Even though the economy has been is a slump, savvy investors are still pursing the “American Dream” of homeownership, and that still makes the role of the real estate agent a very relevant one. To better understand the opportunities in this field and how real estate agents play an invaluable role the process, The Balancing Act welcomes Tami Bonnell, President of the U.S. Organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International. The segment airs Thursday, August 13th, 2009.
“We hear all the news reports about the housing slump,” says Bonnell. “But there are still millions of people who are buying homes this year.”
According to research by Marissa Miley, a reporter at Advertising Age, despite record foreclosure rates and depressed home sale prices, the real-estate industry anticipates selling 5.3 million homes this year, many to first-time home buyers.
And while computers have aided in the search and sale of one’s abode, real estate is still all about the personal connection, and that’s why so many women are excelling in this field.
“A good REALTOR really is a partner in the process,” explains Bonnell, “You need to listen; really hear your client’s story and be a smart detective. Understand the why for the consumer,” she said.
Consumers can find facts on a computer but only a real estate agent can offer the insights, advice, marketing tips and negotiation options that make a home sale or purchase a smooth and easy transaction.
Many women, especially moms, have found great financial success and a balanced family life with a real estate career, and not just in the boom times. Taking it to the next step, EXIT Realty developed an innovative residual plan that allows REALTORS to earn bonuses from the transactions of the new recruits they introduce to the company, creating an exciting financial opportunity from which many women have benefited.
“The real estate market is about good deals and long-term benefits,” says Doug Campbell, Executive Vice President of Programming, BrandStar Entertainment, the producers of The Balancing Act. “Understanding the importance the real estate agent plays was indeed very insightful.”
About Brand Star Entertainment’s The Balancing Act: The Balancing Act TV show on Lifetime Television is America’s only morning show about women, for women, trusted by women. Celebrating life and all there is to accomplish, The Balancing Act inspires and empowers with entertaining and educational segments, placing women in the best position to achieve success in every area of their lives. The show is produced by BrandStar Entertainment and airs on Lifetime Television 7 a.m. Eastern/Pacific (check local listings). Additional information and each segment can be accessed on the show’s website, www.TheBalancingAct.com. Each episode is also available on www.Google.com/video and www.YouTube.com. Sign up for the show’s newsletter at www.thebalancingact.com/join.php. For more details about BrandStar Entertainment please visit www.brandstarentertainment.com.
About Tami Bonnell: Tami Bonnell’s real estate career spans more than 25 years during which she was instrumental in building three major brands. Ms. Bonnell has been featured several times in major industry publications, including Real Estate Magazine, Bay State REALTOR and Frog Pond Communications. She is a much sought-after international speaker, addressing thousands at events such as RISMedia’s Leadership Conference in NY, Inman News Conference in San Francisco and the Top 500 Power Brokers at The National Association of REALTORS Convention. Since becoming President of the US Organization for EXIT Realty Corp. International, her focus is on growth and profitability for Regions, Brokers and Agents. Ms. Bonnell is available for interviews.
