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As we navigate our careers and lives, we often find that our priorities shift with experience and maturity. One profound shift I've noticed is the growing preference for calm over conflict and distance over disrespect. The older we get, the less tolerance we have for drama, and the more we prioritize our peace and well-being. In our world of real estate, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos and pressure. However, maintaining a sense of calm and focusing on what truly matters can make all the difference in our professional and personal lives. Here are a few insights to consider: Choose Calm Over Conflict Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it defines our growth. Embracing calmness allows us to approach challenges with a clear mind and a composed demeanor. This not only helps in resolving issues more effectively but also sets a positive example for our clients and colleagues. Distance Over Disrespect Respect is a cornerstone of our interactions, both in the workplace and beyond. As we grow older, we recognize the importance of distancing ourselves from disrespectful behavior. This doesn't mean avoiding difficult conversations, but rather approaching them with dignity and mutual respect. Intolerance for Drama Drama can be a significant drain on our energy and productivity. By minimizing unnecessary drama, we create a more focused and harmonious work environment. This means setting boundaries and fostering a culture of professionalism and support within our team. Prioritizing Peace Peace of mind is invaluable. It allows us to perform at our best and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Prioritizing peace means making conscious choices that contribute to our mental and emotional well-being, such as taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. Surrounding Yourself with Positive Influences The people we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our mental health, heart, and soul. As we grow, we seek out relationships that uplift and inspire us. In our professional sphere, this means building a team of supportive, like-minded individuals who share our values and vision. I encourage each of you to embrace these principles. Let's create a work environment that prioritizes calm, respect, and mutual support. By doing so, we'll not only enhance our professional success but also enrich our personal lives. Here's to choosing peace, surrounding ourselves with positivity, and thriving together.

I want to share a quote from Imam Ali that resonates deeply with our work in real estate: "Two things define you, your patience when you have nothing and your attitude when you have everything." In our fast-paced industry, we often encounter moments of uncertainty and times of abundance. How we navigate these extremes can significantly influence our success and professional growth. Let's break down this powerful quote and explore how it applies to our roles as real estate agents. 1. Patience When You Have Nothing There will be times when leads are scarce, deals fall through, and progress seems elusive. These moments test our patience and resilience. It's easy to feel discouraged when things aren't going our way, but it's crucial to remember that patience is not just about waiting—it's about maintaining a positive and proactive attitude during the wait. Embracing Patience: Stay Focused on Long-Term Goals: During slow periods, keep your eye on the bigger picture. Remember why you entered this field and the goals you aim to achieve. Each setback is a stepping stone toward your ultimate success. Continuous Learning: Use quiet time to invest in your professional development. Attend workshops, read industry-related books, or improve your market knowledge. Growth during these times will pay off when opportunities arise. Nurture Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships with clients, colleagues, and industry partners can create future opportunities. Stay engaged and show genuine interest in your network. 2. Attitude When You Have Everything On the flip side, there will be times when everything is going right. Deals are closing, new clients are coming in, and success feels within easy reach. How we handle success is just as important as how we handle adversity. Maintaining a Positive Attitude: Remain Humble: Success can be fleeting if not managed wisely. Stay grounded and remember that each victory is a result of teamwork, persistence, and sometimes a bit of luck. A humble attitude keeps you relatable and respected. Give Back: When you're thriving, consider ways to give back to your community, your team, and your clients. Sharing your success fosters goodwill and strengthens your reputation. Keep Pushing: Success should not lead to complacency. Continue setting new goals and challenges for yourself. The real estate market is ever-changing, and staying ahead requires continuous effort and innovation. Balancing Both Traits The essence of Imam Ali's quote lies in balancing these two defining traits—patience in adversity and humility in success. Both are crucial in shaping our character and determining our long-term success in real estate. As I say and want you to know, I am committed to supporting you through the highs and lows of this journey. Let's strive to embody patience during the challenging times and maintain a positive, humble attitude during our successes. By doing so, we not only grow as professionals but also as individuals.

Each of you took a courageous step when you committed to real estate full-time. In our shared journey, one thing stands out: the power of self-belief. If you've joined any of my recent seminars, you'll recall my emphasis on specializing in a real estate niche and establishing yourself as an expert in a specific field. Rebecca Turley from our Compass Wauwatosa office exemplifies this approach. Recognizing the importance of specialization, she immersed herself in the realm of senior living. Through regular meetings and dedicated study, she put together an informative packet and initiated outreach efforts, including pop-bys and connecting with relevant groups. Rebecca's proactive efforts earned her the opportunity to address a gathering of over a dozen senior care professionals. Today, Rebecca will be stepping onto the stage as their presenter, eloquently highlighting her expertise as a Senior Real Estate Expert and the value she brings to their clients and potential residents—a powerful testament to her dedication and self-belief six months ago when she began this journey. Imagine, six months from now, being the one who confidently says, "I trusted in myself, and it paid off." That person could be you. Self-belief is more than optimism—it's about nurturing confidence, resilience, and determination. It drives you to pursue leads, negotiate fiercely, and provide exceptional service. I'm here to support you. Together, we'll celebrate triumphs, learn from setbacks, and build the confidence needed for success. Remember: you have the capability and drive to achieve your dreams. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities, and watch your self-belief propel you forward. Here's to looking back with pride and saying, "I trusted in myself, and I succeeded."

If you've been to any of my training sessions, you've heard me say there are three primary ways to get leads in real estate: ask for them, pay for them, or go get them. Let's break down each method and explore how you can leverage them to drive your success. Ask for Them: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to generate leads is by asking for them. Whether it's reaching out to your sphere of influence, past clients, or even strangers, don't underestimate the power of a direct ask. Most people are willing to help if you just ask, but it requires picking up the phone and initiating the conversation. Overcoming the fear of rejection is key here. Remember, every "no" brings you one step closer to a "yes." Pay for Them: Another avenue for lead generation is paying for leads. This can include investing in online advertising, purchasing lead lists, or partnering with lead generation services. While this method can be effective, it often comes with a hefty price tag. It's essential to carefully evaluate the return on investment and ensure that you're targeting high-quality leads that align with your business goals. Go Get Them: Finally, sometimes the best way to generate leads is by taking action. This means hitting the pavement, attending networking events, door-knocking, and actively seeking out opportunities in your local market. By putting yourself out there and being visible in your community, you'll attract leads organically and build valuable relationships along the way. Mastering lead generation is essential for success in real estate. By combining the power of asking for leads, paying for strategic opportunities, and proactively seeking out new business, you'll create a robust pipeline of opportunities to fuel your growth. Commit to implementing at least two of these strategies into your daily routines and watch your business thrive. Remember, the fortune is in the follow-up, so stay consistent, stay proactive, and keep working towards your goals.

Ever noticed how a Sunday game day and the real estate market have more in common than just competitive spirit? That's right, from closing deals to drafting contracts, the world of real estate and the thrill of football share some surprising terminology. So, as we gear up for the Super Bowl, let's huddle up and explore ten real estate terms that unexpectedly play double duty on the football field! Closing Time: In real estate, it's the grand finale of a property purchase. In football, it's clutch time in the fourth quarter when the game's on the line. The Contract Play: Off the field, it seals the deal on your dream home. On the field, it ensures your favorite player sticks around for a few more seasons. Draft Day: Whether you're choosing the perfect addition to your portfolio or the next rookie sensation, drafting is all about making strategic picks for a winning future. Offensive Line Tactics: In the market, it might mean an aggressive bidding strategy. In the game, it's the front line protecting the QB at all costs. Gaining Yards: Literally the measure of your property's expanse versus moving the chains play by play towards the end zone. The Art of the Turnover: In real estate, it's flipping ownership from seller to buyer. On the gridiron, it's flipping possession from one team to the other - hopefully not your team! Zoning Defense: Whether you're navigating property use laws or defending against the pass, knowing your zone is key to success. The Conversion Rate: Converting lofts to condos or two-point tries, it's all about maximizing potential. Option Plays: Choices, choices! From lease options in real estate to a QB's split-second decision on the field, options keep the game interesting. Holding Penalties: Whether it’s holding onto a property too long in a changing market or a 10-yard penalty on the field, nobody likes to be held back. So, there you have it, folks – a playbook that bridges the gap between Sunday's touchdowns and Monday morning's property tours. Whether you're in it for the long haul or just for the halftime show, there's a little something in the game of real estate for everyone. Now, let's kick off this Super Bowl with the hope of scoring big – be it on the field or in the housing market!

Embark on a journey where businesses become your primary source of client referrals. Shift your focus from traditional neighborhood canvassing to becoming an indispensable real estate resource for professionals in specialized fields. By understanding and speaking to the real estate trends that directly affect their operations, you can address their challenges, provide invaluable advice, and offer solutions that benefit their clientele. Position yourself as the go-to real estate authority within a specific industry. This program is designed to guide you in identifying and targeting the right industry for your expertise. You'll learn how to pinpoint the industry that aligns with your services, and we'll equip you with the knowledge to establish the necessary processes and systems. Gain the expertise to become the trusted real estate professional that industries recommend to assist their clients in the buying and selling journey. Join us to transform your business approach and become the sought-after industry expert in real estate. You will learn: What is Business-to-Business Residential Real Estate? Understanding the Landscape Strategic Planning and Execution B2B Networking and Relationship Building Systems and Procedures When: January 31, 2024 Time: 10am-11:30am Where: Compass, North Shore: 8909 N. Port Washington Rd., Suite 106 Bayside, WI Sign Up Here: https://forms.gle/JvZUBxi9tHWji8LX7

In the opening address at the Compass REtreat, CEO Robert Reffkin emphasized the importance of basics and genuine client connections for success in the current challenging real estate market. Reffkin highlighted Compass's achievement as the leading brokerage in sales volume and its impressive 98% agent retention rate, which accounts for agents retiring or exiting the industry. He emphasized the brokerage's dedication to empowering agents, strengthening the role of real estate advisors, and aiming to double their market share. Robert stressed the need for more personal, face-to-face interactions with clients, especially post-COVID/Zoom era. Reffkin personally embraced this approach by visiting over 200 Compass offices and inviting agents and employees to his home. He argued that real connections can't be replaced by digital communication, emphasizing trust-building through personal interactions. To address threats to agent commissions, Reffkin encouraged the use of broker buyer agreements and focused on demonstrating value to buyers. In conclusion, Reffkin introduced the "Back to Basics Challenge," motivating agents to boost face-to-face client interactions and offering incentives for outstanding performers. He also hinted at exciting future developments for Compass, such as global expansion and advancements in technology and team resources.

Just as diamonds symbolize love and commitment in marriage, they also play a significant role in the world of real estate. While marriage is the dazzling centerpiece, understanding the other six "D's" in real estate will help couples build a strong foundation for their shared life and home. Diamonds - The Sparkling Symbol of Commitment In the world of matrimony, "diamonds" represent the eternal commitment between two people. They symbolize the love and dedication that couples share. Just as diamonds are treasured for their rarity and beauty, so too is the partnership forged in marriage. This commitment often leads couples to embark on a real estate journey together. Diapers - The Family Beginnings: After saying "I do," many couples embark on the "diapers" phase, signaling the start of their family journey. It's essential to find a home that accommodates the needs of a growing family and supports their evolving lifestyle. Diploma - The Educational Pursuits: The "downsizing" phase is a significant milestone in many individuals' lives, especially as children leave the nest and families transition into new life stages. This phase often coincides with the "empty nest" phenomenon, where parents find themselves with more space than they need after their children have grown and moved out. Empty nesters frequently find themselves at a crossroads, considering whether to stay in their current home or embark on a downsizing journey. Downsizing typically involves moving to a smaller, more manageable residence that better suits their evolving lifestyle. There are numerous motivations behind downsizing. Empty nesters may seek to reduce maintenance and utility costs, simplify their daily routines, or free up equity tied up in a larger property. Many also yearn for a "lock-and-leave" lifestyle that allows them to travel and explore new adventures without the burdens of a larger home. Divorce - The Unthinkable Challenges: While no couple wants to consider it, understanding the potential challenges of the "divorce" phase is also part of marriage. Selling a house due to divorce is often a complex and emotionally charged process. It involves a series of important decisions and considerations to ensure a fair and equitable outcome for both parties Debt - The Financial Partnership: Selling a home due to increased debt is a financial strategy aimed at achieving long-term financial stability and reducing the burden of excessive financial obligations. It allows individuals to address debt-related challenges proactively and make informed financial decisions. Default - The Joint Financial Planning: Selling a home due to default is a measure taken to address financial challenges and prevent the foreclosure process. It allows homeowners to regain control over their finances and mitigate the potential long-term consequences of defaulting on mortgage payments. Death - Estate Planning and Property Transition: In the natural progression of life, the "death" phase becomes a significant consideration. Planning for the orderly transition of property ownership and estate management is a critical aspect of responsible financial and legal planning. It ensures a seamless process for the distribution of assets and adherence to legal requirements. While "diamonds" are the shining jewel of marriage, the other "D's" in real estate remind us that a strong partnership also requires careful planning, communication, and preparedness. By navigating these aspects together, couples can build a resilient and harmonious life journey. In our upcoming series, we'll delve deeper into each of these facets, offering insights and advice to guide couples in their real estate and life decisions. Stay tuned for more wisdom as we explore the world of the seven D's in real estate and marriage.

Real estate teams can adopt various structures depending on their goals, size, and the nature of the market they're operating in. Here are some common team structures in the real estate industry: Traditional Team Model Team Leader: Usually the founding agent, responsible for overall strategy, growth, and often the key client relationships. Buyer’s Agents: Focus solely on serving buyers. Listing Agents: Specialize in securing and managing property listings. Administrative Staff: Handle paperwork, coordinate schedules, and manage the office. Rainmaker Model Rainmaker/Team Leader: Focuses on lead generation and high-level tasks. Showing Agents: Take buyers to see listings but may not handle negotiations. Transaction Coordinators: Specialize in the administrative aspects of closing deals. Pod Model Pod Leader: Oversees a small group or "pod" within the larger team. Buyer’s and Listing Agents: Work within their pod and report to the Pod Leader. Support Staff: Each pod may have dedicated administrative support. Expansion Team Model Central Hub Team: Core team located in one geographical area. Satellite Teams: Smaller teams or agents in various locations, reporting back to the central hub. Boutique Team Model Specialized Agents: Agents focus on niche markets or specific types of real estate. Support Staff: Administrative and marketing support catered to the specialty. Hybrid Models Teams may also employ a combination of these structures depending on their needs. For example, a team could use a traditional team model but employ a separate pod system for luxury listings or commercial properties. Specialized Roles In addition to the above, larger teams might include: Inside Sales Agents (ISAs): Specialize in converting leads into appointments. Marketing Specialist: Focuses on marketing strategies and implementation. Client Care Coordinator: Manages client relationships post-sale. Choosing the right team structure is crucial for effective collaboration and maximizing productivity and profits. The commission splits between real estate agents and their teams can vary widely based on a range of factors, such as experience, the market, and the specific responsibilities of the agent. However, here are some common scenarios: Traditional Splits 50/50 Split: In this straightforward arrangement, the agent and the team each take half of the commission. This is more common for new agents who rely heavily on the team for leads and support. 60/40 or 70/30 Split: More experienced agents who bring in their own clients might negotiate a more favorable split, where they take home 60% or 70% of the commission. Sliding Scale Splits Some teams offer sliding scale commission splits based on performance. For example, an agent might start the year at a 50/50 split but could move to a 60/40 or 70/30 split after reaching certain performance benchmarks. Cap Model In this model, agents share a fixed percentage of their commission until they reach a "cap." After capping, they may take home a much larger share, like 90% or even 100% of future commissions for the remainder of the year. Salary Plus Bonus Some teams offer a base salary with a smaller commission bonus for each transaction. This provides agents with some income stability but offers less upside than a commission-only model. Team-Specific Splits Specialized roles within the team might have unique splits. For instance, a listing agent might get a smaller percentage than a buyer's agent if the team leader was responsible for acquiring the listing. Alternatively, inside sales agents (ISAs) might receive a small percentage or flat fee for each lead they convert to a client. 100% Commission Model In this model, agents keep all of their commission but pay a monthly fee to the team for services like marketing, administrative support, and office space. Hybrid Models Some teams use a combination of these structures, especially for agents with specialized roles or responsibilities. It's important for agents to thoroughly understand and negotiate their commission structure, considering both the percentage and any additional fees or expenses. Always consult the team's contract to understand the specifics of the commission split.

I woke up and the nurse told me I had stopped breathing for 15 minutes. This was on Monday, June 26th, the first day in my new position as the Sales Manager for Compass. It wasn’t a bad dream, it happened. For my age, I consider myself healthy. I work out multiple times a week, I’ve completed six marathons, conquered a few mountains, and rode my bicycle in the two-day Ride Across Wisconsin last year, so when I went in to have my second surgery in 24 hours only to wake up and hear that I had stopped breathing, it again took my breath away. My day was supposed to be a lot different. I was deeply honored to have been appointed the first Sales Manager for Compass in Metro Milwaukee. If you’re not familiar with Compass, you’re not alone. In Wisconsin, Compass has only been around for two years, and as a company, it has only been in operation for a mere decade. However, within those 10 years, it has not only emerged as the #1 Brokerage in the United States in terms of Sales Volume for the past two consecutive years, but it also genuinely prioritizes the well-being of its people, employees, and customers. The health, physical fitness, and mental well-being of its team are deeply ingrained as core values that the organization not only mentions in its company handbook but also actively advocates and stands by every single day. I was incredibly excited to dive into my new role. Leading my first sales meeting on Tuesday and humbly embarking on this new position with many of the smartest Realtors in metro Milwaukee was something I eagerly anticipated. However, fate had different plans. Over the weekend, a reoccurring sports injury began to flare up. By Saturday I knew I was going to be admitted to the hospital. I was hoping I could put it off until after the Sales meeting on Tuesday. But by Sunday morning, it was clear I needed to go in asap. My wife took me to an ER. They performed the procedure and sent me home. It all happened so fast. Despite having a restless night's sleep, the excitement of starting my new job and engaging in numerous Zoom meetings with new colleagues and upper management from across the country energized me. One of my meetings, scheduled for 1 pm, involved nine other individuals. However, within the first ten minutes of the meeting, I had already sweated through my third shirt of the day. As I stared at my reflection on the screen, the thought crossed my mind, "All these people will witness me fainting right here, live on Zoom. I'll be 'that guy.'” It was at that moment that I realized I wasn't well. My wife Katie convinced me that it was time to return to the emergency room. Things took a serious turn from the moment I was admitted. The ER doctor informed me that I had developed sepsis, accompanied by a fever exceeding 104 degrees, prompting immediate surgery. By this point, it was Monday night at about 7:30 pm, and it was too late to find a babysitter. Consequently, Katie was at home with the kids, anxiously waiting for updates via phone calls. Thankfully, the surgeon kindly took the time to call Katie after the surgery and provide her with an update. After the surgery, my breathing ceased. When I regained consciousness, the nurse on my left greeted me with a smile and uttered, "Hello! You stopped breathing for about 15 minutes!" In a daze, I couldn't believe what I had just heard, so I asked, "I stopped breathing for 15 minutes!?" That's when the nurse on my right chimed in, saying, "No, it was only around 5 minutes, and we managed to stabilize you without needing significant measures. We handled it with minor interventions." For my own well-being, I decided to listen to what the nurse on the right had said first. However, for the sake of storytelling in the future, I wanted to hear the account from the nurse on the left as well. One of the most heartwarming moments of that night occurred shortly after I regained consciousness. A doctor entered the recovery room and revealed that they were my neighbor, living only a few blocks away from my house. They inquired about my wife's presence at the hospital, and learning that she was not there due to our two young children being at home, they immediately suggested, "Why don't I have my teenage daughter walk over to your house and watch your kids so your wife can come to the hospital?" It was an incredibly kind gesture that I never could have anticipated at that moment. That doctor wasn't concerned about customer service or how it would reflect in a review; they simply saw a person in need. I will forever cherish that act of kindness and carry it forward in both my personal and professional life. I hope this serves as the most extraordinary "first day of work" story you'll ever come across. And I also hope that, like me, you can take away the positive aspects that emerged from it. Thankfully, my recovery is progressing wonderfully. I finally feel like myself again. I'm adhering to my doctor's advice and taking it easy for a few days. Fortunately, I have plenty of videos and onboarding lessons to watch during my recovery, and I must say, I'm genuinely enjoying them!

The letter sent to the agents and staff of Compass: I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you all. We have appointed Chris Muellenbach as our Bayside office's new Associate Sales Manager. Please join me in extending our warmest congratulations to Chris on his well-deserved role! With over 17 years of experience in the Real Estate industry, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. Many of you may already be familiar with Chris's outstanding reputation in the Milwaukee region, as he previously owned his own brokerage and was voted the 2018 Best Real Estate Agent in Milwaukee by the Sheperd Express. His remarkable achievements and deep understanding of the industry make him an excellent fit for this leadership position. One of Chris's greatest strengths is his passion for working with agents. He genuinely cares about your success and is dedicated to supporting each of you in reaching your full potential. Chris's extensive background and leadership skills will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our Bayside office. As our new Sales Manager, Chris is committed to fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive. He believes in open communication, providing guidance, and creating personal and professional development opportunities. Chris's approachable nature and willingness to listen will ensure your voices are heard, and your needs are met. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Chris and offering him your full support as he transitions into his new role, effective June 26th. His enthusiasm and expertise will undoubtedly inspire all of us to achieve new levels of success. I encourage you to take this opportunity to connect with Chris, share your ideas, and tap into his knowledge and experience.