S4 E5 PURE LUXURY - 100% production increases - Highest price per transaction - Highest production average per agent. How Jameson Sothebys International Realty became Chicagos number 1 luxury brand and how they changed the game.
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We started running our own numbers on what happens to people after they join Jameson Sotheby's. The average agent achieves more than 100% increase in production during their first year with us—a remarkable statistic that reflects our commitment to providing the right environment, tools, and support for success.
• From carpet cleaning to real estate development—Chris Fuhrer's entrepreneurial journey led to acquiring Jameson in 2008
• The timing couldn't have been worse—purchasing a brokerage right before the Lehman Brothers collapse required daily survival mode
• Taking the Sotheby's International Realty brand in 2011 marked a turning point that opened doors to luxury opportunities
• COVID-19 became a catalyst for reimagining the entire business model with a focus on what agents truly need
• The shift to fewer, larger office "hubs" with emphasis on hospitality, marketing, and concierge services
• Creating a culture of collaboration and relationships through meaningful events and gatherings
• Building a direct-to-consumer presence through social media has become essential as the industry evolves
• Chicago remains undervalued compared to other major cities despite leading the nation in price appreciation
• Low inventory (1.3 months of supply) and limited new construction are driving significant market pressure
• Maintaining fiduciary responsibility in an era of industry upheaval remains their guiding principle
We believed that if we maintain our values and fiduciary responsibility at the highest level, no matter what happens in the industry, we'll continue to thrive. That's what drives us forward.
Chapters
1. Surviving the Great Recession (00:00:00)
2. Building the Sotheby's Brand in Chicago (00:15:20)
3. Rethinking Real Estate Office Spaces (00:29:50)
4. The Value of Collaboration and Culture (00:42:15)
5. Battling Zillow and Industry Changes (00:54:30)
6. Market Predictions and Chicago's Future (01:02:35)
50 episodes