Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Sean Uyehara, Area Manager of Geneva Financial, to unpack one of the most powerful — and overlooked — mortgage strategies available today: the First Lien HELOC.Sean explains how this product, widely used in Australia but still emerging in the U.S., allows homeowners to pay off their mortgages in 3–7 years instead of 30. He breaks down exactly how it works, who it’s for, and why it’s fundamentally changing the way people think about homeownership and liquidity. You’ll learn how this approach turns your home equity into a powerful financial tool — letting you access capital, avoid unnecessary interest, and build wealth faster without changing your lifestyle.The conversation then shifts to social media, where Sean shares how he’s built a 90% lead-generating business through TikTok and Instagram. From posting 100 videos fast to using TikTok’s content-gap insights, he reveals the repeatable framework that took his brand from invisible to over 2 million monthly views. If you’ve ever wondered how to mix financial innovation with content consistency, this episode delivers both the blueprint and the mindset.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – What is the First Lien HELOC and why it’s popular abroad[00:02:00] – How it helps homeowners pay off mortgages 25 years early[00:04:00] – Who it’s for (and when it doesn’t work)[00:06:45] – Turning your home equity into a self-financing tool[00:08:30] – Liquidity, access to capital, and financial freedom[00:10:00] – Avoiding debt traps and budgeting for success[00:11:45] – Real-world examples of payoff timelines[00:14:00] – Sean’s social media playbook for loan officers & agents[00:16:10] – The “100 Video Rule” and content-gap strategy[00:19:00] – Automating your posting across 6+ platforms[00:21:00] – Converting leads through comments, DMs & drip campaigns[00:22:40] – The connection between niche content and massive traction🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Sean Uyehara & Geneva Financialhttps://www.genevafi.com/sean-uyehara/https://www.linkedin.com/in/suyehara/https://www.youtube.com/@UCen6zACsF-75IVq-Lhib1oQ https://www.facebook.com/sean.uyehara22/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions
In this high-energy episode of Rethink Real Estate, Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Chris Cochran, Director of Marketing, to unpack a next-level strategy for winning competitive listings — using AI to transform your listing presentations and impress even the toughest sellers.Ben and Chris dive into the psychology behind preparation and presentation, revealing how you can differentiate yourself long before you even walk through the seller’s front door. From sending a photographer to capture pre-presentation property photos to leveraging AI image enhancement tools like Gemini or DALL·E for before-and-after visuals, they explore how small touches of innovation can create massive impact.The conversation also gets tactical — how to assess seller personality through early engagement, how to position “preparation” as your unique value proposition, and why the three P’s of success — Preparation, Product, and Price — are the foundation of every standout listing pitch. Plus, they share how to overcome objections, use visuals to build credibility, and stay ahead of competing agents in a crowded market.Whether you’re trying to break into luxury listings or simply need an edge in your next pitch, this episode delivers actionable ideas to help you compete smarter, present better, and close with confidence.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction: The Strategy Behind a Standout Listing Presentation[00:01:00] – Why Preparation Is the Hidden Differentiator in Real Estate[00:02:10] – The Power of Pre-Presentation Photos & Custom Proposals[00:04:00] – How to Read Sellers: Engagement, Personality & Motivation[00:05:30] – Using AI Tools (Gemini, DALL·E) to Enhance Listing Visuals[00:06:15] – The Three P’s of Real Estate: Preparation, Product & Price[00:07:10] – Framing the Conversation: Competing vs. Marketing[00:08:00] – Staging, Presentation & Small Touches That Win Listings[00:09:10] – How AI Can Elevate Brochures, Staging, and Buyer Imagination[00:10:30] – Breaking into Luxury Markets with Innovative Listing Tactics🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions💡 Subscribe for weekly insights on sales strategy, marketing, and innovation in real estate.💬 Comment below: Would you use AI to help you win your next listing presentation?
Ben Brady breaks down what the 2026 real estate market could really look like—beyond the headlines, hype, and hopeful optimism.Fresh from an economic forum at Chapman University, Ben shares insights from one of the nation’s top real estate economists on inflation forecasts, long-term mortgage rate trends, and how these forces could reshape the industry over the next 24 months. With predictions of 5% inflation by the end of 2026 and interest rates unlikely to dip below 5%, Ben urges agents to replace wishful thinking with strategic preparation.This episode isn’t about doom and gloom—it’s about realism, resilience, and readiness. Ben breaks down the core skill sets agents must master to thrive in a high-inventory, high-stakes market: clear communication with sellers, data-backed pricing strategies, and the ability to sustain relationships through longer days on market. He also shares why adaptability and empathy will define the most successful agents of the next cycle.If you’re serious about building a business that lasts through any market condition, this is your wake-up call for 2026—and beyond.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction: 2026 Market Predictions & Economic Forum Takeaways[00:01:00] – What Economists Are Saying About Inflation and Rates[00:02:30] – Why “Lower Interest Rates” Won’t Save the Market[00:03:45] – The Reality of 2026: Longer Days on Market, Price Reductions[00:05:00] – Skill Sets Agents Must Master for the New Market[00:06:10] – Communicating with Sellers: Data, Honesty & Trust[00:07:00] – Why Time and Communication Are Your Greatest Assets[00:08:15] – The Tariff & Debt Variables No One’s Talking About[00:08:45] – Final Thoughts: Setting Mindset & Expectations for 2026🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctionsSubscribe for more real estate insights on sales strategy, market cycles, and building a listing-focused business for the future.💬 Comment below: What do you predict will define the 2026 real estate market?
In this powerful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Ben Reinberg, Founder and CEO of Alliance Consolidated Group of Companies, to expose one of the biggest financial misconceptions of our time — the myth that “cash is king.”Fresh off his recent TED Talk, Reinberg shares how he built an empire in commercial real estate from the ground up, and why hard assets—not savings accounts—are the true path to long-term wealth. From raising $2 million at age 23 to managing hundreds of millions in recession-resilient assets today, Reinberg breaks down the mindset, strategies, and disciplines that separate those who get rich from those who stay wealthy.The two Bens dive deep into the 2026–2027 commercial market reset, where trillions in real estate debt are set to come due—creating what Reinberg calls “the buying opportunity of a generation.” You’ll learn why the ability to hold, not just buy, is the defining trait of great investors… and why communication, focus, and emotional discipline remain the ultimate assets in business.Whether you’re a residential agent looking to expand your wealth portfolio or an investor preparing for the next market cycle, this episode delivers tactical insights and timeless financial wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Intro: The “Lie About Money” and the Power of Hard Assets[00:01:30] – How Ben Reinberg Built His Empire from $0 to Millions[00:03:40] – What True Wealth Means (It’s Not About Being Rich)[00:06:20] – The Ability to Hold: Investing’s Most Underrated Skill[00:09:15] – $90 Trillion in Real Estate Will Change Hands: What That Means[00:12:00] – The Coming Commercial Market Reset (2026–2027)[00:16:00] – Why Residential Real Estate is a “Money Pit”[00:21:10] – Renting vs. Owning: The New Wealth Perspective[00:24:45] – How Over-Leverage Destroys Investors (and How to Avoid It)[00:27:00] – The Missing Skill in Real Estate: Communication[00:29:00] – Mindset is the Best Real Estate You Own🔗 Connect with Ben Reinberg:https://www.benreinberg.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/benreinberg/https://www.facebook.com/TheRealBenReinberg/https://www.youtube.com/@UCN-VuewtdVrFwlOrTsNbxGA https://www.instagram.com/therealbenreinberg/🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctionsSubscribe for more insights into building wealth through real estate strategy, leadership, and mindset.💬 Comment below: Do you think cash or hard assets are the smarter play heading into 2026?
Ben Brady breaks down Blackstone’s latest investment outlook and what it means for the real estate industry in the era of artificial intelligence.While AI continues to dominate global conversations about disruption, Ben explores a fresh perspective—how Blackstone’s “picks and shovels” philosophy reveals where the real changes will occur. Drawing parallels between the airline industry’s innovation-versus-profit paradox and today’s AI boom, he unpacks which sectors are likely to be revolutionized and which will quietly fade away.More importantly, Ben brings it home to real estate: identifying the rule-based businesses that are most at risk of automation—like title, escrow, mortgage, and appraisal—and why the agent relationship remains irreplaceable. His key takeaway? Real estate is not a rules-based business; it’s a human-based one.If you’ve been wondering how AI will shape your role, this episode will reset your mindset on where the real opportunities lie—and remind you that the agent-client relationship is the ultimate advantage no algorithm can replicate.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Blackstone’s AI Investment Outlook Explained[00:01:15] – The “Picks and Shovels” Analogy: Who Profits from Disruption[00:03:20] – Why the Airline Industry is a Cautionary Tale for AI[00:04:50] – Blackstone’s Focus on Chips, Data, and Energy[00:05:40] – Rule-Based Industries and Their Risk of Automation[00:07:10] – Can Real Estate Be Automated? The Human Factor[00:08:30] – The Future of Escrow, Title, and Appraisal Jobs[00:10:00] – Why Relationships Will Always Outperform Systems[00:10:45] – The Real Estate Industry’s Hidden Strength: Emotion and Trust🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more candid conversations on how technology, strategy, and leadership are reshaping real estate.👇 Drop a comment sharing your thoughts:Do you think AI will help or hurt the real estate industry?
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Kara Welliver, Realtor at Harcourts Prime Properties and one of the company’s original standouts. With over 23 years in the business, Kara has built a career that proves relationships—not transactions—create lasting success.From her early days climbing the corporate ladder at Nordstrom to becoming one of the most connected agents in Orange County, Kara’s story is a masterclass in authenticity, consistency, and the power of showing up. She opens up about her journey from retail to real estate, how she built an enduring client base through genuine relationships, and why her most successful marketing efforts are the ones infused with personal touch—homemade baked goods included.Ben and Kara dive deep into how to cultivate a business that feels like you, from personalized newsletters and client events to crafting experiences that create loyalty for life. Kara shares her approach to client retention through “pop-bys,” wine tastings, and ice cream socials—plus how she turns these thoughtful gestures into repeat business and referrals.Whether you’re a seasoned agent looking to reconnect with your “why” or a new Realtor searching for your voice in the market, this episode is a reminder that the best brand you can build is one rooted in who you truly are.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introducing Kara Welliver: A Harcourts Original[00:02:12] – From Nordstrom to Real Estate: Lessons in Service & Style[00:06:00] – Building Connection Over Transaction[00:11:00] – How to Stay Top-of-Mind Without Being Salesy[00:14:00] – Pop-Bys, Baked Goods & Personal Branding[00:18:00] – Creating Client Events That Actually Work[00:26:00] – The Value of Authentic Marketing & Consistency🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Kara Welliver:https://karawelliver.harcourtsna.com/https://www.instagram.com/karawelliver_baker_realtor/https://www.facebook.com/KaraWelliver4Homes🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more stories that redefine success in real estate.👇 Comment your favorite client connection strategy — and tell us how you make your business feel personal.
In this powerful episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Erica Jevons Sizemore, founder of Sizemore Residential in Raleigh, North Carolina — a top-producing agent who’s redefining what real estate leverage really means. Consistently ranking among the top 20 Keller Williams agents in the Carolinas, Erica’s business model proves that doing more doesn’t have to mean doing less for clients.From her early career in finance and marketing to leading one of the most efficient boutique operations in the Triangle area, Erica shares how she’s scaled her business through relationships and strategic leverage, not massive teams or automation overload. She opens up about the systems that allow her to maintain personal touch at high volume, how she hires for alignment over experience, and why she believes being “too far from the transaction” is the greatest mistake top agents can make.Together, Ben and Erica unpack the evolution of the Raleigh real estate market — from its post-pandemic surge to its new plateau — and explore what true operational scalability looks like when your reputation is your brand. Erica also offers a candid look into mentorship, team culture, and why she’s betting that authentic service will always outlast shortcut models and recruiting pyramids.Whether you’re a solo agent struggling with growth or a team leader wondering how to scale without losing your identity, this conversation will challenge how you think about leverage, client relationships, and sustainable business.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introducing Erica Sizemore and the Raleigh Market[00:02:00] – From Finance & Marketing to Full-Time Real Estate[00:05:45] – The Power of Relationships and Long-Term Leverage[00:09:20] – How to Scale Without Sacrificing Service[00:12:30] – Hiring Smart: Why Personality Beats Experience[00:16:00] – Balancing Profitability and Performance[00:20:10] – Why Erica Doesn’t Believe in “Buyer’s Agents”[00:24:00] – Mentorship, Retention, and the Fear of Losing People[00:27:40] – Industry Insights: Compass, Anywhere, and AI in Real Estate[00:31:00] – Homeownership’s Next Era and Generational Shifts[00:34:00] – The Future of Real Estate Leverage🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Erica Jevons Sizemore & Sizemore Residential:https://www.sizemoreresidential.com/https://www.instagram.com/ericareraleigh/?hl=enlinkedin.com/in/erica-jevons-sizemorehttps://www.facebook.com/EricaJevonsSizemore/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more conversations that rethink how agents build, lead, and scale.
Drop a comment below 👇 — What’s your definition of “leverage” in real estate?
In this gripping episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down with Christopher Drzyzga, Partner and Senior Vice President at Voit Real Estate Services, to unpack the contrarian outlook shaking up the real estate world. From commercial debt cycles to the rise of Bitcoin as a competing asset class, Chris brings a level of insight and candor few in the industry are willing to share.They start by diving into the state of U.S. commercial real estate — from industrial and office to retail and the surprising resilience of strip malls. Chris reveals why lenders are “extending and pretending,” how the industrial market in the Inland Empire is recalibrating, and why institutional capital is quietly chasing yield in unexpected asset types like industrial outdoor storage and small-format retail.The conversation then takes a sharp turn toward macro trends and financial history, as Chris lays out a bold thesis: that real estate’s five-decade run as the world’s default savings vehicle is ending. He connects the dots from Nixon’s 1971 decoupling from the gold standard to today’s fiat-driven asset inflation — arguing that Bitcoin now offers the same protection once reserved for property. Together, Ben and Chris explore the implications: what happens when trillions in real estate capital seek better yield elsewhere?From the looming “flight to quality” in commercial assets to generational shifts in homeownership philosophy, this episode challenges every assumption about where the real estate industry is heading. Whether you agree or not, it’s a must-listen for anyone serious about understanding the structural forces redefining how we measure value, store wealth, and invest for the next decade.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introducing Christopher Drzyzga and His Commercial Background[00:02:20] – How Commercial Agents See the Market Differently from Residential[00:05:30] – The Office Debt Bubble and “Controlled Demolition” in Lending[00:09:10] – The Industrial Corridor: Riverside, Rexford, and Inland Empire Trends[00:13:40] – Why Institutional Capital Is Targeting Strip Malls Again[00:17:50] – Data Centers, Power Constraints, and the Real Bottleneck in AI Infrastructure[00:24:00] – 2026 Market Outlook: Flight to Quality and Structural Shifts[00:26:30] – The Long View: Real Estate’s Five-Decade Inflation Tailwind[00:30:00] – Bitcoin as the New Safe Haven for Global Capital[00:35:00] – Generational Wealth Transfer and the “Home as Utility” Mindset[00:40:30] – How Agents Can Stay Relevant in the Age of Bitcoin and AI🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Chris Drzyzga and Voit Real Estate Services:https://voitco.com/https://chrisdrzyzga.com/https://www.instagram.com/chrisdrzzz/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-drzyzga-sior-775b5051🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more market insights and provocative conversations on the forces shaping real estate, finance, and technology. Drop a comment below:➡️ Is Bitcoin the next real estate? Or just another bubble?
In this forward-looking episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, sits down once again with Tony Self, Broker Associate at Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty, to unpack one of the most disruptive moments in modern real estate. From the proposed Compass–Anywhere merger to Zillow’s partnership with OpenAI, Ben and Tony dive into how consolidation, regulation, and artificial intelligence are rewriting the industry’s playbook.They examine the potential consequences if Compass gains control of nearly two-thirds of U.S. real estate transactions, the growing backlash from agents and franchise brands, and what this could mean for competition and consumer choice. Tony brings his insider’s perspective from years in corporate real estate and tech, offering rare insight into how brokers, teams, and independent offices should prepare for what’s next.The conversation then pivots to AI’s rapid evolution — from OpenAI’s partnership with Zillow to Sora’s video generation and the new wave of real estate-focused agents and automations. Tony shares how he’s integrating AI into his business today, where he draws the ethical line on visual manipulation, and whether we’re heading toward a full-blown AI bubble reminiscent of the early 2000s tech crash.If you’re a real estate professional trying to make sense of the Compass–Zillow rivalry, OpenAI’s expanding footprint, or the future of automation in real estate, this episode connects every dot.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – The Compass–Anywhere Merger: Monopoly or Market Shift?[00:02:10] – What the DOJ and Regulators Might Do Next[00:04:30] – Century 21’s $2.6 Billion Problem and the Debt Factor[00:07:00] – Compass vs. Zillow: The Data War Nobody Wins[00:10:00] – Zillow’s OpenAI Partnership Explained[00:13:00] – How AI Could Redefine Home Search and Consumer Behavior[00:16:00] – What Agents Should Know About Licensing and AI Tools[00:18:30] – The Risk of Misrepresentation in AI Marketing[00:20:30] – Are We in an AI Bubble? Tony’s Tech Market Perspective[00:24:30] – When AI Becomes Native: The Next Real Estate Revolution🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Tony Self and Harcourts Hunter Mason Realty:https://selfregroup.com/https://www.facebook.com/selfregrouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyself/https://huntermason.harcourtsna.com/https://tonyself.harcourtsna.com/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourts https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517 https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctions https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more industry insights — and drop a comment with your thoughts:Will AI make real estate smarter… or monopolized?
In this tactical and timely episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, reconnects with Chad Widtfeldt, seasoned Realtor and business owner at Harcourts Prime Properties, to uncover a smarter, faster way to win expired listings. Chad reveals how his team has been averaging 2–3 new listings per week by rethinking the traditional expired strategy — and how one small shift completely changed their conversion rates.The secret? Replacing in-person meetings with quick Zoom presentations that lower the barrier to entry, increase immediacy, and save hours of wasted drive time. Chad walks through the scripts, follow-up process, and real-world rhythm that has transformed his pipeline — from the initial cold call to signed listing agreements within 24 hours. Together, Ben and Chad break down why speed is the new advantage, how to qualify without overcommitting, and why auction-based differentiation gives agents a decisive edge.If you’ve ever felt the burnout of chasing dead-end appointments or wondered how to stand out in a crowded expired market, this episode offers the practical blueprint to build momentum and efficiency into every prospecting day.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why Chad’s Approach to Expired Listings Works[00:01:10] – The Return of Expired Listings and a Shift in Market Dynamics[00:03:00] – Why Most Agents Quit (and How Chad’s Team Thrives Instead)[00:05:10] – Differentiation Through Auctions and the Power of a Unique Pitch[00:06:40] – The Mental Strain of Appointments That Go Nowhere[00:08:20] – How Zoom Changed Prospecting Forever[00:10:00] – The Formula: Call, Zoom, In-Person — All Within 24 Hours[00:12:10] – How to Keep Appointments from Falling Apart[00:15:00] – Qualifying Sellers Without Killing Momentum[00:18:00] – Chad’s Exact Script for Booking Zoom Meetings[00:20:00] – Final Takeaways: Efficiency, Immediacy, and Differentiation🎥 For more incredible episodes, check out the Rethink Real Estate playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynsSXgbRaMs-snZG6CHzX1Mxiyy9toMx🔗 Connect with Chad Widtfeldt and His Real Estate Team:https://www.instagram.com/thegreengroupre/https://www.greengroupre.com/homehttps://www.facebook.com/chadandjustin🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions💬 Subscribe for more actionable real estate insights — and drop a comment below with how you’re using Zoom or AI to convert more listings.
In this forward-thinking episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, is joined by Chris Cochran, Director of Marketing at Harcourts Auctions, to unpack Google Gemini’s latest AI release — the bizarrely named yet incredibly powerful “Nano Banana” update — and why it’s a game-changer for real estate marketing and content creation.From creating hyper-realistic agent headshots to instantly restaging homes, Nano Banana brings Photoshop-level image control to anyone who can type a simple prompt. Chris breaks down how agents can leverage Gemini’s new likeness recognition and inpainting tools to produce professional-grade flyers, team photos, and listing visuals without a designer. Meanwhile, Ben explores how these tools might reshape listing presentations, branding, and the creative arms race in real estate.Together, they dig into the competition heating up between Google, OpenAI, and Adobe — and how these tools are redefining what it means to market property. Whether you’re tech-curious or AI-skeptical, this episode will leave you rethinking how fast the real estate industry is evolving and how to stay one step ahead.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Welcome to Rethink Real Estate[00:00:36] – What on earth is Google’s “Nano Banana” update?[00:01:18] – The AI image revolution: realistic headshots and likeness accuracy[00:03:22] – Gemini vs. Photoshop: how Google is closing the gap[00:05:18] – Real estate flyers, prompts, and social media automation[00:06:11] – Can AI clean up old headshots and generate team photos?[00:07:01] – The power (and limits) of restaging interiors and exteriors[00:08:01] – Turning blank rooms into design-ready showpieces[00:10:02] – Elon Musk, Grok, and the broader AI ecosystem[00:11:30] – How agents can blend creativity with accountability[00:12:00] – Real-world real estate use cases for Gemini AI[00:15:39] – How AI helps agents visualize and communicate value[00:16:18] – Final thoughts: exploring Gemini’s full potential🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions📣 Subscribe for more episodes exploring how technology is reshaping real estate.Drop your thoughts below — could AI-generated marketing replace traditional design agencies?
In this unfiltered solo episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, breaks down one of the biggest industry shakeups in recent history: Compass’s acquisition of Anywhere Real Estate. With two giants now attempting to merge — both operating under massive debt and increasing scrutiny — Ben takes a deep dive into what this means for agents, franchise owners, and the future of brokerage models.Ben unpacks the complexities of the deal, questioning whether regulators will even allow it to pass given the DOJ’s ongoing antitrust lens over real estate commissions and collusion. Beyond the headlines, he explores the deeper issue—how the traditional brokerage model may be collapsing under its own weight. Drawing from his experience across multiple markets, he explains why local ownership, accountability, and culture might be the last remaining competitive advantage in a corporatized industry.This episode isn’t just commentary — it’s a candid look at the changing DNA of real estate, the mistakes of “too-big-to-fail” brokerages, and where opportunity lies for the next generation of local operators ready to rise in the vacuum left behind.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] - Ben’s first reaction to the Compass-Anywhere merger news[00:00:57] - Can the DOJ really allow this acquisition to go through?[00:01:45] - Monopoly concerns and why consolidation might backfire[00:02:53] - Two unprofitable companies merge… to fix profitability?[00:03:20] - The $2.6B debt question: where does the money go?[00:04:04] - What this merger means for mid-tier and boutique brokerages[00:05:34] - Local vs. corporate: why agents crave connection and support[00:06:00] - Real-world recruiting stories from Bend, Oregon[00:07:50] - How corporate “support tickets” are killing culture[00:09:59] - Institutionalization: when your broker becomes a tech rep[00:10:56] - The slow decline of the traditional brokerage model[00:11:58] - Lessons from the Yellow Pages: cutting costs vs. creating value[00:12:43] - Why local accountability will define real estate’s next era[00:13:26] - Final reflections: why small may actually win big🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions📣 Subscribe for more insight-driven episodes exploring the future of real estate. Like, follow, and drop your thoughts below — do you think the Compass x Anywhere deal helps or hurts the industry?
In this eye-opening episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady sits down with Andrew “Dru” Wischhover, President of Inspired Title Group, Inc., to unpack one of the most overlooked yet mission-critical aspects of every real estate transaction: title insurance. While agents often dismiss title as an afterthought, Dru reveals why ignoring it until there’s a problem can cost deals, clients, and millions in claims.From breaking down the differences between attorney states and title states, to explaining exactly what title insurance does (and doesn’t) cover, this conversation delivers practical knowledge agents can apply immediately. Dru shares real-world horror stories, insider examples of liens and encumbrances gone wrong, and the surprising ways smaller boutique title companies can often provide more flexibility and protection than big-box operators.Looking forward, the two also discuss how AI, blockchain, and industry regulation are reshaping the future of title — and why the “human element” still matters more than ever. If you’ve ever glazed over the title section of a deal, this episode will change the way you think about protecting your clients and your business.⏱️Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction & quick correction on Inspired Title’s nationwide reach[00:01:30] – Why agents don’t think about title until it’s too late[00:02:22] – Attorney states vs. title/escrow states explained[00:05:40] – Title insurance 101: what it actually covers[00:07:00] – Horror stories: liens, divorces, and claims gone wrong[00:12:48] – How the title industry shifted after 2008 & regulation changes[00:16:33] – Competing with “big-box” title companies & boutique advantages[00:17:50] – AI, blockchain, and the future of title insurance[00:20:53] – When something is (and isn’t) insurable[00:23:35] – Why smaller firms can be more client-centric than large underwriters🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Dru Wischhover and Inspired Title Group:https://www.inspired-title.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-closing-table/id1733674495https://www.facebook.com/InspiredTitleGroup/https://www.instagram.com/inspired_title_group/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dru-wischhover/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share so more agents can level up their business. And let us know in the comments: Have you ever had a deal derailed by a title issue?
In this solo episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady, CEO of Harcourts Auctions, unpacks one of the most important shifts facing our industry today: the largest generational wealth transfer in history. Over the next 10–20 years, an estimated $84–90 trillion will pass from baby boomers to Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z—with more than half of it tied directly to real estate assets.Ben explores what this shift means for agents, homeowners, and investors. From the downsizing and liquidation of inherited homes to the remodeling and repositioning of outdated properties, he breaks down both the risks and opportunities this tidal wave of wealth will create. He also raises the alarm on rising inventory levels, the role of institutional buyers, and why realtors must get smart about partnering with estate planners, fiduciaries, and financial advisors to stay ahead of the curve.If you want to understand how to position yourself for success as trillions in real estate changes hands, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – The $90 trillion wealth transfer explained[00:01:17] – Why boomers hold 70% of U.S. real estate[00:02:36] – Why most heirs sell their parents’ properties[00:03:40] – Impact of generational shifts on inventory levels[00:04:57] – The affordability debate: boomers vs younger buyers[00:05:29] – Opportunities in remodeling and renovations[00:06:14] – Institutional buyers and the risks they bring[00:07:31] – Why younger generations may reinvest in real estate[00:08:23] – The role of realtors in inheritance-related sales[00:09:35] – Strategic partnerships: estate planners, fiduciaries & advisors🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real estate insights, strategies, and forward-looking conversations that prepare you for where the market is headed.
In this episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady sits down once again with powerhouse agent Rachael Ashley of Harcourts Prime Properties to tackle a critical (and often overlooked) step in growing a real estate business: hiring your first assistant.Rachael shares her unfiltered experience—from the false start with her first hire to finally finding the right fit—and why the real motivation for bringing on help wasn’t just about doing less, but about creating more capacity to do the right things.You’ll hear how she documented her processes, delegated non–income producing tasks, and empowered her assistant to run open houses, manage operations, and drive results. Even more, Rachael reveals the surprising mindset shift agents need when moving from “solo agent” to “business owner.”If you’ve been debating when (and how) to hire help, this conversation is packed with practical strategies, lessons learned, and honest insights you won’t want to miss.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Why Rachael decided it was time to hire an assistant[00:01:14] – The role of coaching in pushing her toward leverage[00:02:52] – Screening candidates: voicemail strategy that works[00:05:01] – The failed first hire and what she learned from it[00:07:16] – How she built her “hand-off” list of tasks[00:09:11] – Training challenges and the importance of patience[00:12:09] – Teaching assistants to run open houses correctly[00:14:38] – Using assistants to gather more powerful seller feedback[00:16:17] – What she’d do differently if hiring again[00:18:59] – Planning the next hire and building a real estate team🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Rachael Ashley & Harcourts Prime Properties:https://www.harcourtsprime.com/agents/Rachael-Ashleyhttps://www.instagram.com/rachaelashleyrealestatehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-ashleyhttps://www.facebook.com/RahaelAshleyHarcourtsPrimeProperties/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real estate strategies, marketing tips, and behind-the-scenes conversations designed to help you build a listing-focused business that lasts.
In this financial reality-check episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady sits down with Alan Franks, founder of The Mill Financial Partners and author of Empowered Money, to talk money, mistakes, and how real estate professionals can get serious about their future. Alan doesn’t hold back—calling out the traps many independent contractors fall into and laying out how to actually build wealth in an inconsistent commission-based world.They cover everything from the psychology of financial planning to tactical moves like using HELOCs, how to think about opportunity cost, why owning a home might not be the best investment, and how to position your portfolio across real estate, equities, and yes—even crypto. Alan also dives into tax strategy, the impact of bonus depreciation, and how agents can set retirement goals that are actually achievable (and not just based on dreams of “hitting a number”).Whether you're living deal-to-deal or looking to make smarter moves with growing income, this conversation will challenge the way you think about money, retirement, and real estate investing.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Why we brought a financial planner onto a real estate podcast[00:01:58] – Where most independent contractors fall short with finances[00:02:55] – Realtors: Are you actually using your tax benefits?[00:04:00] – How to reverse engineer your retirement plan[00:05:20] – What most agents get wrong about income, goals, and lifestyle[00:07:00] – Should you check your financial plan more often than your listings?[00:08:00] – S&P index funds, meme stocks, and crypto: where agents get distracted[00:10:50] – Is your home actually a good investment? A harsh look at equity[00:14:00] – How wealthy people use leverage and debt (smartly)[00:17:02] – Airbnb crash, hard money lending, and safer 2025 bets[00:22:10] – The 4% rule? Alan’s take on retirement income strategies[00:23:30] – Why “just dump it into dividend stocks” isn’t the full answer🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Alan Franks, CFP and The Mill Financial Partners:https://themillfp.com/https://empowered-money.com/https://www.facebook.com/themillfphttps://www.instagram.com/frankly_financial/https://www.amazon.com/EmPowered-Money-security-accumulate-fullest/dp/B0C9SG21KK🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions: https://www.facebook.com/Benbradyharcourtshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionshttps://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions💬 Drop your biggest money mistake (or lesson) in the comments below. Let’s get real.
In this brutally honest episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady is joined by Harcourts Auctions’ Director of Marketing, Chris Cochran, to dismantle the tired marketing routines used by most real estate agents—and what to do instead. They dive deep into the infamous “3 P’s” of real estate: Put it on the MLS, Put up a sign, and Pray—and why this outdated approach is no longer enough in a competitive, digital-first market.Ben and Chris explore how most agents misuse the word "marketing," and reveal a far more accurate framework: preparation, promotion, and pricing. With inventory rising and days on market climbing, they make the case that agents don’t need more marketing—they need to help their listings compete. You'll hear how top-performing agents are changing the narrative, crafting listings that stand out through strategic presentation and pricing—and how you can do the same.Whether you're tired of listings sitting stale or want a sharper pitch at your next listing presentation, this episode gives you the language and mindset to cut through the noise. Drop the fluff. It’s time to compete—or get left behind.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Welcome to Rethink Real Estate with Ben & Chris[00:03:39] – The 3 P’s most agents rely on—and why they fail[00:04:56] – What “marketing” really means (and why it’s misleading)[00:06:11] – The truth about competing in today’s real estate market[00:07:20] – Price and presentation as the only levers that matter[00:09:16] – Case study: How Alex & Diana are crushing DOM stats[00:10:52] – Redefining marketing as competition and exposure[00:12:24] – Listing appointment strategy: ditch the “same old script”[00:14:12] – Setting seller expectations with brutal clarity[00:15:02] – Ben’s script: “My job isn’t to market—it’s to help you win”[00:15:25] – Final thoughts: compete hard, stop hiding behind “marketing”🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎧 Subscribe for more no-BS real estate insights. Like, comment, and drop your thoughts on the 3 P’s below 👇
In this tactical episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady opens the first part of a new series on expired listings and how to leverage the non-distressed auction process as a point of difference in today’s slowing market. With inventory climbing and more properties failing to sell, expireds are once again one of the best lead sources for agents looking to generate new business.Ben shares the scripts, mindset, and strategies he’s using to help agents break through the noise. Instead of chasing sellers with the same tired pitch, he explains how to position auction as a fresh solution—and why a low-barrier Zoom call can be the fastest, most efficient way to secure more appointments.You’ll also learn how to view rejection as validation, the importance of clarifying data, and why leaving voicemails is not just about the seller—it’s about sharpening your own delivery. This is step one in a multi-part training that will also cover text messaging, video follow-ups, and advanced sequencing to convert more expireds into signed listings.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Why expired listings are back in play in today’s market[00:01:17] – Auction as a true point of difference for expired sellers[00:03:11] – Where new business comes from if your database is thin[00:04:16] – Why traditional expired scripts often fail without differentiation[00:05:19] – Combining calls with text and video for more cut-through[00:07:15] – Why “no” can still be a win: validating data through calls[00:10:12] – A sample script to book a low-barrier Zoom meeting[00:12:27] – Efficiency gains: Zoom vs. traditional listing appointments[00:13:28] – Preview of next episode: integrating texts and video🔗 Related Resources:For more info on Harcourts Auctions, our non-distressed auction platform, visit: https://www.harcourtsauctions.comConnect with Ben Brady and the Harcourts Auctions team:Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 Subscribe for more actionable strategies, and don’t forget to like, follow, or drop your biggest expired-listing challenge in the comments—we’ll cover it in a future episode!
In this episode of Rethink Real Estate, host Ben Brady sits down with Brenna Van Hoogenstyn, Co-Owner and Realtor at Harcourts Blue Water, to dive deep into the real story behind building a social media strategy in real estate that actually converts.Alongside her business partner and mom, Cathy Clark, Brenna has turned Harcourts Blue Water into one of the most engaging, consistent, and authentic voices in Newport Beach real estate. But it wasn’t always that way. From the early “ego-driven” posts to now producing value-first content that earns trust before the first phone call, Brenna takes us through the full content journey—wins, struggles, and everything in between.Expect candid insights into staying consistent when business gets busy, why the algorithm rewards authenticity, how they balance entertaining and educational content, and why sometimes the best-performing videos are the ones outside your comfort zone. Brenna also shares how they’re leveraging their powerful network of attorneys, fiduciaries, and financial planners to deliver content that reaches their ideal $2M–$3M client avatar—without chasing vanity metrics.This isn’t another fluffy “just post more” conversation. It’s a vulnerable, tactical breakdown of what works, what doesn’t, and why doubling down on content is one of the smartest long-term plays a real estate team can make.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] – Introduction to Brenna Van Hoogenstyn & Harcourts Blue Water[00:01:08] – Why Social Media Wasn’t About ROI at First[00:07:00] – Staying Consistent Through Busy Seasons (and Algorithm Penalties)[00:12:19] – The Difference Between Ego Content vs Value Content[00:15:20] – Kathy’s Reluctance (and Why Those Videos Perform Best)[00:23:10] – The Power of Professional Networks in Content Creation[00:29:40] – How to Define Your Audience & Build Content Around Them[00:36:46] – Being Vulnerable & Authentic to Build Trust Faster[00:45:10] – Investing in Content vs Buying Leads: Where to Put Your Budget[00:52:16] – The Endgame: Building a Scalable Business With Content🔗 Connect with Brenna Van Hoogenstyn:https://www.facebook.com/KathyBrennaRealEstatehttps://www.instagram.com/kathy_brenna_realestate/https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenna-vanhoogenstyn/Visit their Website for more insights on Southern California Real Estate: https://www.kathybrennagroup.com/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 If this episode gave you new ideas for content, drop your biggest takeaway in the comments. And don’t forget—subscribe for more tactical real estate conversations like this.
In this episode of Rethink Real Estate, Ben Brady welcomes real estate entrepreneur and AI strategist Lauren Lucas of the LKW Home Team at Keller Williams Classic Properties. Lauren pulls back the curtain on how she replaced three team members with AI—and still grew her GCI by over $400,000 in a single year. If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to juggle operations, marketing, and lead gen, Lauren’s systematized approach will blow your mind.From custom GPTs built in under 15 minutes to CRM bots that identify hot leads based on engagement, Lauren breaks down exactly how she uses AI in a practical, revenue-generating way. No technical background? No problem. She shares how she learned everything from YouTube and how you can too—starting with just a voice memo and a SOP. This episode is a goldmine for agents who want to scale without burning out.Lauren also reveals the specific tools, prompts, automations, and compliance steps she uses to stay ahead—without drowning in tech. Whether you're a solo agent, building a team, or just AI-curious, this is the roadmap to a more leveraged, sustainable real estate business.⏱️ Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] – Losing Half Her Team, Growing $400K GCI Anyway[00:01:50] – Why Most Agents Use AI Wrong (& How to Fix It)[00:07:00] – From SOP to Custom GPT: Real-World Applications[00:14:00] – CRM Bots, Lead Scoring, and Database Reactivation[00:20:45] – How AI Powers Value-Based Prospecting at Scale[00:24:50] – The Best Tech Stack for Non-Techy Real Estate Agents[00:35:00] – Mindset, Misconceptions & the Future of Agents Using AI🔗 Related Resources Below:🌐 For more information on Harcourts Auctions our non-distressed auction platform feel free to visit https://www.harcourtsauctions.com🔗 Connect with Lauren Lucas and LKW Home Team:https://lkwhometeam.com/https://www.facebook.com/LKWhometeamhttps://www.instagram.com/lkwhometeam_lauren/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-lucas-23454647/🔗 Connect with Ben Brady and Harcourts Auctions:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenbradyharcourtsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-brady-0b223517Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harcourtsauctionsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarcourtsAuctions🎯 If this episode made you rethink your business, leave a comment with your biggest takeaway. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with a teammate who needs to hear this!