How to Build a Thriving Business: Advice from Top Real Estate Broker/Owners

How to Build a Thriving Business: Advice from Top Real Estate Broker/Owners

We’ve spoken to some of the best broker/owners across Europe and we’re sharing their secrets to success.

As a real estate broker/owner, you know that success is not just about closing deals, but also about building a sustainable business that can last for years to come. But where can you turn to get insights and advice from the best in the business? Look no further than our RE/MAX Broker/Owner Ambassadors, some of the top-performing broker/owners in Europe who serve as mentors to the entire RE/MAX family.

Regardless of where you are in your real estate career, there’s always room to learn from the best. That’s why we reached out to our RE/MAX Broker/Owner Ambassadors for their exclusive insights. From cultivating a growth mindset to building a powerful network, these industry experts share the secrets to their success that can help you take your business to the next level.

 

 

 

 

Prioritize Ongoing Training

One of the secrets to productivity and growth – not to mention happy agents – is ongoing learning, rather than just a one-time session. “I schedule regular coaching sessions for myself and for my agents to make all of us better,” says Volker Nies, a Broker/Owner Ambassador from RE/MAX Switzerland. This helps agents stay motivated and engaged over the long term and ensures that they continue to grow and develop their skills.

Creating a culture of continuous learning in your office means not only offering formal training sessions but also encouraging agents to learn from one another and share their knowledge and expertise. And don’t forget, the more you learn, the more your agents will learn, too. “The benefit of the network is the exchange of experiences with colleagues who pursue the same goals,” says Volker, “so don’t miss the RE/MAX conventions with highly professional speakers who always provide new ideas for your own business.”

 

 

 

 

Focus on the Why

One of the biggest challenges in the real estate industry is managing time effectively. Successful broker/owners understand that prioritization is key, and they focus on the most important tasks to drive results. “Every task I perform on a daily basis is an action towards achieving my main goal,” says Sinem Özüçler, Broker/Owner Ambassador from RE/MAX Turkey. This is important for you and for your agents, since setting clear goals and tracking progress toward them keeps agents motivated and engaged, and ensures that they are always working toward something tangible.

However, when it comes to productivity, why we do a task is often more important than how we do it. “Every morning, I look in my agenda and ask myself – which tasks will make me feel good and accomplished today when completed?” says Sinem. If you can’t answer that, she says, “then you need to revise your to-do list.” This will help you stay motivated and maintain focus in the face of distractions and challenges.

 

 

 

 

Build and Utilize Your Network

Building and maintaining a strong network is one of the most important things broker/owners can do to be successful. This means not only connecting with clients but also with other agents, industry leaders and community influencers. “The most valuable thing we have is the RE/MAX Europe network,” says Hans Meier, a Broker/Owner Ambassador from RE/MAX Germany. One effective way to build your network is to attend industry events and conferences. This allows you to meet new people and learn from others in the industry.

However, Hans points out that “a network is only good if you use it.” Hans suggests holding joint meetings with colleagues for training or to share information that everyone can benefit from. “What’s really great about that is you find out from your European colleagues how their markets are changing,” says Hans. “And often those markets are ahead of us, which enables us then to react more swiftly here in Germany.”

 

 

 

 

Offer Support and Build Relationships

As a broker/owner, your role is not just to lead, but also to support your agents. “The only way to ensure that agents are motivated enough is to check the progress of their work with them, which means being by their side,” says Broker/Owner Ambassador Andrea Russo from RE/MAX Italy. Check-in with your agents regularly to review their progress together, even if it’s just a quick message or phone call. This can help boost morale and foster a positive relationship with your team. Just make sure you’re truly hearing your agents and acknowledging their concerns

It’s often the small things that make a big difference, so don’t underestimate the power of straightforward encouragement. “A simple word once a day is enough, rather than giving advice to improve morale,” says Andrea. And since real estate can be a demanding business, Andrea suggests you remind your agents that “there is an organization on their side that is ready to step in at any time.”

 

 

 

 

Innovate and Stay Passionate

One of the biggest differences between successful and unsuccessful broker/owners is their level of passion and willingness to take risks and try new things. “I have adopted one rule over the last ten years that it was very beneficial for me,” says Yiannis Ziavras, a Broker/Owner Ambassador from Greece, “and that is, I’m always trying to be innovative.” Whether that’s new training programs or new opportunities, Yiannis says this is what makes it possible to weather the ups and downs of the market and stay motivated over the long term.

Top broker/owners are not afraid to step outside their comfort zones and for Yiannis, that’s a daily habit you must cultivate. “Challenge yourself every day,” he says, and don’t just wait for things to happen. “If you wait in your office to receive an email or for someone to call you, you will have fewer chances. Just knock on their door... and by innovating your business, you’ll stay 2, 3, or 4 steps ahead of the competition.”

As you continue your journey as a real estate broker, remember that advice and guidance is always within reach. Take heart in the knowledge that even the most successful broker/owners started where you are now, and by following their advice, you too can become one of the greats!