The real estate blogosphere has not been a buzz about the new self dubbed real estate 2.0 company, Connect Realty.
I have been watching Connect Realty for a couple of months and have been waiting for it to pick up some steam. From what I can tell, Connect Realty is tech and internet focused, so I thought they would become a bloggers favorite. No such luck, with about 60 blogs in my reader I have not seen a single mention of Connect Realty.
From the Connect Realty website,
I left integated spelled incorrectly since I took it straight from their site, I did not want to mess with their marketing message.
The Connect Realty website seems to be more focused towards recruiting real estate agents in this start up phase then the consumer. A couple interesting things on their website, a blog link that was dead and their home search is a Trulia widget. So when a buyer for real estate comes to look for a home, Connect directs them to Trulia and Trulia re-directs them to the listing broker, not to a Connect Realty agent! I am sure we will see something different and better from Connect here very soon, considering it is focused on being web 2.0 and real estate 2.0 company.
Connect Realty is claiming that they are going to revolutionize real estate. From their website I see nothing revolutionary for the consumer. Connect seems to be focused on real estate agents and their revenue sharing model. I would say Connect Realty seems to be a mix between Keller Williams, Exit and Zip. Connect Realty gives 5% of commission revenue to the recruiting agent, that goes three levels deep. From their website, here it is,
Invite and enroll 1-4 Colleagues
Invite and enroll 5-9 Colleagues
Sheesh. 10 or more. If we can get you back from touring Europe, maybe you’d like to participate in Profit Sharing?
Maybe they will make themselves more transparent in web 2.0 fashion in the months to come. If you are a Connect agent, let us know what you are up to, leave a comment. And if someone can interpret the residual plan and explain it to me like I’m a four year old, that would be awesome also!
Filed under: Connect Realty, Exit Realty, Keller Williams, Zip Realty, experienced real estate agents, recruiting, recruiting real estate agents | Tagged: Connect Realty, Keller Williams, profit sharing, recruiting real estate agents, residuals, Zip Realty
WOW!
That is a cute article you have published about Connect Realty. I will answer a couple of your suggestions, but first I have a question. What business are you in… surely not Recruiting… maybe blogging (bagging).
Here is my two cents. If you are going to comment about a company, get your facts straight.
The Official Launch is this Spring, check your own ability to spell… “Launces” right at the top of your own article.
Facts, many changes have and continue take shape in our pre-launch status. So instead of me wasting my time explaining our residual override program to a “Recruiter”… LOL… and the other numerous inconsistencies in your article including typos…
I will simply say watch us continue to grow… 1000 Agents and in seven states already and some of the best Realtors in the country have joined. You need not bother trying to get more information about Connect Realty. We will be a publicly traded company and anything you may want to know about us will be of public record.
Ahh… it just came to me, you are another failed Agent that read somewhere that if you blog they will come
Oh… and if you are a recruiter then join Connect and create some real income, see we will soon have a specific company for recruiters. Some of the best in the world are already a part of the company, if you join them you may learn something.
Signed,
Cute…
Good boy… your learning, I see you have fixed one of your typos… keep looking.
Oh and the Connect Realty Typo you found is from one of our Agents personal website bios. We will have him fix his typo’s. Thank you for your help.
If you would like I would be happy to discuss a real opportunity for you as a well compensated “Recruiter”.
Signed,
At ah… boy
Hey thanks Jaret Ghent for giving such great tips and some more tips in my email about blogging and how to use google. (read sarcasm)
Some questions Jaret:
“The Official Launch is this Spring,”
I read on the connect site back in december that it was launching january 4th 2008. this is when connect realty was in beta version 2.0. it looks like you are now in beta version 3.5. Was this not the case? Did I read this information incorrectly? What changed?
I am also wondering why you took so harshly to my post. What exactly upset you so much, for such attacks on me, “Ahh… it just came to me, you are another failed Agent that read somewhere that if you blog they will come”.
Is that the techinque you and connect realty use to recruit agents? Call them failures?
Then you offer me a job as a compensated “recruiter”?
I don’t get it.
I believe in transperency… so I have included copies of your emails that you sent to me personally.
Oh… before I forget… great use of metas “Jaret” that will help my rankings and I thank you.
Anyway to answer your questions about Connect, the launch was delayed until sometime this Spring. This was a smart business decision in order to provide the proper support for the incredible growth.
I will remind you and the other readers… you wrote the blog, I just provided your only comments. If you are going to blog follow rule #1
Know what your talking about, do not attack people or businesses in order to get readers or rankings.
Why “such attacks”
Your blog is an attack on Connect Realty…not clear why… I will assume it is because we are the hottest thing in real estate in years. So why did I get upset, because an attack on Connect Realty is an attack on every person involved in the company.
Copy of your email…you said “transparency”
wow. thanks for teaching me the rules of blogging. I’m kinda brand new at this. I thought you should police comments so that no one says anything about some one or something that can’t be validated. And you know I just read a post by Jim Cronin, author of the Real estate tomato about comments,
http://realestatetomato.typepad.com/the_real_estate_tomato/2008/02/blogging-etique.html
Also thanks about the tips on Google. I’m silly. I put my name on comments and believe in transparency, which is what I thought blogging was about.
I have known Jim Cronin since he was a saleperson for Z57. Does that show my age or exprerience? He is a self proclaimed blog expert. Frankly, he has created a blog to sell a product or service. I respect him as an accomplished entrepreneur and a blogger that provides generally well researched blogs.
Sincerely,
Getting Old
You still have not said how I attacked Connect Realty. Tell me how.
I am sure that your display here will have agents flocking to join Connect Realty. I would offer you consulting services that we provide, but I can tell that we are not a match.
As a professional and respect for people I will not post your email here since you did NOT give me persmission to do that, even though your email was insulting and arrogant, but people will see that from your comments.
Thanks for stopping by and reading about how to recruit real estate agents, looks like you really do need to learn some things.
And Jaret, if you are really proud that this will help your search engine exposure I think the people that are in business with you have to reevaluate “if they have the right people on the bus”.
CONNECT REALTY has become the fastest growing real estate Brokerage in the world and we are positioned to become the largest real estate company in the world!
Join us and become part of the company that is REVOLUTIONIZING the real estate industry for Buyers, Sellers and Real Estate Professionals.
In Pre-Launch, BETA mode we are now more than 1000 AGENTS STRONG, actively doing business in seven states throughout the US… and the numbers continue to GROW DAILY! The company has experienced such success we have decided to push the official launch out until this spring. We want to ensure we are equipped to support the Agents and the continued growth.
WOW… what a problem to have in any market, especially the current market.
Meet the POWERFUL ICONS of American Business responsible for the creation of the company.
Jim Canion, Co Founder and Director
Graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology.
Developed a custom golf club manufacturing company, selling to over 30 distributorship’s nationwide.
In 1990, began a 17 year career with Compaq Computer as the Distribution and Logistics Manager.
Upon the Compaq acquisition by HP, Jim moved into a Worldwide sales and marketing role where he managed sales training for the sales call center and channel organizations in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and America.
A highly-successful real estate developer who has been at the forefront of commercial developments in upscale areas such as The Woodlands, Texas and Scottsdale, Arizona as well as many others.
Jim is taking an active role and an ownership position in bringing Connect Realty to the forefront of the real estate industry.
Rod Canion, Co Founder
Graduated from the University of Houston with a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
Spent several years with Technology giant Texas Instruments as an Engineer.
Founder of Compaq Computers.
Compaq hit the market in January of 1983, and sales that year of $111 million set a record for highest first year revenues in U.S. corporate history.
Compaq reached the Fortune 500 and the $1 billion revenue mark faster than any other company in history.
In 1986 Compaq signed an agreement with now the world’s largest maker of microprocessors, Santa Clara, California-based Intel Corp., one of the five most profitable manufacturing companies of any business sector.
He is still involved in several technology companies and has assisted many of these companies with going public and having tremendous success.
He is actively involved and committed to the success of Connect Realty.
Ken Carlson, Co Founder
Ken has spent more than 40 years in the airline industry.
As the CEO of three airlines and the owner of several entrepreneurial businesses, he possesses a unique background in most business areas, both domestically and internationally.
He has an unparalleled background in designing, starting and managing airlines.
He took Continental and American Airlines to a publicly traded company.
He has personally invested $80 million in Biz Jet.
Ken is a 40% owner of Jet Blue Airlines.
His wife is the Heiress to Southwest Airlines of one of the most successful commuter Airlines in the world.
The Beta Team, Co Founders
Some of the Top Realtors in the country from Coldwell Banker, Keller Williams, RE/MAX and others have left their successful careers and joined Connect Realty to help introduce it to the world.
Many of the finest professionals in the industry have joined Connect Realty from around the country to assist with the global roll-out of the company.
I personally walked away from a $250,000 + year income out of pure disgust with the failed Traditional Brokerages that had soured my once strong passion for real estate.
Connect Realty has refueled my passion for real estate.
REMEMBER when there was a Travel Agency on EVERY Corner?
The brick and mortar real estate office will become obsolete similar to the demise of the brick and mortar travel agencies that were on every corner a few short years ago!
This company wants to overhaul the antiquated MLS system by creating a global MLS system and paying agents top level commissions!
ATTENTION BROKERS: You must learn how to take a defensive posture immediately.
ATTENTION AGENTS: This is a revenue engine that you’ve never experienced before!
SEASONED PROFESSIONALS are signing on in record numbers!
NEW AGENTS are welcome, mentored to success and receive an encouraging commission split!
What’s in it for You?
Incredible compensation
Decisive global roll-out
Millions invested in agent support and advertising
Agents receive every technological benefit imaginable
EXTREMELY LUCRATIVE residual income source.
If you are ready to connect, give me a call and I would be happy answer any questions you may have about Connect Realty. I look forward to speaking with you soon!
Sincerely,
Jaret L. Ghent, Team Leader
connect: (888) 231-1223
e fax: (888) 231-1223
e mail jaret@nwcrt.com
web: http://www.nwcrt.com
Darin,
I just wanted to keep you up to speed on Connect Realty, Agent #1057 just joined my Team. Another fine professional with incredible experience with licenses in CA and ID.
That is COOL
More than 35 Agents have joined since our last chat.
WOW…
Would you like to take a closer look at Connect? For a mere $200 you could be on your way to building a great Team and you could provide them with all the recruiting tools to build your Team even bigger.
And since we got off to the wrong foot, I will pay your $200 enrollment, consider it my way of saying sorry, and maybe someday you’ll thank me for defending a great company.
Sincerely,
Jaret L. Ghent, Team Leader
North West Connect Realty Team
Oh…. I almost forgot, here is a link to our Residual Override Calculater. I felt bad never explaining the amount of wealth a good Team builder can generate.
Check it out for yourself and see what you could earn!
I’m going to guess you would easily recruit Top Agents and probably make at least $100,000 in your first year… I prefer to be conservative.
http://connectrealty.com/calc.html
Signed,
Enjoy
Interesting discussion on Connect. I recently obtained my Washington state real estate license, then interviewed six different brokerages to figure out where to hang my license. Connect Realty was one of those I checked out.
Their vision is interesting in that it emphasizes technology over “bricks and mortar”. That said, people buy from people, and Connect will have to figure out how to marry technology with the absolute need most people have for a personal touch.
Connect’s technology has a long way to go (meaning that a lot of it is in beta or other stages of development), but they are forging ahead with it. If they can deliver the technology with a personal touch, like they say the can, then they have a bright future.
Mark thanks for stopping by and adding something to the discussion instead of giving us a sales pitch.
Mark, a couple questions-
What made you decide on Connect?
What other places did you look at?
As a new agent, what will Connect do to help your business get moving and productive?
I too spent almost a year researching brokerage models. I have been in the business for almost 7 years, and have only 1 class left to take to get my brokers license. So I started researching to determine my next direction. Connect has and will have everything I was looking for in a brokerage.
[...] post from Darin Persinger about Connect Realty being the self dubbed Real Estate 2.0 Company (I thought Redfin owns that [...]
Here’s my two cents on Connect. I have been researching real estate company options for several months. I never wanted to start my own company but almost felt compelled to do so UNTIL I came across the Connect business model. I have been in real estate about 27 year and been with several different companies (big and small). I love the Connect model for many reasons. It’s not perfect, but the closest I could find.
First of all, one of the reasons real estate agents in general have a bad reputation is the very competitive nature of the business. Connect, unlike other business models, gives their agents incentive to help other agents be successful. I can’t tell you how much grief I’ve had with agents trying to steal clients from me. I have also had numerous clients get their license because they think the business would be “fun”. Now they are my competition. They soon find out how tough the business is. I have one client who got her license 6 months ago and has not had one single closing yet. If I was with Connect (and had recruited her) I would have financial incentive to help her become successful. As it is, she is with another office, and I compete with her.
As for why the Connect website is recruitment oriented, it’s out of necessity. They need to grow their agent base. Pure and simple. It’s like the Mormon church sends out their missionaries to “recruit” members. The recruiting website is their “missionary”. When a member has been “recruited”, they join the church (Connect). Don’t get me wrong… I am NOT comparing Connect to the Mormon church, or any church. It’s just a metaphor. It’s an efficient way of getting “the word” out so agents can spend their time selling property. After all, the compensation model doesn’t work if agents don’t sell real estate.
Any agent who has any level of experience is going to have their own website and/or blog for drawing the consumer in anyway.
The real estate business IS changing and the internet is a BIG reason. The way agents do business and the way consumers shop has changed. The need for the brick and mortar office is dying… for agents and consumers. The very cost of gas has lots of agents working at home more instead of going to the office everyday. AND, they are being more selective about running clients around aimlessly as well. They, and the consumers, are spending more time researching properties and narrowing the search. I have, literally, worked out of my home office for over 4 1/2 years with great success. I wish I’d had the technology that I see Connect coming on with.
The Connect business model is still a work in progress but I like what I see. I do think it will be a force to reckoned with as time goes by.
I am not officially a Connect agent YET but I will be SOON!
I am the Connect Realty Team Leader for the GoBelly Group and am extremely excited about what is happening with this business. I have been able to not only increase my Connect Realty team but through our marketinig campaign the investment side of business has increased as well. Many times when a prospect goes to our website
http://www.gobelly.com/connect
to see the power point presentation, they will stumble across our properties and oppurtunities for investors. My web trafiic has more than doubled. The database is growing faster than ever and from my website agents are going to
http://www.connectrealty.com/gobelly
in order to see the residual income estimator that Jerat was talking about.
That’s right Connect Realty is positioning itself to change the real estate business. I glad I’m on the train and ready for the ride. Darin just because some of the agents who are just starting do not understand transparency as well as you do yet, doesn’t mean that they won’t soon. And when they do – WATCH OUT!!!!
Best Wishes to All ,
Jason Gobeli
GoBelly Group of Connect Realty
877 SOLVE THIS
877-765-8384
Hey Jason,
Great post… I would like to make you a contributor to my blog… created in part from these continued misrepresentations by those who use our incredible … and ever growing presence for their benefit.
The responses show as I originally stated… Connect Realty is for real and here to stay.
For those Connect Realty Curious;
Visit: http://www.joinconnect.wordpress.com or shoot me an email to jaret@connectrealty.com
Jaret L. Ghent
[...] Realty, what others are saying… Posted on March 5, 2008 by jghent Mark Schwartz, on February 28th, 2008 at 10:29 am [...]
Carol,
thanks for adding to the conversation. Just wondering how you feel Connect differs from Exit Realty’s revenue sharing or Keller William’s Realty profit sharing?
I agree bricks and mortar are not where the money should be spent, and are you suggesting that there is not a need for a brick and mortar real estate location any longer?
Jason,
Thanks for your insight and not taking a defensive stance and actually informing the REGS readers.
Jaret,
Thanks for once again dropping by and hi-jacking REGS.
Hi Darin,
I am not suggesting there isn’t a purpose for brick and mortor at all. As a matter of fact, when I join Connect, I will rent space from a Mortgage Broker, to have a convenient place to meet clients, make copies, etc. I can (and have) worked exclusively from my home office without a brick and mortor office, but I prefer not to invite just everyone to my home for signing contracts. There are times when it’s awkward not to have a “real” office. But, mostly, my clients care about my level of expertise not the office itself.
As for Connect compared to Exit or KW, I don’t know enough about them to make an intelligent comparison. I have researched them both only briefly. I do know that Connect makes sense for me and the way I do business. I like the technology they have coming on and I like the support of a “team” that has a vested interest in me being successful. I am also attracted by the mentor/trainer opportunity they have discussed with me. I love teaching and there is opportunity for me to help new agents and be compensated for that. I like the idea I can build a team of my own and get paid to help them. I don’t want to own an office or franchise of my own. I just want to be a good agent, support those around me… and know I have support if I need it.
This business model could help take away some of the dog-eat-dog competitiveness of the business that makes us all look bad to the general public. We all benefit when we help each other be successful.
I am very excited about the future of Connect and how it fits into the way I want to do business. But, that’s not to say another business model wouldn’t be best for someone else.
Connect Realty vs Exit or Keller Williams
The difference is small but HUGE
Connect Realty residuals pays off of sales.
The other guys pay from profits.
Sales vs Profit
You make more money getting paid by sales.
By the way 2 people joined the GoBelly Group of Connect Realty today. So from my side of the fence things are pretty good. I’m excited that people are clicking on lthis link http://www.gobelly.com/connect to view my powerpoint presentation and hopefully they are reading and will continue to read the many blogs I’ve posted. Thanks for the good feedback guys, I appreciate it.
God Bless,
Jason Gobeli
GoBelly Group of Connect Realty
‘Where cutting edge technology meets a good old fashion positive mental attitude’
http://www.connectrealty.com/gobelly
By the way if anyone who reads this hasn’t signed up with Connect Realty yet just follow the links in this post or call me direct at 877 SOLVE THIS then get ready to take a ride to Easy Street on the GoBelly Train.
One of my hesitations with a company like this is some of the recruits get a little too evangelical, like it’s going to be the highway to heaven (a metaphor to financial freedom). I have great expectations, but let’s not turn people off by coming across like an MLM marketer. Jason, I’m soooo glad you’re pumped up but pleeeeze be careful or you could do more damage than good for the overall image and success of Connect. Just my humble opinion.
Sorry Carol,
I’m excited that things are moving well on my team. It was not meant to offend anyone or distract others from our image. It is just part of my personality I guess. I’m an author of motivational books and a nationally recognized speaker. I’m also a minister. So I have a tendancy to be very zealous of life in general. My blog is more of a writing of who I am as opposed to what the company represents. If you think I’m over zealous on the blog, you should attend one of my weekend real estate seminars or even better ask my wife and kids because they really know. Haha:)
That said, the excitement I have may not be for everyone (that’s OK) but it is for the members of my team. That is one of the reasons people join my team, we want to be excited and stay excited. We believe excite fuels action and educated action produces results.
Once again if anyone out there stumbles across this blog and wants to join an extremely zealous team of Connect Realty, then go to http://www.connectrealty.com/gobelly and sign up or give me a call tollfree at 877-765-8384
God Bless,
Jason Gobeli
GoBelly Group of Connect Realty
‘Where cutting edge technology meets a good old fashion positive mental attitude’
http://www.gobelly.com.com/connect
One more thing if you would like to get a copy of my book or if you would like to hear me speak live in person then send a request to gobeli@live.com
Carol,
I have been apart of Keller Williams and have looked inside the Exit Realty program. The excited approach to extra income happened in those business models also as they started to launch and expand. It’s the easiest approach to say “we are different” and try to show “value”.
I honestly think all the real estate brokerages are going to have to come up with a way to “bonus” or “share revenue” or “share profits” with their agents here in the near future. It just makes sense.
Carol, where is your market in comparision to Seattle?
Jason,
Please take what I say as positive, Carol is on the right track about Connect and recruiting.
As someone that has been in since the beginning and was recruited by corporate I have alot of insight to Connect.
This is straight from the CEO, we are a real estate company, recruiters (not licensed or licensed and not a part of a local MLS) or recruiters. Anyone in this capacity is being moved to Masters University by the end of the month.
Passion is awesome and everyone I talk to has it about Connect. Preaching or pitching begins to sound like an MLM and frankly will is not a good tool for building your team. If you want to draw qualitiy people to your team focus on your experience and background.
Sorry for the typos… my little boy hit send before I could review and correct.
Jaret,
Are you serious? You are giving advice? Go back up to the top of these comments and look at your “preaching and pitching”.
And if you would read any other article on here besides the Connect Realty then you would see that “focus on your experience and background” is not what a recruit wants. IT”S ABOUT THE RECRUIT! Not about you. If you are getting those ideas from corporate Connect, tell them to give me a call and I’ll do a seminar for you all.
Jaret,
I do not understand what you are talking about
‘we are a real estate company, recruiters (not licensed or licensed and not a part of a local MLS) or recruiters. Anyone in this capacity is being moved to Masters University by the end of the month.’
Huh?
What’s the Master University?
And Darin you are right about one thing. It is not about my experience and background. It is all about what we give to the recruit. It is all about giving.
That said I have really enjoyed this blog and I’d like to give to all of you who have participated in it. I would like to help you all become successful. So if you will send me a request to gobeli@connectrealty.com I’ll send you a copy of my new book ‘The Wealth Plan’ for free
I sell it online for $9.99 see http://www.gobelly.com/eBook.htm but for all the partipants of this blog I’ll send it to you for free. Just my way of giving back.
God Bless,
Jason
Jason,
I would be happy to explain Masters University and any other questions you may have about Connect. See I want you and your efforts to be successful even though your not on my Team. All of efforts should be about the company that has provided both of us with passion and excitement.
Feel free to call me or send me an email and I would be more than happy to invite you to my bi-weekly conference calls with my Team. We usually have different state brokers and corporate staff on the lines and we discuss corporate news and updates and much more when we meet.
Best of Luck!
Darin,
I do not quite understand you and your comments. You wrote the original blog and I made your first comment to your non-sense comments and suggestions. I surely do not need training from you, as one a former TOP RE/MAX Agent in the world and leading a Team of Agents selling $100’s of MILLIONS a year in real estate.
Good Luck!
Carol,
As I read your posts, i’m glad you have brought your team to join with me. I look forward to a prosperous relationship with you being a key member of my Worldwide Connect Team.
Best Wishes!
Jaret,
Have someone that cares about you and that will be honest with you and ask them to read ALL your comments on here from the begining. I’m sure you are not intending to come across the way you are.
I keep giving you a chance to redeem yourself and keep coming across arrogant, self-centered, demeaning and hypocritical.
Darin,
Sorry I’ve been absent a few days. My market (Wenatchee) is in the geographic center of the state, about 130 east of Seattle.
Jason,
Enthusiasm is good. I’ve been a motivational speaker myself. But, I know the negative connotation MLM has and when we get too overzealous, people who don’t know the whole story, misinterpret what we are trying to do.
Jaret,
And I am looking forward to being part of The Worldwide Connect Team. The support you have given so far has been excellent. I truly believe the team a recruit chooses to join is going to be a key in the level of success they experience. Unfortunately, like newly licensed agents, few know how to interview a company for the job (instead of the other way around).
Anyone thinking of working with Jaret Ghent, BEWARE!
Connect Realty has an interesting business model, however, I’d have a talk with your agents. Every piece of marketing material I have seen from Connect Realty agents screams “get rich quick” in the fashion of shady multi-level marketing programs.
You would think that two hundred million dollars could buy you some quality television or print advertising. Instead, Connect seems to be practicing internet SEO strategies (ie: creating blogs, posting on blogs, posting on message boards etc…) that can be performed by a minimum wage employee.
By the way, fire your spell checker. There are several spelling errors on the Connect Realty site as well as the marketing materials (including emails).
Pointing out that the administrator of this blog should check his own spelling, is a childish comback. After all, this is a blog and not world wide company with two hundred million dollars in capital. You say “thank you for pointing out the error. I’ll have my web flunkies fix it”.
It’s fine to be proud of your company and want to tout it, but defensive comebacks and internet bickering only tarnishes your reputation and that of the company that holds your license.
Very well said Eike. I’m a top producer who burned out and left the industry a few years back. I’m considering a jump back in – possibly as a recruiter – and am interested in any new concepts.
I can’t say that this blog has left me w/a positive opinion of connect …
unfortunate
You know, the funny thing, actually sad thing, I was trying to give Jaret the chance to back step a bit and change his approach.
“The nice thing about egotists is that they don’t talk about other people.” -Lucille S. Harper
http://averagebuyer.blogspot.com/2007/11/keeping-faith.html – more stories about how upstanding Jaret is
Wow… just came across this blog today. I’m a Connect Realty Broker Assoc. I was actually trying to find something on the web about Connect and ended up here.
I agree with the Evangelical comment earlier. That was the one thing that kept me from joining Connect Realty at first. The next thing was the number of unlicensed people onboard scared me. After all, if no one is selling real estate, the whole system crumbles. That and the potential violations if this situation is not handled correctly. I tuned out the Evangelists, deleted their recruiting emails and did my own research. I got my concerns addressed to my satisfaction – then joined.
I personally have only brought one agent onboard with me. My philosophy is to wait to see where all of this goes before I can get behind bringing on new people. Customer/client satisfaction, ease of transactions, marketing listings, web presence, and general customer and agent support – not recruiting – is important in determining whether a real estate company has staying power in my opinion. I really hate waking up with egg on my face. I take the stand of “under promise and over deliver”. Not the other way around. I believe in the Connect Realty system, but only time will tell how it plays out.
I wanted to make a comment about the residuals. At first, I was thinking MLM. Again, doing my own research, this in no way is an MLM. The levels only go three deep, not on and on like an MLM. So, what it ends up being is simply profit sharing. The way they have it structured is really a good business model.
I did have a problem with the personalized websites that they offered for free. They, to me, are just Connect Realty websites with the individual agent’s face and bio on them. They in no way help the agent. Hopefully, that will all change down the line, but in the meantime, I’m creating my own. One that promotes me and my client’s listings first, then Connect Realty second.
Not every company is going to answer or address the needs of every Real Estate Agent or Broker. If that were the case, there would only be one company out there. You need to find your nitch and understand your needs as a real estate professional and choose a company that can best meet those needs for you. Do the research, take your time. You and the company you choose needs to be a match. It’s just like showing a home to a potential buyer. I always tell them to overlook the beautiful furnishings. They’re not staying with the house. When choosing a real estate company, ignore the hype. Look at the bones of the company and decide based on that.
To all you Realtors out there…..Hang in there and Best of Luck to you. It’s a trying time out there in real estate, but it’ll get better. It always does.
Salli-
Thanks for dropping by and trying to clean up the mess that some of your Connect Realty peers have left. You seem to much better ambassador.
I have noticed that Jaret Ghent does not have his Active Rain blogsite up any more or his other blog. Both have been deleted. Do you know if he is still a Connect Realty agent, or did Connect boot him?
FYI, I want to hear more from Salli, she sounds like the only Connect Ambassador with solid info…Darin, get her back on to talk more!
Well,
Not Too impressed. They sent out a “hidden” email at my COMPANY email asking to take part in some webinar. I took the email and sent it around until I found out it was from Connect Realty. I was very ticked off.. If you’re gonna recruit, win their trust! I’ve recruited and still recruit for my present company. NEVER HAVE I BEEN SNEAKY.
Also,
1. I don’t see any “heavy hitters” signed on.
2.Whatever DID happen to Jaret Ghent? Hmmm?
3. From what I read, 80% is the highest? Plus I gotta pay my expenses? Plus NO office to go to? (I do understand “virtual offices”, but I ain’t Marcus Welby.. )
4. Iconnect411.com hasn’t been updated in months…
5. Why join these guys? Stay home and do it yourself?
6. Brand Image IS important.
Hey, I’m not attacking.. but this is 2008. I seriously could write a better website and believe me, for my needs, I have. All they have is a link to Truila. You expect something from from the “brothers that worked at Compaq”, or whatever their line is..
Jim
I haven’t gotten emails sent directly from Connect Realty. The emails that I get are from Connect Realty agents wanting me to join their team. The emails all have the same thing in common: they promote the agents as a team leader for connect and insist that, with the limited MLM structure, I can make gobbs (yes.. I said “gobbs”) of money by sitting on my fanny doing nothing.
From what I’ve seen of the marketing ‘connected’ to Connect Realty, the agents portray themselves (in my opinion) as lazy bones that don’t want to work for their money.
They want YOU to work for THEIR money. Until you decided to become lazy and have someone else work for your money and try to ‘retire’ on your residual earnings. What happens when all the people below you decide to retire? You have to find more people to work for YOUR money.
This is an example of the industry moving backwards. The real value of a real estate agent is gauge on the amount and quality of work they do for their clients.
If this type of thing continues, real estate agents will find themselves being replaced entirely by online automated systems.
Be an agent not a cog. Give your clients value and you will earn as much as you want.
Unfortunately, there are Connect agents who will promote the company as a “get rich quick” scheme. I apologize on their behalf. It is extremely important not to dilute the brand before we officially launch. For the rest of us real estate professionals who chose Connect, we value what the company offers and the tools it gives us to do our jobs smarter. An example: today at our weekly meeting, a broker who recently joined Connect had just renewed his annual Showcase subscription for $1,600. Little did he know that Connect agents get it for free. This is a new benefit for us and just one example of the technology tools we have at our disposal.
I was disappointed that Connect did not launch sooner, but I understand how pre-launch companies work. Those who rush to market, don’t succeed. They are taking the time to tweak some things and do it right. I’m not focused on recruiting my own team at this point, but I am a member of a strong 8 person team right now. I like having the option to bring agents on board, but if we don’t sell real estate, the business model doesn’t work.
Alicia,
Thanks for taking time to add to the discussion. Here is my thought, why are good agents like yourself and carol williams, above, letting other connect realty agents diminish your brand by their actions?
I guess an even better question is, why is the leadership at connect realty getting into business with people like that?
And why are they staying in business with people like that?
Darin, just like every other real estate firm, you can’t control the actions of others in the business. Every Connect agent signs a contract and there are guidelines about what you can and cannot say in your PR. In this online day and age we simply don’t have time to babysit everyone, and can only post our own experiences in the hopes that you won’t judge our company by a few bad apples.
Alicia,
If I may “pipe” in..
I agree…
Some of these guys out there are just a little “too” direct..
Maybe I’m wrong, but to start off slowly like that, maybe it would have been better to come in strong and with an impact…
Being around for a while with virtually no impact can make one look “stale” and “tired”..
Who knows? We’ll see…
Interesting post. I have seen the insides of Connect Realty. I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. Yes there are some big money backers, but does that mean they are going to succeed? No. It is kind of interesting. Here we are in May 08. Connect has been preaching a “Go Live” for 8-9 months. What is the hold up? Having trouble producing on your promises? Over 1000 agents before “Go Live”? Bull. They are padding the numbers. They have the database coded to skip numbers between agents to make it look like they are bigger than they are!
Also, ever listen to Bill Starkey talk? That guy is full of hot air. He’ll promise an Eskimo a cup of hot coffee if it meant getting a sale. Bill came off a failed Mortgage Brokerage and is looking for a quick and easy rebound in the MLM style.
You also should be careful. Interesting side note. Bill @ Connect hired a gent by the name of Richard Bateman to run the IT shop. Scary considering the used to preach that Richard was the cause of his previous failure. He claimed that Richard, tampered with the computers before and after he left. In addition most of the software they ran at the Mortgage Brokerage and now at Connect is pirated as a result of Richard using illegal copies of development software provided my his MSDN subscription.
The concept Connect offers has potential, but can they get things moving in the right direction? Time will tell.
Connect Realty has a new CEO according to a press release at http://www.free-press-release.com
Way to spend those so-called millions of dollars in capital on marketing.
How much free marketing can a million dollars buy you?
Sorry… This is getting fishy
Supports of Connect caim it has tons of millions in capital.
Started by mucky mucks from compaq/jet blue etc…
At some point Bill Starkey was the CEO and he is widely discussed on mortgage forums as a someone you shouldn’t do business with
There is this link that says bill gates and google are involved
http://www.wannanetwork.com/blog/view/?ID=4977
but you cannot find a sliver of news on this anywhere.
Apparently, Connect Realty has spent millions of dollars of putting Free press releases, launching Free blogs and Freely posting on forums and blogs marketing their program.
I wish I had a couple million dollars so I could take advantage of the free marketing tools that can be found on the internet.
I actually like the Connect Realty Work from Home Office Set up; it is much more comfortable and relaxed.
The team isn’t really needed but I like the occasional contact with them.
The Flexibility is Great and I only have to concentrate on getting Listings and Buyers. The Switch to Wireless Electronic Transactions hasn’t gone smoothly but I can easily switch to the old Paper and Filing Cabinet System until Connect gets the Whole set up working smoothly.
It’s Beta; so, give it a YEAR!!!
first time blogging
this reminds me of high school
the rules are always the same
listen to everything people say… try to understand there motivation… form you own opinions
real estate industry is changing allowing agents to now recruit and recieve benefit of broker
connect realty will have part in this change……
some agents will change others will complain
sed,
How do you perceive the industry to be changing? Is it the role of the agent that is changing? The role of the brokerage? Are Zillow or eBay going to be the next market places for buying and selling real estate?
Where does the agent fit into this? Does change mean that the agent now becomes a recruiter who recruits agents whose main motivations are to become recruiters themselves?
What about the agents fiduciary responsibility to their client? Does that take a back seat to the agent building their own team of recruiters?
A real estate agent’s value is in how well they service their clients. What happens to that value of service when agents spend more time recruiting than working with their clients?
I’ll tell you what happens. The value of the agent, in the eyes of potential buyers/sellers, declines. Commissions rates fall and more people opt out of using agents.
The internet age hasn’t helped the situation. Consumers no longer need an agent to find homes they like. There is no exclusive MLS Bible that only agents have access to for finding clients homes.
FSBOs can list their properties for sale on craigslist and find their own buyers.
The industry might be changing, but it isn’t in favor of the agent. Agents need to realize that they will have to work harder to earn nice commissions. Agents need to prove their value to the consumers.
Yes, I believe agents have a tremendous value to individuals looking to buy and sell their homes. In the general populous that opinion is fading, and technology is partly to blame.
In this market, it’s hard to find sellers willing to give up a 7% of their home sale revenue for commissions.
Agents need to remind consumers of their value. That is done by spending the time to provide excellent service to the client. If agents concentrate on recruiting, how will that service suffer?
Eikeac, I disagree with you on a lot…
First of all, IT IS EASY to find a lot of sellers that will pay 7% for commission. Dressing up like Elvis does not make you Elvis. Posting your property on Craigslist, or even the MLS, doesn’t mean a thing. A good amount of sold listings I see in my area were either FSBO’s or they were previously listed by “entry only” companies.. I guess good service never goes out of style, and I guess good service still works. I find it that the agents that don’t get top commissions are not worth the top commissions anyway, so they try to drag everyone down along with them. I like a saying that goes “I charge more, but I cost less..” You still get what you pay for. Yup, that’s the value.
I tend to think with Connect Realty the value will be on the individual. The problem here is people should not generalize. Do I like the Connect Realty concept? Actually, it’s not too bad. It can make sense for some. Only when the majority of agents are screwballs will ConnectRealty fail.
wow you really seem to have problem with recruiting
industry is responding to agents wants
agents want the same thing brokers have always had ability to leverage others to make more money
keller william, exit,grm and now connect now offer this to agents without the headaches of being broker
just because you have the leadership skills to build a team does not mean you can not be a real estate agent…..even a very good one… many people have
i agree that sales even real estate sale will always be a people business the internet is only a tool……one that must be embraced and used to the fullest
remember eighty percent of the work is done by twenty percent of the people
those in the twenty percent make eighty percent of the money
dont take the eighty percents opinion of anything as truth
find your own truth
team building is here to stay and benefits all involved
WOW lot’s of good comments… #483 that’s my connectrealty.com # & my Name is Steve Hillier.. Month #1 nothen, month #2 nothen, month #3 HUMMM somethin….I can’t spell but I can Add
Month #4 $17k+ in overrides HEHE month #5 over 21k in overrides..Month #6 it’s the 18th and over 11k so far.. 68 agents in my three levels, Level #1=19 agents level # 2=29 agents level #3 20 agents..
Now if that aint the real DEAL.. It aint out there baby.
Email me I will provide all my sub check for varification. If you need proof. Or just ask anyone that attends meetings in Sacramento. I bring them in each week to pass out.
Steve Hillier Connect agent #483
Sell RE & share the plan,,, KW did & not one KW agent can match my overrides even after being in business for 20 years. I wish someone would step up and show me somthing more profitable.
If not get connected.
I know I’m just a reg JOE and this is working for me.
This is Steve Hillier agent #483
I have received a few requests on my above post and I have provided these agents the information requested. I can document very large results, but I have to strongly make my point my earning were a quick est. of results I had not added to the penny the Months referred to. NOT a Guarantee of earnings!!! They do though represent a very good example of my experiences so far with Connect Realty. I have not added to the exact amount to the figures above. Please I do not want to represent Connect Realty with arrogances. These figures do vary some. My group is Now at 75 agents and growing. In this group approx 1/3-1/2 are active and closing many deals. In my presentations I like to share if the average agent closes 1 deal a year would the Connect Realty Plan be worth investing time in? Most agree it would be worth the investment. I do not have a income discloser statement to provide and I Strongly caution this is a Business that takes WORK!!! No Free Lunches. My earning do appear to exceed six figures this year but that is not a guarantee to any agent that is investigating Connect Realty! I know of many agent that are experiencing a great deal of success in this model and some that are not! We like any Start up are feeling the growing pains but I assure you It looks very bright in the future of Connect Realty.
Anyone please feel free to contact me and attend any of the Meetings that I do in Roseville on Thursdays @ 10:30 am if you are in need of more information. 3741 Douglas Blvd Suite 100 Roseville ca 95661
I wish all that look at our model to do so from a business perspective that will require effort. It is well worth the investment I assure you.
Steve Hillier
Dear Previous Broker,
I just wanted to let you know I am 16 wide after four months and already have agents on my third level. I am a full time agent of 7 years. You said “The concept of three levels of residuals is foundationally true but nearly impossible to reach”, I have found it very easy to recruit. Your lack of professionalism as displayed in your email by your language and name calling is very disappointing. My guess is this has something to do with why you are a “Previous Broker”. I realize the company has growing pains but I am willing to grow with them. They offer me something no other company ever has, technology and residuals.
I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you and wish you the best of luck in the future.
#1270
I must apologize for the rant writer of the article who identified themselves as “Previous Brokers”. I have found it to be absolutely inaccurate and filled with bitterness and outright lies. Unfortunately on the internet you can post anything you want. The question you need to ask is why if it is true do they not put their name to it. Could it possibly be that they are in fact lies and by posting such slander and lies open themselves up for a lawsuit?
If you have any questions please contact me personally via our company site at info@connectrealty.com
Wow! Why did you remove the inflamatory post about connect realty?
Someone putting the screws to you?