Agent Tech Mastery podcast

32:28

Discuss home hazards and construction knowledge relevant for real estate agents. Key Takeaways: Agents should have basic understanding of home construction and potential hazards Key hazards include asbestos, radon, mold, and problematic plumbing materials (Poly B/Kitec) Proper ventilation and humidity control are crucial for preventing mold growth Agents should be able to recognize signs of potential issues or poor renovations Topics Home Construction Basics Foundation: Concrete, blocks, or wood (in some areas) Walls: Typically wood frame (2x6 studs) with plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing Roof: Often pre-made trusses Systems: Wiring, plumbing, HVAC installed after framing Finishing: Drywall, exterior cladding, windows, doors Asbestos Common in older homes (pre-1980s) Found in various materials: floor tiles, stucco, pipe insulation, drywall Extremely small fibers can penetrate N95 masks Removal requires specialized abatement process with containment and negative air pressure Health hazard when fibers become airborne and are inhaled Radon Colorless, odorless radioactive gas from uranium in soil Can seep into homes from the ground Newer homes often have mitigation systems (e.g., pipes venting gas through roof) Testing kits available (lab analysis or electronic sensors) Exposure can lead to lung cancer over time Mold Often visible, but can also grow hidden behind walls or under flooring Caused by excess moisture/humidity Health effects range from allergic reactions to respiratory issues Prevention: Proper ventilation (e.g., using bathroom fans), controlling humidity levels Modern homes may have heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems and humidistats Problematic Plumbing Materials Poly B and Kitec pipes known for tendency to leak Can affect home insurance (higher premiums or denial of coverage) Replacement costs vary ($2,000-$8,000 mentioned for example homes) Modern replacement typically uses PEX piping Recognizing Poor Renovations Example: Using baseboards instead of proper door casings (sign of cost-cutting) Agents should be able to identify signs of unprofessional work Next Steps Discuss additional hazards in next podcast: lead paint, carbon monoxide, foundational issues Agents should educate themselves on basic home construction and common hazards Consider taking courses or gaining hands-on experience to better understand the product being sold Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery, but I have included the YouTube link below.…

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Choosing a Brokerage OR Switching - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 33:28

5 weeks ago33:28

33:28

Key Takeaways Agents are business owners, not employees; they should carefully evaluate brokerages based on their specific needs and long-term goals Switching brokerages has significant hidden costs, including potential loss of data/contacts and extensive rebranding efforts Using brokerage-owned systems (email, CRM, etc.) creates major risks; agents should maintain control of their own data and digital assets Topics Brokerage Models and Structures Various models exist: franchise, independent, team-based Different fee structures and service offerings (e.g. high fee with more services vs. low fee with minimal support) Some brokerages specialize in new agent training/mentoring Team structures within brokerages becoming more common Considerations for New Agents Not a job interview - brokerages want productive agents Read contracts carefully, understand commitments (e.g. length of stay requirements) Evaluate based on: brand, commission split, tech/training resources, culture, support staff, accessibility to leadership Consider mentor programs - typically charge percentage of commissions or flat fee Joining a team can provide structure but may limit independence Data Ownership and Technology Critical to maintain control of own email, website domain, CRM data Using brokerage-provided systems creates major risks if switching later Agents should use their own domain/email even within a team structure Losing access to years of client data is a common painful issue when switching Reasons for Switching Brokerages Seeking better commission splits or resources as an experienced agent Cultural fit/personality conflicts with leadership Brokerage ownership/management changes Following a respected leader to a new company Mistaken belief that switching will fix fundamental business issues Costs of Switching Brokerages New signage, marketing materials, business cards Updating all online profiles and platforms Potential loss of historical client data and files Time/effort to set up new systems and processes Communicating change to sphere of influence Next Steps New agents: Create checklist of must-haves before interviewing brokerages Experienced agents: Evaluate current brokerage relationship and identify any critical vulnerabilities (e.g. data ownership) All agents: Ensure core business data/systems are independently owned and portable Consider Agent Tech Mastery consultation for personalized systems review Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery, but I have included the YouTube link below.…

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Mobile Magic: Apps Every Realtor Should Know - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 29:35

8 weeks ago29:35

29:35

This episode talks about how cutting-edge tools meet real estate innovation. From boosting productivity with Canva and Snagit to streamlining workflows with Roboform and Captions.ai, this podcast is your go-to resource for leveraging technology to dominate the market. Whether you're a tech-savvy agent or just getting started, tune in for expert tips and strategies to elevate your business and stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate world. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen.…

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The Dream of "Update Once, Update Everywhere" - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 24:49

12 weeks ago24:49

24:49

Many real estate agents are using multiple email accounts, including personal accounts (Gmail, Hotmail, AOL) and brokerage-provided emails. This leads to disorganization and inefficiency. Pain Points Lack of centralized database for contacts, calendars, and documents Time wasted updating information across multiple platforms (10+ hours/week) Difficulty finding important files and information Risk of data loss due to device damage or theft Inefficient bookmark management across multiple browsers and profiles Specific Requirements Cross-device accessibility for contacts, calendars, and documents Centralized file storage system Efficient folder structure for easy file retrieval Synchronized bookmarks across devices Proper email configuration for business use Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen.…

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Mastering Newsletters: Strategies to Engage, Impress, and Stay Top of Mind - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 30:23

20 weeks ago30:23

30:23

What's the point of doing a newsletter? Stay top of mind with clients and prospects Showcase expertise Build and maintain relationships Provide value through personal touches How often should newsletters be sent? Consistently, typically monthly Check analytics to determine optimal frequencyBatch content creation for efficiency (e.g. 3-4 months at a time) Content Strategy What type of content should be included? Relevant, valuable information for recipients Local events, restaurant recommendations, coupons Avoid generic content like staging tips for recent buyers Customize content for different segments (e.g. first-time buyers) How can AI help with newsletter content? Generate ideas for local events and activities Create enticing subject lines Produce content in agent's tone of voice Save significant time in content creation Best Practices How to make newsletters more engaging? Include a clear call-to-action Use enticing subject lines (not just "Newsletter") Keep content concise and visually appealing Personalize and review content, don't use generic templates What technical considerations are important? Use proper newsletter service (e.g. Mailchimp, CRM) for analytics and unsubscribe options Track open rates and click-through rates Ensure compliance with anti-spam laws Common Mistakes What are some newsletter pitfalls to avoid? Sending without reviewing content Using generic, non-customized templates Ignoring analytics and recipient preferences Lack of consistency in sending Focusing solely on self-promotion Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.…

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Website Wars: Choosing Between Custom, Broker, or Template Solutions - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 31:51

24 weeks ago31:51

31:51

Podcast Purpose Discuss website options and best practices for real estate agents. Key Takeaways Every agent should have a website to establish credibility and online presence. Three main website options: custom-built, templated hosting service, or brokerage profile. Regular website maintenance (every 6 months) is crucial for functionality and relevance Effective lead capture and nurturing requires understanding and customizing the process Topics Website Necessity and Options Agents need websites to prove legitimacy and showcase services Main options: Custom-built website (expensive, requires ongoing maintenance) Templated hosting service (recommended, provides support) Brokerage profile (cost-effective for new agents, but less control) Domain ownership is crucial for continuity if changing brokerages Website Content and Functionality Mobile-friendly design is now standard but crucial Branding (logos, colors, taglines) should be established before website creation About section should be personalized, not generic template content IDX feeds for property searches may not be worth the extra cost Test all contact forms and lead capture systems regularly Lead Generation and Management Be cautious with aggressive lead nurturing systems (e.g., frequent texts/emails) Understand and customize the lead follow-up process Move qualified leads to a personal CRM for proper nurturing Consider the long-term accessibility of leads when using third-party systems Website Maintenance and Updates Regular checks (every 6 months) for broken links, outdated information Update photos, bios, and content to reflect current information Ensure all functionality (forms, links, etc.) works properly Consider offering valuable incentives for newsletter sign-ups, not just generic requests Next Steps Review and update your website if it's been more than 6 months Test all contact forms and lead capture systems on your website Consider implementing a valuable incentive for newsletter sign-ups Reach out to Agent Tech Mastery for their website maintenance checklist Listen to upcoming podcast on newsletters and AI use in real estate Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.…

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Decoding Mortgage Rates: What They Truly Mean for You With Lynn Kelly - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 43:43

27 weeks ago43:43

43:43

For mortgage advice: Lynn@LynnKelly.ca, 778-839-9363 Discuss recent Bank of Canada interest rate changes and their impact on mortgages, with insights from mortgage broker Lynn Kelly. Key Takeaways Bank of Canada rate cuts only directly affect variable rate mortgages, not fixed-rate mortgages Fixed mortgage rates are based on bond yields, not the Bank of Canada rate Pre-approval and understanding true affordability is critical before house hunting Appraisals play a crucial role in determining how much a lender will finance Topics Bank of Canada Rate Cut Impact Bank of Canada rate dropped from 4.25% to 3.75% Banks' prime rate decreased from 6.45% to 5.95% as a result Only affects variable rate mortgages, not fixed-rate mortgages For every $100,000 of mortgage on a 25-year amortization, borrowers save about $30/month Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgages Fixed rates currently around 4.2-4.4% for 3-year terms Variable rates now around 5.45% (prime 5.95% minus ~0.5% discount) Historically, variable rates tend to outperform fixed rates over time Fixed rates offer payment stability, while variables can fluctuate Variable rates easier to break (3-month interest penalty) vs fixed (interest rate differential) Mortgage Pre-approval and House Hunting Critical to get pre-approved before house hunting Pre-approval should involve detailed discussion (1+ hour) about finances, not just a quick check Buyers should not exceed pre-approved amount, even in competitive situations Appraisals determine maximum financing, regardless of purchase price Buyers may need to cover shortfall if appraisal comes in lower than purchase price Appraisal Process Lenders finance the lesser of purchase price or appraised value Appraisers use recent comparable sales to determine market value Adjustments made for property differences (e.g., single vs double garage) Banks have lists of approved appraisers; brokers choose from that list Next Steps Potential homebuyers should seek thorough pre-approval before house hunting Work with reputable agents and mortgage professionals who prioritize education and client protection Be cautious of overbidding in competitive situations, considering appraisal risks Consider speaking with Lynn Kelly for mortgage advice: lynn@lynnkelly.ca, 778-839-9363 If you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.…

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Business Planning - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 36:39

31 weeks ago36:39

36:39

Darci and Terry discuss the critical need for real estate agents to have a comprehensive business plan, including projecting revenue, mapping out all expenses, and understanding the true profitability of their business. They emphasize that many agents lack this foundational planning, leading to poor financial management and lost opportunities. Breakdown of Agent Commissions @ 11:42 Terry explains in detail how agent commissions are typically structured, with a significant portion going to the brokerage for fees and services. They highlight that agents need to fully understand these splits and deductions to accurately assess their net earnings and profitability. Implementing Consistent Business Planning @ 32:26 Darci and Terry recommend that agents work with their brokerages to develop an annual business plan, and then review and update it regularly throughout the year. They suggest setting aside dedicated time to focus on this planning process, and making it a consistent, ongoing part of running the business. Tracking Marketing Effectiveness @ 34:23 Darci shares examples of agents wasting money on ineffective marketing and lead generation tactics, without properly tracking the return on investment. They stress the importance of closely monitoring the performance of all marketing efforts and making data-driven decisions. Recap and Next Steps @ 39:40 Darci and Terry wrap up the discussion by encouraging listeners to reach out to them for further support and guidance on improving their business planning and operations. They highlight the resources available through Agent Tech Mastery and invite listeners to connect with them. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.…

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CRM Enlightenment - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 34:45

33 weeks ago34:45

34:45

Defining CRMs and their importance @ 0:00 Darci and Terry discuss what a client relationship management (CRM) software is and why it is an essential tool for real estate agents. They emphasize that a CRM is more than just a contact database - it helps manage the entire client lifecycle, including appointments, email campaigns, and transaction management. Pitfalls of using a CRM incorrectly @ 5:29 Darci and Terry share stories of agents who have struggled with CRMs, either by not using them properly or by relying on a brokerage-provided CRM. They caution against using a CRM as a standalone database without integrating it with other systems, and warn about the risks of losing data when switching brokerages or CRMs. Criteria for evaluating and selecting a CRM @ 12:59 Darci outlines key criteria to consider when evaluating a CRM, such as whether it provides a two-way sync with contacts and calendars across devices. She advises against using pre-built features like newsletters and drip campaigns, and instead recommends customizing them to reflect the agent's unique brand and communication style. The cost of not using a CRM effectively @ 24:27 Darci shares that many agents she has spoken with have lost significant business opportunities, often in the range of $100,000 to billions of dollars, due to not having a properly configured and utilized CRM. She emphasizes the importance of consistently staying in touch with past clients and contacts to maintain top-of-mind awareness. Recap and next steps @ 37:02 Darci and Terry wrap up the discussion, encouraging listeners to book a call with them to review their current systems and get guidance on selecting and implementing a CRM that aligns with their business needs. They also tease an upcoming podcast episode on the topic of newsletters. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business…

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Digital or Printed Business Cards - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 25:52

36 weeks ago25:52

25:52

What to look for in a printed card, info on the card, your image, etc. Some amazing digital card options Should you leave a card at a showing? and more.... Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod…

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Should Real Estate Agents put images, logos, icons or banners in their Signature? - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 24:18

38 weeks ago24:18

24:18

In this episode, we tackle a key aspect of real estate communication: email signatures. Should real estate agents include images, logos, icons, or banners in their signatures? We’ll explore best practices to ensure your signature is both professional and functional while avoiding common pitfalls that can clutter communication and undermine your branding. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, these insights will help you refine your email signature and boost your overall communication strategy. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod or call 604.800.8365, it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.…

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REALTORS® & the Cloud: Dropbox, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, One Drive - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 38:32

40 weeks ago38:32

38:32

Dropbox, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, One Drive, what the heck? Which one should I use. What happens in your computer dies? Should you sent files as attachments? Should you use multiple cloud storage services? And much much more.... Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod…

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REALTORS® and Free Email Addresses - Bad Or Good? - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 40:32

41 weeks ago40:32

40:32

In this episode, we talk about using a free email address for your real estate business. Is it a smart move or a potential pitfall for your professional image? We’ll explore the pros and cons of relying on free email services versus investing in a custom domain. Tune in to discover how your choice of email address can impact client perceptions, branding, and overall business credibility. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your professional presence, this episode will help you make an informed decision. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod…

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What CRM should An Agent Use? - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 41:08

41 weeks ago41:08

41:08

What is a CRM? How to choose a CRM? Can I get by without using a CRM? Syncing a CRM Systems and the importance of them. The money-making stuff. We will go over Email blasts and Drip Campaigns and their true power. Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod It's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.❤…

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Business Fundamentals For Real Estate Agents - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast 28:25

49 weeks ago28:25