After 185 articles, I have decided to hang up my “pen” to allow more eager, younger and current writers to enter the REM world of thoughts and ideas.
I think my articles have covered nearly every aspect of my 46 years in this exciting and ever-changing business, including the Competition Bureau, commission cutting, part-timers, real estate bubbles, why new agents fail, ghosts in houses you are selling and Q&As with many iconic figures in the real estate industry.
So, what have I learned about this business that I still love?
For starters, some areas of concern never change! Unethical behaviour, poorly prepared offers and listings and lack of communication are obstacles that every agent faces at one time or other. I have addressed these issues and many more over the years, and you can go online and read these articles at remonline.com.
The major change that has really impacted our industry for the past several years is the age of the Internet. Online marketing has exploded! YouTube, Instagram, Linkedln, Twitter and many more apps offer unique ideas that you should think about incorporating into your daily business. If you aren’t using some of these incredible tools, you’ll be left behind by the new cadre of agents coming out of the courses today.
And speaking of the courses, they’re somewhat better in Ontario with the addition of the broker’s two-week course, which will turn out far more professional registrants.
The real estate market has no bubble, despite the worry in the business pages in most major papers. Why? Immigration is at an all-time high and will increase over the next decade, according to most economists. As I crisscross the city I see no end to the development and building of all types of residential dwellings.
Another reason to be optimistic about the real estate industry is the recent news coming out of Ottawa and most provincial governments that they will spend more on highways and infrastructure, meaning job creation. The result is that more housing will be needed and Realtors will be required to service their needs.
To summarize my last As I See It From My Desk, allow me to say it has been a wonderful experience and a great privilege to share my thoughts and ideas with you. I am grateful to Jim Adair, the editor, and to Heino Molls, publisher of REM, for their absolute trust by giving my writings a voice in their cross-Canada and global network.
The publishing of this article will coincide with my 80th birthday celebration in July. I wish you all the very best that life can bring.
Thank you for your past encouragement and support!
Stan Albert, ABR, ASA is a consultant with Re/Max Premier in Vaughan, Ont. He can be reached for consultation by email. Stan is now celebrating his 45th year as an active real estate professional.
