In this episode, I sit down with Craig Grant, CEO of RETI and renowned tech educator, for a high-energy conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming the real estate industry. From practical insights on leveraging ChatGPT and Google Gemini for day-to-day efficiency, to a deep dive into must-have tools like Canva Pro and the game-changing HeyGen video platform, we unpack what’s working now for agents looking to level up their business with the power of AI. Craig shares his perspective on the meteoric rise of AI, why every Realtor needs to embrace it, and how the right technology can automate heavy lifting—without sacrificing legal or ethical standards. We discuss real-world examples, from creating marketing content at lightning speed to AI video editing with Descript, and even how tools like Reimagine Home can help you virtually stage and redesign properties in seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about new tech, Craig drops invaluable nuggets on avoiding AI pitfalls, choosing the right platforms for your workflow, and the importance of always treating artificial intelligence as your first draft—not your final word. He also gives listeners access to his resource-packed slides and a treasure trove of vetted AI recommendations to supercharge your marketing, client communications, and productivity. If you’re ready to learn how AI can save you time, amplify your personal brand, and future-proof your real estate career, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can put to work immediately.

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of one of the most remarkable sales of my career—the nine-and-a-half-year journey to sell the iconic Empire Mansion, recently closing for a record $6.5M in Illinois. I break down exactly what worked, what I’d change, and the invaluable lessons this high-profile listing taught me about patience, perseverance, and staying sharp in the ever-evolving luxury real estate market. As the third agent on the listing, spanning four brokerages, ten price adjustments, and countless strategy shifts, I dive deep into what kept us moving—from detailed buyer pre-qualification and personalized client communication, to creative event-based marketing (think thirty Ferrari owners in the driveway) and securing national press coverage. I also share what didn’t move the needle, like costly print ads and certain co-marketing partnerships, so you can leverage smarter strategy in your own business. You’ll hear about handling the unique demands of high-net-worth sellers, best practices for scheduling and hosting standout showings, and why you should never judge a book by its cover—especially when working with luxury buyers. If you’re struggling with a long-standing listing or want to raise your game in luxury real estate, these real-world insights and case study takeaways are sure to help you work smarter, increase your value, and ultimately, get the deal done. Keep raising the bar, and don’t hesitate to reach out for more resources, fresh eyes on a tough listing, or for information on our luxury designation and tools.

In this episode, I share some timely insights from our recent live stream, diving into the intricacies of the current luxury real estate market and the potential impact of tariffs. We navigate through pressing questions posed by clients and industry peers, unearthing the realities and misconceptions surrounding tariffs' effects on real estate. I tackle timely issues such as stock market fluctuations and share invaluable advice on investments, emphasizing real estate's reliability as a long-term asset. The session also unveils a unique financial offering – the Buy Now, Sell Later program – designed to enhance buyer leverage and flexibility without the constraints of conventional loans. Listeners are in for an informative session as I, alongside my guest Joe, dissect how these innovations can provide a competitive edge in buying luxury properties. Furthermore, we celebrate our nine-year milestone of the luxury designation course, announcing our most memorable location training event amidst a lineup of educational engagements across the U.S. Whether you're an established agent looking to sharpen your strategy or a homeowner contemplating market movements, this episode equips you with the necessary tools to navigate and excel in today’s market dynamics.

In this episode of the Luxury Specials podcast, I sit down with Samir, the founder of Zillow Gone Wild, for an engaging conversation about the fascinating world of unique and eccentric real estate listings across America. We dive into the origins and success of Zillow Gone Wild, a social media phenomenon that showcases luxury, quirky, and downright wild properties. Samir shares his journey from starting the platform during the pandemic in December 2020 to amassing over 5 million followers across multiple social media channels, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. His passion for real estate, despite not being a licensed agent, has resonated with millions who are captivated by the diversity and creativity of U.S. properties. We discuss some of the most memorable and eccentric homes featured on Zillow Gone Wild, like the $20 million property in Gilbert, Arizona, complete with a go-kart track and a hidden shooting range. Samir also touches on the impact his platform has had on real estate sales, with agents reaching out to him to highlight their unique listings and even staging homes to attract attention. For those curious about what's next for Zillow Gone Wild, Samir reveals exciting news about the upcoming second season of their HGTV show, which will continue to explore these extraordinary properties. Whether you're an agent looking to understand the power of social media in real estate or a property enthusiast eager to see the wildest homes on the market, this episode is packed with insights and entertainment. Tune in for a deep dive into the world where luxury meets the unexpected.

In this episode, Michael LaFido dives deep into the alarming statistics released by the National Association of REALTORS® and explains why 71% of REALTORS® sold zero homes last year. He emphasizes the importance of educating consumers about choosing an active, successful agent over one who's not doing any transactions, shedding light on the broader implications for home sellers and buyers alike. Michael discusses key strategies for maximizing exposure, marketing, and negotiating better deals for sellers, highlighting the significant differences between agents who invest in themselves and those who do not. He shares practical advice on effectively communicating these points to build trust and attract clients. Additionally, Michael highlights the power of creating valuable content and being a local informational resource, whether through market updates, business recommendations, or showcasing local history. He underscores the benefit of adding layers to your real estate practice by incorporating educational and engaging community content. Finally, Michael talks about the Luxury Designation program, a fantastic opportunity for agents wanting to specialize in high-end markets. He mentions upcoming in-person training sessions in Houston and Miami, along with flexible online training options. Don't miss this insightful episode that not only presents a compelling argument for choosing the right real estate agent but also offers concrete steps to enhance your own real estate business.

Hey everyone, Michael LaFido here! I’m excited to share the latest developments from our recent podcast episode, featuring the extraordinary Jay Macklin. Jay’s journey from Michigan to establishing a thriving luxury real estate brokerage in Arizona is nothing short of inspirational. First off, let’s talk about an important update in the real estate world: Starting August 17, there's a new US requirement for buyers to have a written agreement to schedule private showings of homes. This stems from a settlement between the NAR and the Department of Justice. If you’re booking a public open house, no agreement is necessary. This new rule impacts commission structures and adds a layer of complexity for us agents, but it's all about adapting and staying ahead in the game. Jay Macklin, our special guest, has been a force in luxury real estate since 2010, focusing primarily on North Scottsdale. He's all about personal branding and creating unique selling propositions to stand out. He highlights the significance of consistency, creative messaging, and building strong client relationships. Jay’s approach aligns perfectly with the principles I discuss in my book, “Secret to Top Luxury Agents,” available now on freeluxurybook.com—grab your copy, just cover the shipping fee! A fascinating topic we covered is the different dynamics within luxury markets. Transitioning into luxury real estate, especially if you're new to an area, requires understanding client needs and preferences. Jay's experience reinforces that adapting marketing strategies and maintaining a high level of personal branding are key to success. Speaking of branding, we’ve got some awesome news—our luxury listing specialist gear is now available at luxuryspecialsgear.com. From T-shirts to planners, we have it all to keep you stylish while you close those high-end deals. In today’s competitive market, setting yourself apart is crucial. What’s your unique strategy? How do you ensure clients remember you? Whether it’s your negotiation skills or your standout marketing materials, remain consistent and innovative. And hey, if you’re curious about effective listing presentations and more, don’t miss our daily themes like 'Mindset Monday' and 'Tips Tuesday' on our YouTube channel. As we wrap up the year, let’s stay connected and express our gratitude—to our clients, colleagues, and everyone who supports us. It’s not just about business; it’s about building enduring relationships. Make it a great day, and stay tuned for more exciting updates and insights! Keep pushing the envelope, and let’s make waves in the luxury real estate market!

In our landmark 300th episode, I reflect on seven and a half years of insights and experiences, sharing with you the foundational strategies that have shaped the success of our Luxury Listing Specialist podcast. We delve into the fundamentals of real estate that remain crucial regardless of market changes, from the importance of consistent coaching to the power of an optimized, segmented database. I emphasize the role of networking and strategic marketing—both warm and cold—as essential components for any real estate professional aiming to dominate the luxury sector. Throughout this episode, I reiterate that real estate success, much like in sports, hinges on mastering the basics: blocking, tackling, and the fundamentals. By continually putting yourself out there and effectively managing your network, you can ensure a steady stream of opportunities. To celebrate our journey, I also introduce you to our latest tools designed to facilitate your growth: a meticulously crafted luxury agent planner and various resources that can help you stay organized and focused. Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting, this episode encapsulates the key takeaways from our 300 podcasts, aimed at empowering you to become the most trusted luxury agent in your market. Join me as I share stories, strategies, and advice from over two decades in the industry, dedicated to raising the bar and setting you apart in the high-end real estate arena.

In this episode, luxury real estate expert Nicole Gary and I dive into the current luxury market landscape in New York and Florida, sharing crucial strategies and mindsets that are driving success today. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your real estate career. Nicole, a seasoned agent with over 13 years of experience, details her journey from selling high-end custom window treatments to becoming a top luxury real estate agent. She shares how leveraging her existing luxury client base and thinking big gave her the confidence to thrive in this competitive field. From building authentic relationships and offering personalized care, Nicole explains the importance of a genuine, non-transactional approach in luxury real estate. She recounts her bold move to Miami, where she quickly established herself by actively networking and participating in community events, turning these new connections into business opportunities. In this episode, we also delve into mindset mastery, with Nicole emphasizing the power of positive affirmations and self-belief. She shares an inspiring personal story of adversity and perseverance, highlighting how maintaining a positive mindset and organized plan is crucial for success. We round out our discussion with a detailed look at Nicole's meticulous pricing strategies for high-end properties, the significance of move-in-ready homes, and effective ways to handle unrealistic sellers. Nicole's approach, grounded in education, authenticity, and continuous learning, provides a blueprint for excelling in luxury real estate. If you're aiming to break into the luxury market or enhance your current strategies, this episode with Nicole Gary is a must-listen. Her real-world experiences and practical tips are sure to inspire and inform your journey in luxury real estate.

In this episode, Dean Jackson and I dive deep into the mechanics of successfully managing and expanding your real estate business, focusing on the before, during, and after phases of client engagement. We explore Dean's innovative methods for dissecting your business into three pivotal units and integrating the eight profit activators to optimize growth and client satisfaction.Dean, renowned for his expertise in helping real estate agents uncover new opportunities within their existing databases, shared how breaking down your business into the before unit, during unit, and after unit offers a comprehensive framework for increased efficiency. His strategy revolves around starting with the during unit, which encompasses all activities from listing to closing a deal, ensuring optimal service delivery.We also delve into the after unit, highlighting the critical importance of nurturing past clients and relationships, ensuring continued business and referrals. Finally, we unpack the transformative power of the before unit, focusing on lead generation and conversion to keep a steady flow of clients into the during unit.From his hands-on approach to his clear-cut strategies, Dean provides actionable insights that are essential for real estate professionals looking to scale their business. If you’re eager to learn how to effectively structure your business for sustained success and client loyalty, this episode is a must-listen.To connect with Dean Jackson and gain further insights, visit DeanJackson.com.

In this episode, Michael LaFido welcomes Ken Pozek for an insightful discussion on how to dominate YouTube as a real estate professional. They explore the significance of becoming a local expert through video content and offer actionable advice to elevate your online presence. Ken, a successful real estate agent who relocated from Michigan to Orlando, emphasizes creating frequent, educational videos about local news and developments without diving into personal political views. His disciplined approach—posting concise, 8-12 minute videos on Tuesdays and long-form videos on Thursdays—showcases his commitment to consistency and quality. From leveraging Instagram for audience engagement to tapping into resources like Streamyard, Fiverr, and Storyblocks, Ken shares practical tools and tips for real estate agents aiming to enhance their video content. He underscores the importance of compelling thumbnails, advising simplicity and large fonts to attract mobile viewers. Throughout the conversation, Ken recounts his success stories, including generating millions of views and significant leads through YouTube. He also discusses the psychology behind creating valuable content that caters to the viewer's interests, rather than self-promotion, aligning with the "What's in it for me?" (WiIFM) principle. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user looking to refine your strategies, Ken Pozek's insights on educational videos, audience engagement, and consistent content creation are invaluable. Tune in to learn how to build trust, attract leads, and establish yourself as an authority in your market through strategic YouTube content.

In this episode, Tiffany LaRose and I have an in-depth conversation about what's working now, from the importance of genuine relationships to breaking into the competitive luxury market, and we share invaluable insights that are sure to elevate your real estate game.Tiffany, the owner of the LaRose Kayla Group in Houston, Texas, impressed me with her approach to luxury sales, emphasizing the power of investing in relationships and authenticity. Her first-ever luxury sale, a $2.5 million property, originated from a lead on Instagram, underscoring the impact of organic, genuine connections.From mastering sleek and elegant marketing, to staying on top of cutting-edge technology, my guest shares some tactics for breaking into the luxury real estate world and thriving within it. If you're an agent with a $0 marketing budget and wondering where your next transaction will come from, Tiffany has some tips for you. “Don't ever promise anything and then not follow through with it.” – Tiffany LaRose   Three Takeaways - How to get consistent repeat business- How to be proactive rather than reactive with buyers and sellers- How to secure your next transaction with a $0 marketing budget and the art of marketing internationally Connect with Tiffany LaRose:  Website: https://thelrkgroup.com/Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube:@MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok:@LuxurySpecialistInstagram:@LuxuryListingSpecialistLearn more about Michael's book:Website: https://secretsoftopluxuryagents.com/Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4a3vbykj  

Are you curious about the secrets behind the success of top luxury agents in real estate? Wondering how they achieved their remarkable feats? If you're eager to uncover the key to their success, then you have to watch this insightful video. Discover the strategies, tactics, and mindset that set these agents apart and brought them to the top of the luxury market. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from the best! Learn more about Michael's book:Website: https://secretsoftopluxuryagents.com/Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4a3vbykjConnect with Michael LaFido: YouTube:@MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok:@LuxurySpecialistInstagram:@LuxuryListingSpecialist

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! The highly anticipated book, Secrets of Top Luxury Agents, has been officially released and is now available for purchase. This collaborative effort features insights and experiences from 26 contributors within the luxury real estate industry, including well-known names and industry leaders. Michael and the co-authors did an excellent job.In this book, you'll find valuable tips for both home buyers and sellers, shared by experts who have achieved notable success in luxury real estate. Whether you're a real estate agent looking to elevate your game or a consumer interested in the luxury property market, this book offers a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the industry with confidence. Secrets of Top Luxury Agents is now available on Amazon and other online stores in both Kindle and paperback formats.Today, Michael tells us all about the book, and towards the end, two of the co-authors join him to discuss their experience being part of the project. Listen to learn more about the book.   High-Level Overview Details In This Book:13+ Brokerages RepresentedDiversity Of Male/Female RepresentedThe 4 Major Affinity Groups Represented (AREAA, NAREB, NAHREP, LGBTQ Alliance)Each co-author answered 7 questions for Realtors and 2 bonus questions for home sellers and buyers.200+ Tips For Home Sellers Are Included In The Book100+ Tips For Home Buyers Are Included In The Book   “The key to success in luxury real estate is to continuously provide value, stay knowledgeable, and always put the client’s needs first.” - Michael LaFido  ">3 Things You'll Learn - Who the co-authors of the book Secrets of Top Luxury Agents are.- The rising stars featured in Michael’s book.- Why you need to read the book as soon as possible – it's a gold mine of information!Learn more about Michael's book:website: https://secretsoftopluxuryagents.com/Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4a3vbykjConnect with Michael LaFido: YouTube:@MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok:@LuxurySpecialistInstagram:@LuxuryListingSpecialist

When you’re helping a client sell a luxury home, do you consider auctions? Recently, I was lucky enough to attend a prestigious luxury home auction event in New York, and it opened my eyes to the benefits of luxury auctions. Whether it's a multimillion-dollar estate in the Hamptons or a unique architectural marvel in Naperville, auctions are unlocking doors to unparalleled opportunities. Watch my latest video now to learn some of the hidden benefits of luxury auctions and how you can use them to drive traffic for your clients.   Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube: @MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok: @LuxurySpecialistInstagram: @LuxuryListingSpecialist

Happy Asian Pacific American Month! In this episode, we dive deep into the critical issue of housing affordability, particularly in high-priced markets, and discuss why agents should join AREAA. My guest, Hope Atuel, the executive director of the Asian Real Estate Association for Real Estate Agents (AREAA), sheds light on the challenges faced by the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities in the housing market.Hope emphasizes the importance of organizations like AREAA in advocating for equality in housing and homeownership opportunities. She provides insights into the role of AREAA in addressing discrimination issues and affordability barriers, especially in high-priced markets on the coasts.We also explore the organization's evolution and the benefits it offers to real estate agents, team leaders, and broker-owners. From networking opportunities to educational resources, AREAA is dedicated to supporting its members and making a meaningful impact in the real estate industry. "Access to a home is a fundamental human right, empowering individuals to choose where they reside." -Hope Atuel Three Things You’ll Learn from This Episode - The benefits of joining AREAA as a Realtor- How organizations like AREAA are working to accommodate underwriting guidelines for immigrants and multicultural communities, ensuring equal access to homeownership opportunities.- Hope discusses her role in AREAA as an executive director.   Connect with Hope Atuel:LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/hope-atuel-917798/AREAA website: https://areaa.org/Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube:@MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok:@LuxurySpecialistInstagram:@LuxuryListingSpecialist

What is a luxury home auction and when should your seller consider it? I recently attended a few luxury auctions, and they were great; however, they aren’t for everyone. Today, I’m breaking down why you might want to use an auction and sharing three circumstances when I think an auction house makes sense. First, if your seller wants certainty or they need to see fast…this is a good option. Listen to learn more.   

In this episode, Kacie Anderson and I delve into the transformational effect of their high-value listing appointment one year later. We discuss the challenges, strategies, and successes that ultimately led to an impressive $5.7 million sale and the breaking of a neighborhood record by Kacie. Our conversations shed light on the crucial role of confidence, determination, and support systems in the real estate industry. During our discussion, we emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with successful people and gaining inspiration from their experiences. Kacie also shares the benefits of incorporating both traditional and modern marketing techniques. Listen and learn.   “My age doesn't define me. It's all about your work ethic and just showing up, being presentable, and knowing your facts.” - Kacie Andreson   ; 3 Takeaways from This Episode - Leveraging Your Network: Discover how a strong network can elevate your real estate game. - Confidence Building Techniques: Learn actionable strategies to build confidence and rapport with sellers. - Marketing Fusion: Explore the synergies between traditional and modern marketing approaches for optimal results. Connect with Kacie Anderson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kacieandersonofficial/?hl=enConnect with Michael LaFido: YouTube: @MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok: @LuxurySpecialistInstagram: @LuxuryListingSpecialist  

Are you ready to tap into whole new markets? Our latest video unveils the secrets to attracting buyers for off-market properties, offering a more exclusive route to sale. Learn from real-life success stories how to make your property an irresistible hidden gem. We'll guide you through leveraging your off-market listing to draw in the most serious buyers, ensuring a smoother, more discreet sale process.   Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube: @MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok: @LuxurySpecialistInstagram: @LuxuryListingSpecialist

Is there a secret sauce to getting canceled or expired sellers to call you? The answer is “yes,” and even better, Dustin Fox has some great ideas and systems to share. Dustin and I share some invaluable insights on attracting expired and canceled luxury sellers with groundbreaking marketing strategies. From using direct mail tactics to leveraging the power of YouTube advertising - we have it all covered. We discuss the real estate success formula, share tips on earning 5-star reviews, and reveal the impact of standing out in the luxury market. You'll also hear about these game-changing strategies' cost-effectiveness and potential return on investment. "We believe a sign in the yard holds more promise than one in the car." - Dustin Fox   Three Key Takeaways from the Episode - How to attract canceled or expired sellers to contact you.- Strategies for creating hyperlocal ads using YouTube and videos. - The secrets to ensuring your direct mails are opened and not discarded.   Link to Dustin's book: https://www.amazon.com/Six-Weeks-Real-Estate-Success/dp/B0CSK2JR24 If you do a screenshot of leaving, Michael’s book review and podcast a 5-star review as well as Dustin’s book and send them to Dustin, he'll share with you those 7 letters that he referenced for the Rubik’s cube letter. Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube: @MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok: @LuxurySpecialistInstagram: @LuxuryListingSpecialist    

The real estate market is really tight right now. There aren’t a lot of luxury homes for sale, so if you have clients who are looking to downsize or move, they might have trouble finding a place they love. That’s where a reverse contingency strategy can help. Listen to learn more.  Connect with Michael LaFido: YouTube: @MarketingLuxuryGroupTikTok: @LuxurySpecialistInstagram: @LuxuryListingSpecialist