It's no secret that the real estate industry feels like it's been turned upside down in the past few days. We are here to support you and guide you through these turbulent times with help and advice to strengthen your business by solidifying your brand and your position in your market. Here are 5 ways you can strengthen your business in turbulent times: Stay in Touch Regularly communicate with clients through various channels such as email newsletters, social media updates, blog posts, personal notes, or casual gatherings. Providing valuable insights about market trends, tips for buyers and sellers, and local real estate news updates can position you as a knowledgeable and reliable authority in the field. If you still need help sending a regular newsletter, now is a great time to get started on our course, Clicks to Closings. You can register here and get started TODAY. Demonstrate Expertise We have met many amazing agents who regularly go above and beyond for their clients, but they don't shout it from the rooftops! Showcase your expertise by hosting educational webinars, workshops, or seminars either online or in person. Topics can include successful home-buying strategies, how to prepare your home for sale, investment strategies, or market insights. By providing valuable information, you build credibility and trust among potential clients. Personal Branding Now, more than ever, it is critical to have a personal brand that clients know, like, and trust. It's time to build a solid personal brand that reflects your values, expertise, and personality. This can include having a professional website, creating a compelling bio and profile on social media, using professional photography, and maintaining a consistent brand voice and aesthetic across all platforms. Even if you feel you already have a consistent, strong brand, it's a good time to give it a "spring cleaning" and ensure things like links, headshots, and logos are consistent across all platforms. Ready to invest in your visual brand? Check out our services and download our pricing guide here: Get Out and Get Involved! Spring is in the air, and it is a perfect time to sign up for community events. Attend chamber of commerce meetings, volunteer for community projects, and join relevant professional associations or groups. Sponsor a 5K, a school event, or a little league team. Becoming a visible and respected community member will enhance your brand reputation and gain valuable referrals and leads. Additionally, hosting or sponsoring local events can further establish your presence and credibility within your target market. Keep Providing Exceptional Customer Service In a competitive market, exceptional customer service WILL set you apart. Maintain your focus on providing personalized attention to your clients, being responsive to their needs and concerns, and exceeding their expectations. Happy clients are likely to refer you to others and leave positive reviews. Today's times are packed with opportunities to deepen relationships and stand out. By consistently communicating, demonstrating your expertise, polishing your personal brand, immersing yourself in community activities, and prioritizing top-notch service, you're not just weathering the storm but charting a course to success. This is your chance to reinforce why you're the go-to expert in your real estate market. Lean into the opportunity and continue to build a business you can be proud of.

I have an unpopular opinion about visual branding (logos) for real estate professionals, and I'm not afraid to shout it from the rooftop. Actually, I'm shouting ABOUT the rooftops. They've got to GO if they're in your visual brand. To quote our friend Katie Lance, "You are swimming in a sea of sameness." Let me give you a little exercise to prove my point. Head over to Google Images and search these terms: Real estate logo Roofer logo Contractor logo Builder logo Mortgage broker logo Did you do it? What did you see? Roofline after roofline after roofline. It's tired, overused, and not unique to what you do! So what do you do about it? Here are a few tips: Create Your Vision: Do a deep dive into colors, visuals, and typefaces that express your personal brand's personality. Create a vision board—not one about your dream vacation or your fitness goals, but one full of images that you think express the personality of your real estate brand. Consider your Audience: Consider your audience and the niche you want to serve. What will appeal to them? What is important to them? Where do they live, and what is unique about that place? We recently met with a client in Louisville, KY, who fully embraces this: Finish Line Realty. No rooflines in their logo! They highlight that Louisville is known for the Kentucky Derby horse race, and they've built their brand around it. Bravo, Finish Line! Capitalize on your name: As an agent, your name is the most critical thing you want people to remember about you. Creating a visual identity that uniquely highlights your name is a fantastic way to make it memorable. Our client, Darci Gillespie, wanted a unique way to showcase her name and personal style while coordinating with her brokerage brand. Check out the work we did for her here. Does this get the wheels turning for you? Do you have thoughts on elevating your brand and ditching that roof once and for all? Let us know in the comments!

In this podcast episode, we dive into the world of Sam Hewit, a real estate pro from Toronto with 25 years under her belt. Sam's story is about growth and empowerment, from her early days answering phones to selling homes and now mentoring agents for long-term success. She gives agents strategies to avoid the highs and lows of real estate and stay a steady course. Sam leads the team at Royal LePage Signature, the biggest Royal LePage franchise in Canada, and she's got some innovative strategies to share. Her connectivity plan is a game-changer for increasing transactions year over year. But there's more to Sam than real estate. She's passionate about helping women in business find their stride and stay true to themselves. Her BecomingHER conference is a big deal for women entrepreneurs, and I'm stoked to attend it in Toronto next year. Tune in to hear Sam's story, her strategies for success, and how she's making a difference for women in business. It's real talk with real insights. Don't miss it! Click here to listen. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the links mentioned in the show and all the ways to connect: Sam Hewit Instagram BecomingHER BecomingHER Instagram Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

A few weeks back, I sat down with Jennifer Staats on her podcast, Life & Listings, to discuss real estate branding and marketing in depth. First, we dove into our branding process. The discovery phase is one of the most essential building blocks in creating a visual identity for our clients. During discovery, I become an investigative reporter and learn everything there is to know about you to uncover your true essence, your DNA, the thing that only you possess. That becomes the foundation for building a visual identity that genuinely reflects you. Plus, I shared some great info about the power of email in staying connected with your SOI – it's all about making sure you're the first Real Estate agent they think of when they're ready to buy or sell. And if you've been solely relying on social media, you'll want to listen in because we talk about why owning your email list is a game-changer. If you're dreaming about a new visual identity and want to chat about how to make it your reality, schedule a call with me. We can discuss everything from color palettes to core values and map your path to personal branding success. Ready for more? The full episode is packed with golden nuggets, just waiting for you. Take a listen here. If you're serious about improving your email newsletter, check out our digital course, Clicks to Closings. For a one-time investment of $99, you get lifetime access to this on-demand course and a guarantee that you'll never lose another listing.

With all the changes happening in the market, now might be a good time to evaluate your personal brand. Carrie and I sat down with our friend Katie Lance and chatted in detail about real estate branding. We shared some tough truths about how to stand out among the 1.5 million REALTORS in the U.S. Our two most significant takeaways: Ditch the generic logos – Stop using roofs, keys, and doors for your logo. Roofers and contractors do that, and so do a million other agents. Create a visual identity that's as unique as you are. Be consistent - Carrie's famous words, "Consistency isn't boring." Consistency is your BFF. To become memorable, ensure everything you communicate maintains the same colors, typography, imagery, and overall vibe. There are so many more pearls in this chat. You've got to hear the rest on Katie's podcast—it's a goldmine for anyone looking to level up their real estate branding. If you're ready for a new brand or a simple refresh, schedule a call with me, and let's craft a brand that's as individual as you are. Trust me, it's a game-changer. Catch the full episode here and book your one-on-one with me here. Can't wait to connect!

We're replaying one of our most popular episodes.  Christine D'Ercole is a celebrated Peloton instructor and a decorated track cyclist, her journey from ballerina to a fitness icon is nothing short of inspirational. In our conversation, Christine shared how her dream of telling stories evolved from ballet to acting to cycling. Through determination, self-belief and her mantra, "I am. I can. I will. I do.", Christine not only transformed her life but also inspires others to do the same. In our conversation, Christine highlighted her Wordshops, where she teaches positive self-talk as a key tool for personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of the words we use, advocating that the most influential words are the ones we say to ourselves. Everyone who rides with Christine experiences her remarkable ability to deeply connect with her students. She believes in our universal human experience, and understands that each individual, no matter their path, is carrying something they need to release. Everyone who rides with Christine feels seen and acknowledged. Christine left us with three invaluable pieces of advice: The most powerful thing someone can say to you is what you say to yourself. Let's stop fighting with our bodies and explore what we are built for. Remember that in our desire to get somewhere else to be in the journey. You can find Christine on Instagram or visit her website at christinedercole.com. Listen to the episode here. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

In our latest Episode of Know Like Trust for Real Estate, we delve into the inspiring world of Kama Burton, a trailblazer in the real estate industry. Kama is not only a seasoned real estate agent and Broker/Owner but also a dynamic speaker, fair housing advocate, and the visionary Founder of Loving Me 1st, a non-profit organization. Kama shared her journey through real estate and leadership and how her personal experiences catalyzed Kama's commitment to creating opportunities in homeownership, leadership development, and enhancing the quality of life for others. Kama gave us these three core pieces of advice: Love who you are first – Embrace your identity and worth. Empower others – Use your strengths to uplift those around you. Educate yourself – Harness the power of knowledge to drive change. These principles are the bedrock of her approach to leadership and community engagement. Don't miss this opportunity to gain from Kama's wisdom and experience. Ready to be inspired? 🎧 Listen to the Episode: Learn more about Loving Me 1st. Visit their website. Follow Kama on Instagram. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

Kathleen Black is a globally recognized high-performance and mindset expert, bestselling author, and speaker. Kathleen's journey has been showcased in the two-time Emmy-nominated documentary, "The Relentless One," her inspiring story is the catalyst for her holistic approach to leadership and mindset training. This holistic approach is what sets her apart and has contributed to her clients' monumental success, adding billions of dollars to their sales. Kathleen's story is not just inspiring; it's a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and a positive mindset. Listening to Kathleen, I was captivated by her wisdom and passion for helping others achieve their full potential. Her inside-out method focuses on overcoming fear, being an active listener, and transitioning from hustle to holism. In this episode, she offers actionable ways to achieve a more balanced and effective approach to personal and professional growth. Learn more and connect with Kathleen below: The Relentless One documentary trailer: https://youtu.be/yBBgs0PhO6U?si=PdOuHTwoaYSpAtol Relentless to Rise Book - https://kathleenblackcoaching.com/books/relentless-to-rise/ The top 1% of Life - https://kathleenblackcoaching.com/books/the-top-1-percent-life/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kathleenblack_/ Take a listen to the entire episode and connect with Kathleen. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

Today, we're diving into a topic that, let's be honest, we don't talk about enough – retiring from real estate without leaving money on the table or feeling lost. Our special guest is Nancy Robinson, the VP of Sales at Christie's International Real Estate - Sereno in Northern, CA. Nancy is uber passionate when it comes to preparing agents for a smooth and profitable retirement. According to the National Association of REALTORS, the average age of a REALTOR is 57 and more than 65% of REALTORS are over age 50. The reality is that many of these agents are hitting retirement age unprepared. Many agents find themselves at a crossroads, financially strapped or emotionally unready to step back, despite knowing it's time. In this episode, Nancy addresses these issues and gives us practical steps like setting up a SEP IRA with automatic savings, keeping tabs on your source of business, marketing consistently to your SOI, and the importance of finding a mentor or coach. Plus, she talks about building a trustworthy alliance and shares HOW to align with the right person to transition your business. If you're a real estate agent or Broker/Owner or Manager who supports real estate agents, tune in and connect with Nancy. Nancyrobinson@sereno.com LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Christie's International Real Estate - Sereno Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

In real estate, one year without a sale can feel like an eternity. But for Diana Zaya, that tough year was a turning point. She leaned into data to help guide her path forward. She went on to close four million in sales the following year, which was a lot 25 years ago. It was at this point that Diana's love of data began. Now leading Maverick Systems, Diana equips real estate brokerages with the tools to boost agent performance and retention and attract agents who fit into the organization's model and culture. The secret is understanding the metrics, deciphering the trends, and using them to carve out a competitive edge. For those of you thinking, "Data, metrics, trends... that's not my language," you're not alone. I'll be the first to admit that data analysis isn't my strength. But here's the thing: it doesn't have to be. Diana has this way of translating data into actionable insights that even analytical minds can get behind. She's got a knack for narrowing in on the metrics that get to the root of any problem—or opportunity. Diana believes that pinpointing the problem is half the battle. Once you've got that down, the path to resolution becomes a whole lot clearer. In this episode, Diana walks you through understanding customer personas and tailoring strategies to win new listings. So whether you're a Broker/Owner, seasoned agent, or just dipping your toes into the real estate market, tune in. Diana's insights might just transform how you look at your business—and your bottom line. Take a listen. Connect with Diana at: diana@mavericksystems.com Visit https://mavericksystems.com/ and grab your FREE value prop guide. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Post and Beam Creative Instagram Christine George Instagram

If you walk into my house, as a REALTOR® there’s one thing that would probably make you cringe: my walls. They are painted a bold color in just about every room. From Benjamin Moore Pacific Ocean Blue in our living room to Ben Moore Snugglepuss purple in my daughter’s room. And after 3 laborious coats, we achieved a deep red in my son’s room with an alcove of the darkest navy blue. Thankfully, this is our “forever home” and we aren’t worried about painting everything neutral for many years to come! My love of color is obvious in our branding, and in the work we do for our clients! Color is one of the most emotionally evocative elements (I’d say along with smell, which is pretty tough to use in branding..) For me, bold and playful colors bring me joy. For others, these same hues may be agitating. We all know you can’t please everyone, which is why most agents recommend that their sellers paint everything white before putting their house on the market! The Psychology of Color Color psychology is the study of how colors can impact human behavior and emotions. Different hues can elicit various feelings and associations, tapping into our subconscious and influencing our perceptions. Here are some general emotional responses associated with certain color categories: Warm Colors (Red, Orange, Yellow): These colors are often associated with energy, warmth, and excitement. They can create a sense of playfulness and fun.It’s no wonder we landed on Yellow and Orange for our brand, although ours were inspired by the sunrise and some vibrant seaside village homes. Cool Colors (Blue, Green, Purple): Cool tones evoke feelings of calmness, trust, and serenity. They are often used to convey reliability and professionalism. Not surprising to see that brands like Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s rely heavily on their primary blue brand color. You seldom see any other shades used in their branding! Neutral Colors (Black, White, Gray): Neutral tones convey simplicity, sophistication, and timelessness. They are often employed to create a clean and modern look. This is why, time and again, when someone wants their brand to convey 'luxury,' they ask for elements of black in their visual identity. When it comes to the colors used in your brand, the importance of lights and darks, a variety of colors in your palette, and which colors will make you memorable or stand out in your market are all crucial elements to consider. When we started on the journey to create a brand for Escue Real Estate, we asked them to take pictures of the lawn signs of all of their competitors in their market. What came back to us was a veritable rainbow of bold and vibrant colors! It was clear that to stand out in their market, that was NOT the direction to take. Instead, we went with a calm and sophisticated blue, and an elegant use of black to show their commitment to quality and luxury. It was a huge success as their branding is the envy of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area. I’ve spent decades studying color theory and branding so that I can provide our clients with the best insight possible when creating their visual brand. Do you ever think about how your brand colors make others feel about you? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

This week, Inman announced its 2024 Marketing All-Stars award winners - guess what? Carrie and I were recognized!!! Holy Geezus, Mary and Joseph! (Yes, I use this term, much to my son's chagrin, when I am overjoyed or in shock.) Today, I am experiencing both emotions! This is the second year Inman celebrates the people who foster marketing and advertising excellence and connection within the real estate community. We are humbled to be recognized and honored among SO MANY other talented and creative people like Katie Lance, Cory Jo Vasquez, Chelsea Peitz, Molly McKinley, and Abby Lee, just to name a few. The real estate industry is like no other I've experienced. We don't just build relationships here. We build community. As a community, we celebrate each other's successes, support each other through tough times, and help each other grow. Carrie and I are very proud to be part of it all. If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to chat and learn more about your business and how we can help you. Click here to schedule a time that works for you.