Let's get settled in here for a little heart-to-heart, my realtor and mortgage broker friends. We're not just talking shop today; we're talking about the soul of your business, the rhythm of your success. I'm talking about getting on those phones and embracing the world of long-form content.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Phones, Tommy? In this digital age?" Yes, my friends, phones. Because at the end of the day, real estate isn't just about properties; it's about people. It's about connections. And there's something undeniably real about hearing someone's voice, about that live, unscripted interaction. It's raw, it's genuine, and it's where the magic happens.

But let's not stop there. Let's talk about long-form content. You see, in a world where everyone's hustling for those quick hits, those short clips, going long-form is like taking the scenic route. It's where you get to share your story, your expertise, and your personality. It's where trust is built. And in your line of work, trust is the foundation of everything.

Imagine this: You're not just a realtor or a mortgage broker; you're a storyteller, a guide, a trusted advisor. Your long-form videos are your stage, your platform to educate, to inspire, to connect on a deeper level. Whether it's a detailed tour of a property, a sit-down discussion about the market, or a Q&A session, you're giving your audience something valuable – your time, your knowledge, your attention.

Now, I know it can be daunting. "What if I stumble? What if I'm not interesting enough?" But here's the thing – it's not about being perfect. It's about being real. It's about showing up, being present, and speaking from the heart. That's what people connect with. That's what turns viewers into clients, and clients into lifelong fans.

So, my friends, as we look towards 2024, I challenge you. Pick up that phone, make those calls. Turn on that camera, hit record. Dive into those conversations, those stories. Be bold, be curious, be authentic. Because in this fast-paced, ever-changing world, those personal connections, that genuine content, that's what's going to set you apart.

Remember, life's a journey, not a destination. And your journey as realtors and mortgage brokers is about more than just closing deals; it's about opening doors, building relationships, and creating a legacy. So go out there, embrace the challenge, and just keep livin'. Alright?

Real Estate Teams: Now in the Legal Crosshairs - A Groundbreaking Texas Lawsuit

In a bold move reminiscent of a Harvey Specter power play, a new lawsuit in Texas is shaking the foundations of the real estate industry, putting teams squarely in the spotlight. This isn't just another legal skirmish; it's a game-changer, the first of its kind to target real estate teams directly. The message is clear: real estate teams now have a target on their backs.

Imagine this: A home builder and a magazine publisher, stepping into the legal arena, suing Texas Realtor associations and over 20 brokerages. This isn't a small-time operation; we're talking about a class action certification bid representing all home sellers in Texas from January 1, 2021, to March 29, 2023. The stakes? High. The implications? Even higher.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR), though not a defendant, is labeled the "creator of the conspiracy." This lawsuit isn't just throwing punches; it's aiming to unravel what it calls a web of "unlawful collaboration and anticompetitive practices." The plaintiffs, QJ Team LLC and Five Points Holding, LLC, are not just any disgruntled parties; they're industry players with clout.

Now, let's talk about the defendants. More than 20 Texas teams and brokerages are on the list, including heavyweights like Ebby Halliday Real Estate, Hexagon Group, and The Michael Group. This isn't just a warning shot; it's a full-on declaration of war against what the plaintiffs see as an indispensable part of an alleged conspiracy that's been dictating the rules of the game.

And the game? It's about commissions. The lawsuit alleges that these teams and brokerages have been playing a part in inflating commissions through what they call "unlawful collaboration." It's a bold accusation, one that could redefine how real estate teams operate if it gains traction.

In a world where real estate teams have been operating with a sense of invulnerability, this lawsuit is a stark reminder that the rules of the game can change. It's not just about the money; it's about the principle. The plaintiffs are challenging the very fabric of real estate transactions in Texas, questioning practices that have been long accepted as the norm.

As the legal drama unfolds, one thing is certain: the real estate industry is watching closely. Teams, once seen as untouchable, are now under scrutiny. This lawsuit is more than just a legal battle; it's a signal that the times are changing, and real estate teams need to be ready.

2024: The Year of Long-Form Video for Real Estate Agents and Mortgage Brokers - Here's Why It's Non-Negotiable!

Hey everyone, Tommy here, and today we're diving deep into why long-form video is an absolute must for real estate agents and mortgage brokers as we head into 2024. We're not just talking about a trend here; we're talking about a fundamental shift in how you connect, engage, and win in the real estate game.

Understanding the Power of Long-Form Video

First things first, let's break down what long-form video is all about. We're talking videos that go beyond the quick, snappy content that's been dominating social media. Think YouTube videos, webinars, or live streams that really dive into content, providing value, information, and entertainment over a longer period.

Now, why is this crucial for real estate professionals? It's simple: depth and connection. In a world where everyone's fighting for attention with short clips and soundbites, long-form content stands out by offering something more substantial. It's about building a narrative, telling a story, and creating a connection that goes deeper than a 30-second clip ever could.

1. Building Trust and Authority

In real estate, trust is everything. Long-form video allows you to showcase your expertise, share your knowledge, and really let your personality shine through. When you spend more time with your audience, you're not just a face on a screen; you become a trusted advisor, a go-to expert. This is especially crucial for mortgage brokers who need to establish credibility and trustworthiness in a field that can often feel intimidating to clients.

2. SEO Benefits and Online Visibility

Let's talk about search engine optimization (SEO). Google loves video content, especially content that keeps viewers engaged for longer periods. By creating long-form videos, you're not just reaching your audience; you're also boosting your online visibility. This means when someone's searching for real estate advice or mortgage tips, your content - and therefore, your name and brand - are more likely to show up.

3. Leveraging Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool, and long-form video is the perfect medium for it. As a real estate agent or mortgage broker, you have stories to tell - stories of dream homes, investment journeys, and life-changing decisions. These stories resonate with people, and long-form video gives you the canvas to paint these stories in full color, with all the emotions and details that make them compelling.

4. Engaging with Your Audience

Engagement isn't just about likes and comments; it's about creating a conversation. Long-form videos allow for more interactive content, like Q&A sessions, interviews with clients or industry experts, and live tours of properties. This interaction builds a community around your brand, turning viewers into active participants in your content.

5. Diversifying Your Content Strategy

Diversity in your content strategy is key, and long-form video adds another layer to this. It complements your other content, like blogs, social media posts, and newsletters, creating a well-rounded presence that appeals to different segments of your audience.

6. Showcasing Properties and Services in Detail

For real estate agents, long-form video is a game-changer for property showcases. It allows you to take potential buyers on a detailed tour, highlighting features and benefits that might be missed in a quick clip. For mortgage brokers, it's an opportunity to explain complex topics in a digestible way, helping clients understand their options and the process.

7. Adapting to Consumer Preferences

Consumer preferences are shifting. People are looking for more in-depth, informative content that they can consume at their own pace. By adopting long-form video, you're aligning with these preferences, showing that you understand and cater to what your audience wants.

8. Maximizing ROI on Content

Creating content takes time and resources, and long-form video ensures you're getting the most out of your efforts. These videos can be repurposed into smaller clips, blog posts, or even podcasts, maximizing your return on investment and ensuring your content works as hard as you do.

9. Staying Ahead of the Curve

As we move into 2024, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Long-form video is still underutilized in the real estate and mortgage brokerage industries, giving you a unique opportunity to stand out and position yourself as a forward-thinking professional.

10. Building a Loyal Following

Lastly, long-form video helps in building a loyal following. When people invest time in watching your content, they're more likely to develop a sense of loyalty and connection to your brand. This translates into repeat business, referrals, and a strong, supportive community.

In conclusion, long-form video isn't just another tool in your arsenal; it's becoming a cornerstone of effective digital marketing and client engagement in the real estate and mortgage brokerage industries. As we look towards 2024, it's clear that those who embrace this medium will be the ones leading the pack, building stronger relationships, establishing greater authority, and ultimately, closing more deals.

Top 20 Real Estate YouTube Mavericks: Crushing It in the Digital Space!

What's up, today we're talking about the real estate agents who are absolutely killing it on YouTube. These aren't just your average agents; these are the mavericks, the trailblazers, the ones who are leveraging the power of long-form video to dominate the digital space.

1. Monica Church - Coldwell Banker Monica is not just an agent; she's a YouTube sensation with a whopping 196,000 followers! She's turning her social media success into real estate gold. Check her out for a taste of the good life, Seattle style. Monica Church

2. Mike Sherrard - eXp Realty Mike is your go-to guy in Calgary. With 24,386 followers, he's showcasing the exciting world of Calgary real estate. Mike Sherrard

3. Loida Velasquez - eXp Realty Loida's dedication and enthusiasm are unmatched. With 24,800 followers, she's setting the standard for real estate social media. Loida Velasquez

4. LeAnn Allan - Good Company Realty LeAnn is making Detroit real estate delightful with 34,725 followers. She's a daily interaction master on Facebook and Instagram. LeAnn Allan

5. Joshua Erabu - eXp Realty Joshua is bringing better results and service with 49,100 followers. He's the one to follow for Lincoln real estate. Joshua Erabu

6. Bryan Casella - eXp Realty Bryan's your Los Angeles real estate guru with 42,249 followers. His social media is designed to deliver the best to you. Bryan Casella

7. Joe Junter - Online Real Estate Exam Prep Joe makes buying a home a memorable experience. With 15,100 followers, he's a master of real estate exam prep. Joe Junter

8. Karin Carr - Real Broker LLC Karin is redefining real estate social media with 1,584 followers. She's a community-building expert on YouTube. Karin Carr

9. Nyasia C - ItsNyasiaC Nyasia is showing off what New York has to offer. With 1,167 followers, she's a fresh and awesome presence on social media. Nyasia C

10. Douglas Depte - FLD Properties Douglas is more than just a real estate agent; he's an investment guide with 162,704 followers. Check him out for the latest in real estate. Douglas Depte

11. Chauncey Pham - eXp Realty Chauncey is there to help you every step of the way in real estate. With 7,124 followers, she's a must-follow on Instagram. Chauncey Pham

12. Jaime Resendiz - eXp Realty Jaime is your Dallas market expert with 1,450 followers. He's a beat master on Instagram. Jaime Resendiz

13. David Siddons - David Siddons Group David is the agent who helps you achieve your dreams. With 29,900 followers, he's a real estate success story on social media. David Siddons

14. Jennifer Bergman - Coldwell Banker Realty Jennifer is known for her dedication and online presence in Arvada. With 5,392 followers, she's a social media star. Jennifer Bergman

15. Vayna Jerabek - Michael J Real Estate Vayna combines hard work and market knowledge like no other. With 8,505 followers, her Instagram is a must-follow. Vayna Jerabek

16. Annamae Joy - Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Annamae makes finding investment properties easier. With 2,585 followers, she's a social media pro. Annamae Joy

17. Matt Faircloth - Derosa Group Matt's YouTube channel has hit 3 million views with content that transforms lives through real estate. With 2,711 followers, he's a Trenton real estate content king. Matt Faircloth

18. Greg Luther Coaching - Keller Williams Greg is your Tampa real estate deal finder. With 10,200 followers, his social media will tempt you to invest in Tampa. Greg Luther

19. Chris Kwon - Compass Chris always puts his clients' interests first. With 7,963 followers, he's a standout for awesome content. Chris Kwon

20. Carys Eccleshall - eXp Realty Carys is the perfect combo of real estate and Palm Beach. With 6,192 followers, her social media story is impressive. Carys Eccleshall

These agents are not just selling properties; they're building brands, creating content, and connecting with audiences in a way that's changing the game. They understand the power of YouTube and are using it to its full potential. So, if you're in real estate and not leveraging YouTube, you're missing out big time.

Crack the FSBO Code: Chastin J. Miles' Proven Strategies for Winning Listings and Dominating the Market

Alright, alright, alright. Let's talk about Chastin J. Miles, a real estate maestro diving headfirst into the deep end of prospecting. This guy's channel is where thousands of agents flock for a jolt of motivation, a masterclass in training, and the inside scoop on how to be a top-notch prospector in the real estate world.

Now, here's the deal (and I'm not giving away the whole show), but when you tune in to Chastin's wisdom, you're in for a treat. He's got this way of asking questions that not only digs deeper into the FSBO (For-Sale-By-Owner) leads but also positions him as the go-to guy to get that home off the market. And he does all this in a smooth, McConaughey-style 12-minute ride.

Let's break down Chastin's script, shall we?

Chastin kicks off with a casual, "Hey! This is Chastin Miles. How are you?" Simple, friendly, and straight to the point. Then he slides into, "I was just giving you a call about your home. Is it still for sale?" See, he's already setting the stage, showing interest in their story.

Next up, "Could you give me a little more information about it?" That's Chastin, always looking to get the full picture. He follows with, "I was giving you a call because I noticed you were a FSBO, and I wanted to see if I could help you out. How long has your home been on the market?" He's not just asking questions; he's offering a helping hand.

Then comes, "What do you think the issue is that’s keeping it from selling?" Chastin's digging deeper, trying to understand their challenges. "Have you had a lot of showings?" he asks, getting a feel for the traffic their property's been getting.

And to wrap it up, he lays down, "Gotcha, well I won’t take up too much of your time. Like I said, I am a real estate agent and I just want to help you. When is a good time to stop by the property?" Smooth, respectful of their time, and always looking for that face-to-face opportunity.

So there you have it, folks. Chastin J. Miles, a guy who knows his way around the real estate block, teaching agents how to swim through the FSBO waters with style. Keep livin' and keep learnin', just like Chastin

READ DAILY BY 40,000+ REALTORS, LOAN ORIGINIATORS & INDUSTRY PROS