The National Association of REALTORS convention and EXPO is without a doubt one of the largest and most attended real estate events of the year. This years attendance was around 24,000 according to NAR on-site sources. My favorite part of the event is the EXPO. There are literally hundreds of vendors covering every possible product, tool, technology, and service, and this year was no exception.
Here are just a few of my Takeaways, tips, and a Re-Cap from NAR 2011.
Tom Ferry came and hung out with us at the Zillow booth giving away and autographing what seemed like thousands of his best selling books "Life By Design!" I finally got one for myself too, thanks Tom. The book provides 6 essential steps to creating and delivering an extraordinary you. The line seemed never-ending but Tom just kept smiling and signing as he met and greeted every single person that came by our booth.
Mauricio Umansky, CEO of The Agency who is also a Premier Agent on Zillow and a regular on Real House Wives of Beverly Hills, stopped by to share some of his ideas and innovations along with some BIG plans for his Real Estate future. Mauricio couldn't help but be noticed by so many fans and friends and of course spent a great deal of time taking photos and signing autographs. Take a look at Mauricio's $55,000,000 dollar listing.
As I walked around the EXPO floor, there were hundreds of booths and vendors sharing their wares and products. The Scarf King was rocking it right along with Kathy's jewelry, just as they always do. There were tons of mobile tech tools, plenty of website designers, MLS & IDX tools, software products, and so much tons more.
Wells Fargo and Chase looked like they had opened branch stores right there on the EXPO floor.
So this year, rather than get overwhelmed and allow myself to be morphed into one of those bobble-head dolls from information over-load, I decided to focus on my own personal overview of the entire event. I feel fortunate that I was able to interview many of the attendees this year and visit nearly every booth.
Here are 5 important things that really stood out to me by the time I had to leave.
These might seem simple and basic, but it's some of THE BEST fact gathering from NAR I can impart.
1. The Real estate Industry and EVERY business within it MUST BE MOBILE and MUST incorporate mobile device technology. Marketing and advertising on the mobile platform is NOT OPTIONAL anymore if you want to survive in business today. Period!
2. Your websites and blogs must be mobile friendly. Don't have QR Codes that link to your site from a users mobile device that land them on a standard non-mobile website that they can't view or read. (Believe it or not, this is more common than you might think) Go Look at your sites or Blogs right now and see.
3. Response time to online contacts/leads is the most critical piece of your business today. It only takes seconds to get a lead, and it only takes minutes to lose them forever. Answer your phone whenever possible and respond to email within 2-3 minutes, even if you have to let them know you'll get back to them later.
4. There are two types of people out there, those that know you, and those that don't. The ones that don't use Google so GET SEO! Also use sites like Zillow, ActiveRain and others where people are researching REAL ESTATE. My father always told me to fish where the Fish are, not where I think they are or where I think they should be.
5. ALWAYS use a GOOD CRM to manage and follow-up with your contacts, prospects, and past clients. There is no way to manage your business efficiently and effectively without the most important tool of all, your CRM!!!
Lastly, don't think you need to have and use every tool, technology, app, software, etc on the web. Don't try and be everything for everybody on every site and social network. Find the right IDX tools and sites that help you cultivate contacts and connect with prospects. Make sure you have GREAT capturing tools in place. Constantly and consistently keep sharpening your people and conversion skills, it's an art to be mastered.
Visit http://www.narconferencelive.com for LIVE NAR Conference updates, videos, and photos etc. Also search Twiiter.com with the hashtag #NARannual to see all the ongoing tweet streams. We'll be at NAR 2012 in Orlando Florida. We have some cool surprises in the works for next year so I hope you can be there too.
The REALTORS® Conference & Expo, Nov. 11-14, in Anaheim is coming up this week, and I'm excited and proud to welcome two special guests you’ll want to meet at our Zillow booth (#1705) at the Trade Expo. I know many of you will be coming and I'm hoping that those of you still on the fence will go ahead and make the trip.
On Saturday:
For close to 20 years, Tom Ferry has earned a peerless reputation as a top trainer, motivator speaker, author and business coach for real estate professionals. He's also a personal friend.
Come Meet Tom at the Zillow booth on Saturday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to sign copies of his bestselling book, “Life! By Design.” Tom's passion for helping agents and the strategies he imparts definitely rule!
On Sunday:
Mauricio Umansky appears regularly on Bravo’s hit reality TV show, “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” which stars his wife, Kyle Richards. To the real estate community, he’s known as the CEO and co-founder of The Agency, a Southern California high-end real estate brokerage.
Meet Mauricio and learn about his success on and off camera during an exclusive appearance at the Zillow booth, (#1705), Sunday, Nov. 13, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
There will be several of us from Zillow at the booth throughout the show to hear feedback on how we can better serve your needs. When you visit, please remember to ask us to share some tips and ideas on some new and exciting ways we can help drive buyers and sellers directly to you.
For those of you who just can't make it for whatever reason, I understand and that's why I'll be doing some "LIVE" TV Broadcasting in many areas of NAR this year. Follow me on http://twitter.com/bradandersohn and I'll be sharing tips, tools, interviews, links to live broadcasts, coolest expo technologies, the latest updates, breaking news and more. "It will be the next best thing to being there!"
Looking forward to seeing you in Anaheim!
This week is the California Association of REALTORS® (CAR) EXPO in San Jose California.
One of the luncheon speakers this year was guest Jason Dorsey, a recognized "Gen Y" representative who spoke to the group about how Gen Y IS ready to buy. The information Jason shared in a more than enthusiastic and exciting manner was well received by the audience but more importantly was "DEAD ON" regarding the Gen Y culture and mentality.
If you were there, you know exactly what I'm talking about and if not... I'm sorry you missed out.
I was fortunate and able to capture a few short minutes of Jason's presentation that will give you a small dose of Jason's knowledge, humor, and accuracy of the "Generation Y" that's ready to buy. Listen closely to what he says regarding trust, tech savvy, communication, experts, and who the most trusted website is for Generation Y. You'll love this!!
"Technology has fundamentally changed how we communicate" Jason Dorsey
Is there really a gap between "Gen Y" and YOUR generation? Do you feel that "Gen Y" speaks a different language, dances to a different beat, or thinks differently than you or I might think? Have you looked at the numbers, done the research, and considered some of the facts surrounding the "Y" Generation? Once you see this, you'll realize that the tools available can and will make a difference if you decide to seize the opportunity. Why should you care? Your future business may depend on it.
Recently I was invited to join this investing opportunity using "Groupon" buying power to purchase Real Estate. Is this a fad, a trend, or will it become a standard in the home purchase and selling process? I've used Groupon to make "deal" purchases for smaller material items in the past but never considered investing in purchasing real property in this manner?
I remember hearing that someone put their home on eBay and sold it. I was told another homeowner put an ad on Amazon, and I've seen hundreds of homes on Craigslist and other classified sites but Groupon power? I'm curious how many others have this happening in their areas and if so, what are your thoughts? is this something you would participate in?
Can they really do this? Dumb question: Looks like they already are...
Would your potential clients or past clients go for an opportunity like this? Would you?
"We have negotiated with the builder a discounted price on duplexes near Round-Rock (Austin). We are combing the group buying power to get better prices and create a rent protection concept. The duplexes' (2 units each) price is based on a group purchase."
NEW Concept: “Groupon” Purchase of Duplexes
Tue. 9/13/11 7PM - In the room & via web
RSVP for details
Investment Highlights
Regular price: $260,000 – $270,000 per duplex ($130,000-$135,000 per door)
“Groupon” price: $249,900 – $259,000 based on a minimum purchase of ten duplexes (20 doors)
Myself and others could sure use your help, advice, and feedback here.
This is happening right here in the Bay Area, just about an hour away and I'm curious what my ActiveRain friends would advise or do themselves? No need to pull punches here, give me your honest thoughts and opinions. Usually, I'm the one trying to give information and advice but this time I need yours? Thanks.
Inman News Innovator of the Year Award
Having just returned from the Inman News Real Estate Connect Conference in San Francisco, CA. my first instinct was to create a long post sharing all the great information and awesome take-aways I came away with this year, but then after some thought, I decided to share this with you instead, at least for now. All the great tech stuff coming later...
On July 28th, 2011 at the Hilton Union Square Grand Ballroom, Brad Inman Founder of Inman News, Tim Smith CEO of Inman, and Chris Smith, the newly appointed Chief Evangelist for Inman announced the 2011 Innovator of the Year Award Winner. Up until the morning of the announcement, I had no idea who the winner was going to be, but I had heard some names mentioned and was encouraged to not miss this presentation.
It was a very exciting moment to say the least, and to capture it on video was an honor. It's the only video footage I have from the entire 3 day event. My hat's off to the winners, and my heart and congratulations goes out to ALL the nominees from every category. There truly are no losers, everyone nominated is a winner in my opinion.
The Inman team must have a very difficult time trying to select winners beyond the "People's Choice" awards. Shout-outs and Kudos to their entire team and staff for a fine job well done! Thanks, and congrats to Inman on celebrating 15 years of Real Estate Connect Success.
Now, please take a moment to join me in congratulating the 2011 Inman News "Innovator of the Year" for winning a very prestigious and coveted award....drum roll please...the winner is....
Helping Industry Professionals with Social Media, SEO, Blogging, Real Estate Technology, and Lead Mgmt. training using Zillow tools and online systems to help build relationships and grow Business.
You can also find me over at Zillow Academy providing FREE Training and Support
"Build your Castles and Mansions on "PEOPLE" because they are the strongest foundations on the earth!"
People may forget your name, they may even forget what you've said, but they'll never forget how you made them feel!
"One never knows the road they'll end up on in life, continue the quest, do what's right, make a difference in the world,
and most important of all, make sure you enjoy the journey!"
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Your kindness knows no bounds! I really mean that sentiment. You are the embodiment of the etiquette and INTENTION behind the Web 2.0 Social Media movement. Thank you be well and keep up the fantastic sharing and caring! Rock on bro!
Wow Brad, You never cease to amaze me...If I was an active real estate agent I would move to your neck of the woods so I could do business with you and somehow figure out a way to put money in your pocket and keep you happy...The info you are dispensing here is really outstanding Sir!!! I can never hit the notify me of new comment box on your posts or my in box will be flooded when I wake up in the morning.
Bob Stewart - Active Rain
Dear Brad, I've written this recommendation of your work to share with other users. "If you are seeking someone who embodies a keen awareness of social media, the ability to bring the very best out of people and loves his work, I recommend you meet and work with Brad Andersohn. Besides being a really nice guy, Brad is a knowledgeable marketer, a shrewd real estate blogging expert and an experienced network builder. At Active Rain, Brad is called the "community builder" which is quite appropriate. In my mind, Brad Andersohn is the resident Active Rain "people builder" who possesses the rare ability to help jump-start your Internet presence so you can enjoy greater success."
Bobby Carroll - Dakno Marketing
I recently had the good fortune to meet Brad Andersohn. It was truly an amazing learning experience for me. The primary topics at hand were constructing my business plan for 2008 and growing my business into the future. Brad has written a full suite of software products that directly and intuitively take you down the path of your future business activities and projected results. He breaks the tasks down to monthly, weekly, and daily activities. Once one or several deals get done, the program updates and recalculates new target levels for contacts, appointments, and closings needed to stay on target with your original plan. Brad’s schedules allow flexibility in terms of client contact whether it be thru emails, notes, visits, or phone calls. He and his company,go into great detail in assisting agents with farming and building meaningful databases. Brad’s grasp of blogging, websites and all the interrelated parts of that segment of marketing is unparalleled.
My description of Brad’s ideas and products do not do justice to the value they have immediately added to my outlook, attitude and renewed enthusiasm to get my plans put into action. Hats off to a real Pro — and yes, this is a direct, hard core recommendation for you to contact him and REALLY grow your biz.
Douglas Moore - Alain Pinel Realtors
Brad can only be described as high-energy, creative, "brain food" for the real estate industry. If you want systems, solutions and technologies to take your business to the next level, Brad is the answer! I honestly don't know when Brad sleeps. Awesome Title/Escrow services by day, Technology genius by night. Really good Title/Escrow people take excellent care of clients you bring them, but Brad is on a different level entirely. He helps you develop clients you didn't have before!
Wendy Cutrufelli - Countrywide Home Loans
"I've never thanked you for all that you have done to help me get started in Real Estate. As a new Agent I was lost and confused. I joined ReMax in the hopes of getting an education to become a successful Realtor and fortunately that led me to ActiveRain where I found you at the University. I had never blogged before. I didn't even know what blogging, SEO or long tail searches were. You were invaluable in getting me started Brad. It was your support and training that made me the 2nd best blogger in AZ, just 2 votes behind the legendary Phoenix Real Estate Guy and I've been at it for just over a year.
I meant to thank you in person when you were in Phoenix but I didn't want to impose on your limited time. It was nice to finally meet you in person. As you know, I'm now with eXp Realty and it was you that got me there. That's another thing I need to thank you for. It was the perfect fit for me. I love eXp! Thanks for presenting at X-Camp. I hope you're a regular visitor to our virtual world. After you left to room, you should have heard the chatter. Rock On!"
Mark Gridley - eXp Realty
“Brad is phenomenal at taking technology and solutions to the next level. His blogs and ideas on ActiveRain
take the content-rich site to the maximum potential. If you have not seen his blogs or ideas, make sure to check out his ActiveRain site for more detail.
Jason Bliss - Intuvo LLC
“I would highly recommend Brad's work. He is on top of technology and is a wonderful trainer. 100% ethical, honest and a person with integrity.”
Missy Caulk - RE/MAX Platinum
“I worked with Brad for several years. Brad was especially helpful in keeping my mortgage company on track with his knowledge of the mortgage and real estate industry. He assembled a team that was, in my opinion, the best in their field. As a mortgage broker, I relied on my title company for prompt, accurate and friendly service for my clients. I always recommended Brad's team and would drive 20 miles to use him rather than someone closer because of his dedication to his clients, his team and to me. I would, without a doubt, work with Brad and any team he puts together.”
Richard Smith - Keystone Mortgage
Brad,
I just want to thank you for the conversation last night...talking with you..was worth big $$$$$$. I really learned a great deal last night and a lightbulb went off in my head! Thank you...for always taking the time out and speaking to me and thank you for all of the wonderful ideas and thoughtful posts you place on the rain!
Midori Miller - Century 21 Sundance Realty
“Brad is the type of person everyone should have in their world; a man with lots of integrity, reliability, honor, helpfulness and smart, too. He has provided services I desperately needed many times - especially computer/PDA and technology fixes. He continues to be interested in my real estate business’ growth and how he and his company can make (my life simpler and) my business better. I very highly recommend Brad!”
Patrice Hall - Prudential California Realty
"Brad's industry knowledge, integrity, professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile to help others is
an invaluable asset to his peers. I would, without reservation, highly recommend Brad Andersohn's work in
the escrow and technology services that he provides. As a 15 year veteran of the real estate and consulting
industry, I have yet to find someone so willing to share his time, knowledge and expertise with others.
Subscribe to his blog's! You will be amazed at the wealth of information..."
Nick Bastian - Homesource Preferred Properties
“Brad is a highly regarded member of active rain. His knowledge of technology and marketing is unsurpassed.
He is the “go to guy” with any type of marketing or technology question. He has been an invaluable resource for
me and everyday I learn something new from him.
Sandra Cummings - William Raveis Real Estate
“Brad brings a refreshing perspective on technology issues to Active Rain. His willingness to contribute
and to help colleagues with answers to their questions makes him a stand-out among members on that site.
Eric Kodner - Madeline Island Realty LLC
“Brad is a pleasure to deal with. He has integrity and is always professional with his associates. He is a man that can get things done.” November 7, 2007 Top qualities: Expert, High Integrity, Creative!
Maureen Henry - Rockland Home Staging
I have had the great opportunity to be a colleague of Brad's on Active Rain. He has written numerous instructional and tutorial posts on utilizing online marketing tools for the thousands of members on Active Rain. His posts show great detail and precise instructions on each of the pieces of technology he shares with us, and he uses those skills to make sure his writing is clear and concise, and easily understood by his audience. I continue to use Brad's posts to make my online marketing efforts as efficient and productive as possible. And I know numerous other Active Rain members would confirm the same as well. Brad clearly has a firm grasp not only on the latest technology tools available, he also has a great handle on how best to implement them as well. I will continue to look to him for news on how to continue striving to make my online marketing as effective and efficient as possible. He's a terrific asset to all of us who are colleagues on Active Rain!
Ann Cummings - RE/MAX Coast to Coast
"THANK YOU Brad for the continued, wonderful opportunity to stay connected to a cutting edge of social media reason and application via ActiveRain, where your constant gifts of education and inspiration are CARE-fully given...You represent some of the finest modeling for learning and education on the web, not just for Realtors, but for anyone excited about learning and sharing the phenomenal gifts of our trials and times. You are simply an awesome illustration of leadership and inspiration, motivation, ingenuity and compassion. It's a gift in my life and a blessing for the evolution of sustainable livlihood (which can grow when rooted in the golden rule), and I am deeply grateful."
Mara Hawks - First Realty - Auburn Alabama
"Brad, a special thanks for your time, expertise and patience in getting our computer system going. I've had this system for nearly 4 years and have never had it efficiently the way it was intended. In about 3 hours, you accomplished what three other so called professionals were unable to do. WOW! Everything is up and running great! A million thanks would not be enough. I was extremely impressed with your knowledge, professionalism and ability to simplify tasks to a level I could understand. You have a rare talent, which should take you a long way in life and to a successful career. Thank you so much again...you have been an absolute "Gold Mine" to my office!
Steve Turnbloom - Turnbloom & Associates - Broker / Owner
"I am writing you to Thank You for allowing Brad Andersohn to participate in the Computer Farming Seminar held at the California Association of Realtors Convention in San Diego. Brad's high professionalism helped contribute to the success of the seminar. You are very fortunate to have on your team a person of such high Caliber! Please convey my sincere appreciation for a job well done!"
John Bolton - Century 21 Landmark
"I am writing to you on behalf of your generous and brilliant team of support personnel which include Brad Andersohn. I can't say enough about him. He has helped me so many, many times, and has gone out of his way, way above and beyond the "call of duty". I just hope that other agents are not as remiss as myself in writing to let you know how grateful we are to have him. He is truly exceptional and has done more for me than I could ever "Thank" him for!" It has taken a great deal to win my business, but I owe it to Brad. Many Thanks!!"
Cynthia Burke, CRS - Security Pacific Real Estate
"I teach a course for senior agents at Mason McDuffie in Orinda and have had Brad Andersohn speak at the prospecting session on three occasions. He is an excellent speaker with a tremendous amount of knowledge. I believe he takes his work very seriously and I will continue to ask him to be a part of my training classes. I think you have a great employee on your team. Thank you!
Kitty Cole - Mason McDuffie - National Trainer RE Services
“Brad has been (and continues to be) a terrific blogging resource for real estate topics
on Active Rain. He makes an extra effort to help others throughout the network.
Kristal Kraft - The Berkshire Group Realtors
"I would like you to know how much we appreciate Brad Andersohn. Brad continually goes the extra mile in service, and always with a smile. Brad has really made the Advantage Farming system a super tool. He has spent countless hours helping us get it in running order. We know it will make a big difference in our future business. There is something to be said about someone who takes time out in the evening to call from their home because they know the next couple of days are filled with many appointments. Much dedication to your company as well as to the agents he is helping. Brad has been a treasure to deal with. Our sincere thanks and appreciation in your having such a dedicated employee."
Katy Huetter and Todd Van Laanen - RE/MAX Realtors
Dear Brad, You are one of those kind of people that instructors "Dream" of having in their class! You are eager, enthusiastic, ready and willing to learn, supportive, and you walk the talk. Your application of what I teach is excellent as is your ability to adapt what I teach to you and your way of selling. To say I am one of your greatest fans would be an understatement! Congratulations on winning the Sales Talk Championship. The competition was excellent. To be chosen Best-of-the-Best is the highest honor. Best of luck to you always!"
Eddie Snow - Dale Carnegie
Kelly Cantrell - First Amrican Title Company
"Brad, to stand out as a "Service Star" in an era that requires lots of energetic performances just to keep pace with our volume, is certainly an accolade. Thank you for showing us all how to get the job done! You set an example for our newer employees and keep the customers coming back. Congratulations on your award.
Mark Sachau - First American - Chief Operating Officer
"Brad was instrumental in the production of the 1st ever "Solano County Real Estate Tech Fair"! Being the Chairman for the SAOR Technology Committee, Brad took it upon himself to plan, direct, coordinate and implement the entire program. Most of his effort was done after hours on his own personal time. Brad definitely deserves a service star for his great and valiant efforts!"
Thomas Lucini - First American Title - Director of Sales
Thanks For Stopping By!
BTW - Try my program....
Agent Assist NOW has "Goal Planning" and "Tracking!"
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