Luxury Listing Specialist - Dominate High End Listings In Any Market

In this episode, I sit down with Jimmy Mackin for a tactical deep dive into what’s truly working for real estate agents right now. We unpack the “triple threat” approach—combining direct mail, email, and social media—to help you generate leads and position yourself for growth in an ever-changing market. Jimmy, co-founder of ListingLeads.com and a recognized thought leader in the Boston area, shares timely strategies for thriving even as many agents are feeling discouraged or stuck. He talks through real-world referral tactics, the power of focusing on neglected contacts in your CRM, and unveils high-converting scripts you can use immediately to spark conversations and win new business. From ramping up your referrals by reaching out to your “neglect list,” to crafting irresistible “Deal of the Week” offers that create urgency and curiosity, Jimmy’s insights are actionable and rooted in successful campaigns from thousands of top agents. We also explore best practices for leveraging scarcity with coming soon lis

In this episode, I sit down with Craig Grant, CEO of RETI and renowned tech educator, for a high-energy conversation about how artificial intelligence is transforming the real estate industry. From practical insights on leveraging ChatGPT and Google Gemini for day-to-day efficiency, to a deep dive into must-have tools like Canva Pro and the game-changing HeyGen video platform, we unpack what’s working now for agents looking to level up their business with the power of AI. Craig shares his perspective on the meteoric rise of AI, why every Realtor needs to embrace it, and how the right technology can automate heavy lifting—without sacrificing legal or ethical standards. We discuss real-world examples, from creating marketing content at lightning speed to AI video editing with Descript, and even how tools like Reimagine Home can help you virtually stage and redesign properties in seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about new tech, Craig drops invaluable nuggets on avoiding AI pitfalls, choosin

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of one of the most remarkable sales of my career—the nine-and-a-half-year journey to sell the iconic Empire Mansion, recently closing for a record $6.5M in Illinois. I break down exactly what worked, what I’d change, and the invaluable lessons this high-profile listing taught me about patience, perseverance, and staying sharp in the ever-evolving luxury real estate market. As the third agent on the listing, spanning four brokerages, ten price adjustments, and countless strategy shifts, I dive deep into what kept us moving—from detailed buyer pre-qualification and personalized client communication, to creative event-based marketing (think thirty Ferrari owners in the driveway) and securing national press coverage. I also share what didn’t move the needle, like costly print ads and certain co-marketing partnerships, so you can leverage smarter strategy in your own business. You’ll hear about handling the unique demands of high-net-worth sellers, best practices for s

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

In this episode of the Luxury Specials podcast, I sit down with Samir, the founder of Zillow Gone Wild, for an engaging conversation about the fascinating world of unique and eccentric real estate listings across America. We dive into the origins and success of Zillow Gone Wild, a social media phenomenon that showcases luxury, quirky, and downright wild properties. Samir shares his journey from starting the platform during the pandemic in December 2020 to amassing over 5 million followers across multiple social media channels, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. His passion for real estate, despite not being a licensed agent, has resonated with millions who are captivated by the diversity and creativity of U.S. properties. We discuss some of the most memorable and eccentric homes featured on Zillow Gone Wild, like the $20 million property in Gilbert, Arizona, complete with a go-kart track and a hidden shooting range. Samir also touches on the impact his platform has had on real estate sales, with agent

In this episode, Michael LaFido dives deep into the alarming statistics released by the National Association of REALTORS® and explains why 71% of REALTORS® sold zero homes last year. He emphasizes the importance of educating consumers about choosing an active, successful agent over one who's not doing any transactions, shedding light on the broader implications for home sellers and buyers alike. Michael discusses key strategies for maximizing exposure, marketing, and negotiating better deals for sellers, highlighting the significant differences between agents who invest in themselves and those who do not. He shares practical advice on effectively communicating these points to build trust and attract clients. Additionally, Michael highlights the power of creating valuable content and being a local informational resource, whether through market updates, business recommendations, or showcasing local history. He underscores the benefit of adding layers to your real estate practice by incorporating educational and

Hey everyone, Michael LaFido here! I’m excited to share the latest developments from our recent podcast episode, featuring the extraordinary Jay Macklin. Jay’s journey from Michigan to establishing a thriving luxury real estate brokerage in Arizona is nothing short of inspirational. First off, let’s talk about an important update in the real estate world: Starting August 17, there's a new US requirement for buyers to have a written agreement to schedule private showings of homes. This stems from a settlement between the NAR and the Department of Justice. If you’re booking a public open house, no agreement is necessary. This new rule impacts commission structures and adds a layer of complexity for us agents, but it's all about adapting and staying ahead in the game. Jay Macklin, our special guest, has been a force in luxury real estate since 2010, focusing primarily on North Scottsdale. He's all about personal branding and creating unique selling propositions to stand out. He highlights the significance of con

In our landmark 300th episode, I reflect on seven and a half years of insights and experiences, sharing with you the foundational strategies that have shaped the success of our Luxury Listing Specialist podcast. We delve into the fundamentals of real estate that remain crucial regardless of market changes, from the importance of consistent coaching to the power of an optimized, segmented database. I emphasize the role of networking and strategic marketing—both warm and cold—as essential components for any real estate professional aiming to dominate the luxury sector. Throughout this episode, I reiterate that real estate success, much like in sports, hinges on mastering the basics: blocking, tackling, and the fundamentals. By continually putting yourself out there and effectively managing your network, you can ensure a steady stream of opportunities. To celebrate our journey, I also introduce you to our latest tools designed to facilitate your growth: a meticulously crafted luxury agent planner and various res

In this episode, luxury real estate expert Nicole Gary and I dive into the current luxury market landscape in New York and Florida, sharing crucial strategies and mindsets that are driving success today. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your real estate career. Nicole, a seasoned agent with over 13 years of experience, details her journey from selling high-end custom window treatments to becoming a top luxury real estate agent. She shares how leveraging her existing luxury client base and thinking big gave her the confidence to thrive in this competitive field. From building authentic relationships and offering personalized care, Nicole explains the importance of a genuine, non-transactional approach in luxury real estate. She recounts her bold move to Miami, where she quickly established herself by actively networking and participating in community events, turning these new connections into business opportuniti

In this episode, Dean Jackson and I dive deep into the mechanics of successfully managing and expanding your real estate business, focusing on the before, during, and after phases of client engagement. We explore Dean's innovative methods for dissecting your business into three pivotal units and integrating the eight profit activators to optimize growth and client satisfaction. Dean, renowned for his expertise in helping real estate agents uncover new opportunities within their existing databases, shared how breaking down your business into the before unit, during unit, and after unit offers a comprehensive framework for increased efficiency. His strategy revolves around starting with the during unit, which encompasses all activities from listing to closing a deal, ensuring optimal service delivery. We also delve into the after unit, highlighting the critical importance of nurturing past clients and relationships, ensuring continued business and referrals. Finally, we unpack the transformative power of the

In this episode, Michael LaFido welcomes Ken Pozek for an insightful discussion on how to dominate YouTube as a real estate professional. They explore the significance of becoming a local expert through video content and offer actionable advice to elevate your online presence. Ken, a successful real estate agent who relocated from Michigan to Orlando, emphasizes creating frequent, educational videos about local news and developments without diving into personal political views. His disciplined approach—posting concise, 8-12 minute videos on Tuesdays and long-form videos on Thursdays—showcases his commitment to consistency and quality. From leveraging Instagram for audience engagement to tapping into resources like Streamyard, Fiverr, and Storyblocks, Ken shares practical tools and tips for real estate agents aiming to enhance their video content. He underscores the importance of compelling thumbnails, advising simplicity and large fonts to attract mobile viewers. Throughout the conversation, Ken recounts his

In this episode, Tiffany LaRose and I have an in-depth conversation about what's working now, from the importance of genuine relationships to breaking into the competitive luxury market, and we share invaluable insights that are sure to elevate your real estate game. Tiffany, the owner of the LaRose Kayla Group in Houston, Texas, impressed me with her approach to luxury sales, emphasizing the power of investing in relationships and authenticity. Her first-ever luxury sale, a $2.5 million property, originated from a lead on Instagram, underscoring the impact of organic, genuine connections. From mastering sleek and elegant marketing, to staying on top of cutting-edge technology, my guest shares some tactics for breaking into the luxury real estate world and thriving within it. If you're an agent with a $0 marketing budget and wondering where your next transaction will come from, Tiffany has some tips for you. “Don't ever promise anything and then not follow through with it.” – Tiffany LaRose   Three Tak

Are you curious about the secrets behind the success of top luxury agents in real estate? Wondering how they achieved their remarkable feats? If you're eager to uncover the key to their success, then you have to watch this insightful video. Discover the strategies, tactics, and mindset that set these agents apart and brought them to the top of the luxury market. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from the best! Learn more about Michael's book: Website: https://secretsoftopluxuryagents.com/ Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4a3vbykj Connect with Michael LaFido:  YouTube:@MarketingLuxuryGroup TikTok:@LuxurySpecialist Instagram:@LuxuryListingSpecialist

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! The highly anticipated book, Secrets of Top Luxury Agents, has been officially released and is now available for purchase. This collaborative effort features insights and experiences from 26 contributors within the luxury real estate industry, including well-known names and industry leaders. Michael and the co-authors did an excellent job. In this book, you'll find valuable tips for both home buyers and sellers, shared by experts who have achieved notable success in luxury real estate. Whether you're a real estate agent looking to elevate your game or a consumer interested in the luxury property market, this book offers a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the industry with confidence. Secrets of Top Luxury Agents is now available on Amazon and other online stores in both Kindle and paperback formats. Today, Michael tells us all about the book, and towards the end, two of the co-authors join him to discuss their experience being part of the project

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

Happy Asian Pacific American Month! In this episode, we dive deep into the critical issue of housing affordability, particularly in high-priced markets, and discuss why agents should join AREAA. My guest, Hope Atuel, the executive director of the Asian Real Estate Association for Real Estate Agents (AREAA), sheds light on the challenges faced by the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities in the housing market. Hope emphasizes the importance of organizations like AREAA in advocating for equality in housing and homeownership opportunities. She provides insights into the role of AREAA in addressing discrimination issues and affordability barriers, especially in high-priced markets on the coasts. We also explore the organization's evolution and the benefits it offers to real estate agents, team leaders, and broker-owners. From networking opportunities to educational resources, AREAA is dedicated to supporting its members and making a meaningful impact in the real estate indus

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

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

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

Is there a secret sauce to getting canceled or expired sellers to call you? The answer is “yes,” and even better, Dustin Fox has some great ideas and systems to share. Dustin and I share some invaluable insights on attracting expired and canceled luxury sellers with groundbreaking marketing strategies. From using direct mail tactics to leveraging the power of YouTube advertising - we have it all covered. We discuss the real estate success formula, share tips on earning 5-star reviews, and reveal the impact of standing out in the luxury market. You'll also hear about these game-changing strategies' cost-effectiveness and potential return on investment. "We believe a sign in the yard holds more promise than one in the car." - Dustin Fox   Three Key Takeaways from the Episode - How to attract canceled or expired sellers to contact you. - Strategies for creating hyperlocal ads using YouTube and videos. - The secrets to ensuring your direct mails are opened and not discarded.   Link to Dustin's book: h