Michael Studebaker

The culture piece is not talked about enough and I believe Pam has it exactly right. I've watched virtual offices with optimism over the years but have come to realize that what most of the top brokerages have is leadership first and culture a close second. Office space reflects the leadership and culture so IMHO virtual offices are a two legged stool. Related to this article, I'd recommend other RE brokers, owners or managers to Tony Hsieh's (Zappo's founder) excellent book on culture, Delivering Happiness. Here are Zappo's 10 core values which translate well for RE right now, especially, "Do More With Less." 1. Deliver WOW Through Service 2. Embrace and Drive Change 3. Create Fun and A Little Weirdness 4. Be Adventurous, Creative, and Open-Minded 5. Pursue Growth and Learning 6. Build Open and Honest Relationships With Communication 7. Build a Positive Team and Family Spirit 8. Do More With Less 9. Be Passionate and Determined 10. Be Humble ________________ michaels@glrealtor.com Michael Studebaker Broker/Owner, CRB, CRS, GRI, e-PRO Gallagher & Lindsey, Inc REALTORS share, flourish, repeat

Hats off to 'em. Redfin is an innovative company in an industry that is sorely in need of big thinkers. I've heard Kelman speak a few times and knew that this day would come and I'm excited to see how they take it on. Many of our buyers use Redfin for searching properties online and come to us when its time to buy the property. It's a great arrangement. Giving these same buyers the access to feedback is only an extension of what Redfin does so well, seemingly putting the buyer in the drivers seat for researching properties and enjoying the online experience. Without a Redfin we wouldn't bother questioning our role as traditional brokerages. With them we have the opportunity to redefine to our agents and clients what our brokerage stands for. ________________ michaels@glrealtor.com Michael Studebaker Broker/Owner, CRB, CRS, GRI, e-PRO Gallagher & Lindsey, Inc REALTORS share, flourish, repeat

Great points, Tara, couldn't be more true these days. Ironic, isn't it? in 2003 the same buyer would willingly pay 20-30% more than what the seller paid only a few years prior with NO significant improvements, just appreciation. Now with investors actually spending and improving, the investors get questioned on their markup? Setting the proper expectations for buyers is key here as always by telling the story as Sean said above. Bidding at the court house steps is not for the faint of heart, and the risk is significant. Most buyers don't want to be in that position, they really want the nirvana that is created by these invaluable investors - a home that has been made livable and is worth competing for. ________________ michaels@glrealtor.com Michael Studebaker Broker/Owner, CRB, CRS, GRI, e-PRO Gallagher & Lindsey, Inc REALTORS share, flourish, repeat