In this inspiring and deeply human episode of Rethink Real Estate, Ben Brady sits down with Long Doan — Vietnamese refugee turned powerhouse Broker/CEO and Founder of Realty Group — to unpack one of the most remarkable growth journeys in modern real estate. Long shares the story that shaped his entire life: escaping Vietnam alone at age 13, surviving a refugee camp nicknamed “Hell’s Island,” and using that experience to build a 650-agent independent brokerage rooted in service, culture, and leadership.Long breaks down the real foundation behind Realty Group’s meteoric rise: building a people-first company where alignment, relationship-building, omnipresent branding, and agent empowerment beat every traditional brokerage model. He details the systems behind their 12-office footprint, 4,000+ annual transactions, and how they’ve engineered profitability in a shrinking-margin industry. From referrals to education, from culture to community, Long reveals exactly how their model evolved — and why helping others is not just their motto, but their operating system.The conversation then shifts into the big news: Realty Group’s strategic expansion into LPT, unlocking nationwide scalability, stock opportunities, and residual revenue for agents. Long explains why the next era of brokerage success belongs to companies that combine culture with modern infrastructure — and how exponential growth becomes possible when you stop competing in old frameworks and start building ecosystems.If you’re a brokerage leader, team owner, or agent who wants to understand what the future of the real estate brokerage looks like — and how one man’s story fuels a mission bigger than business — this episode will stay with you long after it ends.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction & why this episode is a rerun favorite[00:01:30] – Long’s refugee journey and the night that shaped his lifelong “why”[00:04:56] – Building a new life at 13: survival, mindset, and responsibility[00:07:55] – How hardship became the foundation of leadership & service[00:12:16] – Growing Realty Group to 650+ agents across 12 offices[00:17:06] – Recruiting through relationships, alignment, and omnipresence[00:20:59] – The REAL reason agents choose (and stay with) a brokerage[00:24:53] – Profitability, fee models & building revenue verticals[00:29:36] – The future of Realty Group and the announcement: joining LPT🔗 Related Resources🌐 For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform:https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Long Doan & Realty Grouphttps://www.realtygroupmn.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/longdoan/https://www.facebook.com/realtygroupmn/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady & Harcourts AuctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
This is one of our most impactful episodes ever, Ben Brady sits down with global sales authority and bestselling author @PhilMJonesUK whose book Exactly What to Say has reshaped how professionals communicate, influence, and guide critical decisions. This conversation became our most downloaded episode for a reason — it’s timeless, tactical, and brutally relevant to every agent navigating today’s complex real estate landscape.Phil breaks down the foundational idea behind his work: that the difference between good and great agents often comes down to knowing exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to make it count. He reveals why real estate professionals consistently struggle with unlearning outdated habits, how language choices impact trust, and what separates the agents who thrive from those who get left behind in shifting markets.Ben and Phil go deep into the psychology of buyers and sellers — fear, regret, indecision, ego — and how the best agents create clarity in moments where clients feel most overwhelmed. From mastering conversational “prefaces” to turning black-and-white questions into productive gray areas, Phil shares the precise word patterns that help agents de-escalate tension, unlock truth, and confidently guide clients through high-stakes decisions.If you’ve ever wanted a practical blueprint for influencing without manipulating, communicating without conflict, and winning clients through trust rather than pressure… this is the episode.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Holiday rerun intro & why this episode still matters[00:00:51] – Why Phil Jones’ frameworks resonate years later[00:02:34] – The difference between good and great communicators[00:04:49] – Why agents struggle with unlearning old habits[00:06:50] – Scripting vs. real conversations in real estate[00:09:07] – The three questions every client is trying to answer[00:12:10] – The mindset shift agents must make in today’s market[00:17:01] – Why hard conversations get avoided — and what it costs[00:23:35] – Influence vs manipulation: the real difference[00:27:10] – How to enter conversations through the “side door”[00:32:48] – The power of softening statements (“Could it be possible…”)[00:37:08] – The famous Phil Jones pen story: articulating real value🔗 Related ResourcesFor more information on Harcourts Auctions and how we help Agents feel free to visit: 🌐 https://www.harcourtsauctions.comLearn More About Phil M. JonesWebsite: https://www.philmjones.comExactly What to Say (book): https://www.exactlywhattosay.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philmjonesukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilMJonesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philmjonesConnect with Harcourts Auctions & Ben BradyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
In this year-end marketing deep dive, Chris Cochran, Director of Marketing for Harcourts Auctions, takes over the show to break down the real numbers behind what actually worked in 2025. From YouTube performance shifts to Facebook’s new advertising algorithm, Chris unpacks the platforms, trends, and behaviors shaping how real estate professionals should be thinking about attention in 2026.He reveals how long-form content quietly overtook reels, why podcast audio streams dipped while YouTube surged, and the surprising reason Facebook delivered nearly 8x more impressions than Instagram despite having fewer followers. Whether you're growing a personal brand, building a listing funnel, or trying to understand where consumers actually spend time, this report exposes the truth behind modern real estate marketing.Chris also breaks down Harcourts Auctions’ best-performing ad structures of the year — including Meta’s overhaul of the ads manager — and how their cost per lead dropped from $85 to $16 using a simplified campaign structure. Finally, he walks through the rising dominance of texting and cold calling as email deliverability collapses, and why agents should rethink their 2026 outreach plans before Q1 hits.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00] Why Chris is hosting today & what this episode covers[00:35] YouTube growth: watch time up, views down, what it means[01:54] Subscriber gains & YouTube becoming the #1 podcast platform[03:35] Facebook performance: views explode, interactions drop[04:59] Instagram analytics: high engagement, low reach[06:56] Podcast audio vs. YouTube: the platform shift[10:38] Meta Ads overhaul: the new 2026 structure explained[13:03] Dropping cost per lead from $85 → $16[17:01] Why text messaging is outperforming email outreach[19:45] Cold calling, 2026 marketing predictions & next steps🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions#RealEstateMarketing #HarcourtsAuctions #RealEstateLeads #MetaAds #FacebookAds #InstagramMarketing #YouTubeForRealEstate #RealEstatePodcast #RealEstateAgents #ListingStrategies #DigitalMarketing2026 #RealEstateContent #AgentGrowth #RealEstateTips #RethinkRealEstate
In this candid year-end episode of Rethink Real Estate, Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Auction Associates Matt Blethen and Chase Boruff to unpack one of the most misunderstood, yet most powerful, tools available to real estate agents today: the non-distressed auction process. After a year filled with longer days on market, stalled listings, and multiple price reductions, the trio dives into the real frustrations they’ve seen across the industry and why so many agents unknowingly work against their own clients.Ben, Matt, and Chase break down the full outreach sequence: how they identify aging listings, what messaging goes out, and the typical responses they hear from agents every single day. From fear of the word “auction,” to ego-driven decision making, to the myth of “good activity,” they expose the patterns that keep listings stagnant far longer than they should be. They also reveal what good agents do differently: leaning into transparency, inviting third-party expertise, and using auction as a high-integrity way to uncover true market value quickly.The conversation then shifts to the outcomes agents never talk about — the listings that don’t sell at auction. Instead of viewing those moments as failures, the team explains why they often lead to the clearest price discovery, the fastest path to a realistic relaunch, and in many cases, a sale that would have taken months longer traditionally. If you’ve ever wondered how the auction process really works behind the scenes, what objections the team hears daily, or how to stop relying on hope as a strategy, this episode is the reset button most agents didn’t know they needed.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] — Introduction [00:00:36] — Why agents fear the auction word [00:01:52] — Biggest industry frustrations in 2025 [00:03:45] — How the auction outreach sequence actually works [00:06:18] — Common agent objections & how to overcome them [00:10:44] — Why price reductions aren’t a strategy [00:13:06] — Ego in real estate: the hidden problem [00:15:22] — What great agents do differently [00:18:04] — The REAL downsides of staying traditional [00:22:15] — Why the auction process isn’t “marketing” [00:26:11] — What happens when a property STILL doesn’t sell [00:30:14] — The biggest disconnect agents have [00:33:00] — What we’re improving for 2026 [00:36:40] — Why auction volume will grow in the U.S. [00:38:51] — Closing thoughts & call to action🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
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Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Mike “Big Mike” Zlotnik — CEO of TF Management Group and host of the Big Mike Fund Podcast — for a wide-ranging conversation on the trends shaping real estate, private credit, and the broader economy heading into 2026.Mike shares how his journey from Moldova to New York City, combined with a background in mathematics and technology, shaped the analytical lens he now uses to manage real estate funds and evaluate national market cycles. He breaks down why some markets are softening, why others remain surprisingly resilient, and how Wall Street wealth continues to buoy the luxury sector even as affordability hits historic lows.The episode then turns to one of the biggest unknowns in today’s economy: the rapid surge of AI investment and whether we’re entering a bubble similar to the dot-com era. Mike explains how a correction could ripple into real estate — from capital flows to job stability to long-term demand — and why commercial assets, particularly triple-net industrial and retail redevelopment, may be positioned to benefit either way.You’ll also hear Mike’s take on the $90 trillion intergenerational wealth transfer, the psychology behind renting vs. owning, and why private credit has exploded as banks have tightened lending. Whether you’re a residential agent, a commercial investor, or someone trying to decode the next cycle, this conversation offers clarity on the forces driving the market and the opportunities emerging within them.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introducing Mike “Big Mike” Zlotnik & his investment background[00:02:00] – From Moldova to Manhattan: math, tech & real estate fund management[00:05:00] – NYC real estate: appreciation, cash flow, and political risk[00:08:20] – Why some U.S. markets are declining while others are thriving[00:10:00] – Rent drops in the Sunbelt vs. growth in the Northeast[00:11:40] – How AI investment compares to the 1999 dot-com bubble[00:13:00] – What happens to real estate if a tech bubble bursts[00:15:20] – Opportunities in commercial: cap rates, distress & tailwinds[00:17:00] – The $90T wealth transfer: will younger generations sell real estate?[00:20:00] – Renting vs. owning: affordability, emotion & long-term behavior[00:22:00] – Inside The Big Mike Fund Podcast & how Mike evaluates deals[00:23:30] – Why private credit is booming & where the risk sits[00:25:00] – Triple-net industrial vs. private lending: yield, tax, and stability[00:27:00] – How to approach homeownership in a high-rate environment[00:31:00] – How to invest with Mike & access deal opportunities[00:33:00] – Mike’s books, frameworks & upcoming resources🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Mike Zlotnik & TF Management Group, LLC:https://bigmikefund.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mzlotnik/https://tempofunding.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bigmikefund/id1333666009https://www.facebook.com/zlotnikm/https://www.youtube.com/@TempoFunding🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
Ben Brady welcomes back a true fan favorite — Shannon Mesritz, Broker with McClung Realty Group and longtime member of the Harcourts family. Shannon was one of the very first guests ever on this podcast (years before it became what it is today), back when he was running auctions in San Francisco at the height of COVID. But Shannon’s history with Harcourts goes far deeper than that. He began his real estate career with Harcourts in Australia over a decade ago, helped launch the auction platform in Oregon, returned home briefly, then came back to the U.S. to build the Bay Area auction marketplace before transitioning into his own traditional sales business, now consistently closing 40+ transactions a year.This episode dives into the one tool Shannon created during his auction days that has since become a critical part of his traditional real estate business: the Active Competition Study — a ranking-based pricing system that shows sellers exactly where their home sits within the current market. Forget sold comps. Forget “gut feeling” pricing. Shannon’s spreadsheet ranks a property against its live competition based on price, price-per-foot, days on market, and buyer viewership performance — creating a data-driven roadmap for pricing, repositioning, and securing meaningful price reductions without the emotion, ego, or guesswork that typically derails a listing.Ben and Shannon break down why this method works in every market cycle, how it exposes overpricing instantly, why most agents accidentally misprice listings by relying too heavily on historic sales, and how this tool has helped move more than $250M+ in inventory across multiple U.S. markets. Whether you're an auction agent or traditional-only, this episode will fundamentally change how you analyze competition, present value to sellers, and protect your listings from becoming “market stale.”Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Welcome back, Shannon Mesritz: fan favorite + long Harcourts history[00:00:34] – Shannon’s decade-long journey: Australia → Oregon → Bay Area → back to Oregon[00:01:16] – Why the Active Competition Study matters NOW more than ever[00:01:51] – How shifting markets expose overpricing instantly[00:02:37] – The “buyer hat” concept — and why agents almost never wear it[00:03:49] – Using live competition (not sold comps) to determine true value[00:05:05] – The psychology of price reduction conversations[00:06:17] – How Shannon built the tool during high-stakes SF auction campaigns[00:08:54] – Why most agents misinterpret square footage pricing[00:10:24] – Ranking categories: price, price-per-foot, days on market, view performance[00:12:06] – How to widen search radius and find “real” competitive data[00:13:45] – Using viewership trends as the ultimate indicator of buyer rejection[00:15:28] – When a listing isn’t selling: market issue vs property issue[00:17:02] – How the tool secured an 11% reduction on a Portland listing[00:18:40] – Why sellers trust this system more than agent opinion[00:20:07] – The listing presentation: how to pitch this strategy and win[00:21:56] – The biggest mistake agents make when positioning a property[00:23:14] – How this tool helped move $250M+ in Bay Area inventory[00:25:10] – Final takeaways: challenge your assumptions & think like a buyer🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Shannon Mesritz:https://mcclungrealtygroup.com/agents/shannon-mesritzhttps://www.instagram.com/real.estate.mate/https://www.facebook.com/shannon.mesritz🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, is joined by long-time friend and returning guest Tony “Tech Tony” Self, Broker/Owner of Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty — to dissect the rapid rise of AI in 2025, where it’s heading, and what’s starting to make even the tech optimists a little uneasy.Tony, known for being an early adopter of everything from automation to video avatars, opens up about the first time AI has truly spooked him. The two dive deep into the realities of AI displacement, the threat to white-collar jobs, and what “Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)” might mean for industries like real estate. From autonomous driving to robotics, they break down the economic and ethical implications of a future where machines don’t just assist — they think, act, and compete.But it’s not all doom and gloom. Ben and Tony also explore how entrepreneurs can stay ahead of the curve, leverage AI tools like HeyGen and 11Labs for content creation, and prepare for the industries being reshaped by automation. Expect bold predictions, uncomfortable truths, and practical insights for agents, leaders, and business owners trying to navigate the AI-driven decade ahead.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – How AI started 2025 and where it stands now[00:02:00] – Why Tech Tony is finally nervous about AI[00:03:45] – Job displacement and the automation wave[00:06:30] – From robots to real estate: AI’s reach expands[00:08:00] – The rise of generative video tools (HeyGen, Sora, 11Labs)[00:10:45] – Governments vs. progress: who wins the automation race?[00:12:00] – How content creation is changing forever[00:14:30] – What is AGI and when will we see it?[00:18:00] – The illusion of authenticity in social media[00:22:00] – Algorithmic manipulation, misinformation, and bias[00:25:00] – Predictions for 2026: what jobs and skills survive?[00:27:00] – AI reliance, creativity, and the human edge🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Tony Self and Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty:https://selfregroup.com/https://www.facebook.com/selfregrouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyself/https://huntermason.harcourtsna.com/https://tonyself.harcourtsna.com/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for weekly episodes blending real estate, innovation, and technology.💬 Comment below: Do you think AI will replace real estate agents — or empower the next generation of them?
Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Sean Uyehara, Area Manager of Geneva Financial, to unpack one of the most powerful — and overlooked — mortgage strategies available today: the First Lien HELOC.Sean explains how this product, widely used in Australia but still emerging in the U.S., allows homeowners to pay off their mortgages in 3–7 years instead of 30. He breaks down exactly how it works, who it’s for, and why it’s fundamentally changing the way people think about homeownership and liquidity. You’ll learn how this approach turns your home equity into a powerful financial tool — letting you access capital, avoid unnecessary interest, and build wealth faster without changing your lifestyle.The conversation then shifts to social media, where Sean shares how he’s built a 90% lead-generating business through TikTok and Instagram. From posting 100 videos fast to using TikTok’s content-gap insights, he reveals the repeatable framework that took his brand from invisible to over 2 million monthly views. If you’ve ever wondered how to mix financial innovation with content consistency, this episode delivers both the blueprint and the mindset.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – What is the First Lien HELOC and why it’s popular abroad[00:02:00] – How it helps homeowners pay off mortgages 25 years early[00:04:00] – Who it’s for (and when it doesn’t work)[00:06:45] – Turning your home equity into a self-financing tool[00:08:30] – Liquidity, access to capital, and financial freedom[00:10:00] – Avoiding debt traps and budgeting for success[00:11:45] – Real-world examples of payoff timelines[00:14:00] – Sean’s social media playbook for loan officers & agents[00:16:10] – The “100 Video Rule” and content-gap strategy[00:19:00] – Automating your posting across 6+ platforms[00:21:00] – Converting leads through comments, DMs & drip campaigns[00:22:40] – The connection between niche content and massive traction🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Sean Uyehara & Geneva Financialhttps://www.genevafi.com/sean-uyehara/https://www.linkedin.com/in/suyehara/https://www.youtube.com/@UCen6zACsF-75IVq-Lhib1oQ https://www.facebook.com/sean.uyehara22/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
In this high-energy episode of Rethink Real Estate, Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Chris Cochran, Director of Marketing, to unpack a next-level strategy for winning competitive listings — using AI to transform your listing presentations and impress even the toughest sellers.Ben and Chris dive into the psychology behind preparation and presentation, revealing how you can differentiate yourself long before you even walk through the seller’s front door. From sending a photographer to capture pre-presentation property photos to leveraging AI image enhancement tools like Gemini or DALL·E for before-and-after visuals, they explore how small touches of innovation can create massive impact.The conversation also gets tactical — how to assess seller personality through early engagement, how to position “preparation” as your unique value proposition, and why the three P’s of success — Preparation, Product, and Price — are the foundation of every standout listing pitch. Plus, they share how to overcome objections, use visuals to build credibility, and stay ahead of competing agents in a crowded market.Whether you’re trying to break into luxury listings or simply need an edge in your next pitch, this episode delivers actionable ideas to help you compete smarter, present better, and close with confidence.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction: The Strategy Behind a Standout Listing Presentation[00:01:00] – Why Preparation Is the Hidden Differentiator in Real Estate[00:02:10] – The Power of Pre-Presentation Photos & Custom Proposals[00:04:00] – How to Read Sellers: Engagement, Personality & Motivation[00:05:30] – Using AI Tools (Gemini, DALL·E) to Enhance Listing Visuals[00:06:15] – The Three P’s of Real Estate: Preparation, Product & Price[00:07:10] – Framing the Conversation: Competing vs. Marketing[00:08:00] – Staging, Presentation & Small Touches That Win Listings[00:09:10] – How AI Can Elevate Brochures, Staging, and Buyer Imagination[00:10:30] – Breaking into Luxury Markets with Innovative Listing Tactics🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions💡 Subscribe for weekly insights on sales strategy, marketing, and innovation in real estate.💬 Comment below: Would you use AI to help you win your next listing presentation?
Ben Brady breaks down what the 2026 real estate market could really look like—beyond the headlines, hype, and hopeful optimism.Fresh from an economic forum at Chapman University, Ben shares insights from one of the nation’s top real estate economists on inflation forecasts, long-term mortgage rate trends, and how these forces could reshape the industry over the next 24 months. With predictions of 5% inflation by the end of 2026 and interest rates unlikely to dip below 5%, Ben urges agents to replace wishful thinking with strategic preparation.This episode isn’t about doom and gloom—it’s about realism, resilience, and readiness. Ben breaks down the core skill sets agents must master to thrive in a high-inventory, high-stakes market: clear communication with sellers, data-backed pricing strategies, and the ability to sustain relationships through longer days on market. He also shares why adaptability and empathy will define the most successful agents of the next cycle.If you’re serious about building a business that lasts through any market condition, this is your wake-up call for 2026—and beyond.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction: 2026 Market Predictions & Economic Forum Takeaways[00:01:00] – What Economists Are Saying About Inflation and Rates[00:02:30] – Why “Lower Interest Rates” Won’t Save the Market[00:03:45] – The Reality of 2026: Longer Days on Market, Price Reductions[00:05:00] – Skill Sets Agents Must Master for the New Market[00:06:10] – Communicating with Sellers: Data, Honesty & Trust[00:07:00] – Why Time and Communication Are Your Greatest Assets[00:08:15] – The Tariff & Debt Variables No One’s Talking About[00:08:45] – Final Thoughts: Setting Mindset & Expectations for 2026🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctionsSubscribe for more real estate insights on sales strategy, market cycles, and building a listing-focused business for the future.💬 Comment below: What do you predict will define the 2026 real estate market?
In this powerful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Ben Reinberg, Founder and CEO of Alliance Consolidated Group of Companies, to expose one of the biggest financial misconceptions of our time — the myth that “cash is king.”Fresh off his recent TED Talk, Reinberg shares how he built an empire in commercial real estate from the ground up, and why hard assets—not savings accounts—are the true path to long-term wealth. From raising $2 million at age 23 to managing hundreds of millions in recession-resilient assets today, Reinberg breaks down the mindset, strategies, and disciplines that separate those who get rich from those who stay wealthy.The two Bens dive deep into the 2026–2027 commercial market reset, where trillions in real estate debt are set to come due—creating what Reinberg calls “the buying opportunity of a generation.” You’ll learn why the ability to hold, not just buy, is the defining trait of great investors… and why communication, focus, and emotional discipline remain the ultimate assets in business.Whether you’re a residential agent looking to expand your wealth portfolio or an investor preparing for the next market cycle, this episode delivers tactical insights and timeless financial wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Intro: The “Lie About Money” and the Power of Hard Assets[00:01:30] – How Ben Reinberg Built His Empire from $0 to Millions[00:03:40] – What True Wealth Means (It’s Not About Being Rich)[00:06:20] – The Ability to Hold: Investing’s Most Underrated Skill[00:09:15] – $90 Trillion in Real Estate Will Change Hands: What That Means[00:12:00] – The Coming Commercial Market Reset (2026–2027)[00:16:00] – Why Residential Real Estate is a “Money Pit”[00:21:10] – Renting vs. Owning: The New Wealth Perspective[00:24:45] – How Over-Leverage Destroys Investors (and How to Avoid It)[00:27:00] – The Missing Skill in Real Estate: Communication[00:29:00] – Mindset is the Best Real Estate You Own🔗 Connect with Ben Reinberg:https://www.benreinberg.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/benreinberg/https://www.facebook.com/TheRealBenReinberg/https://www.youtube.com/@UCN-VuewtdVrFwlOrTsNbxGA https://www.instagram.com/therealbenreinberg/🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctionsSubscribe for more insights into building wealth through real estate strategy, leadership, and mindset.💬 Comment below: Do you think cash or hard assets are the smarter play heading into 2026?
Ben Brady breaks down Blackstone’s latest investment outlook and what it means for the real estate industry in the era of artificial intelligence.While AI continues to dominate global conversations about disruption, Ben explores a fresh perspective—how Blackstone’s “picks and shovels” philosophy reveals where the real changes will occur. Drawing parallels between the airline industry’s innovation-versus-profit paradox and today’s AI boom, he unpacks which sectors are likely to be revolutionized and which will quietly fade away.More importantly, Ben brings it home to real estate: identifying the rule-based businesses that are most at risk of automation—like title, escrow, mortgage, and appraisal—and why the agent relationship remains irreplaceable. His key takeaway? Real estate is not a rules-based business; it’s a human-based one.If you’ve been wondering how AI will shape your role, this episode will reset your mindset on where the real opportunities lie—and remind you that the agent-client relationship is the ultimate advantage no algorithm can replicate.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Blackstone’s AI Investment Outlook Explained[00:01:15] – The “Picks and Shovels” Analogy: Who Profits from Disruption[00:03:20] – Why the Airline Industry is a Cautionary Tale for AI[00:04:50] – Blackstone’s Focus on Chips, Data, and Energy[00:05:40] – Rule-Based Industries and Their Risk of Automation[00:07:10] – Can Real Estate Be Automated? The Human Factor[00:08:30] – The Future of Escrow, Title, and Appraisal Jobs[00:10:00] – Why Relationships Will Always Outperform Systems[00:10:45] – The Real Estate Industry’s Hidden Strength: Emotion and Trust🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more candid conversations on how technology, strategy, and leadership are reshaping real estate.👇 Drop a comment sharing your thoughts:Do you think AI will help or hurt the real estate industry?
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Kara Welliver, Realtor at Harcourts Prime Properties and one of the company’s original standouts. With over 23 years in the business, Kara has built a career that proves relationships—not transactions—create lasting success.From her early days climbing the corporate ladder at Nordstrom to becoming one of the most connected agents in Orange County, Kara’s story is a masterclass in authenticity, consistency, and the power of showing up. She opens up about her journey from retail to real estate, how she built an enduring client base through genuine relationships, and why her most successful marketing efforts are the ones infused with personal touch—homemade baked goods included.Ben and Kara dive deep into how to cultivate a business that feels like you, from personalized newsletters and client events to crafting experiences that create loyalty for life. Kara shares her approach to client retention through “pop-bys,” wine tastings, and ice cream socials—plus how she turns these thoughtful gestures into repeat business and referrals.Whether you’re a seasoned agent looking to reconnect with your “why” or a new Realtor searching for your voice in the market, this episode is a reminder that the best brand you can build is one rooted in who you truly are.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introducing Kara Welliver: A Harcourts Original[00:02:12] – From Nordstrom to Real Estate: Lessons in Service & Style[00:06:00] – Building Connection Over Transaction[00:11:00] – How to Stay Top-of-Mind Without Being Salesy[00:14:00] – Pop-Bys, Baked Goods & Personal Branding[00:18:00] – Creating Client Events That Actually Work[00:26:00] – The Value of Authentic Marketing & Consistency🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Kara Welliver:https://karawelliver.harcourtsna.com/https://www.instagram.com/karawelliver_baker_realtor/https://www.facebook.com/KaraWelliver4Homes🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more stories that redefine success in real estate.👇 Comment your favorite client connection strategy — and tell us how you make your business feel personal.
In this powerful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Erica Jevons Sizemore, founder of Sizemore Residential in Raleigh, North Carolina — a top-producing agent who’s redefining what real estate leverage really means. Consistently ranking among the top 20 Keller Williams agents in the Carolinas, Erica’s business model proves that doing more doesn’t have to mean doing less for clients.From her early career in finance and marketing to leading one of the most efficient boutique operations in the Triangle area, Erica shares how she’s scaled her business through relationships and strategic leverage, not massive teams or automation overload. She opens up about the systems that allow her to maintain personal touch at high volume, how she hires for alignment over experience, and why she believes being “too far from the transaction” is the greatest mistake top agents can make.Together, Ben and Erica unpack the evolution of the Raleigh real estate market — from its post-pandemic surge to its new plateau — and explore what true operational scalability looks like when your reputation is your brand. Erica also offers a candid look into mentorship, team culture, and why she’s betting that authentic service will always outlast shortcut models and recruiting pyramids.Whether you’re a solo agent struggling with growth or a team leader wondering how to scale without losing your identity, this conversation will challenge how you think about leverage, client relationships, and sustainable business.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introducing Erica Sizemore and the Raleigh Market[00:02:00] – From Finance & Marketing to Full-Time Real Estate[00:05:45] – The Power of Relationships and Long-Term Leverage[00:09:20] – How to Scale Without Sacrificing Service[00:12:30] – Hiring Smart: Why Personality Beats Experience[00:16:00] – Balancing Profitability and Performance[00:20:10] – Why Erica Doesn’t Believe in “Buyer’s Agents”[00:24:00] – Mentorship, Retention, and the Fear of Losing People[00:27:40] – Industry Insights: Compass, Anywhere, and AI in Real Estate[00:31:00] – Homeownership’s Next Era and Generational Shifts[00:34:00] – The Future of Real Estate Leverage🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Erica Jevons Sizemore & Sizemore Residential:https://www.sizemoreresidential.com/https://www.instagram.com/ericareraleigh/?hl=enlinkedin.com/in/erica-jevons-sizemorehttps://www.facebook.com/EricaJevonsSizemore/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more conversations that rethink how agents build, lead, and scale.
Drop a comment below 👇 — What’s your definition of “leverage” in real estate?
In this gripping episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Christopher Drzyzga, Partner and Senior Vice President at Voit Real Estate Services, to unpack the contrarian outlook shaking up the real estate world. From commercial debt cycles to the rise of Bitcoin as a competing asset class, Chris brings a level of insight and candor few in the industry are willing to share.They start by diving into the state of U.S. commercial real estate — from industrial and office to retail and the surprising resilience of strip malls. Chris reveals why lenders are “extending and pretending,” how the industrial market in the Inland Empire is recalibrating, and why institutional capital is quietly chasing yield in unexpected asset types like industrial outdoor storage and small-format retail.The conversation then takes a sharp turn toward macro trends and financial history, as Chris lays out a bold thesis: that real estate’s five-decade run as the world’s default savings vehicle is ending. He connects the dots from Nixon’s 1971 decoupling from the gold standard to today’s fiat-driven asset inflation — arguing that Bitcoin now offers the same protection once reserved for property. Together, Ben and Chris explore the implications: what happens when trillions in real estate capital seek better yield elsewhere?From the looming “flight to quality” in commercial assets to generational shifts in homeownership philosophy, this episode challenges every assumption about where the real estate industry is heading. Whether you agree or not, it’s a must-listen for anyone serious about understanding the structural forces redefining how we measure value, store wealth, and invest for the next decade.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introducing Christopher Drzyzga and His Commercial Background[00:02:20] – How Commercial Agents See the Market Differently from Residential[00:05:30] – The Office Debt Bubble and “Controlled Demolition” in Lending[00:09:10] – The Industrial Corridor: Riverside, Rexford, and Inland Empire Trends[00:13:40] – Why Institutional Capital Is Targeting Strip Malls Again[00:17:50] – Data Centers, Power Constraints, and the Real Bottleneck in AI Infrastructure[00:24:00] – 2026 Market Outlook: Flight to Quality and Structural Shifts[00:26:30] – The Long View: Real Estate’s Five-Decade Inflation Tailwind[00:30:00] – Bitcoin as the New Safe Haven for Global Capital[00:35:00] – Generational Wealth Transfer and the “Home as Utility” Mindset[00:40:30] – How Agents Can Stay Relevant in the Age of Bitcoin and AI🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Chris Drzyzga and Voit Real Estate Services:https://voitco.com/https://chrisdrzyzga.com/https://www.instagram.com/chrisdrzzz/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-drzyzga-sior-775b5051🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more market insights and provocative conversations on the forces shaping real estate, finance, and technology. Drop a comment below:➡️ Is Bitcoin the next real estate? Or just another bubble?
In this forward-looking episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down once again with Tony Self, Broker Associate at Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty, to unpack one of the most disruptive moments in modern real estate. From the proposed Compass–Anywhere merger to Zillow’s partnership with OpenAI, Ben and Tony dive into how consolidation, regulation, and artificial intelligence are rewriting the industry’s playbook.They examine the potential consequences if Compass gains control of nearly two-thirds of U.S. real estate transactions, the growing backlash from agents and franchise brands, and what this could mean for competition and consumer choice. Tony brings his insider’s perspective from years in corporate real estate and tech, offering rare insight into how brokers, teams, and independent offices should prepare for what’s next.The conversation then pivots to AI’s rapid evolution — from OpenAI’s partnership with Zillow to Sora’s video generation and the new wave of real estate-focused agents and automations. Tony shares how he’s integrating AI into his business today, where he draws the ethical line on visual manipulation, and whether we’re heading toward a full-blown AI bubble reminiscent of the early 2000s tech crash.If you’re a real estate professional trying to make sense of the Compass–Zillow rivalry, OpenAI’s expanding footprint, or the future of automation in real estate, this episode connects every dot.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – The Compass–Anywhere Merger: Monopoly or Market Shift?[00:02:10] – What the DOJ and Regulators Might Do Next[00:04:30] – Century 21’s $2.6 Billion Problem and the Debt Factor[00:07:00] – Compass vs. Zillow: The Data War Nobody Wins[00:10:00] – Zillow’s OpenAI Partnership Explained[00:13:00] – How AI Could Redefine Home Search and Consumer Behavior[00:16:00] – What Agents Should Know About Licensing and AI Tools[00:18:30] – The Risk of Misrepresentation in AI Marketing[00:20:30] – Are We in an AI Bubble? Tony’s Tech Market Perspective[00:24:30] – When AI Becomes Native: The Next Real Estate Revolution🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Tony Self and Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty:https://selfregroup.com/https://www.facebook.com/selfregrouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyself/https://huntermason.harcourtsna.com/https://tonyself.harcourtsna.com/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more industry insights — and drop a comment with your thoughts:Will AI make real estate smarter… or monopolized?
In this tactical and timely episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, reconnects with Chad Widtfeldt, seasoned Realtor and business owner at Harcourts Prime Properties, to uncover a smarter, faster way to win expired listings. Chad reveals how his team has been averaging 2–3 new listings per week by rethinking the traditional expired strategy — and how one small shift completely changed their conversion rates.The secret? Replacing in-person meetings with quick Zoom presentations that lower the barrier to entry, increase immediacy, and save hours of wasted drive time. Chad walks through the scripts, follow-up process, and real-world rhythm that has transformed his pipeline — from the initial cold call to signed listing agreements within 24 hours. Together, Ben and Chad break down why speed is the new advantage, how to qualify without overcommitting, and why auction-based differentiation gives agents a decisive edge.If you’ve ever felt the burnout of chasing dead-end appointments or wondered how to stand out in a crowded expired market, this episode offers the practical blueprint to build momentum and efficiency into every prospecting day.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why Chad’s Approach to Expired Listings Works[00:01:10] – The Return of Expired Listings and a Shift in Market Dynamics[00:03:00] – Why Most Agents Quit (and How Chad’s Team Thrives Instead)[00:05:10] – Differentiation Through Auctions and the Power of a Unique Pitch[00:06:40] – The Mental Strain of Appointments That Go Nowhere[00:08:20] – How Zoom Changed Prospecting Forever[00:10:00] – The Formula: Call, Zoom, In-Person — All Within 24 Hours[00:12:10] – How to Keep Appointments from Falling Apart[00:15:00] – Qualifying Sellers Without Killing Momentum[00:18:00] – Chad’s Exact Script for Booking Zoom Meetings[00:20:00] – Final Takeaways: Efficiency, Immediacy, and Differentiation🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Chad Widtfeldt and His Real Estate Team:https://www.instagram.com/thegreengroupre/https://www.greengroupre.com/homehttps://www.facebook.com/chadandjustin🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions💬 Subscribe for more actionable real estate insights — and drop a comment below with how you’re using Zoom or AI to convert more listings.
In this forward-thinking episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, is joined by Chris Cochran, Director of Marketing at Harcourts Auctions, to unpack Google Gemini’s latest AI release — the bizarrely named yet incredibly powerful “Nano Banana” update — and why it’s a game-changer for real estate marketing and content creation.From creating hyper-realistic agent headshots to instantly restaging homes, Nano Banana brings Photoshop-level image control to anyone who can type a simple prompt. Chris breaks down how agents can leverage Gemini’s new likeness recognition and inpainting tools to produce professional-grade flyers, team photos, and listing visuals without a designer. Meanwhile, Ben explores how these tools might reshape listing presentations, branding, and the creative arms race in real estate.Together, they dig into the competition heating up between Google, OpenAI, and Adobe — and how these tools are redefining what it means to market property. Whether you’re tech-curious or AI-skeptical, this episode will leave you rethinking how fast the real estate industry is evolving and how to stay one step ahead.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Welcome to Rethink Real Estate[00:00:36] – What on earth is Google’s “Nano Banana” update?[00:01:18] – The AI image revolution: realistic headshots and likeness accuracy[00:03:22] – Gemini vs. Photoshop: how Google is closing the gap[00:05:18] – Real estate flyers, prompts, and social media automation[00:06:11] – Can AI clean up old headshots and generate team photos?[00:07:01] – The power (and limits) of restaging interiors and exteriors[00:08:01] – Turning blank rooms into design-ready showpieces[00:10:02] – Elon Musk, Grok, and the broader AI ecosystem[00:11:30] – How agents can blend creativity with accountability[00:12:00] – Real-world real estate use cases for Gemini AI[00:15:39] – How AI helps agents visualize and communicate value[00:16:18] – Final thoughts: exploring Gemini’s full potential🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions📣 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is reshaping real estate.Drop your thoughts below — could AI-generated marketing replace traditional design agencies?
In this unfiltered solo episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, breaks down one of the biggest industry shakeups in recent history: Compass’s acquisition of Anywhere Real Estate. With two giants now attempting to merge — both operating under massive debt and increasing scrutiny — Ben takes a deep dive into what this means for agents, franchise owners, and the future of brokerage models.Ben unpacks the complexities of the deal, questioning whether regulators will even allow it to pass given the DOJ’s ongoing antitrust lens over real estate commissions and collusion. Beyond the headlines, he explores the deeper issue—how the traditional brokerage model may be collapsing under its own weight. Drawing from his experience across multiple markets, he explains why local ownership, accountability, and culture might be the last remaining competitive advantage in a corporatized industry.This episode isn’t just commentary — it’s a candid look at the changing DNA of real estate, the mistakes of “too-big-to-fail” brokerages, and where opportunity lies for the next generation of local operators ready to rise in the vacuum left behind.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] - Ben’s first reaction to the Compass-Anywhere merger news[00:00:57] - Can the DOJ really allow this acquisition to go through?[00:01:45] - Monopoly concerns and why consolidation might backfire[00:02:53] - Two unprofitable companies merge… to fix profitability?[00:03:20] - The $2.6B debt question: where does the money go?[00:04:04] - What this merger means for mid-tier and boutique brokerages[00:05:34] - Local vs. corporate: why agents crave connection and support[00:06:00] - Real-world recruiting stories from Bend, Oregon[00:07:50] - How corporate “support tickets” are killing culture[00:09:59] - Institutionalization: when your broker becomes a tech rep[00:10:56] - The slow decline of the traditional brokerage model[00:11:58] - Lessons from the Yellow Pages: cutting costs vs. creating value[00:12:43] - Why local accountability will define real estate’s next era[00:13:26] - Final reflections: why small may actually win big🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions📣 Subscribe for more insight-driven episodes exploring the future of real estate. Like, follow, and drop your thoughts below — do you think the Compass x Anywhere deal helps or hurts the industry?
In this eye-opening episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady sits down with Andrew “Dru” Wischhover, President of Inspired Title Group, Inc., to unpack one of the most overlooked yet mission-critical aspects of every real estate transaction: title insurance. While agents often dismiss title as an afterthought, Dru reveals why ignoring it until there’s a problem can cost deals, clients, and millions in claims.From breaking down the differences between attorney states and title states, to explaining exactly what title insurance does (and doesn’t) cover, this conversation delivers practical knowledge agents can apply immediately. Dru shares real-world horror stories, insider examples of liens and encumbrances gone wrong, and the surprising ways smaller boutique title companies can often provide more flexibility and protection than big-box operators.Looking forward, the two also discuss how AI, blockchain, and industry regulation are reshaping the future of title — and why the “human element” still matters more than ever. If you’ve ever glazed over the title section of a deal, this episode will change the way you think about protecting your clients and your business.⏱️Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction & quick correction on Inspired Title’s nationwide reach[00:01:30] – Why agents don’t think about title until it’s too late[00:02:22] – Attorney states vs. title/escrow states explained[00:05:40] – Title insurance 101: what it actually covers[00:07:00] – Horror stories: liens, divorces, and claims gone wrong[00:12:48] – How the title industry shifted after 2008 & regulation changes[00:16:33] – Competing with “big-box” title companies & boutique advantages[00:17:50] – AI, blockchain, and the future of title insurance[00:20:53] – When something is (and isn’t) insurable[00:23:35] – Why smaller firms can be more client-centric than large underwriters🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Dru Wischhover and Inspired Title Group:https://www.inspired-title.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-closing-table/id1733674495https://www.facebook.com/InspiredTitleGroup/https://www.instagram.com/inspired_title_group/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dru-wischhover/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share so more agents can level up their business. And let us know in the comments: Have you ever had a deal derailed by a title issue?