The Real Estate Sessions Bill Risser

Dionne Malush, co-owner of Realty One Group, Gold Standard in Pittsburgh, brings nearly 25 years of invaluable experience to the real estate industry. Initially uninterested in owning a real estate company, Malush was captivated by the innovative branding and marketing strategies of Realty One Group, particularly its disruptor model offering a 100% commission plan. She emphasizes the cyclical nature of real estate and the challenges agents face during market downturns, advocating for a shift in mindset and the importance of building a strong sphere of influence to maintain consistent success. Malush also highlights the significance of tracking business metrics meticulously and surrounding oneself with a supportive community to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term goals in the real estate industry.
(00:08:51) Visual Approach Propels Real Estate Success
(00:16:14) Mindset Shifts: Thriving in Real Estate Industry
(00:18:55) Navigating Financial Realities of Brokerage Ownership
(00:26:04) Building Relationships through Podcast Networking
00:00:00 - Real Estate Challenges
Real estate professionals often face challenges related to financial concerns and mindset shifts during market downturns. The industry's roller coaster nature can lead agents to struggle with paying bills and overcoming obstacles. Addressing limiting beliefs and fostering a shift in mindset can reignite passion and drive for success. Seeking expert counsel and being prepared for challenges are also emphasized in navigating the real estate industry.
00:02:15 - Pittsburgh City Perception
Dionne addresses the misconception of Pittsburgh being a dirty, industrial city by highlighting its beauty, such as the stunning view from downtown and the abundance of bridges. She also mentions the sense of community around sports teams, like the Steelers and Penguins, reflecting the city's grit and toughness. Additionally, the unique feature of Mount Washington offering a breathtaking view of the three rivers coming together emphasizes the city's charm and recreational opportunities. Despite considering a move south, Dionne's love for Pittsburgh and its unique features showcases the city's allure beyond its industrial past.

00:08:51 - Transition from Graphic Design to Real Estate
Dionne Malush transitioned from owning a graphic design business to becoming a successful real estate agent. A partnership gone bad in her graphic design business prompted her to diversify her career. Combining her skills in graphic design with real estate, she entered the Pittsburgh market with a unique approach, creating visually appealing house listings that set her apart from traditional agents. This unconventional strategy paid off, as she quickly found success in real estate, surpassing the income she had made in her 17th year of graphic design in just her second year in the real estate industry. Ultimately, she made real estate her full-time focus, while still incorporating her love for graphic design into her daily work.

00:16:14 - Limiting Beliefs in Real Estate
Dionne Malush discusses the cyclical nature of the real estate industry and the common limiting beliefs agents face during downturns, emphasizing the importance of shifting mindset to overcome challenges and achieve success. Real estate agents often struggle with limiting beliefs during market downturns, questioning their ability to succeed and worrying about financial stability. The industry can be a roller coaster ride, requiring a mindset shift to overcome obstacles and thrive. By offering support, mentorship, and resources like her weekly mastermind group and self-discipline camp, Malush helps agents break free from limiting beliefs and achieve their goals in real estate. Ultimately, she emphasizes the importance of mindset, perseverance, and seeking expert counsel to navigate the challenges of running a brokerage and succeeding in

Michael LaFido, a seasoned professional with nearly 25 years of experience in the real estate business, has significantly impacted the luxury real estate market. With his competitive spirit honed from a background in college football, LaFido has become a leading specialist and author in the field. His book, "Secrets of Top Luxury Agents," released in May 2024, quickly became a bestseller, with 26 top Luxury Agents sharing their secrets to success. The book also offers over 200 tips for homeowners and over 110 for buyers from 26 top agents across more than 13 brokerages. LaFido highlights the book's value to agents, buyers, and sellers, emphasizing its extensive industry insights while championing diversity and inclusion through his active involvement in numerous real estate organizations.
Link to Michael's first interview - Episode 253 September 1, 2020
Get your free copy at FreeLuxuryBook.com (only pay shipping/handling)
(00:01:16) Building Trust and Value through Collaboration
(00:05:19) Luxury Real Estate Insights from Top Agents
(00:10:27) Luxury Real Estate Marketing Techniques
(00:17:23) Client-Centric Approach in Real Estate Industry
(00:20:12) "Strategies for Securing Luxury Real Estate Clients"
Title: Unveiling the Secrets of Luxury Real Estate Strategies
Luxury real estate is a whole different ball game compared to the regular housing market. It's all about trust, networking, and marketing to the right clientele. So, what better way to navigate this high-end world than by delving into the book 'Secrets of Top Luxury Agents' by Michael LaFido?

Why is trust, network, and marketing important in dealing with high-end clients?

Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, especially when dealing with high-net-worth individuals in the luxury real estate market. Building trust with clients requires transparency, honesty, and integrity. Networking is equally crucial, as it allows you to connect with other professionals in the industry and gain access to exclusive listings and potential buyers. Marketing plays a significant role in showcasing luxury properties in the best light to attract the right clientele.

How can real estate professionals benefit from reading 'Secrets of Top Luxury Agents'?

Reading 'Secrets of Top Luxury Agents' provides real estate professionals with valuable insights and strategies to excel in the luxury market. From understanding the mindset of affluent clients to leveraging social media and technology for effective marketing, this book offers practical tips and actionable advice to help professionals elevate their game and achieve success in the competitive luxury real estate industry.

Who is Michael LaFido and what insights does he offer in the book?

Michael LaFido is a top-producing real estate agent and luxury marketing expert with over 20 years of experience in the industry. In 'Secrets of Top Luxury Agents,' LaFido shares his wealth of knowledge and expertise, including how to establish credibility with high-end clients, negotiate effectively, and create a memorable brand that sets you apart in the luxury market. With his proven strategies and insider tips, readers can learn from the best in the business and take their real estate career to the next level.

Conclusion:

In the world of luxury real estate, trust, networking, and marketing are essential components for success. By exploring the strategies and insights offered in 'Secrets of Top Luxury Agents' by Michael LaFido, real estate professionals can gain a competitive edge and thrive in the high-end market....

Today, our guest spoke nationally about marketing for luxury properties and even created a luxury designation offered to interested realtors. Michael LaFido, a real estate consultant and top-producing realtor for the past twenty years, is joining us. Michael shares his insights into the high-end luxury market and how it has been crucial to his success.
In this episode, join Michael and me as we discuss some of the secrets to getting into the luxury market and how Michael’s background shaped his business decisions today. We also dive into Michael’s luxury designation and some major myths about the luxury market!
Top Takeaways: 
Michael LaFido’s Advice for New Agents“You hang out with nine top producers; you are bound to be the tenth. Who’s in your inner circle, who are you learning from?”“Who are you surrounding yourself with? What are you listening to? If you want to be a top producing agent, if you want to earn X amount of dollars, you have got to observe them. “
“I tell real estate agents, grow your knowledge, and your confidence will grow. Grow your knowledge by listening to Bill’s podcast, by listening to our podcast (Luxury Listing Specials), by reading books. You can be a student of the game.” – Michael LaFido [22:19]
“My tagline in my consulting business and my home-selling business, it’s not the market; it’s the marketing. I believe that the agent’s job is to position the home more effectively so more buyers can visually see themselves moving in and buying the home.” – Michael LaFido [23:42]
Episode Highlights:
[00:14] Intro
[00:30] Meet Michael LaFido – The Luxury Real Estate Marketer
[01:11] Born and Raised in the Chicago Area
[01:49] Michael Jordan and the Cubs
[03:46] Playing High School Sports
[04:21] Playing College Football at Northern Michigan University
[06:21] Different Mindset on Football Today
[09:05] Becoming a Health and Physical Education Teacher
[12:08] How Michael Got into Real Estate
[14:27] Michael’s Love of Inspiring and Educating Others
[15:28] Driving Force in Getting into the Luxury Market
[18:06] Luxury Designation
[21:03] 5 Myths About the Luxury Market
[23:42] The Importance of Positioning a Home
[26:23] COVID-19’s Impact on the Luxury Market
[28:31] Michael’s Advice for New Agents
[29:26] Connect with Michael
[30:12] Closing Thoughts
[30:33] Outro

Find | Bill Risser
At bill.risser@fnf.com
On Twitter
On Facebook
On Youtube
 
Find | Michael LaFido
At Michael@marketingluxurygroup.com
On Luxury Listing Specialist
On Luxury Listing Podcast
On Website
On Facebook
 
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The Real Estate Sessions podcast, hosted by Bill Risser, offers a treasure trove of almost 400 episodes that delve into the journeys and strategies of prominent figures and rising stars in the real estate industry. Celebrated for its diverse voices and valuable insights, the podcast has become a go-to resource for those looking to understand the intricacies of the real estate world. Bill Risser, who recently transitioned to an internal role at Fidelity National Financial, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for real estate technology, supporting sales teams across multiple states. With a background of over 20 years in the industry, Bill enjoys the dynamic nature of his podcast, mixing interviews with monologue episodes where he shares his personal insights. He acknowledges the contributions of industry experts like Sean Carpenter, Anthony Malafronte, Sue Benson, Jeff Chalmers, Tiffany McQuaid, and Chelsea Pietz, encouraging his audience to follow them for further valuable content. Bill remains committed to providing helpful information to his listeners.
Links to My Recommended Follows
Carps Corner
Sean on Facebook
Tiffany McQuaid on Instagram
Tiffany's book, The Inth Degree
Anthony Malafronte on Instagram
My Tampa Agent
Sue Pinky Benson on Instagram
Upcoming Events with Sue
Jeff Chalmers on Facebook
Jeff Chalmers on Instagram
Chelsea Peitz on Instagram
Chelsea's coaching site
Vanessa LeVesque Instagram

In a recent episode of 'The Real Estate Sessions' podcast, host Bill Risser sat down with Alex Gustafson to delve into the world of AI chatbot development, focusing on Oppy, a versatile AI tool that is revolutionizing customer interactions in various industries, including real estate.
During the episode, Gustafson highlighted the importance of integrating AI tools like Oppy into business operations to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction. He emphasized the role of business owners in customizing Oppy's conversations and actions by setting prompts, thus giving it a unique personality and specific goals tailored to each business's needs.
Enjoy Episode 389. Cheers!
Episode 207 from Oct 2019 - Alex's first appearance on The Real Estate Sessions

From the episode, we've gathered three key takeaways:

1. **Tailored Prompts Drive Results**: Setting specific prompts for AI chatbots like Oppy is crucial in guiding conversations and ensuring efficiency in customer interactions.

2. **User Preferences Matter**: Understanding user preferences regarding AI disclosure is essential for providing a seamless and personalized experience.

3. **Focus on Client Experience**: The ultimate goal of AI integration is to enhance client satisfaction by delivering quick, precise responses that mimic human-like interactions.

In Alex Gustafson's own words, "'If you're getting the response quality that you want and need out of something and you're getting the information that you need, do you care if it's an AI? I personally wouldn't."

As AI continues to reshape industries like real estate, tools like Oppy offer businesses a unique opportunity to streamline operations, improve customer interactions, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

If you're intrigued by the potential of AI chatbot development in real estate or curious about Oppy's capabilities, this episode of 'The Real Estate Sessions' is a must-listen. It provides valuable insights into the future of AI technology and its impact on enhancing client experiences in various industries.

Description:
In this podcast episode, Bill Risser and Russell Shaw delve into the fascinating world of real estate and career success. They explore the evolution of Phoenix real estate, from a small town to a bustling metropolis. Shaw's unconventional career path from selling life insurance to comedy and then real estate is also discussed. The concept of "carte blanche" is explored, emphasizing the importance of freedom and authority in one's career. Effective communication skills are highlighted as crucial for success in the industry. The evolution of real estate advertising is examined, with an emphasis on understanding consumer needs. The significance of systems and replicable success is also discussed, with insights from expert Gary Keller. Building trust and treating clients with respect are emphasized, and valuable resources for homeowners and real estate professionals are mentioned.

Episode Outline:

(00:00:00) The Evolution of Phoenix Real Estate
(00:06:30) From Life Insurance to Comedy
(00:13:02) The Power of Carte Blanche
(00:20:07) The Importance of Communication in Real Estate
(00:26:28) The Evolution of Effective Real Estate Advertising
(00:33:35) Real Estate Success and Systems
(00:40:48) Building Trust in Real Estate
(00:47:36) No Hassle Listing





00:00:00 - Russell Shaw
Well, it would be the ability to talk to people. It would be the ability to communicate to people. And it would be like if I said, what's the most important part of intelligence? Let's take it that way. It would be to have some idea of what's going on with the other person.

00:00:24 - Bill Risser
You're listening to the Real Estate Sessions podcast. And I'm your host, Bill Risser, executive Vice President, Strategic Partnerships with RateMyAgent, a digital marketing platform designed to help great agents harness the power of verified reviews. For more information, head on over to Ratemyagent.com. Listen in as I interview industry leaders and get their stories and journeys to the world of real estate. Hi, everybody. Welcome to episode 360 of the Real Estate Sessions podcast. As always, thank you so much for tuning in. Thank you so much for telling a friend today I have a real treat for you. We are headed to Phoenix, Arizona, where we are going to be talking to one of the legends of Phoenix real estate, some might say The Godfather, just a huge figure in Phoenix real estate. I'm talking about Russell Shaw. Russell is with Realty, one group. When I first moved to Phoenix, he was bigger than life. You're going to see that as we get into the conversations. The phrase I'm applying for a job is something that if you were in Phoenix in the early two thousand s, you heard it over and over and over. Just an amazing guy. Let's get this thing started. Russ, welcome to the podcast.

00:01:34 - Russell Shaw
Thank you so much, Bill. I appreciate you having me on.

00:01:38 - Bill Risser
I've been remiss in waiting this long to have you on here. I just introduced you as the legend of Phoenix real estate and some of the great things you've done and the fact that I first moved to Phoenix in 2000 and my mornings were greeted just about every morning watching the news with I'm applying for a job. We're going to talk about that shortly, but first I'd like to start at the beginning.

00:02:06 - Russell Shaw
Sure.

00:02:06 - Bill Risser
Rush, you're a native phoenician. There are very few of you floating around.

00:02:10 - Russell Shaw
Well, yeah, I was born in Phoenix, lived in Phoenix all my life.

00:02:14 - Bill Risser
Let's talk about that. Let's talk about, first of all, some of the changes.

00:02:20 - Russell Shaw
Oh my God. Like when...