is, bank accounts, paypal, etc. I’m not sure if all operating systems have an on-screen keyboard; MS does. I saved it to my desktop. Anyway, the keystroks don’t register–so I’m told–as they do on the typical keyboard.
I enjoyed this video. Thanks for posting it! ~Allison
It worked for me in Internet Explorer for about 2 minutes, then started buffering… but in the end, it worked ok.
It is so true that building relations in your business is the first thing you need to establish to see success. Some people do that by sharing things for free, some do that by creating highly unique content and some do that by getting personal. I am trying to combine all three and in the long term I’m sure this will work.
Great video and these key hires are so true! As a Keller Williams agent, we get to see so much of this video training from KW. I think if you continue to post these types of videos on YouTube that agents from Realogy will jump ship and come over to the fastest growing major real estate company!
NO. Absolutely, a business CANNOT survive without culture. All successful businesses that last, have a common denominator…. the employees (or contributors) have PRIDE in what they do. It is not about the money, because at each individuals heart, they know that they must do what they love and the money will follow. Unless there is pride for the organization that you are affiliated with, there is no excitement to get up in the morning and do what is necessary to accomplish a goal. Enthusiasm comes from pride. Many successful businesses have failed over time when they did something that changed the “culture”. The airline industry is a good example. KW needs to invest in those with a “heart” and not just those that have a “high D” and no heart. Culture will always float to the top.
I’ve been engaged in taxations for lengthier then I care to acknowledge, both on the private side (all my working life story!!) and from a legal point of view since passing the bar and pursuing tax law. I’ve furnished a lot of advice and corrected a lot of wrongs, and I must say that what you’ve posted makes complete sense. Please persist in the good work – the more individuals know the better they’ll be outfitted to deal with the tax man, and that’s what it’s all about.
Our language is the road map of our culture. It tells us where our people come from and where they are going. It is the true point of seperation in our industry.
From Mastering the Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish -
“Having a few rules, repeating yourself a lot, and acting in ways that are consistent with the rules – these are the 3 keys whether you’re poviding your children with a good moral foundation or providing a company with a strong cultural foundation. And the evidence is irrefutable that a strong culture leads to superior performance, higher employee retention , and a better-aligned organization. Equally important, a strong culture driven by a handulf of rules (core values) makes leading people much easier, reduces the need for stacks of policies and procedures, gives everyone a foundation from which to make tough decisions, and generally brings simplicity and clarity to many of these “people” systems within the firm”.
Sound familiar?? In other words – NO – you can’t succeed at a high level without a strong culture!
I started blogging 2 years ago in November 2007 and in 2009 it was definitely a source of leads for me. My personal opinion is that you want your blogging efforts to be focused on your own site, not on a profile page that is part of a larger blog system such as Active Rain or Trulia.
My problem with these blogs is that once a potential client finds one of your posts, they are more likely to bounce off of your posts and continue reading regardless of who is the author than to click on your name and stick with you. The result is that they don’t connect the voice of authority with you but with the site. I really doubt agents will get much business that way.
Instead, I’ve chosen to create my own Wordpress.org blog. Once a visitor lands on my site, every bit of content they find is by me. All of my marketing efforts direct people to my blog and I’m doing well at capturing google visitors too.
Blogging takes a lot of time and commitment. Always stay focused on your goals and who you are trying to reach. I’m trying to reach local buyers and sellers, so I stay out of the politics of real estate and insider commentary.
I do think it would be great if each market center could have a group blog like this one. Agents could be invited to contribute. My goal in participating would be more for profit share than finding buyers/sellers. Wouldn’t it be a great selling point for KW if you could let agents know that your market center was THE authority in town when it came to cutting edge technology and internet presence. You could let agents know that they market center has a group blog so they don’t have to start one and be responsible for the back end administration completely on their own. I don’t know about anywhere else, but I’m not aware of any brokerage in St. Louis that has a group blog for their agents. We should be the first.
As a witness in our Market Center from launch to achievement, it is easily observable that those who are in culture are thriving in today’s marketplace. Without sounding judgmental, the agents who struggle with culture seem to have their focus distracted by problems, gossip, negativity or trouble. They usually end up leaving the Market Center if their core values are drastically different from the group.
I believe our OP’s presence and commitment to high standards keeps our Market Center in balance
I have experienced Keller Williams culture, and only 1 person who was out of culture all the time. My belief is that the ones who are out of culture do get lonely, and will eventually get in culture or move on to an enviornment better suited for them! The culture remains, and will not leave the KW office or company. There are too many people who love this company and what it stands for to let a few bad seeds destroy the crop!
Anyone who has not experienced working with Keller Williams is missing a great opportunity, for friendship, encouragement, training, and most of all THE CULTURE that remains day in and day out! I am proud to say I work with Keller Williams!
I luv all the information that MyKw provides.
So well said and I could not agree more! Culture sets the foundation for long term success of any organization. Talent for the job is very important and talent that has not just a passion for culture but a willingness to demonstrate it in their own walk even when no one is looking is a necessicity. Without that respect, pride, and passion are eventually lost. And wherever the culture is lost in the organizational chain is where the weakest link is and the higher up the chain that it is lost, the more vulnerable is the organization. The hardest part of recruiting anyone from another company is leaving the great people with whom they now work. It’s not the money. Also, if culture does not float to the top, culture will float out of the door! That makes recruiting really GREAT people and retaining them very hard. Sometimes I believe people are confused about what culture is or is not. Culture is not about not having disagreements and even passionately debating issues. Jim Collins says in his new book “How the Mighty Fall” that in Stage 3 of a declining company “there is an erosion of healty team dynamics that shows a marked decline in the quality and amount of dialogue and debate; there is a shift toward either consensus or dictatorial management rather than a process of argument and disagreement followed by unified commitment to execute decisions.”
Never before has culture been so very obvious to me. For all of my career, seeking something, but not knowing what it was. Perhaps this void was always the motive for moving on. Creating the company that no agent would ever want or need to leave is so very refreshing. The power knowing that if I succeed, it is up to me…with a whole lot of support from KW people! Our market center embraces this concept from OP and MCA right on down to the newest rookie. The agents at Brand X just don’t know what they’re missing!
Recently when one of our agents had the opportunity to fight for a higher commission where the bank reduced the commission of a short sale and the other agent didn’t protect herself in the MLS with the appropriate 50/50 commission split, the agent was conflicted. Should he take the 3.5% commission and leave .5 to the listing agent? They both worked hard for months but he was entitled to the posted commission. As his coach, he asked me what I would do. I asked him to look into his own heart and do what was right for him. I didn’t tell him what to do and was deeply moved when he remembered that one of the reasons he came to KW was for our W4C2Ts. He let it go, split the 4% with the listing agent and two days later went into another escrow. I too, joined KW because of win-win, do the right thing and I celebrate that I rub elbows everyday with like minded people. Business more than succeeds with culture.. it thrives.
Our culture is the Golden Rule (do unto other as you would have them do unto you) and so much more…it’s really going outside yourself and looking for opportunities to make a difference.
Look at the list Kay Evans compiled in “What Is Culture”
*Complimenting others regularly
*Smiling at others in the Market Center regularly
*Staying home if you’re having a bad day attitudinally
*Speaking without profanity
*Committing a random act of kindness every day
*Giving seven hugs a day
*Being considerate of the staff
These are just seven of the 31 examples Kay gave us. It’s not only doing unto others, it’s being proactively and on purpose in our thoughts, actions, and feelings.
Ashley Wrobel’s story brings tears to my eyes. I know that on the surface it looks like the agent’s decision cost him money, but we all know that it comes back ten-fold in other ways.
Culture is an environment where we can all thrive.
You got to have culture! It is the glue that keeps the whole thing together. Helping other achieve their goals is the Keller Williams way!
As the owner of several small businesses (and as a real estate broker), I know first-hand the benefits of promoting a sense of camaraderie and a culture in my small business. I believe that to have been an essential element in the success of my businesses.
My Mom passed away Oct. 20th and the team leaders have been so kind to me at Keller Williams Preston. They are a positive culture.
Jo Ferguson
No a company cannot survive without having values!!
I believe that if you are going to talk the talk then you MUST walk the walk. It is easy for us in the market centers to practice culture because it comes from the top down.
When working at other brokerages and different companies in my past, I always had to practice my own desire to work out of integrity and trust because it was never like it is now for me here at Keller Williams. When the owner of the company I work for is allowing me to have Faith and work out of that Faith it is so easy to work out of and in the spirit of our culture…So to that I say “hats off to you”!!!!
Daniel Gomez.
why these KW agents are afraid vaccine.
“Culture” such and intangible thing. Something that is hard to explain yet easy to feel.
To answer the question “Can business succeed without Culture?” I suppose it could but I don’t think the business would be very rewarding or much fun. I have been selling real estate for 23 year and have been with 4 other companies. The difference I feel at KW is being part of something big through the sharing, caring, and wanting everyone to succeed.
When I get asked what my license plate means (KW4EVER), I just smile and say it means I am lucky to work with a company that I consider to be my family. KW ROCKS! See ya in New Orleans!
Nancy Farber
Canton Ohio (home of the Pro-football hall of fame)
Every company has a culture…not every company have a culture that they can be proud of. KW has a very solid business model that is the best in the business and we could survive on that business model alone. Our real success will be because of our culture. More than anything else, culture is what sets us apart from any competitor in the marketplace. World class training, state of the art technology and tools for the agents, combined with a culture of sharing and caring make KW an amazing opportunity. Why settle for surviving when you can succeed! KW ROCKS!!!
As a new ALC member, I was asked what committee I’d like to be on. Immediately, I said “Culture” because it was the KW culture that made my move to KW almost two years ago a no-brainer. Then, when asked what subject I would like to teach in our office, the answer was MINDSET! I feel so strongly about these two areas as being integral to our daily life and business success, and am excited to take on the privilege of being an ALC member. And where did I go first to seek training materials? Mo’s videos, of course!
I had worked for a Corporate Well known Real estate company in upper management for over 20 years… The only reason I left was because they did not even remotely understand “Culture”.. I was not sure what was missing until I went to Austin, met Kathy Neu and Mo Anderson and from that day on, it was so very clear. For years I listened to the rumors about KW and the Cool-Ade jokes… and I could not be happier..I was fortunate to be asked to Start a new office for KW and had a lot of learning opportunities . While I was not able to build the office to the level needed at the time , I was very successful at setting the culture… After 9 months as a team leader I had 78 agents in one of the worst down markets in years and in an undesirable office setting.. Yet the weekly meetings had 70% attendance and the “family” unity and desire to be of service was evident. I can not thank Mo enough for being the amazing example that she is.. Clearly this is something that speaks to how Mo lives her life… day in and day out.. You can not get better than to be around people who truly “walk the talk.” Thank you KW…
KW culture has changed my life and the lives of those around me. I have the honor of being an OP in a market center that we launched. We went from nothing to being #3 in our County – you don’t do that is this market without a strong culture! BTW we opened in 2006 in Florida – I know we all have great stories like this share – let’s keep doing so.
I have experienced first hand what the lack of a cultured business owner can do to a company. While they may still be in business they are definately not thriving, they are merely surviving. I am so blessed to be involved with a company that holds culture as the maintay of our existance. There is nothing more powerful than the simple belief that doing the RIGHT thing is alwas the best thing.
All business have culture, however, some are just not “good” culture! I came from a company that had a “bad” culture, and to say the least, it was not a fun place to work. One of the things I, as a TL, together with my leadership team are doing at our office in Chicago is to build a “CULTURAL FORTRESS.” In other words, make it a place that is so good, that no one will want to leave, and it will always be improving as we raise the bar every week. We have been very successful in the past year, since I have been here, improving the culture, and what we have found is that more agents come into the office to work, more participate in our activities, we are raising more money that before, and we have a place now that other agents want to be a part of!
Culture is the bottom line to have a successful, productive, fun, and happy environment to work in. Without it, or with “bad” culture, the business simply fails.
Great video. We’re just starting to build our team and appreciate the guidance.
“Helping someone else achieve their goals..” I think this is the phrase, out of all the descriptive phrases that you have used, Mo, that best describes my feeling of what “culture” is… or should be.
Sometimes, we get so immersed in trying to plan for and achieve our OWN goals that we lose out on opportunities to lend an ear, a hand, or a shoulder to someone else. Let’s all stop for a moment.. somewhere in our busy day to listen for an S.O.S coming from a friend, family member, or colleague and respond in kind. There will be many blessing to count for sure!
Liz,
You have inspired me and so many others and I am so proud of the company that I work for that understands the need to expose agents to other people who have had tough challenges to overcome! I look forward to keeping up with you and to watch how you continue to change lives by your decision to change your life. It has made me understand even more so as a team leader that there is only so much I can do….it really is up to each person….but I can inspire them or challenge them or listen to them and show them a better way…..thanks
Great and timely post! It seems that there are new scams on social media sites every week-these are helpful for anyone with an online presence.
Thanks everyone for your feedback!
Eric-I agree, since more people are utilizing social sites (sometimes even instead of email), it is a good reminder to treat our security on these sites with as much caution as we do financial sites. It almost seems that we feel safe because we have already logged in-and we are not.
I recently got a spam/scam DM on Twitter from a friend-she didn’t even know it was sent. So, the big lesson I learned was to make sure to let my friends/followers know if I get something from them-if it seems like a phishing scam.
I use Bit.ly to shorten my longer links-it looks like they are trying to help out to battle these scams: http://mashable.com/2009/11/30/bitly-security/. Hopefully all of the sites will be able to address these issues soon.
In the meantime, I recommend following Mashable (@mashable) and Spam Watch (@spam) on Twitter, or subscribing to their RSS feed for news on scams.
I agree in using this “slower economy” to build a network and improve strengthen alliances. Who knows, by doing these activities I might find that real estate is not as slow as CNN (Panic) Headlines might suggest…
Absolutley agree with establishing new relationships with your existing clients. Keep them focused and calm. This is now part of the redefined CRE Expert responsibility to educate and inform the client of the daily changing trends. Are you sending related, current reports, news articles? Are you attending local Commercial Board Meetings and Mastermind Meetings? Are you staying informed? Actions which will give you an edge, the expert. Take advantage of this time and continue your education goals, continue to develop a full force lead generation program. Part of my business develoment is to gain a larger share of the tenant representation, network with my residential colleagues, and get back to street level lead generating!! There are great opportunities in this market.
Interesting.No further comment at this time. All the best in 2010. TR Thomas
I wonder if this will affect the new home builders, many of which have their own in-house or preferred mortgage companies and title companies??
“RESPA wants to make it easier for borrowers to shop for the lowest-cost, most convenient ”
You make no reference to quality, competence and integrity. How will the buyer determine these important characteristics and will they take the time to go through the process?
Our broker advised us long ago not to “refer” just one person for a job. So I have a list to hand out if asked. but, I agree with Doug, cheeper is not always better. There is a list of interview questions you should ask when looking for a service provider – weighing out everything to make a decission. I hope that they will some how make this clear.
How many should we include on our list. Is three enough? Should we copy the telephone book? I agree the choice is the client’s. Our job is to educate, empower and enable them to make good decisions during the real estate transaction. They come to us for our advice and guidance through a very intimindating process. We all know cheaper is not necessarily better. I am afraid a long laundry list will delay the process and have us working with providers we don’t know and systems that are as new to us as our client.
So much for one-stop shopping! As most of our competitors also have ownership in title companies and mortgage companies, it will be interesting to see how this shakes out. I wonder how one gets a “comprehensive list” that will be useable? If you go to the website for the Wisconsin Reg & Licensing, I don’t believe there is a breakdown by location. Will a 3-choice list be considered “comprehensive”? Can’t wait to find out the details.
Suggestion…always refer at least 4. That is 3 actual providers and then a reference to the phone book. This way you are covered and not setting yourself up for a problem.
What a great reminder for me that I need to be putting money away – I so rarely think about it because it seems so difficult. I like the breakdown as well, I’ve never had a consultation regarding retirement so I never really knew how much I should be saving. This article is an example of one of the reasons I love KW so much: it’s not always about selling real estate, it’s about having and building a better life.
I am curious as how this will affect production builders as well as far as them using their preferred lender to offer incentives like point buy downs, covering closts costs and other perks.
John-Yes, RESPA affects all relationships that involve settlement service providers included on HUD-1 statements, such as mortgage and title.
Doug-Absolutely you are correct that quality, competence and integrity are of great importance. It is also in the buyers best interest to do their due diligence as well. We provide many tips and guides for home buyers, including the HUD Home Buying Guide here: http://www.kw.com/kw/MortgageInformation.html
To ensure you are in compliance with RESPA on all aspects, your best bet is to consult with a local attorney. Also, HUD recently began an outreach campaign for RESPA to help ease the transition. Here is a link to the press release and webcasts they will be offering: http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2009/HUDNo.09-218.
Thanks for your comments,
Julie
Whew! I need to get a bit more on track! Great reminder for us all!
I wonder how the new RESPA laws will affect our Keller Williams Market Centers where some of the owners are in joint ventures with mortgage companies.
In the past Keller Williams was definitely safe because the profit from the Mortgage company goes into the profit sharing pool and then is distributed through our system to all agents who qualify for profit sharing by referring agents to Keller Williams.
I imagine the Profit Pool aspect will still be within RESPA guidelines. What I wonder about is the complications of one person, or several people, being in ownership of both the market center and the mortgage company.
Great video! A couple of questions – what does compensation look like for a showing assistant…hourly? And if so on the same pay scale as an administrative assistant? Do you pay for gas?
Thanks!
I wanted to share a new article on the same topic from the New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/14/technology/internet/14virus.html?_r=1&em
I wonder if this new regulation also will apply to the Banks that force consumers to use their services to send an offer (you must be pre-qualified with such and such bank ); or use their pre selected attorneys, and title companies. I am willing to bet that the regulation will not apply to banks. So this is just going to be more regulations for the Real Estate Professionals.
Is it permissible in California, to give a non licensed person a monetary finders fee–say $500 upon closing–for a lead they provided. A recent attorney said okay, but I wanted another opinion.
A prominent local attorney and a lender briefed the RESPA changes (on GFEs and HUDs) at our market center this week.
Between the GFE/HUD changes, the HVCC, and the TILA, it’s funny that HUD thinks this is going to make things easier and save Buyers money. They really just need to put down the crack pipe.
An attorney (or title company) previously charging $700 (including abstract and fees) for a 45 minute closing now has to budget for at least an hour and fifteen minutes per transaction. That cost is certainly going to be passed on to the consumer, as will the lender’s increased time in ensuring they meet all the new guidlines.
With an expected 1st or 2nd Quarter increase in FHA downpayment requirements and decrease in allowable seller contributions – it is nowhere near time to put our dog-eared “Shift” books up on the shelf.
Navy Chief, Navy Pride
Somethings never change,the few bad apples in the industry always spoil it for the majority. Instead of new HUD and RESPA requirements, Why not have tougher requirements for lisensure in Real Estate,Title,Mortgage,Builders,Inspectors,Appraisors and other related real estate providers.
Hello Mo! Thank you for that beautiful message. While initially I thought I would be having a dark holiday season, but the family in our Market Center has been such a fabulous and supportive group of associates, I find I can sit back and just enjoy the reason for the holiday!
It is such a pleasure to be in business with you – one of our fabulous leaders, Shaun Rawls and Keller Williams Realty! In all of my years I have never been this happy in this business. We love you dearly and wish you a Very Merry Christmas!
Paula Williams
KW Realty First Atlanta
Mo,
What a wonderful message for all of us as we celebrate the season! I too am grateful for the wonderful diversity in our great company. Every day our associates inspire me in so many, meaningful ways.
Thank you for all you do and for your wonderful encouragement!
Merry Christmas to you and yours,
James Utsey
Team Leader-Co-Owner
KW Ellis County
Hi Mo, nice post. Thanks for the message. As a KW client, I would like to express my gratitude and warmest wishes to your associates here in L.A. Your company has an awesome culture and the service I have received has always been excellent. I look forward to my future dealings with KW. I hope you have a very happy Xmas and a wonderful new year.
Katie Kay. XXXXX
Hi Mo,
Thank you so much for your meaningful message. You always know just the thing to say to help everyone understand the big picture!
I am so thankful to be a part of the KW family in Atlanta.
Linda Schulte
Keller Williams North Atlanta
Dearest Mo,
Thank you for sharing your holiday message. You personify the culture of our company and serve as an icon for our KW family to follow. It is with true gratitude that I feel toward belonging to our great company. Happy HOLY DAY to you and yours!
Lynn Seevers
Keller Williams SouthShore
Apollo Beach, FL
Excellent concept. I am in the process of rebuilding my past “group”, and creating a dynamic MREA “TEAM”. I can’t wait to share this concept with my lead buyer agent. Thanks
There is always backlash when bad actors show up however, we are all focused on offering our clients the best and easiest process we can. We chose top mortgage and title people based on their track record and feel we are serving our clients in their best interest. I wish I had a dollar for every mortgage loan that didn’t close on time or at all which our in-house mortgage company then rescued and got to closing. It’s typical that any “government” protection will always cost more and take more time. In light of how bribery is working to pass unpopular and unnecessary programs today I think “they” need to look at their crooked practices and leave us alone. THEY caused this mortgage debacle, remember?
Caring to make a difference in other peoples lives is the reason Keller Williams appeals to my team in the business world. The more we can impact the clients we work with, their view of real estate will change. I thank every KW agent that takes there culture with our comnpany to the next level seriously. Don Kolenda
Good morning Mo,
What a joyous HOLY DAY we enjoyed with our family! Christmas Mass is always special and as the Children’s Choir began with Happy Birthday Jesus and our young grandson sang along….wow….Thank you for your inspiration and for your beautiful message. Hugs from Boise, Idaho.
Gail Hartnett
Facebook has become my 33 touch. It is the best way to stay in constant contact with my SOI. The amount of leads generated is astounding.
Big in ‘10? Hard to say, but I think twitter has peaked, while Facebook will continue to expand. I am waiting to see a more interactive “group” software in either Facebook or some such. I have some email threads going with some specific groups of people within Facebook but it’s clumsy at best.
Cheers,
Eric Benjamin
I believe social media is here to stay and I was excited to get http://www.facebook.com/activSalesAgent as our fanpage. I can say that a key to social media is to manage the time you invest in it a keep an eye on the result you generate from it. I believe that the real time internet trends are a great opportunity and going forward website are going to evolve into actual retail spaces. Fully interactive (with a live chat solution) in order to help connect with your prospective clients while they are looking you up!
It amazes me that social media has taken off the way that it has. The biggest advantage that I have seen is the ease in which knowledge can be gained, and shared. Not only can we connect with more people than ever before, we also get to see what is working for other Real Estate professionals. This helps us design our plan, learn and grow, and achieve a greater level of success. (and have some fun along the way!)
On a recommendation from this blog, I read the book, Crush It! by Gary Vaynerchuck. While it did not give a lot of technical info on setting up a video blog, it was a great message for mixing your passion (real estate for must of us) into a social media and video format.
This month I will be changing http://BuilderCoupon.com into a video blog. I am betting that video will increase my conversion rates on the website. It worked for Gary V!
I also set up a Fan Page for BuilderCoupon on Facebook, this way – I am not spamming friends and family with my irresistibe real estate marketing updates
Gotta go with what Eric said – it’s a wonderful touch-tool. Just last week I recruited my first facebook agent, and it snowballed into three more before the week’s end. If used the way smarter people than me teach, it can become a powerful portion of your marketing effort. I suggest the mastermind panel video on soical media from megatech camp 2009 on kwconnect.
meant to add congratulations to Mary Tennant! One of Inman News “100 Most Influential” Real Estate Leaders for 2009!!
New here, but wanted to comment on the respa stuff.
Along with the List we will now have to provide, it may be a good idea to have a few questions in mind to give to your clients to ask of the people on the list. If we are going to empower the people, they should probably get a few questions answered by the people on the “list”.
I think by doing this the client will either like the company they are asking the questions of or not like them and move on. and don’t forget to get the clients feedback so you can keep a log. here in Tx customer service is still KING.
Just a thought
Having been a Financial Advisor prior to becoming a Real Estate Agent, I’d like to add one suggestion to the list. Invest in Real Estate
If you purchase an Investment Property while in your 30s the mortgage will be paid for in your 60s and the Rental Income you earn can help supplement your retirement income, or, you can chose to sell the property which will have appreciated nicely over 30 years, and in the meantime your tenants would have paid off most of, if not all of your mortgage.
The only problem with getting a vanity URL is a lot of people are getting them for their profile and not for the fan page. Which is a bad choice because google does not index profiles and does index fan pages. You can also sell a fan page (think retirement and selling your data base)
PS: Fan my page and I will Fan you back. This will also give your page and mine more exposure by the way.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Asheville-Homes/154742224712
I understand the provider list but do we have to calculate a charge for each provider listed or are we listing just the settlement charge for the closing?
Add me to twitter please!!!
Thank you. Really useful entry.
Thanks for the info, I want to focus on computer repair tips for my blog but didnt know where to start.
Awesome post, thanks for the info! I agree with each and every one and work hard at keeping up my website and it is – yes, it is! – generating leads! Hooray!
Trish Giassa
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty in Crested Butte, Colorado
http://www.homes-in-crested-butte.com
Great title and excellent, concise article on Internet Lead Generation. The numbers are in. The internet is the way to go — and understanding how to attract, cultivate, and work with internet Buyers will enable those that “get it” to ride the online wave to success.
To add to the long tail conversation.
Some of the easier key words to focus on are what people want. If a person is considering moving to an area, what are they searching besides houses? Schools Parks and Crime.
2-3 decent keyword enriched articles about each and you are there.
I am consistently in the top 5 search results for Cottonwood Heights Parks, CH Schools, CH Police, CH City Council
The ones that beat me out are the city, the school, the parks and recreation…
I pay per click some of the more expensive parts.
The point is the long tail words are easy to control. Remember families moving want to know schools, parks and crime.
I keep a search widget on my site defaulted to the city, I have crime report links defaulted to that city.
Seth Godin spoke about it in Atlanta, you cannot compete with the big boys in big areas, but the big boys cannot compete with you in the small areas.
I followed #kwfr, not quite the same as being there. But learned some really good things believe it or not.
Like when some tweeted that the most searched phrase was Luxury Foreclosures. Well I happend to be sitting at my computer and I went to Go Daddy and bought SaltLakeLuxuryForeclosure.com
Rob Aubrey, Just because you rank for a long tail keyword does not mean the traffic is there to make it a good choice. For example I just did an analyses on key phrases you gave and Cottonwood Heights Parks only gets 3 searches a day and out of that 3 you will get maybe 1 click thru to you’re site.
Also ‘Lakefront homes for sale in Austin’ get’s zero searches how ever ‘Austin Home for sale’ will get you 74 clicks. “Austin MLS” will get 374
You are right about long tail keywords being easy to control. You just have to know which ones are worth controlling.
I just reached 25 fans on my Facebook fan page and got my new keyword rich vanity URL. http://www.facebook.com/ashevillehomes If you notice from my first post the old URL had all those numbers. That made it look ugly in print advertising. A Facebook fan page is a must and every agent should have one along with a Twitter and Youtube account.
Thank you for this fantastic article! I am just getting around to refining my new website & incorporating SEO, & this really helps! Thanks for all the great comments too!
Candy in Sherman Oaks
That’s great information, but nothing in the article will generate you any business from the internet. For that you will need rankings and for rankings you will need incoming links. Good content might help generate a few links, but, until you build relationships with people online who link to you and know you, you won’t get rankings and therefore won’t get leads.
Also, you might think about adding the “subscribe to comments” plugin so people who comment get notified when new comments are added to posts.
Nice post Karey! I tell all our agents who use KW websites that they have got to customize that main page or Google will never find them. Great tips here!
Great article, one to pass on to new agents.
Excellent starter tips in a concise delivery, Cary.
Ryan brings up a good point (although I disagree with his “nothing in the article” assesment). You must get out there and surf to find the relevant sites that provide you the link-love he describes. I routinely comment on four agent-centric or real estate related sites on a daily basis – weekends included. When coupled with our other SEO efforts, it’s taken my site to #2 for our keywords (over 14,000 hits a month).
Be relevant, be consistent – it’s like any other job.
Navy Chief, Navy Pride
Cary,
You’ve hit the nail on the head. This is no longer technology. It is part of your marketing plan.
As for turning clicks into appointments, it’s right there in SHIFT. Make Offers for Immediate Response. The more creative the better, and there’s always companies inventing new mousetraps (SmarterAgent, Market Snapshot, IDX for mobile, etc…) Family Reunion, Mega Camp, and Masterminds are THE place to get your creative juices flowing by hearing what works and what doesn’t from agents in different markets. See you there, rockstars!
OK,,,so how do I incorporate the new Google real estate search into my website? Thanks!
Great tips! I can tell you that they work because my Tampa real estate website http://www.FlaPropertyFinder.com pulls in quite a few new home buyers!
Jeff, they were examples, I get a fair amount of traffic from what I call the non sexy keywords. The key is lots of them.
Those articles bring me quite a bit of traffic from many variations of the searches
ie
canyons school district employment
cottonwood heights school district
the canyons district
That’s just on a few articles on the schools
Then there is parks
cottonwood heights movies in the park
bark in the park utah
bywater park cottonwood heights
Those few articles create good ranking and traffic on the above searches.
I am amazed at the variations of searches that show up.
That is what the long tail is about.
The best example of the long tail is a physical book or record store.
Because of space they can only afford to carry items that sell a fair amount, in SEO that means a more expensive keyword. Either through a lot of work or pay per click.
However an online bookstore can afford to carry less popular items, that may only sell a few a year but because their space is not an issue, they can carry thousands of items that a physical store cannot. Again in keywords, that means less expensive per keyword. It takes more time and more content, but over time a focused effort and eventually you can control a small market place without paying google (Google pay per click has it’s place)
Eventual after controlling many lesser keywords, you will start ranking better on more popular keywords.
The other side of the long tail concept is after time it is hard for competition to catch you.
There is a tool called http://www.HitTail.com awesome. It will track your keywords, rank them, make suggestions…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Long_Tail
Here are some good little videos on Hit Tail
http://www.hittail.com/demo/
ps links are good, very good.
This is a great article!! As far as making sure you website has information on it that people are looking for, does it matter if it is in just on the website in a page, or is it always better to post your info in the form of a blog? I see that KW offers the eAgenC Blog feature powered by Top Producer and was going to give it a try.
Lori, blogs are the easiest to use. They are very easy to ad information. Also they are built with SEO in mind.
You can categories to make information easy to find and many other things.
I think the eAgentC blogs are great and they are built with Word Press my absolute favorite.
I recommend getting your domain and getting it hosted under that domain. One of the benefits of a good blog is the SEO, it would be a shame to not have that SEO on a domain you own.
This article is great! I found the determine your audience section very helpful. Thanks!
Take out the Google keyword guesswork and let Google tell you what the Write Keywords: http://housingleadsguru.com/atj/user/AdditionalGetAction.do?pageId=164875
Great article and perfect timing. I’m getting ready to redesign my site, have a a few domains and need all the SEO/internet lead generation help I can get. Was wondering abouut the AR blog verus a wordpress blog as far as “Google juice?”
Once again you are coming through with great information for our associates! I really think amping up the discussion around the “Long Tail” effect is a necessity in today’s online world. Far too many real estate agents are getting hooked in to expensive deals where SEO optimization companies are promising them the world in exchange for thousands of dollars.
Keep spreading the word!
Jay, great perspective – thanks for sharing. I agree that by focusing on the opportunity of the gift of profit share, the ROI of time is astonding. I’ve been with KW about four and a half years and my profit share has totaled over 60K…with about seven in my front line. I’d say that is quite a nice start on ANY financial goal…what do you think?
Great thoughts!! You get what you focus on!
When I switched from Coldwell Banker to KW, I told my team leader at the time, that I was not interested in recruiting and was just coming to KW for the training and better commission splits. It was not until I went to Mega Camp and got the chance to listen to Gary speak that I finally ‘GOT IT’!
Once I realized that profit share was real, and more importantly, that the KW model was truly the best place for an agent to run their business, I was genuinely excited about sharing the KW opportunity with others. Five years after recruiting my first agent, I have made over $119,000 in profit share!! Thanks KW!
KW Family: Feel free to utilize my recruiting blog for your own personal recruiting efforts….good luck!
http://moving-careers.com/kellerwilliamscareerblog/
I am so excited about profit share – it truly is a gift – as Mo says! Now do even better after taking BOLD to attract more great agents!
This is one of the best parts of partnering with such a great company like Keller Williams Realty. They give you ownership in the company. It couldn’t be better. This is a goal I am going to have to set myself.
Profit share is no joke. It is no different than referring a good doctor or a good restaurant to someone. When you believe something is good, share it. Chances are they think its good too.
It’s really not difficult. I think most people are frozen into inaction and probably more so than ever. You need to pick your niche and write about it. Presumably you are passionate about your niche and as a result you can’t possibly use the old excuse of not having anything to write about. Come up with a strategy on how you will consistently feed your blog and get started. One of the great features of WP is being able to schedule posts, so you can time-block a couple times a week to write, but schedule your posts to come out over a period of time. Also great if you’re going away on vacation.
Thanks for sharing, Mo. I first learned at FSO about 3 years ago just how seriously our leadership takes the WI4C2TS. This is a great story about how part of that originated.
Thank you MO for your profound words of encouragment always..That is why I joined Keller Williams. I am so blessed to be part of the family
This is a great story you shared, it shows how simply doing the right thing can impact anyone. Your life surely was impacted by someone else taking that stand.
Mo,
Great post. “Do the right thing” is the only option no matter how ominious or challenging a situation may seem. The fruits produced by doing the right thing leads to perserverance, and holding to what is true and right leads to maturity. Thanks for the reminder.
Cary,
Thank you for making many great points in this conversation. The follow up to the work of driving visitors to a site is to have a powerful call to action and an easy way for anonymous web shoppers to take that step.
Being able to leverage a website as a live web retail space space require a shift, that shift is to be able to “see” your web shoppers live and be able to interact with them. Engage them into a conversation and convert them into prospective clients.
I hope to be at family reunion and maybe meet to expand on what that looks like!
Great article and great principal. Just do the right thing will be my motto!
Great motivational piece. Best for you in 2010.
Thank you Mo!!! It’s a great reminder we should all post at eye level at our desks! “Do the right thing”, not what’s easy! Inspirational…you’re the best!
Thank you, Mo, for reminding us that even the most successful business people have come through very challenging times! I’m so proud to be a part of the Keller Williams family.
Thanks for that Mo, we know we’re working for the right company!
It’s my understanding that google is now indexing tweets, this means a fast easy one way directional link to your website, just tweet using keywaords and a link to your website like the following –
SellHouseNY
orange county new york homes, houses condos, and townhouses for sale, monroe, goshen, cornwall – http://www.OrangeAndRocklandHomes.com
If anyone wants to add me, I’m SellHouseNY, also, if your mutually following someone, they’re technically posting your tweets which means addition one way tweets to your website
What a great article. After reading it, I had to give my website a makeover. Thanks!
http://www.OtownDave.com
Thanks Mo,
In the end it’s not just about making money, it’s about doing the right thing and the rest will follow. That’s one of the many reasons why I am partnered with Keller Williams Realty!
Great article and suggestions as well – domain name, meta-tag, keyword, title and landing page is probably some of the most important information needed for a website.
One of the readers suggested that you need to include some hyperlinks from other sites (another great idea) – this is essential. As an example, I’ve included links to the local county school systems, service providers, and area businesses on my site.
Also, if you can add your website link & info onto other business websites (such as a local community’s listing, business listing, real estate, service listing, etc) on the internet – this will help TREMENDOUSLY!
You can also register your website’s link with Yahoo, Google, and other search engines. You may want to sign up for the “Google Analytics”. KW has a space on the SITE INFO page to include your “Google Analytics” number. This will allow you to get ‘in-depth’ reporting and statistics.
If you have a personalized domain name – there are many other things you can do to make each page within your site searchable. If you are interested: http://www.homesalesmaryland.com Susie Lemar
You may need to use pay-per-click for a few months to drive traffic to your site, but soon enough you will start seeing your site rank up there on the first fiew pages.
ALSO, don’t forget to make sure that your domain name is displayed prominently on your business card, flyers, and postcards! Continue passing those puppies out every chance you get because, ultimately, the internet isn’t the ’sales rep’ – you are.
Kudos to KW’s IT dept for giving its agents real sites and the tools to develop them further!
Mo- I tear up every time I hear or read this story! Thank-you for always doing the right thing. It’s just one more reason why I LOVE Keller Williams!
Do the right thing! I like the unedited version best about how you prayed for direction. We thank God for you, Mo and your sterling example. Thank you for sharing that inspiring story.
Thank you Mo. I am a fairly new Realtor. I started with C21 and recently joined the Keller Williams Family and your story truly touch me. Your story and those four words, “Do The Right Thing” will stay with me always!! Thank You!!
Do the right thing! Those are four powerful words that can change the world. I’ll be adding them to my Facebook page, website, email signature, and more.
Thank you, Mo.
Mo, thanks for reminding us of these 4 HUGE words. If you are clear about these 4 words; peace surrounds you and decisions come without struggle. What a relief from anxiety and stress these 4 words do when you live by them!
I think you are the best!
Mo I’m so grateful for you, & the Keller Williams leadership!
God has led me to a great company, & I’m proud to be a part of the KW family! God bless you all, I look forward to seeing you at family reunion!
Great words of wisdom Mo, very inspiring story!
Mo….very well said! Cindy and I had almost the same exact conversation this weekend! Amazing!
Thank you, Mo, for such a powerful message. You and Gary are such a great team and inspiration to me. Keller Williams rocks.
Mo…You Rock! And you are our cultural rock! Thank you for keeping that bar high for our company. Whenever I read a “Mo quote” I actually hear her voice as I read to myself. Does anyone else experience that?
Mo~ That story is great! One for its own merits but also because that is a staple of conversation throghout our house with 5 children. (Must be said often to the 3 teenagers). Thank you for all you do!
God Bless,
Brent Dalley and gang~
Mo, Your story brought back to mind something that happened to me. While working with a new client and learning about the job offer he had just accepted, I talked him out of taking that job because it was not giving him anything that he didn’t have already and he was putting his family through great stress. As a result, there was no relocation and no sale for me. When I told my wife what I had done, she got angry at me. I turned to her and said, exactly, “I have to do the right thing!” Guess what? 4 months later, the same client was recruited for a new job in my area and he came back and bought a house through me resulting in a $21,000 commission. He and his wife are now amongst my best “bird dogs” for new introductions. I live by those words; there’s just no other way!
Mo:
I had read your story years ago, and it is inspiring. I am so honored to be involved with a company that put ethics at the top of the list. I joined the real estate business because I experienced so many agents that would do anything to get a sale while my wife and I were house hunting I believed that clients deserved better and resolved to make a difference. I am glad I finally joined Keller Willliams. It was the best decision I could have made.
WOW! My husband Lewis and I are new to Keller Williams Realty. We have collectively been in residential real estate sales for over 40 years, with Coldwell Banker and most recently with Prudential CT Realty.
You have just validated for us why we joined this great company with your powerful story. Thank you!
Beth L McIntyre
Keller Williams Realty
Farmington Valley Market Center
Avon, CT
06001
Great story, thanks for sharing. I have always believed that if you do things for the right reasons that everything will turn out right! As I embark on a new career, you continue to be an inspiration.
Thank you for sharing Mo! Your example continues to inspire all those you come in contact with. I am truly honored and humbled to be a part of leadership in this awesome company of moral and ethical values. Your powerful story also attests to the wonder of prayer and how our spirtual lives must intertwine with our business life!
Mo, I love these stories and as a Realtor I can certainly relate! When are you going to write your auto-biography?
Mo,
I just read the story and it gives me such inspiration to keep going through these difficult times. At the beginning of 2009 I had started a pretty good year and everything was moving and going great. As the mid year hit all possible transactions seem to come to a halt and anything and everything was either delayed or cancelled. I am no stranger to difficut times and this was very challenging even for me. It is now Feb 1st and I have not been able to close a transaction as of yet. I know what I need to do, and I am currently enrolled in BOLD and I am getting back to the basics and lead generating like I should have been always.
This helped me in more ways that I can say!
Thank you,
Leslie Guzman
Keller Williams Benchmark Properties
We love this culture. I joined KW after 8 years with Remax. My husband joined me last year. KW fits like a glove. BOLD has helped us both as well. Thank you for all your inspiration and vision.
When people ask why I volunteer to help others, I always say that karma pays me back with interest. You will never know how much of a difference you can make in someones life by doing the right thing. Especially yours.
Dianna Kokoszka has said to me several times “No single conversation can change the trajectory of a person’s life, and any single conversation can.”
What a great example of a wonderful principle.
Fantastic example Mo! It is great to be in the mist of a great culture
like the one that Keller Williams Realty has. I love the words….”Do the right thing!” That is what the Lord expects of us.
That’s what it is all about. I must put this on my facebook. Thanks for your
inspiration! God Bless you.
It is always easy to find someone to blame.. In this case they do deserve it but here is my question… If we can not go back in time.. what good does it do to dwell on the damage that has been done?
I would like to find a way to build up trust, morale and momentum in the real estate industry.. Please do not think I am overly enhusiastic or unrealistically positive.. I just feel we must get our heads out of the sand and hope we can erase the damage because we can not.. I believe the public needs to see us emerge once again as the professionals most of us are with confidence… and it is great if we have lenders who can be trusted .. lenders who know how to be creative while ethical..
There is and will be fraud… we can not totally control that.. but I feel we can concentrate on what we can control and re-establish the great value in real estate…Please join me.
As a new agent in 1997 at Realty One, I had just the opposite experience. In church one Sunday, a friend who owned a mortgage company asked why Suzy Buyer had written a contract with an experienced agent in my office when he had recommended me. Turns out, the agent was answering phones when Suzy called and asked for me but mispronounced my last name. “Do you know Nancy?” experienced agent asked. “No, but my loan officer said I should call her,” Suzy said. “Have you signed papers with her?” agent inquired. “No, I’ve never met her,” Suzy replied. Experienced agent convinced her she had to use her since she answered the phone, showed her one house and earned a commission!
Fast forward to my first week at Keller Williams in 2004. I got a call from from one of our owners, also named Nancy. “First welcome to Keller Williams,” owner Nancy said. “I got a message I think is yours since I don’t know this person. They asked for Nancy and got connected to me.” It was a referral, I sold them a home and listed theirs.
The tale of two companies. Boy, do I love Keller Williams! Thanks for reminding me, MO.
#realestate #orangecounty #newyork #townhouse #condo #RocklandCounty #monroe – http://www.realestateinorangeandrocklandcountynewyork.com
this is one of my tweets, if you want to know how effective blogging is, I googled one of my websites domain names and this blog right here came up on the google search. Trulia is another good one, when you answer questions on it, keyword stuff it and put in links to your websites.
thx,
Bill Smith
http://www.OrangeAndRocklandHomes.com
Jay, my story is so similar to yours. I joined KW at the end of 2005. For years I thought, I don’t want to sell someone on KW. I couldn’t do that. What was I thinking. Linda McKissacks downline should show us all, 20 people in your immediate downline can equate to thousands of dollars annually. It’s now 2010 and I just recruited my first two agents this January. What’s astounding is both agents are big producers and have already committed to bringing three and 5 agents over with them respectively in the next few months. That means my small family tree has potential to grow exponentially. And that’s just the beginning. There’s no stopping me now…
Thanks, Mo, for sharing and reminding us to do the right thing. I will miss you at the family reunion this year. I have been attending the past three years since I joined KW. Hopefully, I can go to the Mega Camp this year. Agains, thank you for your inspirations!
I believe we need to make it more accessable and easier to make complaints for mortgage brokers and loan originator we know of breaking the rules and the law. A lot of times we think it is not right to “snitch” because of Karma, but in any other field, if there was a doctor or an attorney per say, breaking the law and committing fraud in their fields, their industry and colleagues would come down on them immediately and report them to the proper authorities. We need access to these departments that will take these matters serious and not just put them in the back burner like some Departments of Real Estate do today.
Let’s better this industry continuing to rise the ethics and deminish the fraudulant agents out there who continue to bring our value down. We need to bring the education lever up and enforce the licensing process to filter out the bad apples.
Hi, Mo and everyone!
Wow!! The first time I heard this story was when I first joined Keller Williams back in 1998. I think about it most every time I read the WI4C2TS.
But then I left the business in 2001 because of a serious health problem and because of what I saw happening in the lending business. But real estate has always been my career, so I worked in a foreclosure law firm for a few years as a paralegal. When I realized in 2007 what was actually happening to the real estate industry, I decided to get back into real estate sales.
Fast forward to 2009 and my story is a duplicate of Leslie’s — pretty good first half of the year, slow second half with only one closing, and so far in 2010, nothing. But I made a REALLY good decision about my real estate career in June of 2009, and that was to rejoin Keller Williams (mainly because I saw information on the internet that Sandy Murphy had returned to Keller Williams Realty Downtown as the team leader — and because I pulled out some old “Mo” quotes and restudied them).
Thanks to your wonderful retelling of your story, Mo, I have offered it up to God, and asked for His guidance — both He and you, Mo, have inspired me this morning to “JUST DO IT!” and “DO THE RIGHT THING”. Starting today, February 8, this will be the best real estate year of my life!!
Thanks so much for keeping your story in front of our eyes! You are a true inspiration to all of us.
Tracy Howard
Keller Williams Realty Downtown
Denver, Colorado
Gary – that ROCKED! My Dad taught me to FOCUS: Follow One Course Until Successful. Great minds think alike!
Thanks Gary. That was a great video on the importance of staying focused on the goal at hand. You tell yourself that the other things are helping you get to your goal, but in reality they are just weighing you down.
http://www.OtownDave.com
I really enjoyed this blog. Sometimes we can pick up the extra rocks and still think that we are focusing on the goal. But like you said, we are actually slowing ourselves down from attaining the one goal we started out trying to accomplish. thanks…
I’m new to the company and I am joining my wife to form a team. There are so many things pulling at me as a newbie. Somehow I have found myself dragging that same bag o’ rocks.
My delema is that even though my first priority this year was just to set up our business, I have been getting involved in everything else and have not executed my plan. We are half-way through the first quarter of the year, I will focus on my rock and drop the bag. Thanks.
I am packing and on my way! First time to FR and I am a team leader. Mega Camp was absolutely amazing and I am told this is even better. Not wearing socks because I am sure they would be blown off:)
This Family Reunion is amazing! Gary Keller’s panel was insightful and motivating. Loved hearing the personal stories of triumph over defeat. His interview of Warren Macdonald left me in tears. I’ll definitely read his book. So much already and we’re just getting started!
I met with Bert last week to get him going on kw tech stuff. He already has his domain name set up (correctly) and now he at kwfr. Go Bert, go! Just another reason I am so proud to be. A part of such an amazing company. Take advantage of the resources kw provides.
Very good points about blogs
Absolutely brilliant words of Gary’s: NO MATTER the market, your success is defined by your actions…so easy to do but also so easy not to…
With smiles,
Bo in Yukon
The best vision speech ever. Brought a tear to my eye. Way to go Team Keller!
It is my first Family Reunion. I am SO GLAD that I came!
Wish I were there, I won’t miss next year!
Go Cincinnati, Ohio!
Wish I could have been in the BOLD meeting with my fellow graduates….. thanks for sharing!
Gary was great….and as he has been over the years, realistic and still positive, and still very encouraging. Kind of back to the basics, with creativity and inovation.
Should be a good day today…Ron Largent, Redding,CA
I am so sorry I missed this. I am going to start saving NOW for next year’s convention and you all should as well! Please check out my FACEBOOK page…Michele Lundgren-Keller Williams Realty Royal Oak.
Enjoy the show!
Greetings from Las Vegas!
Commercial real estate is a thriving business when done right. Now’s the time to get involved with KW Commercial as the pendulum swings to the buying side. Come join me in Las Vegas. Make your move today!
Derek Belanus
KW Commercial
Dean & Ross
Las Vegas, Nevada
KW Usually is amazing with Techonology…can’t seem to point me in the direction to watch the actual live feeds! Even the live feeds page just has the dates and times of the available items. This is extreemly irritating!
It really was a great opening. A very realistic encouragement to keep on doing the basics in a consitent and determined way to produce success in 2010.
My 12th reunion and Gary’s vision speech is phenomenal and gets right to the point – success is defined by our actions not by the market.
Why’d I stay HOME????
I think we should all take memory of these times in our career and and success in following through on these four Huge words. Reflecting on those times with great outcomes can drive us forward in our not so great times, when we may find ourselves on the ‘not so fair’ side of the Ethical fence. Please Mo, do Quantum Leap again…. You were truly inspirational in your honesty and effect for me at that time!
Much Thanks!
great job Gary! LOVED it!
It is the positive mindset and the ‘belief’ in yourself and what you do that makes the difference. The support and training is here at KW and known ny the competition…Wish I was able to attend this year…
As a 2009 Culture Icon I would like to say Thank you to all the new Icon’s for keeping the KW Culture and making a difference in peoples lives!!
Cyndi,
Thank you for your well wishes! This is a very exciting time for me and I truly look forward to the next year ahead of me (and beyond, of course).
I may call on you to brainstorm if you don’t mind.
See you at the Inspirational Breakfast!
Al
If you haven’t visited the DotLoop team (The DeLorian from “Back to the Future”) you MUST talk to them. They give going green new meaning. Our industry has been looking for a way to simplify and DotLoop has the solution.
JC
This was unbeleveable. If you left here and didn’t feel RECHARGED, there is definitely something wrong! Thanks to everyone for making it so much fun.
Great idea, thanks for sharing.
Great information, Each team member is a valuable component and performs their task better than anyone else on the team! I am ready to get going…
This was my First Kw Event and it was wonderful.
Great presentation. Lots of nuggets to use in my business. My take away was that customers want websites basically to look for homes. Give them that ability, make sure you have all homes for sale available, and give some neighborhood information and you are ahead in the game.
Perhaps the best words of encouragement that I’ve heard in the past 2 years – no hype but just the facts and stats that speak for themselves. Our clients really do need to hear this message of encouragement. As agents, it’s our job to help eliminate fear and provide perspective. Thank you Keller Williams, for re-framing this market and providing perspective.
Thank you to all of today’s attendees! Would love to here some of your feedback from the class.
***This class will be repeated tomorrow (Tuesday, 2/23/10) at 1 PM – see the Family Reunion schedule for classroom location details!
Also, for more great content from Kevin and I, be sure to visit our daily video blog – http://www.ShortSalePowerHour.com
Fred Weaver
This class was – by far – the most informative class of the week thus far. They gave away actual secrets. Thanks guys! Do you ware the vests all the time?
My first year missing the event. Looks like a blast – wish I were there.
Important highlights – we are number one in all areas except for amount of agents. We are not far behind in amount of agents and can easlily meet the goals set for us for 2011. We have been recognized by and rated by all important companies that rate real estate companies and JD Powers said we are the “Crown Prince” of real estate. We are the number one rated company for name recognition and out of the top rated companies we are the only company that had an increase in amount of agents added where the others had a negative result in net agents. More agents left the other companies than those who joined. We are number one in sales and many other top ratings and our culture stands out amoung all other top real estate companies. We are so proud to be connected with such a strong company that has no debt!
We had so much fun teaching yesterday were going to do it again today =)
Outstanding information! Nancy and I are done trying to do it “our” way – now we will just follow Gene and MREA – look for a whole new Cross Team in 2010!
The first three bullet points are hopelessly impertinent!
Wow Nina, that is the first time I have ever seen something like this on the KWFamily Reunion Comment website. And with the emphasis on Healthcare, taking care of yourself and having life goals in business, fitness, etc., it’s not a surprise that Keller Williams cares about our health. Must be because they want us to enjoy our profit share as long as we can. Hah, hah. But needless to say, we have a surge of energy going on at our Ballantyne office as we have Core classes twice a week and we are working on having a healthy office with full of energy. And, Family Reunion is a treat to go on, if they over did it a little bit there, they will be back on track when they return. We all love Keller Williams. Thank you for the health tips for nutrition at Family Reunion. They always have healthy snacks available for us during the breaks.
Great session. Where is the Buyer Consultation script you mention on MyKW.com. Can’t seem to locate it.
Thanks!
This is the primary reason I am with KW after many years with RE/MAX. Not in New Orleans but this is a topic I want to apply to my business model.
I’m interested in locating the Buyer Consultation script you mentioned and I couldn’t get the name of the person who created the script.
Thanks.
For those who have just joined the real estate business or for those that are veterans in the business; I can only say that the State of the Company address will jump-start your new career or re-energize your existing involment in the business.
It is a must watch if your serious about your business and if your serious about your affliation with this company.
God Bless Keller-Williams
Go to KW University – you’ll find all the scripts there.
Wish I were there. Looks like a great time again. I was at Vegas, Atlanta and Orlando. Looking forward to next year after a tremendous 2010! I just opened a guitar store and can’t leave it yet. http://www.DandDGuitars.net
I’m so proud and honored to be part of an amazing company and see they have great goals. Being debt free is one of a kind thing in the corporate world and is wonderful.
Wish I could have been there this year but will be there next year for sure. Enjoy everyone and lets make 2010 best ever.
Scott Parks – Brentwood, CA
If you didn’t attend this class, you should be the first person in line today to hear them teach it again! I’ve heard a lot of people talk about Short Sales, but few have actually talked about them AND experienced them! This was definitely the best class I went to all week/weekend!! I would have paid to hear just Kevin & Fred…seriously!!
Great stuff! Gene Rivers is inspirational. He is one of my favorites on the KWU falculty. Thanks Gene! Looking forward to seeing you again in the Greater PA Region.
Great Job Guys! The buyer consultation Kevin and Fred are talking about should be under Education and then KW Connect. That page has recently been changed so if you have a hard time finding it just search Nikki Ubaldini in the search tab at the top of your KW site. I recently joined Group 46:10 as a Buyers agent and every buyer I have met with so far has signed a buyer rep with me after using this presentation along with the education of Short Sales vs REO’s.
This State of the Company report reminds all KW agents across the continent that you’re partnered with the right people, the best model, the right dynamics moving forward into the next decade. We ALL perfectly positioned to make great gains in our markets and have our highest-earning, most-rewarding years ahead of us. Great job, KW agents!
This report reminds all KW agents across the continent that we’re partnered with the right people and the best model (by a long shot) moving into the next decade. The culture just works, plain and simple, and it’s a recipe for every KW agent to gain great market share this year — and have our best,
most-satisfying and most-profitable years ahead of us.
Wow, I still can’t get over the information that I had to process today from Kevin and Fred’s class. I absolutely know for a fact that you could sit in this class a dozen times and get something completely different out of it each time. It’s absolutely crucial that you attend class today and give your complete undivided attention with all Iphones and Blackberries turned off. I will be looking forward to seeing you all in class again today to learn not only how to list a short sale but most importantly how to close it! Props to Kevin and Fred on teaching the best class I’ve seen yet at Family Reunion!
Thanks Mo for sharing. I got goosebumos reading your story! You never know what events will have the most impact on your life. Thanks so much!
Keller Williams leadership does it again! More than ever I know I am in the right company, with the right people, with the best leadership in the industry. Meeting the agent growth goals benefits every one of us with our unique profit share opportunity. I’m going to share this State of the Company information with agents from every other company. Everyone wants to belong to a great team, the best team, and we have it. Invite them all!
did I hear it right .. Family Reunion in Anaheim ? YIPEE … what will the dates be ?
I heard these guys speak and beware that their success rate and experience level is not substantiated by any facts. I learned nothing from the class. I’d pass if i were you…
Definitely an area that we need to continue to leverage. Social media has proven to be the great equalizer across multiple industries. Opportunities for real estate agents to grow their business is unlimited.
Awesome session! Thanks, Ben!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is my first Family Reunion and I can’t tell everyone how blessed I have been by attending this event. I was honored by meeting Mo Anderson, in person,
and received an award as a “Cultural Ambassador” from my fellow agents for Northern Florida. Although I have been a realtor for years, I have to emphasize that this is the best training, best networking and most rewarding experience I’ve ever experienced.
It was so exciting to see Diana in person. BOLD is life changing and Career changing! If you are on the fence about this program…… choose to get off the fence and move forward in your successful life and career! Signed up for MAPS coaching to stay on target.
Best wishes fom the Crescent City, home of the Super Bowl Champions, and the Super BOLD Realtor Champions!
Who Dat in charge of your career an life? You Dat!
Thanks to you all!! It is certainly an honor and pleasure to be awarded this position.
Anaheim is Feb 20-25. Ben Kenney is the best. What is the website to find all of your clients with email address on all the social websites? #KWFR has been awsome.
My wife and I are trying to work out our roles as we begin to work together as a team. Unfortunately this was not our year to attend Family Reunion and we missed this session. Sooo, where and when can we pick up Gene’s manual for building small teams???
It was a great party KW! All good vibes go out to you from here, Gary Panter! Wishing you well!!
I’d Kill for that manual! (LOL) Where can I get it?
Kevin was great… He really stands for the importance of today and enjoying what you do each day.
Dave – How many short sales have you closed? How many have foreclosed? Do you specialize in Short Sales too? What is it that you would have taught differently? I am just curious…You made a bold statement without having any facts Dave and I will challenge you to do your homework.
To All Award Winners!
Your success in the industry is inspiring! I aspire to be just like you!
This is fantastic! Before I began my Real Estate career I was a Personal Trainer for about 10 years. I have always believed that the mind, body and spirit are connected in ways that all must be vitally important for us to be healthy. Once I left the fitness industry I too struggled with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Of course, that affected my business health as well. Once I realized that I was not really taking care of my “best asset” to it’s highest and best use, everything changed for me. I watch as my fellow Realtors continue to struggle with these ideas. I share my expertise in this area of health and nutrition when ever possible. It benefits us all when when we all are at our best!
Congratulations to all award winners!
You have all shown that a firm resolve and a determined mind is a powerful tool. Thank you for setting the bars high, so that our KW family of agents will now have these wonderful goals, that they know they have the ability to achieve or surpass, if they desire! You all think big, live large and act bold…congratulations!
Congrats to all the winners!! Its important to have goals in your life and I see that all of you reached them. This is great to show everyone that it is neccessary to SHIFT our business and achieve our goals!!!!
What an amazing, inspirational person! Thank you Kevin for sharing your life with us!
Congratulations to one of my recruits, Brent Mitchell, for winning the Growth Partner of the Year award(top recruiting agent in all of KW). That makes five years in a row for the Moving Careers recruiting system!!
http://moving-careers.com/kellerwilliamscareerblog/
Wow… can’t think of a better way to start the day in New Orleans. I will remember it’s not just the big things, but small events can change lives. Wish my kids could have been here to hear Kevin.
I got to meet him at the Airport! He is a true inspiration! Nice guy too! Thank you “Little Fast Kid!”
The awards ceremony was fabulous and I am inspired by the winners to make this my best year. Thank you Keller Williams and thank you to all of the fabulous agents who were honored for being part of our growing family of agents.
Drink Water and Breath! Great Advice!
Thank you Mo for sharing this special story…encourages all of us…I, too, am proud to be part of the KW Family.
Now that’s an inspiritional message, a real life “aha” moment that resulted in the “butterfly effect” taking hold.
Keven was fantastic. You know how you intend on doing thing but you never get around to doing them? I went home and took the morning writing a letter to my 7 brothers and sisters about that I had intended on writing for several years. Thank you very much for the inspiration.
Moving from E to P is an eye opener for many agents. Each of us will hit a ceiling of achievement, whether it be production, income, etc. Moving from E to P means you move from what comes natural to doing what is unnatural by implementing better models and systems, adding more accountability with coaching, thinking “outside” of the box. This will ensure that you breakthrough your ceiling of achievement.
Thank you ” LITTLE FAST KID”….what a treat Kevin was ! You have inspired me to take action on projects I would love to accomplish “AHA” I will learn to fully appreciate those 86,400 seconds of every day !
Hi Jayne P. very happy for you in being recognized for your hard work. I wish you the best in 2010. You are a good person…
I want give a shout out to Karen Kraft. We saw her at the Cafe Nigel the night of her win, and we were absolutely thrilled to share her delight, her pride and her dedication. She represented us all well and even better was a lot of fun. Here is to you Karen and all the winners!! A big Who Dat!
Congratulations, to all in Keller Williams Agents what an awsome group of people. There is one thing for sure we know as KW agents we have joined the best of the best.
It is difficult to stay properly focused at times but it ‘must’ be done in order to succeed. We must think out of the box embrace the new technology that is out there and most of all be consistent. My compliments to you for achieving what you have via sheer determination…
Wow! What an incredible group of people! Thank you for all of your examples of what the Keller Williams Family is all about!
I did not attend this session. Would love to learn more, if anyone would be willing to share your notes, I would appreciate it!
Thanks in advance!
Casey Muldoon
Bellevue, Wa
Casey@CaseyMuldoon.com
Kevin is energy, inspiration and fun all wrapped up in a big red ball. When I grow up I want to be a lot like him.
The best part was the “want to”. “Can’t get nowhere with a broke want to” said Popop.
I loved Kevin Carroll! The hardship him and his two brothers went through when they were young was sad. The red ball was significant and also the ah-ha in Kevin’s life, being invited to play kick ball, soccer, baseball, etc. from a team of kids that he didn’t know after playing kick ball in the park by himself.
Becoming the Katalyst for Nike because they needed someone to motivate and inspire employees in different departments they opened up a job description just for Kevin.
Wow!! You’ve come a long way, Kevin! Congratulations!!!!
Sure wish I could hear it.
I have only been with Keller Williams Realty for a few short weeks. I am absolutely thrilled with the decision to join this wonderful team of agents. I have only been a REALTOR for a few years and only wish that I had started my career with Keller Williams Realty!
Family Reunion was such an awesome experience for me. The leadership and training is so much more than I expected.
I look forward to growing my business and being a part of the Keller Williams team for many years to come!
Thank You!!
It was my 1st Family Reunion and I have never been happier to belong to the Keller Williams family. AWESOME all the way!
“We see your “glory”, but we didn’t know your “story”! God’s speed.
“Ordinary will not change the world.” Thank you Kevin Carroll for showing us that extraordinary is just a few bounces away. We are blessed each day to be “above it ” and not “below it”–we need to grab the rubber ball and be ready to play!
Start, RIGHT NOW, setting aside finances to attend KWFR next year! The value received is far more than you perceive as an expense.
Thank you Kevin for showing us to live our lives with a mindset that our circumstances can not dictate our destiny. We must get up every day and check our “want to”. I loved that!!!! I have my little red ball on my desk hutch as a reminder and inspiration. Thanks again!
Congratulations, Mary Jo! We’re proud of you in Tampa!
As a new agent, it’s great to hear what a wonderful company I’m working with–and it’s not just lip service. The training is unmatchable and the people couldn’t be more supportive. GO KW!
Another fine example of what Keller Williams is, a First Class Operation!
A BIG CONGRATUTATIONS to The Chiodo Team in Beautiful Pottstown, Pa. for thier Award Winning numbers! It is AWESOME !
Market Center 275 Keeping the K W spirit Alive!!!!
This “little fast kid” made an everlasting impression on my life. Kevin Carroll is amazing. I have never been so inspired to leave behind my life of mediocrity to face exciting challenges! What a powerful presentation!!! If he could play his way to success, we all can! Thank you
Kevin was amazing! What an inspiration. I came home and talked to my 11 year old son about checking his “want to”. We will check our “want to” every morning, because ordinary will not change the world.
Way to go Kev and Fred! You guys rock. You know your stuff. I’m very proud of you and THANK YOU for contributing back to our agents at KW – and helping them to help others. Love you guys! Knolly
Thank you Keven Carroll for an inspirational speech you gave us at the Annual Keller Williams Realty Convention. “Don’t talk about it, be about it”. Loved that. I also am a believer of “Why Not”…you are so right, why not!! I will always think of you when I look at my Red Rubber Ball on my desk.
I went to Holly’s Consulting by the Book, and of course she is right on target every time!! Would love to have been to this class as well as many, many more…Great Family Reunion….how can it get better than this???
Wow…was he inspirational!! Not only that but entertaining to boot. He exemplifies a life lived to the fullest and examined in order to be the best! We have some much more we could all accomplish if we would only quit talking about it and “BE about it!” Thank you Kevin!
This class was by far the one that I gleaned the most relevant and timely information for my business. Fred and Kevin not only validated my frustrations with my short sale transactions, but encouraged me to continue to NOT shy away but embrace them. Outback, here I come! Kevin,I will update you on my experiences with Chase and their (possible) new proactive system with listing agents of short sales.
Welcome to the Keller Williams’ family, Brad! Wishing you much success!
My 5th Year!!! How can every year better and better!!! You totally Rock Gary!!
Thank you K W Technology Department for putting Kevin’s speech on the intranet!!! We, mistakenly, took the city tour on Tuesday morning. The comments about the “experience of Kevin” had me concerned that we had missed it entirely. Lesson learned – come a day early to Family Reunion to see the city – NEVER miss one of the events!
Lets all hit Jay Papasans facebook page and ask for this material to be presented first.
So great to be with such a fabulous group of people and business partners.
Thank you every day for being there when I was ready. Great, great, great.
As a 2010 Cultural Icon, I would like to thank Mo Anderson, the leadership at Keller Williams International and my entire market center family for their support and love. It was humbling and an honor to be nominated for this prestigous award.
I look forward to the KW family continuing to support a cause that affects everyone, which is Breast Cancer Awareness!! Thank you again!!
You can learn more about our local market efforts at http://www.bettywooten.com.
Thank you.
Keller Williams Family Reunion Convention in New Orleans was OUTSTANDING as usual! The breakout sessions were awesome and the interaction with fellow agents was priceless. The time spent listening to Gary Keller is always worthwhile and motivating.
Hi Guys-
Didn’t make it to Family Reunion, but am the short sales specialist in my office in Andover – do you guys require the buyers do a home inspection before they “hunker down” for the negotiation period with the bank? I’ve heard people are starting to do that now so the buyer doesn’t walk after the approval comes in.
Thanks!
Thank you Keller Williams for the truly special Keynote speaker. As he spoke I could see that scared little nine year old boy facing the insecurities and overcoming the challenges that we all face during our evolution from childhood to adulthood. Kevin Carol’s story is truly inspiring.
Kevin,
What an amazing message you had for all of us! I was in tears hearing you describe your childhood and laughing as your new friend asked you to share a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! So many messages that will inspire me forever. I wish my family could have been there to hear you as well. I will just have to retell it the best I can! I will move forward thinking “Why not!”, instead of “I can’t”. Thank you!!
Had a blast at the Red Bash..and the whole time.Classes were great and very informative. Hope to implament at least one and hopefully more of the things I brought back. We drove so we could attend Mo’s Breakfast..It was wonderful and we were certainly glad we attended. It is the first one we have been able to attend due to flight schedules and such..Hope to see all there next year.
Linda Kornegay Atlanta Partners Fayetteville, GA
My 1st year and it OPENED my eyes to this incredible company. GARY FOR PRESIDENT 2012!!!! Can you imagine GARY ,MO, MARK AND MARY in the White House. I’m sorry the RED HOUSE. If this fantastic four can change the lives of over 77 thousand people (agents) what do you think they can do for this country. Love you guys.
I loved the video where we painted the world red. I can’t wait to make my first referral in Tuscany!
First off – Knolly, we love you buddy! Thanks for everything you do for our company.
Lynn – I love that you’re Outback and I can’t wait to hear your updates. Please send to me directly (which you can do via http://www.ShortSalePowerHour.com)
Debbie – Sorry you missed it…We do NOT require an inspection prior to us getting the approval but we do require an AS-IS addendum with the purchase contract. Hope that helps.
Kevin
What an inspiration you are to many. You have proven that we all make choices – those choices to grow or those choices to blame and not grow. Thank you for reminding us all we have choices to grow and “get our shine on”!
This is great!! The thing that’s so great about Mo is how GENUINE she is every time she talks. What an incredible woman!
First Class People; First Class Company. It doesn’t get much better!
Love Carlos’ post and have to second that motion! WOW… is all I can say about Family Reunion 2010! I am fairly new with the company and went to MegaCamp in August and was not sure anything could beat it, but I was wrong. Feel blessed beyond belief to be a part of such a wonderful company. Thanks for the dedication and inspiration and for turning the real estate world upside down! You guys ROCK! See you in Austin this September.
Robyn Scharlach
Lake Conroe, Montgomery, The Woodlands
I have two words for the Red Bash and the whole Family Reunion “World Class”. I have been a REALTOR for over 25 years and worked with three of the largest real estate franchises and I can say “RED ROCKS”. Classes were on target for what REALTORS need to excel in the market place. Loved the inspirational stories of people who have overcome incredible odds to not only survive but thrive! Thank you Gary Keller for your Vision! Thank you Mo Anderson for inspiration. Thank you Mark Willis for your leadership.
Sylvia Stewart Alabama Gulf Coast – Fairhope, Al.
All these folks work very hard to be of service to the attendees and it is very much appreciated. Including all those who keep the restrooms stocked and clean … I was impressed with each of them …… Thank you Mo for extending that special spark of gratitude for a job well done.
I was amazed with all events, specially regards KW Cares and our Culture. I’m proud to be part of this company and from now on I will do my best to promote our culture and share with everybody I know. Is beautiful to see that we can be profitable without forget our human nature and the necessity to care about the people around us or everywhere. If the world could absorb this concept I’m sure that we could have peace, progress and solutions for all problems.My first Family Reunion and certainly not the last, I will be back.
WOW! What a role model, and what BIG shoes for us all to fill!!! Amazing…
Sun, sand, Disneyland, Hollywood and a great bunch of agents and leadership from the Southern Region. Southern hospitality isn’t just in the South.