Real Trends: Real Trending

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt talks with Jay Papasan, executive at Keller Williams Realty and co-author of The Millionaire Real Estate Agent. Tracey and Jay talk about what it really takes for rookie agents to thrive in today’s market, from building a solid database to developing effective lead generation habits early on. Jay shares the inspiration behind his new and upcoming book The Rookie Real Estate Agent and offers some veteran advice on prospecting, compliance, and why foundational business habits matter more than flashy branding. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Most new agents fail because they miss the fundamentals. A database of 250+ contacts is a tipping point for success. Lead generation beats branding—especially in the early days. AI tools can support—but not replace—agent action. Open houses remain a top lead source for beginners. New agents need structure, discipline, and a runway to succeed. Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ja

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Steve Murray, industry stalwart and senior advisor to RealTrends. Tracey and Steve had the opportunity to sit down in person at HousingWire’s The Gathering. Steve dives into the real estate’s most pressing issues, including the distraction of AI, Clear Cooperation, and the alarming number of inactive agents. He talks about why developing talent should be every broker’s priority, why it’s time to rethink the outdated brokerage model, and gives an introduction to Fiji, a new M&A tool designed to bring transparency and innovation to real estate dealmaking. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: AI is a fascinating tool that can enhance brokerage efficiency. Brokers need to focus on recruiting and developing talent. The real estate market may remain stagnant for years. Realtor associations face challenges with membership dynamics. Innovative tools are emerging for M&A and valuation. Brokers should consider a team-based model

On today’s bonus episode of RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Ben Bacal, the founder of Revel Real Estate.  Tracey and Ben talk about the future of real estate, from AI-enhanced client experiences to the rise of real estate auctions. Ben also shares the secrets behind modern brokerage leadership and how Revel is equipping agents with marketing tools, studio pods for content creation, and data-driven insights to compete in today’s market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: A la carte brokerage services could redefine commission structures. AI agents may become the industry’s next competitive edge. Branding, video marketing, and social media are non-negotiables. Real estate auctions are gaining traction, especially in luxury. Leadership means understanding, supporting, and connecting. Tomorrow’s agents will rely on tech-enabled, emotionally smart platforms. Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Revel Real Estate Ben Bacal | LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠HousingWire | Y

Today on RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down with Rory Golod, President of Growth and Communications at Compass, to discuss their lawsuit against Zillow and what Compass is doing to reshape the agent and consumer experience in real estate. Rory unpacks the motivations behind the lawsuit and also shares Compass’s three-pronged marketing strategy. He also talks about how agent feedback drives tech development across platforms like Compass One and their other AI integrations. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Why Compass is taking a stand against Zillow’s marketing policies How pre-marketing creates demand and higher sale prices Compass’s agent-first tech development model Why consumer value is the key to brokerage profitability How AI is accelerating innovation and agent efficiency The secret to high agent adoption of brokerage tools Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rory Golod | LinkedIn Compass Real Estate Brooklee Han on the Compass lawsuit again

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Dermot Buffini, CEO of Buffini & Company. Tracey and Dermot got the opportunity to sit down in person to record an episode at HousingWire’s The Gathering. Dermot breaks down the challenges in today’s real estate leadership  — from agent productivity to market shifts — and shares how to stay focused on what really matters. He also talks about “above the line” thinking to help leaders prioritize outcomes over distractions, and offers strategies for embracing technology and staying rooted in core values and customer service. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Starting a business is easy, but making it work is hard. Agent productivity is crucial for business success. Good markets do not create good habits; preparation is key. Embrace technology and AI as tools for growth. Distractions can derail focus; stay mission-driven. The harvest comes for those who endure the cold seasons. Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dermot Buffini | Spe

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Hoby Hanna, CEO of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services and Hanna Holdings. Hoby discusses the company’s culture-first M&A strategy, innovative consumer programs like the buy-borrow bundle, and how AI and data are shaping real estate. He also shares why collaboration matters and outlines his goal to reach 20% share in 20 major markets. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Howard Hanna targets culturally aligned acquisitions to drive strategic growth and market expansion. The company prioritizes profitability and strong cash flow over rapid, unsustainable growth. Real estate agents remain central to every transaction, reinforcing the firm's agent-first philosophy. Howard Hanna is a full-service housing ecosystem, offering mortgage, title, and insurance services. Organizing data for AI integration is a core focus to enhance efficiency and decision-making. Innovation, including consumer programs like the buy borrow bundle and money-back guar

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Tami Pardee, founder of Pardee Properties in Venice, California. Tami shares how she brought a production-style model from the entertainment industry into real estate and built a high-touch, high-performing boutique brokerage. She also talks about how she tripled sales during the wildfires, uses the tools from an AI collective to empower her agents, and helps homeless women through her Life Change Warriors program. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Tami transformed her entertainment production experience into a real estate model. She created a task force to help clients during the wildfires. AI is a crucial tool for staying competitive in real estate. Life Change Warriors empowers homeless individuals through support and education. Building a strong company culture enhances agent performance. Related to this episode:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Pardee Properties Tami Pardee Tami Pardee, MBA - Pardee Properties | LinkedIn Life

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Alex Derenne and Alexis Hirsig, the masterminds behind The Powerhouse Partners, a group with The Real Brokerage that blends coaching and marketing in a real estate network that collaborates, rather than competes. Alex and Alexis dive into how building authentic personal brands on social media has helped them connect with clients, and how AI tools, from content creation to scheduling, are boosting their productivity. With a mission to grow a supportive community of agents nationwide, Alex and Alexis also share their vision to expand Powerhouse Partners to all 50 states. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Collaboration, rather than competition, can create more growth in real estate. Authentic branding attracts aligned, loyal clients. Social media and marketing knowledge is a must-have tool for modern agents. When used right, AI greatly boosts efficiency and sparks creative content ideas. Know your ideal client avatar to prope

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down to chat with Sarah Reynolds, the CEO of EmpowerHome with Keller Williams.  Sarah talks about the power of mindset amid market uncertainty, how to keep real estate fun, and why focusing on what’s controllable is key to agent success, no matter what market conditions are. She also talks about trends and new brokerage models coming onto the market and how they are  — or aren’t — changing how Empower is doing business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Focus on what you can control, not market conditions. Making real estate fun again boosts individual and team morale. Hiring with a growth mindset is key to innovation. We’ll start to see new, emerging agents in response to market changes. Client needs should always be the true north when driving industry policy changes. Empower Home aims to serve 100 families a month. Related to this episode: ⁠Sarah Reynolds | EmpowerHome⁠ ⁠EmpowerHome Team⁠ ⁠Sarah Reynolds | LinkedIn⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Rainy Hake Austin, President of The Agency. The Agency ranked 13 by volume and is also the fourth largest private independent brokerage according to the 2025 RealTrends Verified Top Brokerage rankings. Over the past five years, The Agency has grown to almost 100 offices across the US. Rainy dives into ethical leadership, the trend to move beyond the transaction, and how AI is reshaping operations by plugging them into staff efficiency tools. She also talks about mergers vs. organic growth and why articulating unique value is key in a competitive market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: The agency has grown significantly, ranking 13th by volume. A people-first approach is central to their growth strategy. Maintaining a boutique feel is crucial as they scale. Agents are trained to articulate their unique value effectively. AI is used to enhance efficiency and customer experience. Related to this episode: The Agency

This week on RealTrending, we are bringing you a special crossover episode of the Top of Mind podcast, hosted by Altos president Mike Simonsen. Mike chats with Jason Waugh, president of Coldwell Banker Affiliates, about how the real estate brokerage model is evolving and what that means for agents, buyers, and the future of the industry. Jason shares insights from Coldwell Banker’s 100,000 agents, the shifting dynamics of consumer representation, and the lasting impact of the 2024 commission settlements. He also discusses luxury market trends, the critical role of buyer agreements, and why brick-and-mortar still matters in a hybrid world. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: What it’s like running an iconic real estate brand in 2025 The latest findings from CB’s Global Luxury Trends report Notable demographic trends for luxury real estate buyers How agent/homebuyer relationships are changing after the commission lawsuits Which consumers continue to choose full-service/full-price real estat

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with Tamir Poleg, CEO of The Real Brokerage, about how AI is rapidly changing the real estate game — if you don't build it, then someone else will. Tamir shares how Real is using AI to streamline operations, from an assistant answering thousands of questions per day to developing automatic broker reviews. He also discusses scaling without compromising culture, the evolving agent-client dynamic, and why brokerages must refocus on consumers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Real is both a technology and a real estate company. AI enhances operational efficiency and client service. A strong company culture attracts like-minded agents. Leadership will always involve taking responsibility for failures. Automation can replace many tasks traditionally done by agents. AI will play a significant role in decision-making for real estate transactions. Related to this episode: The Real Brokerage Tamir Poleg - The Real Brokerage Inc | LinkedIn

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt chats with OB Jacobi, co-president of Windermere Real Estate. Founded in 1972 by OB’s father, John Jacobi, Windermere is still being led by the Jacobi family over 50 years later. OB joins us today to talk about rethinking the role of the MLS in real estate and how NAR’s Clear Cooperation Policy add-ons have impacted the industry as of late. He also has some really insightful thoughts on the strategic shifts that real estate leaders need to make in a post-settlement world, from making technology-led decisions to not underestimating local market influence. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Clear Cooperation has significant implications for market transparency. Local market knowledge is crucial for effective real estate governance. AI has the potential to revolutionize many day-to-day real estate operations. Family businesses can provide unique advantages in leadership. The role of MLS should be re-evaluated for better local governance. There is room for both

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down in person with Robert Palmer, founder and CEO of LPT Realty, at LPT’s studio in Orlando. Robert talks about LPT’s journey from a simple marketing tool to a top brokerage in just a couple of years. He also discusses agent empowerment through dual brokerage models, LPT’s upcoming initiatives, and growth plans. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: LPT’s transition from a marketing tool to a brokerage was driven by a desire to support agents. Self-funding allows for greater control and prioritization of agents' needs. The brokerage model should empower local agents to make decisions about mortgage and title services. Navigating industry challenges requires a commitment to agent choice and autonomy. Understanding and balancing both business logic and technology for successful software development. LPT’s growth strategies include expanding training programs and launching a luxury brand. Related to this episode: LPT Realty | RealTrends Verified LPT Realt

This week on RealTrending, Tracey Velt sits down with Steve Murray, senior advisor for HousingWire and the founder of RealTrends and RTC Consulting. Steve joins us to unpack some of the recent dramatic shifts in real estate, including Stone Point’s strategic investment in Keller Williams and Rocket’s acquisition of Redfin. They also talk about Clear Cooperation Policy and the industry footprint of new, fast-growing brokerage models like LPT Realty and The Real Brokerage. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Rocket's acquisition of Redfin aims to leverage its brand and website traffic. Private equity interest is returning to the real estate market. New brokerage models are growing rapidly, often with lower costs. The franchise model is evolving, with virtual brokerages gaining traction. NAR's policies on delayed marketing are creating industry debates. The market is shifting towards more inclusive practices. Related to this episode: Changes are underway as MLSs implement NAR’s new CCP policy | Hou

Housing market headlines are nonstop — tariffs, mortgage rates, jobs reports and general market chaos. But what does it all mean?  In this bonus episode of RealTrending, HousingWire is joined by experts Ivy Zelman, Logan Mohtashami and Dale Wettlaufer to make sense of it all. Originally part of a HousingWire exclusive virtual event, this candid conversation offers expert analysis of what’s happening and what might come next. Related to this episode: Compare Current Mortgage Rates | HousingWire Housing Market News and Commentary | HousingWire HousingWire | YouTube More info about HousingWire Enjoy the episode! The RealTrending podcast features conversations with the brightest minds in real estate. Every Monday, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts join us to share their secrets to success, trends, and the lessons they’ve learned. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on RealTrending, Tracey interviews Cindy Raney and Jason Mudd, the husband-and-wife leaders of the Cindy Raney Team at Coldwell Banker in Westport, Connecticut.  Cindy and Jason talk about running a luxury team, including how they divide responsibilities and maintain a strong team culture. They also discuss their most effective marketing strategies, the impact of commission lawsuits on the luxury market, how to articulate a clear value proposition, and more! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: They emphasize the importance of dividing responsibilities based on strengths. Understanding the luxury market requires a focus on client education and client advisory services. The emotional aspects of selling a home must be managed carefully. Consistency in marketing is crucial for success in luxury real estate. Building a strong team culture is essential for team growth. Related to this episode: Cindy Raney Cindy Raney & Team | Instagram Cindy Raney & Team | Coldwell Banker HousingWire | You

This week on RealTrending Tracey interviews Kortney Wilson, an eXp real estate agent and HGTV personality. Kortney shares her journey from music to flipping houses, how HGTV impacted her career, and how she built a sustainable referral network with eXp Realty.  She also discusses using AI and automation tools for personalized client follow-up and introduces her new show, Life is Messy, which is focused on helping people declutter their homes and lives. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Building a referral business has become a key focus for her real estate career. Automation and technology are essential for modern real estate practices. Understanding clients' communication styles enhances client relationships. Social media is crucial for real estate professionals to connect with buyers and sellers and market properties. Identifying personal strengths earlier could have accelerated her career growth. Related to this episode: Kortney Wilson | LinkedIn Kortney Wilson | HGTV HousingWire | YouTube

Today on RealTrending, Tracey interviews Ryan Schneider, the CEO of Anywhere Real Estate. This episode originally aired on our sister show, Power House, but this week we are bringing it to the feeds of our real estate audience. Tracey and Ryan talk about Anywhere’s refocus on luxury and what they think is going to happen to M&A as the market shifts this year. They also talk about AI’s relationship with operational efficiency and a surprisingly effective place to turn for mentorship — your agents. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Settling litigation early provided a competitive advantage for Anywhere. Investing in luxury markets has led to significant growth. M&A opportunities are expected to increase as the market shifts. Market predictions indicate a potential recovery in home sales over the next year. Mentorship from agents is important for leadership development. Proactively embracing change is crucial for success in the industry. Related to this episode: For Anywhere, the challenges of 2

On this week’s episode of RealTrending Tracey is joined by Michelle Billings, Coldwell Banker agent and the President of Ohio Realtors. Michelle has some great advice on how real estate professionals should be differentiating themselves in today’s market, from proactive education strategies to leveraging past client interactions. She also talks about affordability, current housing legislative efforts in Ohio, and how agents should be using their knowledge of market trends and dynamics to help in their business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Michelle Billings has been in the industry for over 23 years. Affordability is a major concern in the current real estate market but education is the key for agent success. The role of real estate professionals is evolving due to increased consumer access to data. Understanding market nuances helps to advise clients effectively. Legislative efforts are underway to address things such as rising property taxes. Related to this episode: Ohio REALTORS Miche