LeadingRE Senior Vice President, Member Engagement Tripti Kasa
– In newly created position, Kasal heads U.S. member engagement. –
CHICAGO – (July 17, 2024) – Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE) announced today that Tripti Kasal has joined its leadership team as senior vice president, member engagement.
In this newly created role, Kasal will head LeadingRE’s U.S. membership services team, focusing on increasing member engagement across all programs for the global network of 550 quality real estate firms. A key priority will be matching members with resources from LeadingRE’s Solutions Group, a collection of carefully vetted service providers delivering innovative solutions for technology, marketing, insurance, and other vital areas.
An industry-veteran with over 25 years of experience, Kasal’s background extends across brokerage operations and includes program management, team development, market research and analysis, sales management, revenue generation, commercial real estate, new development marketing, and vendor management. She spent 10 years with LeadingRE member firm Baird & Warner, most recently serving as senior vice president, regional manager for the metro Chicago area.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tripti to this role. The depth of her brokerage experience is matched by her enthusiasm for helping our members succeed in this evolving marketplace. She will work closely with our talented membership services team to present individualized solutions for our members – always with the goal of helping them be even more successful,” said Chief Operating Officer Kate Reisinger, CRP.
Kasal welcomes the consultative nature of the job. “Each member has unique goals, challenges, and opportunities. It is our team’s job to understand how LeadingRE can best support them, which may mean recommending specific courses from our Institute learning platform, introducing technologies from a Solutions Group provider, engaging them in our commercial real estate program, or helping them build new development business through Destinations by LeadingRE. The opportunities are endless,” she said.
Kasal is based in LeadingRE’s Chicago headquarters and can be reached at tkasal@LeadingRE.com.
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About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 134,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. Its online learning platform, LeadingRE Institute, was named to Training magazine’s Top 10 Hall of Fame. LeadingRE also operates RELO Direct®, Inc. (RELODirect.com), its full-service relocation management company providing mobility services for corporate and government clients; and Luxury Portfolio International® (LuxuryPortfolio.com), its luxury marketing division, which markets approximately 50,000 luxury homes annually. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with 200 firms in over 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena. The firm also has a strategic international project marketing program, Destinations by LeadingRE (DestinationsByLeadingRE.com).
– RealScout streamlines market updates, listings, and home valuation reports for real estate professionals and clients. –
CHICAGO – (June 4, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® welcomes RealScout to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. RealScout streamlines the process of keeping buyers and sellers informed with relevant market updates, listing alerts, and home valuation reports, enhancing client interaction and pipeline expansion with minimal agent intervention. Additionally, agents benefit from insights and alerts regarding client behavior, ensuring they stay informed about significant conversion opportunities.
“RealScout isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for real estate professionals. With its seamless integration and intuitive interface, it empowers agents to effortlessly connect with clients, deliver valuable insights, and capitalize on immediate sales opportunities,” said LeadingRE Vice President of Sales/Partnerships Jeff Kennedy.
“This partnership has been in the making for a long time,” said Andrew Flachner, President of RealScout. “For years, many of the largest LeadingRE members have relied on RealScout to nurture and convert more business. We’re excited to take this relationship to the next level and bring our award-winning platform to the larger LeadingRE audience.”
Learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® at LeadingRE.com.
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About RealScout
RealScout is the preferred choice of top real estate professionals for increasing transaction volume from their marketing database. With RealScout, agents effortlessly deliver high-converting listing alerts, home value estimates, and market activity updates to their clients. By seamlessly integrating with CRM systems or providing native functionality, RealScout ensures agents receive critical signals, empowering them to seize immediate sales opportunities. Trusted by over 100,000 real estate agents across 200+ markets, RealScout’s web and mobile platform facilitates engagement, retention, and business conversion.
About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 134,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena.
CHICAGO – (May 1, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® announces the inclusion of HOMEstretch to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. HOMEstretch provides value-added services to prepare homes for sale, including home clear-outs, interior and exterior painting, flooring installation, landscape clean up, and move out cleaning.
“HOMEstretch makes it easier to get a home ready for market so that it shows well and, ultimately, brings the best possible price. By taking care of the many details of the home sale preparation process efficiently and effectively, it also alleviates stress for the home seller,” said LeadingRE Vice President of Sales/Partnerships, Jeff Kennedy.
HOMEstretch operates in seven major US cities, spanning from Cincinnati to SW Houston, with a roadmap to national expansion within the next year.
“We couldn’t be more excited about this relationship with LeadingRE. We admire LeadingRE’s impact in the real estate industry through premier solutions and business resources. At the end of the day, we have the same goal: to form great relationships with real estate professionals and help make their jobs easier,” said Derek Shewmon, Co-Founder of HOMEstretch.
Learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® at LeadingRE.com.
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About HOMEstretch
HOMEstretch is a leading name in the home preparation industry, known for its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. HOMEstretch offers home clear-outs, interior and exterior painting, flooring installation, landscape clean up, and move out cleans. This all-in-one service offer simplifies the home preparation process for homeowners and realtors, and helps homes sell faster.
About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 138,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena.
CHICAGO – (April 16, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® welcomes AJ Canaria Creative Services, LLC to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. AJ provides photography services specializing in events, headshots, lifestyle shoots, editorials, and advertising. His strategy focuses on fostering genuine connections and delivering personalized service tailored to meet clients’ needs.
“AJ has a remarkable talent for capturing meaningful moments and telling stories through photography. With his distinctive journalistic style, he has photographed LeadingRE events beautifully for almost a decade, and he always delivers more than is expected. Now, we are thrilled to bring AJ into our Solutions Group so our member real estate firms can collaborate with him to tell their own stories through photos and videos in a way that is modern, authentic, and personal,” said LeadingRE Vice President of Global Communications Robin LaSure.
Learn more about AJ Canaria Creative Services at ajcan.com.
“I’ve had the privilege of photographing LeadingRE events for 10 years in a row. I’m excited to expand our relationship to have more opportunities to work with members to help them tell their stories and help their businesses grow through photography,” said AJ Canaria, Founder and Chief Photographer of AJ Canaria Creative Services.
Learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® at LeadingRE.com.
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AboutAJ Canaria Creative Services
Since 2011, AJ has been capturing events, companies, and individuals in the real estate industry. In 2016 AJ partnered with LeadingRE and has since photographed the LeadingRE Conference and Global Symposium. Within the LeadingRE network, AJ has collaborated with Windermere; The Group, Inc.; William Raveis; Slifer Smith & Frampton; and Howard Hanna. AJ specializes in transforming brand moments into timeless memories and capturing unique brokerage stories with captivating visuals. With expertise in high-quality brand photography for real estate, AJ offers a range of services tailored to highlight the essence of each client.
About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 138,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena.
– Roomvu provides hyper-localized and relevant social media content. –
CHICAGO – (April 2, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® welcomes Roomvu to its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. Roomvu helps real estate professionals sustain an impactful social media presence by automatically posting local, relevant, and timely content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Roomvu creates and publishes content while also ensuring high visibility for all posts. Guaranteeing 5,000 weekly views for content, Roomvu makes sure posts are highly visible across all platforms. Additionally, they assist with email marketing by sending visually appealing newsletters and listing advertisements.
According to LeadingRE Vice President, Sales/Partnerships Jeff Kennedy, “Roomvu sets itself apart with its advanced marketing strategy, offering a comprehensive suite of tools designed to elevate your marketing efforts. Roomvu’s video customization capabilities empower you to create compelling visual content tailored to your specific needs, enabling you to captivate and resonate with your audience like never before. With Roomvu, you can rest assured that your marketing needs are fully met, allowing you to focus on what you do best – serving your clients and growing your business.”
“We are thrilled to announce our latest collaboration, a milestone that underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in the real estate industry. Aligning with LeadingRE has empowered us to seamlessly adapt our services to accommodate brokerages of all sizes. Our enhanced platform now offers branded content across various channels, including sophisticated social media management, dynamic email newsletters, and impactful listing advertisements – all designed to scale,” said Sam Mehrbod, CEO of Roomvu.
Learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® at LeadingRE.com.
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About Roomvu
Roomvu is a pioneer in video marketing solutions for real estate agents and mortgage brokers. Endorsed by the National Association of Realtors, Roomvu delivers tailored content to over 150,000 agents throughout the USA and Canada. Leveraging hyper-local content, Roomvu streamlines social media marketing, email campaigns, CRM, and digital advertisements. By providing small real estate professionals with the tools of industry giants, Roomvu empowers the bottom 90% of the market to rise to the top 1%.
About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 138,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena.
– Notable specializes in pay-at-close home improvement financing. –
CHICAGO – (March 26, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® announced today that Notable has joined its Solutions Group program of preferred business resources for its global network of 550 market-leading real estate firms. Notable offers an unsecured credit line for your clientele, resulting in increased listings secured, elevated prices, and accelerated sales, all while strengthening your brand.
According to LeadingRE Vice President, Sales/ Partnerships Jeff Kennedy, “Notable serves an underserved market segment that is ripe for innovation. We’re excited to align with such a strong company and look forward to working with them in the coming year.”
“Notable is thrilled to join LeadingRE’s Solutions Group. The companies within LeadingRE represent some of the most thoughtful and sophisticated brokerages in the industry. We are excited to empower brokerages and their agents with a best-in-class financing solution that enhances their brand and wins listings,” said Austin Lane, CEO of Notable.
Learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® at LeadingRE.com.
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About Notable
Notable’s personal line of credit fronts the cost of home sale preparation for sellers to help agents win more listings and achieve quicker closings at premium prices. Notable partners exclusively with top brokerages to offer simple, white-labeled programs that empower their agents and enhance their brand. Operating across 48 states, Notable has facilitated over 25,000 loans with a remarkable 94% customer satisfaction rate.
About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World ®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 138,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE is also active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena.
Peter Thompson, Managing Director of Barfoot & Thompson in Auckland, New Zealand, receives the Brokerage Leadership Award from LeadingRE President/CEO Paul Boomsma and Chairman of the Board Whitney LaCosta of Howard Hanna | Coach Real Estate Associates. See more award winner photos here. Photos by AJ Canaria.
https://ajcanaria.pixieset.com/leadingreconference2024/ CHICAGO – (March 21, 2024) – Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® recognized top-performing member firms and individuals at its Awards Gala, held last month at Wynn Las Vegas. The Gala was the culmination of LeadingRE Conference Week, a series of specialized events with participants from 20 countries and nearly 300 cities worldwide who came together to explore the trends and opportunities impacting real estate.
“Our award winners represent excellence, innovation, and leadership,” said LeadingRE President/CEO Paul Boomsma. “We are inspired by their achievements, their commitment to quality service, and their endless contributions in their local markets.”
LeadingRE’s top company honor, the Diamond Award, went to the company in each size category with superior engagement and performance across all LeadingRE’s business programs: Ebby Halliday Realtors (Plano, TX); Michael Saunders & Company (Sarasota, FL); Russell Real Estate Services (Strongsville, OH); Kentwood Real Estate (Denver, CO); Blanchard & Calhoun Real Estate (Augusta, GA); Portside Real Estate Group (Falmouth, ME); Wilson Associates (Greenville, SC); and Salmon Real Estate (Staten Island, NY).
Peter Thompson, Barfoot & Thompson (Auckland, New Zealand) earned the distinguished Leadership Award, honoring the principal broker who displays incredible leadership through life-changing community involvement and by guiding their team to better success and well-being. Harvey Kalles Real Estate (Toronto, Canada) received the Most Innovative Brokerage Award, which honors the firm that has made an extraordinary difference for their company and their business community through an impactful and innovative program.
In recognition of extraordinary contributions to better the communities they serve, CRYE-LEIKE, Realtors (Memphis, TN) received the Brokerage Good Things Award. Kim Vincent, Sibcy Cline Realtors (Cincinnati, OH) won the Agent Good Things Awards.
Top marketing awards included Best Website Design, presented to Wallace Real Estate (Knoxville, TN) and Most Innovative Website, presented to Baird & Warner (Chicago, IL). Most Innovative Office Design was presented to Advisors Living (Boston, MA).
Referral of the Year Awards were presented in multiple categories: Cross Border Referral – Sibcy Cline Realtors (Cincinnati, OH) and Casaiberia Real Estate (Lagoa, Portugal); Broker to Broker Referral – @properties Christie’s International Real Estate (Chicago, IL) and Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate (Avon, CO); and Commercial Referral – Watson Realty Corp. (Jacksonville, FL) and John L. Scott Real Estate (Bellevue, WA).
Service recognition awards were presented for sharing contributions and talent to the LeadingRE community over many years. Earning the Chairman’s Service Award were Berry Everitt, Chas Everitt International Property Group (Johannesburg, South Africa); Whitney LaCosta, Howard Hanna | Coach Real Estate Associates (Northport, NY); Mike Pappas, The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties (Plantation, FL); and Pat Shea, Lyon Real Estate – A Windermere Company (Sacramento, CA). Winning the President’s Service Award were Jeff Bennett, McColly Real Estate (Schererville, IN); Josh Epps, Fickling & Company (Macon, GA); Tripti Kasal, Baird & Warner (Chicago, IL); Suzanne Lail, Cottingham Chalk (Charlotte, NC); Paulo Lopes, Casaiberia Real Estate (Lagoa, Portugal); Gary Scott, Allen Tate Company (Charlotte, NC); Robin Sheakley, Sibcy Cline Realtors (Cincinnati, OH); and Thomas Zabel, Savills Residential Agency (Berlin, Germany).
The Crown of Excellence referral awards were given in seven company size categories: Allen Tate Company (Charlotte, NC); Carolina One Real Estate (North Charleston, SC); Lyon Real Estate – A Windermere Company (Sacramento, CA); Kentwood Real Estate (Denver, CO); Dickens Mitchener (Charlotte, NC); Platinum Group, REALTORS (Colorado Springs, CO); Marx-Bensdorf Realtors (Memphis, TN); and Vista Encantada REALTORS, LLC (Albuquerque, NM).
Earning the Million Dollar Club Award for Highest Valued Outgoing Closings was Houlihan Lawrence Real Estate (Rye Brook, N.Y.). The Global Alliance Club Award for Most Outgoing International Referral Closings was presented to Brown Harris Stevens (New York, NY) and The Keyes Company (Plantation, FL).
The firms recognized with the Pinnacle Award for having the most outgoing revenue-generating referrals were: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services (Pittsburgh, PA); Carolina One Real Estate (North Charleston, SC); Lamacchia Realty (Waltham, MA); Dickens Mitchener (Charlotte, NC); WK Real Estate (Boulder, CO); Marx-Bensdorf Realtors (Memphis, TN); and Vista Encantada REALTORS, LLC (Albuquerque, NM).
The Peak Production Award for revenue generating-sales volume in 2023 Howard Hanna Real Estate Services (Pittsburgh, PA); Carolina One Real Estate (North Charleston, SC); Dickson Realty (Reno, NV); Red Oak Realty (Piedmont, CA); WK Real Estate (Boulder, CO); Marx-Bensdorf Realtors (Memphis, TN); and Parkway Real Estate (Chico, CA).
RELO DIRECT® recognized members for outstanding service and collaboration. Earning the Platinum Member Service Excellence Award were Howard Hanna Real Estate Services (Pittsburgh, PA) and Long Realty Company (Tucson, AZ). Receiving the Platinum Member Leads Award were Rinehart Realty Corporation (Rock Hill, SC) and The Keyes Company (Plantation, FL).
LeadingRE is an invitation-only business-to-business real estate community, interconnecting 550 quality-focused local and regional real estate firms in 70 countries worldwide. LeadingRE provides its members best-of-industry assets, including elite training and education, marketing and technology resources, referrals and support.
To learn more about Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, visit LeadingRE.com.
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About Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®
Chicago-based Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE.com) is a global network of top independent real estate firms, with 550 companies and 138,000 sales associates in over 70 countries. LeadingRE supports its members with powerful connections to other market leaders and access to innovative, performance-driven programs. LeadingRE also operates RELO Direct®, Inc. (RELODirect.com), its full-service relocation management company providing mobility services for corporate and government clients; and Luxury Portfolio International® (LuxuryPortfolio.com), its luxury marketing division, which markets approximately 50,000 luxury homes annually. Additionally, LeadingRE is active in commercial real estate, with over 200 firms in 20 countries specializing in the commercial arena, and in global project marketing through Destinations by LeadingRE (DestinationsByLeadingRE.com).
Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE), the global network of premier real estate firms, has announced Las Immobilien as the latest member of its professional network.
As an invitation-only business-to-business real estate community, LeadingRE is the world’s most established real estate network, with 550 quality-focused firms and more than 138,000 sales associates in 70 countries worldwide. The company interconnects top local and regional real estate firms across the world and supports their success with best-of-industry assets, like referrals, exclusive events, elite training and education, marketing and technology resources, and support.
For over 30 years, Las Immobilien has brought expertise and innovation to the Antwerp property market. A family business into its second generation, the firm is known for representing the city’s most prestigious properties in the most desired neighborhoods, now catering to a wide range of international clientele.
The announcement comes at an exciting time for the Antwerp market, which has shown record high value real estate transactions in recent years. The city’s stunning architecture and world-renowned interior design is supported by its buyers’ willingness to embrace modern technology.
Chris Dietz, president of Global Operations at LeadingRE, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Las Immobilien to our ever-expanding community of industry leading professionals. Las Immobilien is a clear market leader in Antwerp, a market that has all the ingredients for an exciting and dynamic 2024. We believe enhanced clarity on inflation and interest rates will boost transaction activity in Antwerp and other leading European cities this upcoming year.”
Benjamin Las, founder and CEO of Las Immobilien commented: “We join LeadingRE at a time where clients increasingly appreciate international exposure for their properties. We have specialised agents with many years of experience, including those with ESG and legal backgrounds. This puts us in a unique position to advise our clients across all fronts, and LeadingRE is the ideal partner in the growth path of our agency, connecting us to other market-leading firms around the world. We are dedicated to strengthening our position and quality of our services in an ever-evolving market to ensure our clients achieve success in their real estate ventures.”
Selected companies in the LeadingRE international network are recognised for their expertise and superior knowledge of both local and global markets. All LeadingRE members are vetted, not just for performance, but also for a continued commitment to quality customer experience.
LeadingRE member Filip Sejvl of Czech luxury property agency Philip & Frank talks us through property market trends in Prague and beyond, as published by PrimeResi (subscription).
By Filip Šejvl, Founder and CEO of Philip & Frank s.r.o, a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World
The current residential real estate market in Prague and the wider Czech Republic offers an encouraging mix of stability and anticipation for what is to come, writes Filip Sejvl, Founder and CEO of Philip & Frank and member of LeadingRE. The average new home price per square metre is approximately 140,000 CZK (c.£4,830), reflecting a market that has remained resilient despite facing challenges – and still good value compared to other European hubs.
While the country grapples with high-interest rates of around 6%, and a decline in the number of property sales, Prague’s real estate prices have remained consistent in the past 12 months. The expectation for 2024 is more activity, with an anticipated decline in interest rates expected to lead to an increase in sales and property prices.
In terms of property types, Prague’s unique character as an old historic European city has a considerable influence on the market. Attractive condos in typical historical buildings are the most sought-after homes within the city, while single-family homes and modern apartments dominate the suburban areas.
Buyers in Prague often prioritize specific features and amenities, such as open-plan kitchens, smart home technology, and built-in storage solutions. The city’s compact layout, characterized by narrow streets and a busy downtown, emphasizes the importance of having amenities within walking distance to avoid traffic congestion.
Several trends shape the wider Czech real estate market. Over the last five years, home prices in the country have risen by a substantial 64%. The recent increase in interest rates, coupled with a decrease in demand for property purchases in Prague, has created pressure on the rental market. Czechia stands out with a high percentage of people living in their own homes, but the current pricing trends may influence this dynamic.
One notable trend is the emergence of large real estate funds focusing on the rental market, with a focus on building expansive rental residential areas and apartment buildings.
Foreign investment plays a significant role in the Czech real estate market, particularly in Prague. The city’s historical monuments, rich culture, low crime rates, and robust tourism make it attractive to investors from Western European countries such as Germany, Italy, and France. However, there has been a shift in recent years, with Russian investors withdrawing from Prague due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. For foreign buyers considering investing in the area, the advice is clear: focus on properties in the famous and historic downtown area of Prague, as prices are expected to remain stable or even increase further.
Although no significant legislative changes regarding real estate transactions are anticipated in Czechia, potential regulations for short-term rentals of apartments or condos, similar to those imposed on hotels and accommodation services, may emerge in the near future.
The allure of living in Prague is multifaceted. The city’s rich culture and history, coupled with an efficient public transportation system and low crime rates, make it an amazing place to call home. Compared to other major Western European cities, Prague still boasts attractive property prices.
LeadingRE Chief Operating Officer Kate Reisinger was interviewed by BENews, a popular U.K. online news service covering the entire built environment industry. Read the full article below or on BENews here.
My BE Career: Kate Reisinger
Name: Kate Reisinger
Job title: Chief Operating Officer, LeadingRE
What I do: I oversee the design and implementation of key operational strategies for our company, which includes member services, where I focus on engagement, performance, satisfaction, and success among our 550 member real estate companies around the world. I also work on our core referral programme, which generates over 24,000 member-to-member real estate referrals annually, valued at over $8bn. Additionally, I head our marketing and events, including our flagship Conference Week, which draws over 2,000 top real estate professionals every year.
Why I got into the property industry: Quite simply, I wanted to help people. In college, I won an internship with the district attorney as a victim witness advocate. From that experience, I realised that I had an instinct to serve people. Ultimately, getting into real estate meant helping people with the biggest investment of their lives.
How I did it: After college, while I studied to get into law school, I was working in a retail store and was promoted to manager. My mom commented that I was doing such a good job selling clothes that I could use those skills selling real estate. I got my license and was working as a realtor, while also bartending. A friend shared a job opportunity for a relocation coordinator, assisting people moving from one city to another. I had been working 80 hours a week at that point, so I took the interview and got the job.
My first proper job: Working at the Benetton store on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue as store manager. In that role, I learned a lot about people that I believe has been a solid foundation for me: the importance of customer focus, how to deal with different personalities, how to meet people where they are and provide what they need.
My first big break: When a national franchise purchased the local real estate company where I worked, I was given an opportunity that changed the path of my career. One Friday afternoon three months after the acquisition, the CEO called me in and asked, “How’s it going?” I was honest. I told him it was difficult , and that the department I was in was without focus or a leader, and that we were losing business. He was surprised at my honesty, but I really think he valued it and he then asked me how I would feel running the department. I had no hesitation and told him: “Absolutely – I can do it.” I had just found out that I got into law school, but somehow, I knew that I was already in the right place.
My inspiration: My mom. She was a single mom who worked three jobs. She was a paralegal proofing patents and was an incredibly fast typist. She instilled in me the importance of hard work and grit and I want to be that person for my girls.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Professionally, it was when I first started as a relocation director because there was a lot of talk that I was too young. The relocation industry had a lot of experienced, talented, accomplished players. Many were always very supportive of me, but others were questioning. Personally, my biggest challenge was my father’s death. As a child of 11-years-old, when your parent dies suddenly, everything you think about the world is flipped. It makes you grow up fast. I lost my rose-colored glasses and realised life can be unfair. I think what that taught me was to live life to the fullest and take advantage of each and every day.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: My kids – two twin girls who, I’m told, look just like me! I like watching life through their eyes because it’s entertaining and joyful. The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: That the real estate agent is not essential to the process.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: We can move too slowly…in adopting new technology, modernizing the process, and adapting to ever-changing market trends.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Our industry should be representative of the communities we serve and reflect our population.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: We must preserve this planet for our children and their children. As an industry, there is so much we can do, from supporting sustainable building to encouraging environmental action in our own communities. When it comes to social issues, we must be diligent in striving for and achieving fair housing for all. Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I want to continue to grow in the ways I contribute to our network and support our members’ success – individually and as a whole.
What I do in my downtime: I love to cook and travel. My favourite dish to make is homemade pasta with bolognese sauce and my top travel destination at the moment is the US national parks. Experiencing the beauty of this world with our kids has been an incredible experience.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Victim witness advocacy or an attorney focusing on criminal prosecution.
My advice for someone just starting out: Be hyper-focused on a couple of things that will move you forward – not everything. In times of uncertainty, put your head down and work. Roll up your sleeves. Don’t be afraid to get in there.
My motto/mantra: Be of service, even in the smallest of ways. Smile at people. Say hello. You never know how it may help. Give back to the community you live in. It really grounds you. In the workplace, I think about how I can foster my team and what moves them forward every day.
